VPN on Roku

Roku doesn't support VPN apps — but you can still unblock streaming. Here are three methods that work, from easiest to most comprehensive.

Marcus Johnson·CEHCCNA·VPN & Privacy Analyst

Updated March 24, 2026

Expert-tested

Our Top 4 VPN Picks

Chosen after real-world testing across speed, privacy, and streaming. Each ranking is independent — we buy every VPN at retail and test it ourselves.

EDITOR'S PICK

Best Overall

NordVPN

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Best for Unlimited Devices

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Best for Privacy

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Best Budget

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Three Methods (Ranked by Ease)

Easiest

Method 1: Smart DNS

Change Roku's DNS to your VPN provider's Smart DNS. No encryption but zero speed impact.

1. Get Smart DNS addresses from your VPN provider (FastestVPN MediaStreamer is best)
2. On Roku: Settings > Network > Set up connection > Advanced
3. Choose your network, then set DNS to Manual
4. Enter the Smart DNS addresses
5. Restart Roku — streaming should now be unblocked

Method 2: Router VPN

Install VPN on your router — all Roku traffic is encrypted and geo-shifted automatically.

1. Install VPN on a supported router (see our router VPN guide)
2. Connect Roku to your router's Wi-Fi
3. All traffic is automatically VPN-protected
4. Change server on router to switch streaming regions

Requires VPN-capable router ($80-250). Best long-term solution.

Method 3: Share PC VPN Connection

Share your computer's VPN connection with Roku via Wi-Fi hotspot or ethernet.

1. Connect your PC to VPN
2. Create a Wi-Fi hotspot on your PC (Windows: Mobile hotspot in settings)
3. Connect Roku to the PC's hotspot
4. Roku traffic now flows through the PC's VPN

Works but PC must stay on and connected. Best as temporary solution.

Best VPN for Roku

FastestVPN

Best Smart DNS (MediaStreamer)

MediaStreamer is the easiest Roku solution. Also has the best router app for Method 2.

NordVPN

Best router support

SmartPlay combines VPN + Smart DNS. Excellent router compatibility with ASUS and others.

FastestVPN

Best budget

Smart DNS available. Unlimited devices means your Roku is covered alongside everything else.

Frequently asked

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Roku's operating system doesn't support VPN apps and there are no plans to add support. You need to use Smart DNS, a router VPN, or share a VPN connection from another device.

Smart DNS (FastestVPN MediaStreamer) is the easiest — just change DNS settings on Roku. Takes 2 minutes. No encryption but zero speed impact for streaming.

Yes — if your router has a VPN installed, all Roku traffic goes through the VPN automatically. This is the most comprehensive method (encryption + geo-unblocking) but requires a VPN-capable router.

Keep reading

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When to use Smart DNS

Best VPN Router

Router-level VPN setup