Linking VPNs and streaming devices is almost like solving a riddle. One of the best gadgets for streaming TV shows is Roku, but you are still wondering, “Is it possible to auto-start the VPN app as soon as I switch on my Roku?”
If this situation sounds familiar, you are in the right place. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know.
Can You Auto-Start a VPN on Roku?
Although Roku devices are suitable for streaming, they do not have built-in VPN support. Therefore, you cannot automatically turn on a VPN app when you power up a Roku.
The Auto Start feature of Roku lets you launch your most-loved apps without needing to select an app, but the attention it won’t give you a VPN. Therefore, the answer is no, you won’t autostart a VPN app on Roku directly.
Workarounds – Using a VPN With Roku
You can’t directly set up a VPN on your Roku, but it is possible on other devices, like your router. This way, your Roku can access a VPN-enabled network, which provides you with all the advantages of a VPN.
Setting Up a VPN on Your Router
Below are the steps for the VPN activation on the router:
- Check the VPN availability on your router.
- Install your router as per the instructions of the VPN provider for your router type.
- When the VPN is old, join your Roku for this network. Now, it will run as if it was in a different location.
This is the ultimate solution to using a VPN with Roku because it will protect all devices on your network.
Mobile Tethering
You can use mobile tethering if your router doesn’t support VPNs or you’re using a public Wi-Fi network.
- Connect your phone to Wi-Fi or use mobile data.
- Activate the VPN on your phone.
- Share your phone’s Wi-Fi connection with your Roku.
This method seems a little complicated but can still be a temporary fix.
Why Use a VPN With Roku?
Using a VPN with Roku can bring in a lot of good things, including:
- Access to Global Content
- Through a VPN, you can choose any server you like anywhere worldwide and thereby watch the film of your preference, no matter if it is not provided in your region.
Data Protection
Virtual private networks secure your surfing and make it private by coding your traffic with strong, uncrackable encryptions. Hence, third parties cannot track your streaming preferences.
Enhanced Security
Despite the fact that Roku is a streaming-only machine, your data might be staying within it. A VPN method now adds another protection layer to the whole system of cyber threats; in the end, it is a barrier against hackers breaching personal data.
Alternatives to Roku for VPN Users
If you feel the absence of VPN support for Roku is discomfiting, then think about the other devices that offer VPN options in which:
Amazon Fire Stick
The only thing you have to consider is that Amazon Fire Stick is based on Android TV OS and thus provides support for a VPN. In other words, you sign out of the VPN and upload it to Firestick, and in this way, carrying out the operation becomes extremely simple.
Android TV Boxes
Android TV applies VPN protection features and opens the door to the Google Play Store for users to easily install VPN applications. Therefore, it is great for streaming and privacy protection.
Tips for a Smooth VPN Streaming Experience
Once your Roku is connected to a VPN-enabled network, here are some tips to guarantee a faultless experience:
- Check Your Internet Speed
- Besides your connection, VPNs can sometimes slow down the connection speed itself. Fastening your internet to 5 Mbps will be sufficient to watch HD content, three times Krypton full HD. Use the tools provided to check your broadband and renew as needed.
Choose the Right VPN Server
The whole process is supposed to aim at the server’s peak capacity in terms of higher performance. Apart from the UK, US, or Canada, other popular places for more varied content can be Japan or Australia, just for instance.
- Keep Your Device Firmware Updated
- Firmware is the code that sends instructions to a device, so firmware updates focus on fixing bugs or enhancing performance.
