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How to download and use the IPVanish VPN app on Apple TV
Since its initial release nearly two decades ago, the Apple TV media player has become one of the most popular, reliable ways to stream a massive array of content on your TV.
Since the hardware is also typically 'Apple-minimal', it's ideal as a compact travel companion, too.
And, as you might have hoped, setting up a VPN on Apple TV is now easier than ever, thanks to native app support. That can safely be said for one of the most popular VPNs on the market – IPVanish – and, with this guide, adding the provider to your device is a straightforward process.
Why do I need a VPN on my Apple TV box?
While Apple TV allows you to watch a whole host of streaming services, it's the addition of a VPN app that can get you even more from those platforms.
Since most major streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video and, of course, the rather confusingly named Apple TV, all limit libraries by location, varying that can get you access to a lot more. Connecting to a VPN server in a different country, then, can mean access to shows and movies otherwise unavailable where you are located physically.
This works particularly well when travelling. A VPN like IPVanish can help you get access to your home content as if you were still there.
If you're midway through a boxset or there's a live event taking place, for example, you can watch without disruption no matter where you are travelling, making it ideal for vacations and work trips.
Beyond streaming, there are more benefits to a VPN on your Apple TV. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, adding a layer of privacy when using public or hotel Wi-Fi networks. It can also help prevent bandwidth throttling by your ISP, which may improve streaming performance in some cases.
So although streaming is the main reason for using a VPN on Apple TV, the security benefits are also worth considering as a positive reason to use this upgrade on your hardware.
How to get IPVanish VPN on your Apple TV
First up, check your compatibility. IPVanish works on all Apple TV 4K models as well as Apple TV HD, so most current devices are supported.
Next, make sure you have your Apple TV up to date with tvOS 17 or newer, as this is the minimum requirement for running IPVanish.
Then follow these simple steps:
- Open the App Store on your Apple TV and search for IPVanish.
- Select the app from the results and download it just like any other Apple TV app.
- Once installed, open the IPVanish app and sign in using your account details.
- Don’t already have an account? Create one via the IPVanish website before logging in.
- Follow the on-screen setup steps, including granting any permissions needed to establish a VPN connection.
Once complete, the VPN is ready to use with no additional setup, router changes, or DNS tweaks required thanks to native app support.
How to use IPVanish VPN on your Apple TV
In typical Apple fashion, the process of using IPVanish on the Apple TV is intuitive and quick. Open the app and you'll be given a list of worldwide server locations. Select the country you want and hit the connect button.
In seconds you'll be connected to a secure server with your Apple TV traffic being routed through there to let you access region-specific shows and movies from that area.
Should you want to switch server and country location to access different content, that's as easy as adjusting the location from the list of server locations as above.
You can also adjust preferences, like protocol types, to ensure you get the content you need, even on trickier streaming services and in tougher locations.
Finished watching? Tap the disconnect button and you return to your default server as usual.
What services can I watch on with my Apple TV box?
Apple TV is a great option if you want to access a wide range of streaming services, all from one location. It has support for all the big names including Apple TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus as native apps.
Beyond those major players you also have regionally supported options that include the likes of Hulu and Peacock in the US, BBC iPlayer and ITVX in the UK, and Stan and Kayo Sports in Australia.
Why choose IPVanish?
IPVanish is a strong option for Apple TV as it offers some streaming specific benefits that will help give you the best experience, including speed, simplicity and flexibility. And since it all works via the native tvOS app, it should be very quick and simple to set up and use – where other VPNs may require you to use a workaround.
The IPVanish streaming servers are plentiful, giving you a wide array of location options (more than 150 at the time of writing). Server speeds are strong, generally, meaning you should be able to get HD and even 4K quality across different regions.
The fact IPVanish also offers an independently audited no-logs policy gives reassurance around privacy. And there is support for unlimited simultaneous connections, which is ideal if you want to use multiple devices at home and beyond.
We also like that IPVanish sports a simple interface and offers consistent performance, making it an ideal pairing for your Apple TV device.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
