How to use a VPN on Roku

Engadget - May 8th, 2025

The Roku smart TV platform offers a centralized way to stream content, but lacks native VPN support which is crucial for accessing shows and events unavailable in certain countries. While other platforms like Fire TV and Apple TV have built-in VPN capabilities, Roku users must rely on workarounds to circumvent geo-restrictions. The article highlights the benefits of using a VPN to change IP addresses, allowing access to regional content like UK Netflix shows from the US. It also emphasizes the privacy and security advantages of encrypted connections, which keep users' online activities private from ISPs and streaming sites.

To use a VPN with Roku, the article suggests setting up a VPN on a home router or using a simpler method: connecting a VPN-enabled smartphone or laptop to Roku via AirPlay or screencast. This approach is user-friendly and allows access to geo-blocked content on the smart TV. The article provides tips on choosing the best VPN service, noting the importance of server locations and user reviews. It also mentions VPN options for other streaming platforms, ensuring that users of Google TV, Chromecast, Apple TV, and Fire TV can similarly unlock global content.

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Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides an informative and accurate guide to using VPNs with Roku devices, focusing on practical solutions for accessing geo-blocked content and enhancing privacy. It effectively communicates complex information in an accessible manner, making it useful for readers interested in streaming technology. However, the lack of explicit sourcing and a balanced discussion on the potential downsides or legal implications of VPN use limits its overall credibility and depth. Enhancing transparency, balance, and source quality would strengthen its reliability and impact. Overall, the article serves as a helpful resource for tech-savvy consumers but could benefit from a broader exploration of the topic's complexities.

Accuracy

The story accurately presents the capabilities and limitations of the Roku platform regarding VPN use. It correctly states that Roku does not natively support VPNs, which is a well-documented fact. The workaround solutions provided, such as using a VPN on a router or casting from a VPN-enabled device, are consistent with expert recommendations from reliable tech sources. The claim about Roku's software updates and features like the art screensaver is also accurate, aligning with Roku's known functionalities. However, the article could benefit from citing specific sources or studies to further substantiate its claims about VPN benefits and security.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the benefits of using a VPN with Roku, presenting a positive view of VPNs as tools for accessing geo-blocked content and enhancing privacy. While it does mention the technical challenges of setting up a VPN on a router, it lacks a discussion on potential downsides of using VPNs, such as possible legal implications or service disruptions. Including perspectives on the limitations or risks of VPN use would provide a more balanced view.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, straightforward language to explain how to use a VPN with Roku. It effectively breaks down complex technical concepts into understandable steps for the average reader. The use of examples, such as accessing Netflix UK content from the US, helps illustrate the benefits of VPN use. However, some technical terms, like 'AirPlay' or 'screencast,' could be further clarified for readers unfamiliar with these concepts.

Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite external sources, which affects its credibility. While the information aligns with common knowledge about Roku and VPNs, the lack of direct references to authoritative sources or experts in the field reduces the article's reliability. Including citations from tech experts or links to Roku's official documentation would enhance source quality and lend more authority to the claims made.

Transparency

The article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or affiliations with VPN providers, which is important for transparency. It also lacks explicit methodology or sources for its claims about VPN benefits and Roku functionalities. Providing more context about the basis for these claims and any affiliations would improve transparency and help readers assess the impartiality of the information presented.