What’s The Best Way To Put A VPN On Roku For Streaming?

Author: Jake Slessor

Streaming content on Roku is a breeze. It offers access to a wide range o platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more. But here's the catch—many streaming services limit content based on your geographic location. That’s where a VPN comes into play. If you’ve been asking yourself, "Can you put a VPN on Roku?", you’re not alone. While Roku doesn’t support VPN apps natively, you can still enjoy the benefits of a VPN by using a few smart workarounds. In this article, we’ll walk you through the best way to do it—step by step—and show how X-VPN makes this process easy and effective.

Why Use a VPN on Roku?

Before we dive into how to use a VPN with Roku, let’s look at why you’d want to do it in the first place.

  • Unlock Geo-Restricted Content – Want to watch that BBC documentary only available in the UK? Or craving Japanese anime not offered in your country’s Netflix library? A VPN can help you change your virtual location and access more content.
  • Bypass Throttling – Some ISPs slow down your streaming speed based on your activity. A VPN encrypts your connection, helping to prevent speed throttling.
  • Enjoy HBO Max Discount and Other Regional Deals – With a VPN, you can explore offers like HBO Max discount available in other regions, helping you save money on subscriptions.
Can You Put a VPN on Roku?

So here’s the direct answer to the question: Can you put a VPN on Roku?

Not directly. Roku does not support native VPN or DNS settings. You can’t just install a VPN app on it. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You can still connect your Roku to a VPN using a few clever methods. Let’s break them down.

Method 1: Set Up a VPN on Your Router

The most reliable and efficient way to use a VPN on Roku is to set it up on your home router. This method automatically routes all devices connected to your Wi-Fi—including your Roku—through the VPN.

Steps to Set Up X-VPN on Your Router:
  • Log in to your router settings – Usually via a web browser at an address like 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
  • Install X-VPN on the router – Follow the router-specific guide on the X-VPN website to set up VPN configurations.
  • Choose your server location – Pick a country based on the streaming content you want to access.
  • Connect Roku to the router – Simply connect your Roku to your home Wi-Fi like normal. It will now use the VPN connection.

Pros:

  • Works with all Roku devices
  • Applies VPN to all connected devices
  • Great for long-term use

Cons:

  • Setup may seem technical if you’re not familiar with router settings
  • Not every router supports VPN
Method 2: Use a Virtual Router (Windows or Mac)

If setting up your physical router seems too complicated, you can turn your computer into a virtual router. This method allows your computer to share its VPN connection with your Roku via Wi-Fi.

Steps for Windows Users:
  1. Install X-VPN on your PC.
  2. Enable Mobile Hotspot in Windows Settings.
  3. Share VPN Connection by setting your X-VPN connection as the shared source.
  4. Connect Roku to the new hotspot.

Steps for Mac Users:

  1. Install X-VPN on your Mac.
  2. Create a new network using Internet Sharing.
  3. Choose the VPN connection as the source.
  4. Connect Roku to the shared Wi-Fi.

Pros:

  • No need to touch your home router
  • Great for temporary use

Cons:

  • Can slow down your computer
  • Needs to be set up each time
How to Change Your Roku Region

Once your VPN is connected, make sure your Roku account matches the location of the VPN server. For example, if you're connecting to a U.S. server, create or switch your Roku account to the U.S. region.

Here’s how:

  • Factory reset your Roku
  • Set up a new Roku account at my.roku.com using a U.S.-based ZIP code if using a U.S. VPN server
  • Link your Roku to the new account

This step is crucial for accessing platforms like HBO Max or taking advantage of regional discounts.

Why X-VPN is the Best Choice for Roku Users

There are several VPN providers out there, but X-VPN stands out for Roku streaming due to:

  • Fast servers across 50+ locations
  • Stable connections perfect for HD and 4K streaming
  • Easy setup guides for routers and virtual hotspots
  • Affordable pricing with free trial options

With X-VPN, you not only get security but also speed and ease—everything you want when trying to unlock new content on your Roku device.

Final Thoughts

So, can you put a VPN on Roku? The answer is yes—with a little help. Whether you set up X-VPN on your router or create a virtual hotspot from your computer, you can unlock streaming content from around the world, dodge ISP throttling, and even grab regional deals like an HBO Max discount.