Samsung Smart TVs operate on the Tizen OS, which doesn’t support native VPN applications. However, you can still enjoy the benefits of a VPN, such as enhanced privacy and access to geo-restricted content, by employing alternative methods. This guide will walk you through various ways to set up and use Surfshark VPN on your Samsung Smart TV.
Method 1: Using Smart DNS
Step 1: Activate Smart DNS
Log in to your Surfshark account. Navigate to the VPN section, select Manual setup, and choose TV or console. Click on “Activate Smart DNS.”
Step 2: Configure Your Samsung Smart TV
Once you receive an email confirming Smart DNS activation, follow these steps on your TV:
- Press the Menu button on your remote.
- Select Network, then Network Status.
- At the bottom, click on IP Settings.
- Go to DNS settings and enter the Smart DNS address provided by Surfshark.
- Restart your TV to apply the changes.
Note: Smart DNS allows access to geo-restricted content but doesn’t encrypt your traffic.
Method 2: Installing Surfshark on Your Router
Step 1: Check Router Compatibility
Ensure your router supports VPN connections.
Step 2: Install Surfshark on Your Router
Follow Surfshark’s router setup guide to install the VPN on your router.
Step 3: Connect Your TV to the VPN-Enabled Router
Once the VPN is active on your router, connect your Samsung Smart TV to the router via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
This method encrypts all traffic from devices connected to your router.
Method 3: Sharing a VPN Connection from a Windows PC
Step 1: Set Up a Mobile Hotspot
On your Windows PC, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile hotspot.
Step 2: Enable Internet Connection Sharing
In the Network Connections window, right-click on your VPN connection, select Properties, go to the Sharing tab, and allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.
Step 3: Connect Your TV to the Hotspot
On your Samsung Smart TV, connect to the Wi-Fi network broadcasted by your PC.
This method allows your TV to use the VPN connection from your PC.
Method 4: Using Streaming Devices with VPN Support
If you use devices like Amazon Fire Stick or Chromecast with Google TV:
- Install the Surfshark app from the device’s app store.
- Log in to your Surfshark account.
- Connect to your desired server.
Connect the streaming device to your Samsung Smart TV via HDMI to enjoy VPN-protected streaming.
Benefits of Using Surfshark VPN on Samsung Smart TV
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: Stream content from different regions by bypassing geographical restrictions.
- Enhanced Privacy: Protect your viewing habits from ISPs and potential hackers.
- Prevent Bandwidth Throttling: Avoid ISP-imposed speed limitations during streaming.
Conclusion
While Samsung Smart TVs don’t support native VPN apps, methods like Smart DNS, router installation, and connection sharing from a PC provide effective alternatives. By implementing these solutions, you can enhance your streaming experience with improved privacy and access to a broader range of content.
