You may already use a virtual private network (VPN) on your PC or smartphone, but have you installed one on your TV? Using a smart TV VPN helps preserve your privacy and access streaming services you otherwise wouldn't have access to at home. I use a VPN on my own TV to block ads, which you can do by choosing the right VPN and server.
My favorite smart TV VPN services include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. When looking for a smart TV VPN, consider its impact on streaming speed and online connectivity, native smart TV app availability, server location availability, and whether the VPN provider offers specialized servers for both streaming and gaming.
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What is the best VPN for your smart TV right now?
ZDNET's favorite VPN for smart TVs is NordVPN. This service combines excellent speed, server connections, and security. It also has a plethora of ways to use it with your Android-based TVs, Apple TVs, Amazon Fire Sticks -- with a potential caveat for new models, as outlined in our FAQ, and gaming consoles.
Also: The best VPN services: Expert tested
ZDNET writers have decades of experience testing and reviewing VPN software. I understand how important VPNs are for improved online privacy and security. To provide the best recommendations, I constantly monitor the market, conduct my own investigations and tests for speed and security, and consider user feedback, as well as note any recent changes to VPN offerings.
In our February update, we added the latest speed test data for download and upload speeds for each of our top picks.
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The best smart TV VPNs in 2026
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