If you’re an Apple TV fan, augmenting the service with a virtual private network (VPN) subscription can further expand its capabilities. VPNs are critical privacy tools adopted for improved online security, as they provide a layer of encryption, mask your IP address, and make it more difficult for marketers to track you. If you’re using one with Apple TV, you may be able to access content libraries that are usually unavailable in your home region by switching your IP address to one in another country.
Many of the most popular VPN providers have released native Apple TV apps, making installation a breeze. Alternatively, you can install a VPN directly on your router for blanket home coverage that includes more devices including your laptop, desktop PC, and smart TV. Read on to find out why services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN are among my favorite Apple TV VPNs of 2026.
In ZDNET’s latest update, we extensively updated our guide to the best Apple TV VPNs for 2026 and also awarded ExpressVPN the top spot.
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What is the best VPN for the Apple TV right now?
The best VPN on the market that works well with Apple TV is ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN, now far cheaper than it used to be with a $2.44 per month starting plan, offers some of the best speeds available, a variety of countries to choose from, and a native Apple TV app.
I also recommend NordVPN. NordVPN offers a native Apple TV app and provides consistently great speeds, solid performance, robust security, and a large server network, making it one of my long-term favorites. Plans start at $3.39 per month.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, Surfshark has plans starting at $2 per month with three months free.
Also: The best smart TV VPNs of 2026
The ZDNET team has decades of combined experience in testing VPN services, and we strive to provide you with the best options on the market to make informed purchases. I tested more than a dozen VPNs over the years, so I understand what functions and features are the most important when you are looking for a new service. I also frequently test VPNs to ensure I am recommending the right services for the right reasons.
If you’re looking for an Apple TV-compatible VPN, check out my favorites below.
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The best VPNs for Apple TV in 2026
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ExpressVPN is a popular VPN service that consistently provides strong stability, speed, and performance across the board, making it my top Apple TV VPN overall.
Why we like it: This VPN is my top pick primarily for speed. It consistently provided the least speed loss during my frequent speed and security tests over the past few years on both slow broadband and high-speed fiber connections.
ExpressVPN is often as fast as its closest competitor, NordVPN. However, when I connect to distant servers for streaming, ExpressVPN tends to be marginally faster than NordVPN.
With the launch of tvOS 17, this VPN received a dedicated app for Apple TV. The software can be quickly downloaded from the App Store and installed on your device. If you have an older version of tvOS and cannot or do not want to update, you can use ExpressVPN’s
ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries and offers up to 14 simultaneous connections, but I’d like to see this unlimited given the monthly subscription cost. Still, if you plan to use it on your smartphone, you’ll also be able to enjoy
Review: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN launched a post-quantum implementation of the WireGuard protocol, a protocol best suited for speed. The company, alongside competitors such as NordVPN, is exploring post-quantum protection standards to reduce the risk of „harvest now, decrypt later“ attacks.
The VPN provider recently secured four new ISO certifications. Within its latest transparency report, ExpressVPN disclosed no user data records despite receiving over 1.38 million DMCA requests and 155 government and law enforcement requests.
Who it’s for: During testing, I found ExpressVPN to be a speedy, solid service, and it works extremely well on Apple TV. On rare occasions, however, I did run up against IP-based website blocks. If you’re looking for a speed-first but excellent all-rounder, ExpressVPN is right for you.
Customers say they typically have a positive experience with this VPN provider and that customer support is excellent.
Who should look elsewhere: Simultaneous connections vary by tier, and so it might not appeal to everyone.
Subscriptions for two-year contracts are available for $3.14 per month, with four months of free access added to the length of the contract. Advanced plans, from $5.24 per month, come with more simultaneous connections and security add-ons.
Some users have reported automatic billing issues, so keep this in mind.
ExpressVPN features: Apple TV compatibility:
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NordVPN is one of the best Apple TV VPNs available due to its speed, stability, security, user interface, and its impressive server network.
Why we like it: The NordVPN user interface is clear, clean, and attractive, and the service is easy to install and set up. NordVPN has a server network spanning 126 countries, providing you with numerous options for streaming and accessing geo-restricted content across the globe.
It’s one of the best streaming VPNs I’ve tested, and it consistently delivers high success rates when accessing services like Netflix.
This VPN is compatible with Apple TV and doesn’t require any adjustments to domain name service (DNS) settings to implement. The company operates NordVPN for tvOS, a native Apple TV app that you can download
NordVPN provides 10 simultaneous device connections under one account. This gives you enough scope to use this VPN on devices other than your TV, but some competitors offer unlimited connections.
This year, an independent security and product audit found the VPN works as intended. NordVPN’s no-logs policy was also audited and verified, and you can use the NordWhisper protocol to try to circumvent network restrictions.
If you’re a fan of Meshnet, you’re in luck — the company also recently changed its mind on closing down the secure sharing network feature.
Review: NordVPN
Who it’s for: Customers say they like the VPN’s speed and stability, as well as the top-notch support.
During testing, I consistently found this VPN to be one of the fastest available with excellent streaming capabilities and solid connectivity. I think this VPN will suit most use cases, regardless of whether you are a beginner or an experienced user.
Plans start at $3.39 per month on a two-year contract. Available add-ons include browsing protection, anti-malware scanners, ad-blockers, cloud storage, and a password manager.
Who should look elsewhere: NordVPN doesn’t support unlimited simultaneous connections under one account. If this is important to you, consider Surfshark or another of my recommendations.
NordVPN features: Apple TV compatibility: Native app | Smart DNS: Yes | Simultaneous connections: 10 | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers | Countries: 126 | Kill switch: Yes | Logging: Email address and billing information only | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Seven days on Android | Trustpilot rating: 4.1 | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.7
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Surfshark is the best option if you want a cheap VPN to disguise your activities and help you access geo-restricted content when using Apple TV.
Why we like it: Surfshark offers 3,200 servers across 100 countries and allows for unlimited simultaneous connections. The company also provides a native Apple TV app.
Alternatively, you can use Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature, but it is limited to U.S. locations and won’t provide the same functionality as the VPN itself.
Review: Surfshark VPN
Surfshark customers say the service is easy to use and customer support is excellent. In my speed tests, I found Surfshark’s performance reasonable, especially given its price point.
While it’s not the fastest, the user interface is attractive, and all of the most important features are easily accessible, making it a great choice for anyone new to VPNs. I also like the handy pause function, which allows you to stop your VPN for five minutes or longer.
Surfshark has also launched 100Gbps servers. These could work well for users involved in heavy streaming or gaming, especially if these test options are rolled out more extensively across the Surfshark VPN network.
While Nord Security owns Surfshark, both NordVPN and Surfshark act independently.
Who it’s for: Anyone new to the VPN world or those looking for a budget-friendly VPN subscription.
Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market. Two-year plans start at $2 per month and come with three months of free access. Yearly plans offer the same number of free months and begin at $3.19 per month. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Who should look elsewhere: If you’re willing to spend a little more every month, you can trade up to a faster service like ExpressVPN or NordVPN.
Surfshark VPN features: Apple TV compatibility:
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IPVanish is a strong contender in the VPN space and is a popular option for streaming and day-to-day VPN use.
Why we like it: IPVanish released an Apple TV-compatible app with the launch of tvOS 17. It is highly customizable across the board, and the IKEv2 protocol handles Apple TV connections.
Other features include a kill switch, ad and tracker blocking, encrypted storage, and unlimited simultaneous connections. Recent updates to its server network, which now consists of 108 countries, put it on par with many rival services.
The company operates a Trust Center and the latest independent audit verified IPVanish’s no-logs policy. IPVanish is also on the road to transitioning fully to RAM-only servers.
Review: IPVanish
Who it’s for: IPVanish delivers a solid user experience overall. According to customer feedback, this VPN performs well when streaming and while users are abroad. I recommend this VPN if you want an affordable and reliable set-and-forget system.
If you commit to two years, IPVanish offers a plan for $2.19 per month. This increases to $3.33 per month for a yearly plan.
Who should look elsewhere: I also found this VPN to be very reliable with reasonable speeds. However, my frequent speed tests indicate this option may lag behind some of its competitors, so if speed is your top priority, consider looking elsewhere.
Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET’s parent company. For more, see our Editorial Guidelines.
IPVanish VPN features: Apple TV compatibility:
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Proton VPN, developed by engineers dedicated to online security, uses robust protocols and strong encryption to help mask your online activities. Even better, there’s a trustworthy free plan.
Why we like it: Proton VPN has a native Apple TV app, and more streaming capabilities are on the firm’s 2026 product roadmap.
Additionally, the organization plans to enhance its network with more free server locations. Currently, you can access free servers in the Netherlands, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the United States, and the free plan also comes with one device connection and the same protection as paid subscribers. We don’t often recommend free VPNs, but these accounts are supported by paying customers, and your data is neither collected nor sold.
Review: Proton VPN
Proton VPN also offers a kill switch and the benefit of open-source technologies. Paid plans give you access to a server network including 127 countries and up to 10 simultaneous connections.
My tests revealed no domain name service (DNS) leaks and reasonable speeds, which appear to be improving over time.
Who it’s for: This VPN is protected by Swiss privacy laws, and it is independently audited. A strict no-logs policy is also in place, making it a top choice for security-conscious users or those who want a free plan to explore how a VPN can benefit them.
Paid options start from $3 per month on a two-year plan.
Who should look elsewhere: A free plan is available with limited server access, but this option isn’t suitable for use across multiple devices. If your primary reason for using a VPN is high-resolution streaming and you want more than one simultaneous connection, you should opt for a paid plan. Feel free to try out the VPN for free first, though.
Alternatively, consider Surfshark for a budget-friendly subscription with unlimited simultaneous connections.
Proton VPN features: Apple TV compatibility: Yes | Smart DNS: Smart Routing | Open-source | Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan | Countries: 127 | Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits | Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Trial: Free option | Trustpilot rating: 2.1 | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.6
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Also: The best streaming VPNs: Expert tested
|
VPN |
Price |
Simultaneous connections |
Native Apple TV app? |
|
ExpressVPN |
$2.44+ per month |
10 – 14 |
Yes |
|
NordVPN |
$3.39+ per month |
10 |
Yes |
|
Surfshark |
$2+ per month |
Unlimited |
Yes |
|
IPVanish |
$2.19+ per month |
Unlimited |
Yes |
|
Proton VPN |
Free or $3+ per month |
10 |
Yes |
VPNs that offer a native Apple TV app can mask your original IP address, providing a relatively anonymous connection and access to geo-restricted content. This might include content restricted to specific locations, such as the U.S. or Europe. This comes in handy if you are traveling and don’t want to miss your favorite TV show.
Your VPN also helps disguise your activities from your internet service provider (ISP). This is especially important if you are on a plan that throttles your speed or bandwidth when your ISP detects streaming or high-intensity gaming.
See also: What is a VPN and why do you need one?
How to set up an Apple TV VPN
There are different ways to use a VPN with your Apple TV setup. After Apple announced support for third-party VPNs with the release of tvOS 17 several years ago, many VPN providers began developing native apps for use with the operating system.
If your chosen VPN provider offers a native Apple TV app, the process is simple. Open the App Store and use the search function to find your VPN app. Download the app, install it, and provide the VPN with any requested device permissions. Open the app and log in to the service on your Apple TV using the username, email, and password you created when you subscribed. Alternatively, some VPNs allow you to log in through a QR code or access code on another device.
See also: How to set up a VPN on your router
You also need to ensure your Apple TV is up to date. To update your Apple TV, go to settings and find the software updates tab. Once your VPN has been installed, select a country or choose quick connect, and you should be good to go.
If there is no native Apple TV app available, you may have to set up a VPN service on your router instead. Most VPN providers have extensive FAQ sections on their sites detailing how to complete a manual setup. It’s best to reference those instructions for the specific VPN you’re using, and to contact support if you have any issues.
Also: How I upgraded my home Wi-Fi with a VPN-ready router (and why it makes such a big difference)
Alternatively, you can try a Smart DNS workaround. Smart DNS attempts to unblock geo-restricted content and services, even when there is no native VPN support available. Smart DNS is a feature offered by top VPN providers, but enabling it to work with your Apple TV varies by provider.
For example, if you want to use NordVPN‘s Smart DNS feature on your Apple TV rather than its native app, open the app, navigate to the Services section, select Smart DNS, and hit Activate. Go into your Apple TV dashboard, head to network settings, and choose Configure DNS, Manual. Input NordVPN’s Smart DNS server addresses and select submit. The app will either generate Smart DNS settings for you, or you’ll have to look up the addresses provided by your VPN service.
Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of the ZDNET team. We’ve been talking about VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.
ZDNET tests VPN services from multiple locations, but we can’t test from all locations. Every home, community, local ISP, and nation has a different infrastructure.
I analyzed the best VPNs for Apple TV in 2026 using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:
- Performance: My top VPNs must meet a minimum performance standard. After all, there’s no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags.
- Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service at the same time. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections. However, I prefer services that are unlimited.
- Security: There’s no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. I also ensured that the development team behind each recommended VPN prioritizes making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.
- Kill switch: A kill switch prevents an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.
- Geo-blocks and streaming: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you’re away from home. I ensured that our top recommendations performed well, given these factors, and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.
- Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? My Apple TV VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for this hardware.
- Countries and servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers and whether there are enough — at least 60 or so — to provide variety.
- Trial length and price: The majority of VPNs I recommend have a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days. Some VPN providers, like CyberGhost, offer you even longer. I want to see money-back guarantees that give customers the option to bow out if they are unhappy with the service.
For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page.
|
Choose this Apple TV VPN… |
If you want… |
|
ExpressVPN |
An exceptionally fast service and one of the best Apple TV VPNs overall. ExpressVPN offers a native tvOS app and provides you with a simple interface, stable connectivity, and an expansive server network. While it’s expensive at higher tiers and you don’t get unlimited simultaneous connections, it’s still an excellent service. |
|
NordVPN |
A do-it-all secure VPN with Apple TV compatibility and a vast server network. NordVPN is a speedy and reliable service that offers plenty of simultaneous connections and over 126 countries in its server network. |
|
Surfshark |
To pay less. Surfshark is an affordable VPN option that provides a range of useful features including a dedicated tvOS app that is easy to use. You can also enjoy unlimited simultaneous connections. Surfshark offers some of the best value for money. |
|
IPVanish |
A configurable VPN service. IPVanish is designed to be easy to set up and use, with unlimited connections — which I always like to see — and fast connection speeds. A native app is also available for Apple TV, which secured this VPN’s spot on my recommendations list. |
|
Proton VPN |
A free option. The open source Proton VPN service now has a native app available for Apple TV and you can benefit from its wide range of security features while streaming. As paid users support free plans, this is one of the few free VPNs I can recommend. |
When you are selecting your new Apple TV VPN, you need to consider the following factors:
- Price: One of the most significant factors in choosing a new VPN is the price. You tend to get the best deals on longer contracts, but you can still sign up for a month or so to try out a service if you prefer. I recommend avoiding free VPNs — with a few exceptions — as they may sell your data or bombard you with ads. Plans from reputable VPNs can often be as little as a few dollars per month, although you might have to pay tax on top.
- Simultaneous connections: If you’re paying for a VPN suitable for your Apple TV, you might still want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop PC or laptop. I recommend you sign up for a plan that supports at least six devices. Thankfully, many paid VPN plans now offer unlimited connections.
- Servers: When you are looking for a VPN to use with your Apple TV, it may be that the main reason is to access different libraries. So, check that the VPN you want to use has servers in the country or location you want before signing up.
- Contract length: You must also decide how long you want a VPN. A two-year term tends to secure the best prices, but other options are available, including month-to-month plans, one-year terms, or, sometimes, even five-year contracts or lifetime subscriptions. Keep in mind that the shorter the contract, the higher the price.
- Trial period: After you’ve made a selection, there’s typically a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to try the VPN before committing. Some VPNs, such as CyberGhost, offer more.
- Apps: When selecting a VPN, try it first to ensure you like its accompanying app. Some VPNs, for example, have great desktop software but might not have a native Apple TV app available. If possible, select a VPN with a native Apple TV app to save you from finding a workaround.
Latest news
- The UK government is considering imposing age verification checks to try to prevent children from using VPNs to access age-restricted content online.
- Russia is rapidly achieving its plans to push U.S.-based social media apps out of the country, alongside credible VPN services.
- Google’s Pixel VPN received a small quality-of-life update.
- New research suggests that a high volume of ransomware incidents is due to compromised VPN credentials.
- The EFF warned that attempting to block global VPN usage is a privacy disaster waiting to happen.
- Researchers discovered hundreds of supposedly free, secure VPNs offer no privacy or security whatsoever.
No. For several years, Apple has provided support for third-party VPN providers, allowing these services to develop native applications compatible with its set-top box.
Apple said the support was made available „to benefit enterprise and education users wanting to access content on their private networks, allowing Apple TV to be a great office and conference room solution in even more places.“
It was also good news for consumers who want the additional features and security of a VPN without having to use workarounds to combine their VPN service with an Apple TV subscription, such as by installing a VPN directly on their router.
As a service that intercepts your device’s connection to your internet hub and the bandwidth provided by your ISP, yes, a VPN will result in speed loss. However, the best VPN services will not drastically compromise your connection or streaming, and they shouldn’t lead to buffering or loading problems.
You will find that if your starting speed is low, you will notice a greater potential speed loss from VPN usage — often around 10% to 35% — more often. However, unless you are involved in very high-resolution streaming or you are connecting to a server that is very far away, a VPN shouldn’t drastically impact your experience.
On their own, Smart DNS services offered by VPNs do not provide the same protection or security as a VPN. A VPN allows you to change your location and IP address while creating an encrypted tunnel to mask your online activities and improve your online security. By comparison, Smart DNS only changes your IP address to hopefully unblock geo-restricted content.
Probably not. Unless you want a VPN to access geo-blocked content libraries, paying for a VPN service just for your Apple TV might not be worth your money. That said, the majority of VPN providers will give you more than one connection at a time. This means you can use your VPN to protect your PC, smartphone, and other devices simultaneously.
While there are free VPNs and free VPN plans, the majority will come with speed, server, or device connection restrictions. For your Apple TV, we recommend that you sign up for a paid VPN plan so you don’t have issues with Smart DNS functionality, speed, or security.
If you only want to use a free service or you want to try out a VPN first before signing up, try out Proton VPN or take advantage of the money-back guarantees most VPN providers offer.
First, choose a reputable VPN vendor with a strong security background. Then, to check that your VPN is working properly, compare your IP address before and after enabling a VPN connection. You can find this in your device’s settings, typically under Wi-Fi, or by visiting whatismyipaddress.com. If you see the same IP address, your VPN is probably not working properly, as a VPN should assign you a new IP address.
You can also visit dnsleaktest.com to see if any domain name service (DNS) leaks have been detected while using a VPN, which could be a sign that your information is being leaked.
Finally, be careful with free VPNs offered by unknown or shady companies, especially if they are outside of official app repositories. This could open your device up to surveillance or malware.
Apple TV VPN services are legal in the U.S., but VPN service legality overall varies from country to country.
Some countries, including North Korea, Belarus, and Iraq, ban VPNs outright, whereas others, such as Russia and China, do not approve of the use of non-state-controlled VPNs.
Usually, it isn’t the legality of a VPN that is a core issue, but rather what you use it for. As an example, using a VPN to access geolocked content outside of your contract with a streaming service provider may break its terms of service.
However, if you intend to use a VPN in another country and are unsure of its legality, you can check out NordVPN’s guide.
Yes, it is possible. VPNs are only one method to improve your online privacy and security, but no single software solution will protect you completely. While many VPN providers operate no-logs policies and use strong encryption, you may be still be tracked by your internet service provider (ISP), cookies, tracking scripts, and because of domain name service (DNS) leaks.
You can, but free VPNs will usually restrict speed, bandwidth, and country server selection. You might also be limited to select servers, increasing load and potentially impacting service.
We wouldn’t recommend using free VPNs for frequent streaming, but if you’d still like to try out a free VPN for Apple TV first, we suggest you check out Proton VPN or Windscribe. Alternatively, sign up for a plan with one of our recommended VPNs and take advantage of their money-back guarantees.
VPN costs vary, but they are now typically provided on a subscription basis with very few lifetime licenses.
The cheapest VPNs may only cost you a dollar or two a month, but you will need to agree to a one-, two-, or three-year contract in return for lower prices. You usually will need to pay this upfront, plus tax, depending on your location.
If you go for a month-by-month contract, expect to pay over $10 for the service. You will also pay more — potentially more than $15 per month — for specialized VPNs that work in censorship-heavy countries, such as China.
Latest updates
- February 2026: In ZDNET’s latest update, we extensively updated our guide to the best Apple TV VPNs for 2026 and also awarded ExpressVPN the top spot.
- November 2025: In ZDNET’s November update, we refreshed our top picks of the best Apple TV VPNs and performed minor editorial and style changes.
- October 2025: In ZDNET’s October update, we updated the information available on our top and alternative picks, alongside a refresh of our FAQs.
Other VPNs to consider
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CyberGhost has plans starting at $2.19 per month with two months free. It is a great VPN alternative for streaming services overall.
CyberGhost has great content library access, a strong server network, and fantastic speeds. However, there’s no native Apple TV app, so you will need to install CyberGhost on your router.
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Private Internet Access (PIA) is another great Apple TV VPN that only missed out on my top list due to slower speeds than competitors. During testing, I found the PIA native Apple TV app works well and is reasonably fast in some locations. However, it does have a relatively small server network.
Plans start from $2.03 per month, and a dedicated Apple TV app is available. Three months of free access are included, but you will need to agree to a three-year contract. Subscription offers change very frequently.
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With plans starting at only $1.11 per month with three months free, Privado VPN is a reliable and cheap Apple TV VPN.
As a bonus, it also comes with a native Apple TV app, and recent updates to its iOS offering include PhantomMode, an anti-surveillance tool. However, Privado has a small server network with servers in only 67 cities. It might not suit you if you are trying to stream geo-locked content libraries from multiple locations and regions.
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We hope this guide on the best Apple TV VPNs has been useful. If you’d like to explore further, we have listed our favorite VPNs for streaming overall, alongside a comprehensive guide on the best VPNs around.
