The best thing about the Android TV box is that it’s highly convenient to stream anything on your television. These boxes are known to run the Android software, have many features, and are designed to be connected to your Smart TV.
Since you’re connected to the internet on your Smart TV and can enjoy multiple services that you can’t on normal television, these services come with many risks and thereby require the use of a good VPN for Android TV Box.
Many streaming services do not allow their content to be watched by people outside a specific region. This means that you cannot access every type of content from anywhere in the world. That’s when you should look for a VPN to access the restricted content and enjoy streaming. This guide explains the importance of a VPN on an Android TV box and how to set one up on your device.
How to Secure Your Android TV Box
You can secure your Android TV through multiple steps. For example, it’s better to only download the apps from the Google Play Store as these apps are guaranteed to be malware free. If you install apps on your TV box from third-party or external unauthorized sources, your Android device will have a higher chance of getting affected by viruses or malware.
Further, it’s even better to install antivirus software on your Android TV box to increase the device’s security. This will ensure the complete protection of your device while you enjoy it. Lastly, a virtual private network is the most effective method to secure your Android box and maintain your privacy.
Why You Should Use a VPN on Your Android TV Box?
Virtual private networks are known to keep you completely anonymous by connecting you to a third-party server and routing your internet connection. The Internet service providers keep tabs on your activities. Thanks to their strict surveillance, they see and know everything you do online. Collecting user data and selling it is now a normal thing in the United States. To avoid all these practices of your ISP, you need to get a VPN for yourself.
Another benefit of using a VPN is accessing geo-restricted streaming services. Getting a reliable VPN and connecting to one of its servers would allow you to access all media and sites restricted in your geographical location. This means that you can easily access the UK-based BBC iPlayer in the US.
Moreover, some cybercriminals can easily hijack your internet connection, access your device, and steal all your sensitive data. This can only be avoided using a reliable VPN as it creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the site you’re visiting, so no one can snoop in.
How Can You Secure Your Android TV Box with a VPN
Using a Virtual Private Network service, you can use multiple methods to secure your Android TV box. Let’s look at them below:
1. Download the Dedicated VPN App on Your Android TV
One of the easiest methods to get a VPN and secure your Android TV is subscribing to a reliable service and install its dedicated application. Most VPN providers offer an Android app for their users.
Once you’ve subscribed to the VPN, follow the steps below to get it on your Android TV:
- Go to the Google Play Store and search for the VPN you subscribed to.
- Install the preferred VPN app on your Android TV.
- Log in using your credentials and connect to a server from its server list.
- Once connected, your Android TV will be secure, and you can do anything you like on it easily.
2. Installing a VPN App on Your Physical Router
Installing a VPN on your router has a couple of advantages. Firstly, it secures your entire network so all the devices connected to your Wi-Fi are fully encrypted and secure. With that, your Android Smart TV and Android TV Box would be secure as well. But to apply this process, you need to make sure that your router is compatible with VPNs or not.
3. Setting Up a Virtual Router on Your Windows PC or Mac
You have to create a virtual router on your Windows or macOS for this method. First, you need to connect your VPN to macOS or Windows. Once done, create a Wi-Fi hotspot and connect your Android TV box to it, and that’s all.
Troubleshooting Tips If Your VPN Stops Working on Android TV
Sometimes, VPNs create issues and stop working on your Android TV Box. If that happens to you, then use the troubleshooting steps below to solve this issue:
- Uninstall and reinstall the VPN app.
- Clear your cache and relaunch your VPN app.
- Clear the cache of your streaming application and disable the location on your TV Box.
You need to secure your Android TV box. Using a VPN on your device can keep you away from the constant monitoring of your ISP and all kinds of cyberattacks and let you access a lot of geo-restricted services. But whether you buy a VPN or go with the free edition, search for the one that’s known to be reliable and offers efficient protection on your device.