Roku is by far the best streaming device you can get in 2020. It’s what every cord-cutter needs for unlimited media entertainment. But sadly, a lot of Channels on Roku are geo-restricted due to licensing issues. If you’re not in the United States, you’re only going to be able to access half of the popular network apps and channels.
It’s unfair, right?
But there is a solution. With the help of a Roku VPN, you’ll be able to bypass any geo-blocks standing in your way and unleash the true potential of your Roku device.
Speaking of using a VPN for Roku, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest services that can be easily configured to work with your Roku device. It has 3,000 servers that allow you to connect to Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and more.
In this guide, I will show you exactly how to setup ExpressVPN on Roku in the easiest ways possible. But before we get started, go ahead and grab your self a subscription plan for ExpressVPN. It only costs $8.32/mo.
Method #1 – How to Setup ExpressVPN on Roku (via PC)
5 Minutes Review time
However, Roku does not offer native support for ExpressVPN or any other VPN service. Instead, you’ll have to share a VPN-enabled connection from your PC to Roku. Doing so, you will establish a VPN connection for the Roku device, allowing it to access blocked streaming channels/apps outside the US.
Just follow the steps below to complete the setup process. It will only take you 5 minutes at max.
That’s it, your Roku should now be connected to ExpressVPN. But Roku isn’t the only device that can be configured to work with ExpressVPN. In fact, if you use Kodi for free content, check out this guide to setup ExpressVPN on Kodi. Alternatively, if you have a Firestick device, here’s how you can set up ExpressVPN on a Firestick.
Method #2 – How to Setup ExpressVPN on Roku (via Router)
You can also connect Roku via a physical router with a VPN enabled on it. This method is a little more technical, but try this if you are experiencing problems with the above method for some reason.
Step 1: You must have an ExpressVPN account
Step 2: Once subscribed, you’ll need to set up ExpressVPN on a router
Step 3: Open Mobile/PC or any device and visit Expressvpn router and sign in to your account
Step 4: Make sure you are connected to the same server location as in your Roku settings
Step 5: On your Roku, go to Settings > Click on Network > Then click on Setup Connection
Step 6: Select Wireless
Step 7: It will check for local Wi-Fi Networks. From the list, find your Wi-Fi connection (Running on Router) and click on it
Step 8: Enter Password
Step 9: Once connected, the status will say ‘Connected’
Step 10: Now you can stream anything over Roku!
Method #3 – Cast your Android device to Roku
This is sort of a bonus method. If you want to stream your favorite streaming services like Netflix U.S on your Roku device, you can try casting from your Android device. But do keep in mind that this method might only work on certain Android devices.
Step 1: Access your device and launch the ExpressVPN app.
Step 2: Next, tap the location picker and then select your desired location (The U.S for example).
Step 3: Now, on your Android device, launch any VoD streaming app (e.g., Netflix).
Step 4: Select any show or movie you would like to cast on to Roku.
Step 5: Bring down the control center to access Quick Settings. Tap on Screen Cast and your device screen should now begin to mirror on to your Roku device hooked up to your TV.
That’s it, you will now be able to stream American Netflix and other popular streaming services on your Roku device in no time. Speaking of Netflix, here’s how you can watch Netflix with ExpressVPN.
But in case ExpressVPN doesn’t work or if you’re not satisfied, then you can always cancel your ExpressVPN subscription and get a full refund within 30-days.
How ExpressVPN Unblocks Channels on Roku
Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Now, etc. are geo-restricted and work only in the US. Any IP address that doesn’t belong to the US is automatically denied access if you try to access these channels abroad.
So, what you need is an effective way to change your IP address virtually and bypass the restrictions from anywhere in the world. Here is how you do that with ExpressVPN:
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN and follow instructions to setup ExpressVPN on Roku
- Go to Roku Home
- Install Netflix or any other streaming service you want to use
- Now enter Username and Password
You will now be able to stream American Netflix and other streaming channels on your Roku device faster than you can say Money heist is the best show on Netflix.
This becomes quite easy to do with ExpressVPN with its quick connectivity to US servers. Connecting to one of these servers will give you a US IP address so that any streaming app will now work on your Roku without any errors. But in case you run into any trouble, you can check out our ExpressVPN not working guide.
For a detailed guide on ExpressVPN, visit our ExpressVPN review.
Popular Free Streaming Channels for Roku
The great thing about Roku is that it offers a lot of free streaming apps in addition to paid ones. Some popular free ones are:
- Crackle
- Sky News
- Pandora
- PBS Kids
- The Roku Channel
Final Thoughts
Though Roku does not have built-in support for VPN apps, it is still possible to setup ExpressVPN on Roku via your router (physical or virtual). For people living outside the US, this simple one-time process will bring all streaming channels on Roku to your screen, without any annoying geo-restriction errors. However, if you’re still looking for something other than ExpressVPN, you can check out our list of some best VPNs for Roku.
