LG Smart TVs offer an exceptional viewing experience, with access to popular streaming platforms, apps, and features. However, if you’re located in a region with geo-restricted content or are concerned about your privacy while streaming, using a VPN like ExpressVPN can elevate your experience. ExpressVPN is known for its speed, security, and reliability, and it pairs perfectly with LG Smart TVs to provide seamless streaming. ExpressVPN Review for LG Smart TV by VPNRanks will walk you through how to set up, its advantages, and how to enjoy content from around the world without restrictions.
Why Use ExpressVPN with LG Smart TV?
While LG Smart TVs offer fantastic features, they often come with regional content restrictions. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and others often block content based on your location. ExpressVPN helps bypass these geo-blocks, allowing you to access a global library of content, whether it’s U.S. Netflix, UK BBC iPlayer, or other region-specific platforms.
Here’s why ExpressVPN is a top choice for LG Smart TV users:
- Unblock Region-Locked Content: Access streaming services from different countries to enjoy a wider range of shows and movies.
- Enhanced Privacy: ExpressVPN ensures your internet traffic is encrypted, keeping your data safe from prying eyes.
- High-Speed Servers: With over 3,000 servers across 94 countries, ExpressVPN offers excellent speeds, ideal for buffer-free streaming.
- No Logs Policy: ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing history and activity remain private.
Setting Up ExpressVPN on LG Smart TV
There are a few different ways to set up ExpressVPN on your LG Smart TV. Since LG TVs don’t have a native VPN app, you’ll need to use workarounds like setting up ExpressVPN on your router, using a compatible streaming device, or sharing your VPN connection from a PC. Here are the most common methods:
- Set Up ExpressVPN on Your Router
One of the easiest and most effective ways to use ExpressVPN with an LG Smart TV is by installing the VPN on your router. This method will route the internet traffic from your entire home network through the VPN, allowing all connected devices, including your LG Smart TV, to benefit from the VPN’s features.
Steps to Set Up ExpressVPN on Your Router:
- Check Router Compatibility: Ensure your router is compatible with VPNs. ExpressVPN supports most modern routers, but you may need to flash custom firmware (like DD-WRT or Tomato) if your router isn’t compatible out of the box.
- Sign In to ExpressVPN: Go to the ExpressVPN website and log in to your account.
- Download the Router App: ExpressVPN offers a router app for compatible routers. Download the app from your ExpressVPN account and follow the installation instructions for your router model.
- Install and Configure: Install the app on your router and follow the on-screen instructions to configure the VPN connection. Choose your desired server location (e.g., the U.S. for American Netflix).
- Connect Your LG Smart TV: Once the router is configured, connect your LG Smart TV to the router’s Wi-Fi network. Your TV’s internet traffic will automatically be routed through the VPN.
This method ensures that your entire home network, including your LG Smart TV, is protected by the VPN, making it ideal for multiple devices.
- Use a Streaming Device (e.g., Amazon Fire TV Stick or Apple TV)
If you don’t want to set up ExpressVPN on your router, you can use a streaming device that supports VPN connections, such as an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, or Android TV box.
Steps to Set Up ExpressVPN on a Streaming Device:
- Set Up ExpressVPN on the Device: Download and install the ExpressVPN app for your chosen streaming device (available for Fire TV Stick, Android TV, etc.).
- Connect to a VPN Server: Launch the ExpressVPN app, sign in, and select your desired server location.
- Connect the Streaming Device to Your LG Smart TV: Use an HDMI cable to connect the streaming device to your LG Smart TV.
- Enjoy Streaming: Once the device is connected, you can access streaming services on your LG Smart TV with the VPN active, ensuring unrestricted access to global content.
This method works well if you want a dedicated streaming device that’s easier to manage than configuring your router.
- Share a VPN Connection from Your PC or Mac
If you don’t want to use a router or streaming device, you can share your VPN connection from your computer directly to your LG Smart TV.
Steps to Set Up ExpressVPN via a Shared PC/Mac Connection:
- Install ExpressVPN on Your PC/Mac: Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your computer.
- Connect to a VPN Server: Launch the app and select a VPN server location.
- Share the Connection: On Windows, go to ‘Network and Sharing Center,’ select ‘Change adapter settings,’ and right-click your VPN connection to select ‘Properties.’ From there, go to the ‘Sharing’ tab and enable sharing the connection with your LG Smart TV. On Mac, you can use the “Internet Sharing” feature in system preferences to share your VPN connection.
- Connect Your LG Smart TV: On your LG Smart TV, connect to the Wi-Fi network shared by your PC or Mac.
- Stream Content: With the VPN connection shared, your LG Smart TV is now ready to stream content from any region.
This method works if you don’t want to purchase additional hardware like a router or streaming device.
Optimizing ExpressVPN for the Best Streaming Experience
Now that your LG Smart TV is connected to ExpressVPN, here are some tips to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience:
- Choose a Fast Server: For buffer-free streaming, select a server with low latency and high-speed capabilities. ExpressVPN’s “Quick Connect” feature automatically connects you to the fastest server.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Server load can affect VPN speeds. If you’re experiencing slow speeds during peak times, try connecting to a different server.
- Enable Split Tunneling (if using a compatible router): If you want to use ExpressVPN only for certain apps (like Netflix) while keeping other apps unaffected, enable split tunneling on your router.
Benefits of Using ExpressVPN with LG Smart TV
- Access Global Content: Unblock region-restricted streaming services and watch your favorite shows and movies from any country.
- Privacy and Security: Protect your personal data and online activity from prying eyes with ExpressVPN’s strong encryption.
- Buffer-Free Streaming: Enjoy a high-speed connection that allows for smooth, uninterrupted streaming.
- Easy Setup: Whether you choose to configure ExpressVPN on your router, streaming device, or PC, setting up the VPN is simple and quick.
Final Words
Using ExpressVPN with your LG Smart TV enhances your streaming experience by unlocking global content and ensuring secure browsing. Whether you choose to set up ExpressVPN on your router, use a streaming device, or share your PC’s connection, the process is relatively simple and offers excellent results.
With fast speeds, strong security, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to make the most out of their LG Smart TV. Enjoy a seamless, unrestricted streaming experience today by setting up ExpressVPN on your LG Smart TV.
