Best VPNs for LG Smart TV in 2024 (+ installation guide)

Need a VPN to use with an LG Smart TV? Here’s a roundup of the best VPNs for your LG Smart TV, as well as a guide to set it up with your device.

LG Smart TVs use webOS, so there's no way to install a VPN app directly to your device. Even so, you’ll still be able to use a VPN with your LG Smart TV, whether it’s with a VPN router or connecting via Smart DNS. VPNs allow the user to bypass geo-restrictions with ease, securing your personal data in the process. 

VPNs work by encrypting all of the data that is sent to and from your device. The user connects to a VPN server and is assigned a temporary IP address that matches the server location. As well as boosting online privacy and security, a VPN unblocks geo-restricted content from abroad. Just connect to a VPN server in the relevant country to spoof your location.

Setting up a VPN with an LG Smart TV is more difficult than usual, so we’ve included a detailed guide, as well as listing the best VPNs to get the job done. If you don’t have time to read through the entire article, here’s a quick rundown of our top picks. 

The best VPNs for LG Smart TV:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for LG Smart TVs. Speedy servers, reliable network, advanced features like Meshnet, great for streaming, Smart DNS, and router support. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for LG Smart TVs. Works with 20+ Netflix libraries, servers in 100+ countries to pick from, unlimited device connections, Smart DNS, and reliable streaming access. 
3. ExpressVPN: One of the best providers in terms of streaming support in multiple locations. Lightway protocol, Smart DNS, unlimited bandwidth, custom router firmware, and reliable speeds. 
4. CyberGhost: Beginner-friendly VPN with a massive network of streaming servers. Smart DNS, support for all devices, and impressive connection speeds. 
5. Proton VPN: Advanced VPN with support for popular streaming platforms and various router models. Free servers and a no-logs policy. 
6. IPVanish: Offers router access and support for platforms like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime.
7. PrivateVPN: Secure servers, streaming support, and compatible with various router models. 

Summary Table

We have narrowed the VPN field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we look for when picking out the best VPNs for LG TVs:

• Servers in a wide range of popular locations is a good starting point for streaming content via your LG Smart TV
• Speeds are always important, especially if you don’t have the quickest connection to begin with
• The ability to work with routers and to access streaming platforms from abroad. Ideally, the VPN will also offer Smart DNS support 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third-party

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for LG Smart TVs, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for LG Smart TV in 2023

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN is our top pick if you’re in need of a streaming VPN for your LG Smart TV. You’ll find a selection of 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries. Speeds average 200 Mbps, making it a superb solution for streaming live content. 

It can be connected to an LG Smart TV by configuring the VPN on a WiFi router, and then connecting the TV to the router. Nord supports numerous router models including DD-WRT, Tomato, AsusWRT, Netgear, TP-Link, pfSense, Sabai, and more. There are apps for all major devices, whether on mobile or desktop, along with browser extensions.

NordVPN works with 23+ Netflix catalogs, and it can be used to access popular platforms in lots of countries like the United States and the UK. This includes Prime Video, Peacock, HBO Max, ESPN, NBC, ABC, CBS, and Hulu in the former, and BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, BT Sport, and more in the latter. The provider is packed with advanced features, including the proprietary NordLynx protocol, and unique extras like Meshnet. 

If setting up the VPN on a WiFi router isn’t an option, then try NordVPN’s smart DNS service, SmartPlay. It comes bundled with every NordVPN subscription. SmartPlay allows the user to stream region-locked content by making a couple small changes to your TV’s internet settings. SmartPlay also cloaks your IP and encrypts your internet connection.

Security is watertight, and NordVPN is backed by a no-logs policy which has been independently audited by Deloitte. You’re free to share files via P2P, and the user can connect with up to six devices at the same time. 

THE BEST VPN FOR LG SMART TV: NordVPN has strong router support, offers streaming access in a range of locations, and comes with advanced Smart DNS features. Fast speeds, large network, and an audited no-logs policy. Comes with a simple risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is our top budget recommendation, especially if you’d like to sign up with a VPN over a longer period of time. The provider has 3,200+ high-speed (190 Mbps) servers in 100+ countries worldwide, offering streaming access via popular platforms in a variety of locations.

You’ll be able to use an unlimited number of devices simultaneously with a single Surfshark account, although the same is true for any VPN if you decide to connect to your LG Smart TV with your router. Connecting to your router only counts as one device, even if you use it to connect to every piece of smart technology within your home via WiFi.

As with Nord, Smart DNS is a free addition with every subscription. By entering Surfshark’s DNS server addresses into your LG TV’s settings, you can access a wide range of streaming services.

Surfshark is packed with features that will improve privacy, including a kill switch, obfuscation, and AES encryption. The provider works with over 20 Netflix libraries, and it’s a great option if you need an IP address from an obscure location. 

THE BEST BUDGET FOR LG SMART TV: Surfshark is a worthwhile low-cost solution for various smart TV models and brands. Unlimited device connections, streaming access, Smart DNS, and servers found in over 100+ countries. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN goes a step beyond the average provider when it comes to compatibility, with custom router firmware and Smart DNS support that makes it perfect for various LG Smart TVs. The VPN’s special firmware is compatible with certain Asus, Linksys, and Netgear router models. Alternatively, you can buy pre-flashed models that already have the VPN installed. 

Smart DNS (MediaStreamer) allows the user to spoof their location, accessing various US streaming platforms such as Netflix US, Hulu, and HBO Max. It’s a simple solution if you’re not confident about connecting your smart TV to your computer, or would prefer to stream content with the least amount of effort.

The provider has speedy (175 Mbps) servers to pick from in 105+ countries, and features include everything from split tunneling to a custom protocol (Lightway). Bandwidth is unlimited, and ExpressVPN comes with 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. 

ExpressVPN is unmatched in terms of streaming support for users hoping to access content from abroad. This includes 24 Netflix catalogs, as well as services like BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Sky, and more. 

You’ll find apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV, along with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi.

RELIABLE LG SMART TV VPN: ExpressVPN has servers in 94+ countries, and produces some of the more reliable results when accessing geo-restricted streaming content. Custom router firmware, decent speeds, Smart DNS, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost has one of the largest server networks on the market, with locations in 100+ countries that are perfect for tasks like streaming and torrenting. A beginner-friendly provider, it works well with numerous VPN-compatible routers, offering detailed guides, and pre-flashed models. You’ll also find apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV.

Streaming support and fast speeds (300 Mbps) earn CyberGhost a spot on this particular list. You’ll be able to access content from a long list of countries with your LG Smart TV, including blocked platforms in the following locations:

Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK, and the US.

It’s hard to think of many downsides if you plan to connect via a router, or with a macOS or Windows device. Smart DNS is available, but it only works with Netflix and Hulu. 

CyberGhost comes with a strict no-logs policy, and it’s one of the more affordable services on the market. A single account can be used with up to seven devices at the same time. 

STREAMING LG SMART TV VPN: CyberGhost won’t let you down if you want affordable streaming support with your LG smart TV VPN. Speedy servers and a massive network to pick from, beginner-friendly apps for all devices, and an extended 45-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

Proton VPN is compatible with a long list of routers, making it easy to connect to your specific model without the need to purchase a new device. There are setup guides for AsusWRT, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, pfSense, Tomato, FreshTomato, and Vilfo models and firmware, as well as pre-flashed options. 

The provider is great at accessing streaming platforms, including the likes of Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime with its US servers from abroad. It has roughly 3,000+ servers in 71+ countries to pick from.  

Proton offers free VPN servers found in a trio of countries (Japan, the Netherlands, and the US), and these come with no bandwidth cap. However, Proton’s free servers can’t be used for streaming content, so you’ll need to look at paid plans to use with your LG Smart TV.

Plus subscribers also get access to the Tor network, along with features like port forwarding and split tunneling. Secure Core servers help to boost privacy, and Proton VPN can be used with up to 10 devices at the same time.

ADVANCED LG SMART TV VPN: Proton VPN is another viable option for LG smart TVs. Some of the fastest connection speeds on the market and streaming support in a range of locations. Free servers available, Secure Core, compatible with routers, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

IPVanish is another great option for accessing various US-based streaming services securely with your LG Smart TV. The provider works well with DD-WRT, ASUS-WRT, ASUSWRT-Merlin, and Tomato routers, although it doesn’t have smart DNS. You can purchase a pre-configured router to expedite the setup process.

2,200+ IPVanish servers can be found in 75+ locations, which can be used to access services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Prime Video, HBO, and more. Average speeds of roughly 250 Mbps are quick enough to watch live content like sports, even if you are physically halfway around the globe. 

IPVanish is based in the United States, and that’s where you’ll find the majority of its servers. Features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection, as well as split tunneling, obfuscation, and a SOCKS5 proxy. 

You can connect ​an unlimited number of devices simultaneously, and apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and FireTV.

SPEEDY LG SMART TV VPN: IPVanish is a speedy option if you’d prefer to use a VPN router with your LG Smart TV. Streaming access, no-logs policy, unlimited device connections, 24/7 support via live chat, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

PrivateVPN is compatible with various router models, and has a selection of apps available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

The provider is capable of accessing streaming services in a range of locations, including multiple Netflix libraries. It has servers in 63+ countries, and all support staff are in-house, so it’s easy to get a detailed response to any queries. PrivateVPN is a great option for beginner users, offering remote help and installation if you’re stuck during any part of the process. 

It keeps no logs, while advanced features include port forwarding and Stealth VPN. You’ll be protected by 256-bit AES encryption, and there’s a reliable kill switch.  

Slower average connection speeds (40 Mbps) are the main reason why PrivateVPN is placed lower on the list compared to the alternatives seen above. You’ll also have to connect via a router or laptop, given there’s no Smart DNS support. It still works well with most LG devices. 

PRIVATE LG SMART TV VPN: PrivateVPN works well with multiple streaming services like Netflix, while support staff are on hand to help with remote installation. 10 simultaneous devices, reliable server speeds, and a simple 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for LG Smart TVs 

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria means that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance, can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for LG Smart TVs:

• Servers: Coverage in major locations is necessary if you’d like to access content in a relevant region. The providers that we’ve picked out all have large server networks. 
• Speeds and performance: Fast connection speeds will ensure no lag, even if you’re connecting to servers located halfway around the world. This will be helpful if you don’t have the quickest internet speeds to begin with. 
• Router compatibility and unblocking: The VPN must be compatible with various router models, as well as offering streaming support for geo-restricted platforms and services via your LG smart TV. Ideally, the VPN will also have Smart DNS support. As well as working with major streaming platforms, it should also be able to access other types of geo-blocked content. 
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. The VPN must not leak your real IP address, and should offer strong encryption. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no-logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to set up a Smart DNS with an LG Smart TV (WebOS)

Rather than manually configuring a WiFi router to work with your LG Smart TV, it’s easier to enable Smart DNS. Some providers such as NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN offer support for Smart DNS, avoiding the need for any technical know-how. We’ve included a quick guide below.

Here’s how to set up a Smart DNS with WebOS:

1. Select a VPN that offers Smart DNS support. 
2. Sign up with the provider, and sign in. Locate the Smart DNS feature and activate it. 
3. Turn on your smart TV, and open the Settings menu. 
4. Go to Network > Network Connection.
5. Choose between Wi-Fi and Wired depending on the connection you’re using/ 
6. From Advanced Wi-Fi Settings, select Edit.
7. Make sure Set Automatically is unchecked and enter the DNS IP address provided by your VPN service.

Your LG Smart TV should now be connected via Smart DNS. This method may differ slightly depending on your specific TV model and VPN provider. 

LG Smart TV VPN FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for my LG Smart TV?

It’s going to be tough to find a free provider that works with your LG Smart TV. Free VPNs tend to scrimp when it comes to offering Smart DNS compatibility, or router support. Many free VPNs are only available on mobile devices, and tend to be a considerable security risk. 

For example, free VPNs have been found selling user data, and some even contain malware. There’s a chance that your data will leak due to poor encryption you’ll get fewer servers to pick from compared to premium providers. 

Performance is likely to suffer, with speeds that are far too slow for streaming effectively. Bandwidth is often capped, so you’ll find it tough to watch content reliably without being impeded. Instead, we’d look to a trustworthy service that also offers a free trial. In most instances, a free VPN can't be used to access your favorite content, and it's a risk in terms of online security. 

Will a VPN slow my connection on my LG Smart TV?

The providers we’ve highlighted above will be able to handle streaming content with no issues, as each VPN exceeds the minimum recommended requirement of 25 Mbps. However, if you’re connecting to faraway servers, you may experience some slowdown compared to your normal connection speeds. That's why it's recommended to stick with a provider with high-speed servers. 

Can I use a webOS VPN?

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to find any VPNs with native support for webOS. Instead, you’ll need to use a VPN with your router, or create a virtual router using a desktop or laptop device. Smart DNS is another viable solution, but doesn’t offer the same features and protection as a VPN.

What VPN is compatible with an LG Smart TV?

As no VPNs can be installed directly on an LG Smart TV, it’s best to stick with a VPN that offers router support, or a provider with Smart DNS. You can connect to your VPN with a wide range of apps for all major devices.