Struggling to get Surfshark VPN on your LG Smart TV? It’s a common hurdle because, honestly, LG’s webOS doesn’t let you just download a VPN app directly like you would on a phone or computer. You won’t find Surfshark in the LG Content Store, and that can be a real bummer when you’re trying to unlock more streaming content or just get better privacy while binging your favorite shows. But don’t worry, there are some pretty clever workarounds that actually do the trick, and they’re not as complicated as they might sound. I’m going to walk you through the best ways to get Surfshark working on your LG TV, step-by-step, so you can enjoy all the benefits of a VPN, from bypassing frustrating geo-blocks to protecting your online activities.

The bottom line is, even though LG Smart TVs don’t support native VPN apps, you can absolutely still use Surfshark to enhance your streaming and security. Whether you’re aiming to watch a show that’s only available in another country, stop your internet provider from slowing down your connection that dreaded “ISP throttling”, or simply encrypt your data from prying eyes, Surfshark has features that can make it happen on your LG TV. We’ll be looking at setting it up through your router, using Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature, or even sharing a VPN connection from your computer. These methods give you great flexibility, and once you’re set up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Table of Contents

Why Even Bother with a VPN on Your LG Smart TV?

You might be thinking, “My TV just streams stuff, why does it need a VPN?” That’s a fair question! But once you start looking at what a VPN like Surfshark can do for your LG Smart TV, it really changes the game.

First off, there’s the whole unblocking content thing. We’ve all been there: you hear about an amazing show or movie, go to watch it, and bam – “Not available in your region.” It’s incredibly annoying. Streaming services have different content libraries based on where you are in the world due to licensing agreements. Surfshark, with its massive network of over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, lets you virtually change your location, making it look like you’re browsing from somewhere else. So, if you’re in Europe but want to watch a show from the US Netflix library, you can connect to a US server and suddenly, it’s all there. This also applies to accessing regional LG Content Store libraries or specific LG Channels.

Then there’s privacy and security. When you’re online, even on your TV, your internet service provider ISP can see what you’re doing. They can track your streaming habits, browsing history, and potentially even slow down your connection if they detect you’re using a lot of bandwidth for streaming that’s called ISP throttling. A VPN encrypts all your internet traffic, essentially scrambling it so your ISP and anyone else can’t snoop on your activities. Surfshark uses strong AES-256 encryption, which is like military-grade protection for your data. This means your online activity, even on your LG TV, stays private, and your ISP can’t intentionally slow you down because they can’t see what you’re streaming.

Finally, consistent speeds are a big plus. Surfshark has a reputation for being pretty speedy, consistently delivering fast connections, which is super important for streaming in HD or 4K without annoying buffering. In recent tests, Surfshark showed only a negligible speed loss, averaging around 21% even with VPN encryption, and it can clock internet speeds over 950 Mbps on the WireGuard protocol. This means you can count on smooth, buffer-free streaming, even when you’re jumping between servers across the globe. Unlock Kazakhstan: Your Guide to VPNs and Online Freedom

So, while your LG TV doesn’t have a direct “install VPN” button, the benefits of getting Surfshark connected are definitely worth the minor setup effort.

The Best Ways to Get Surfshark on Your LG Smart TV

Since LG webOS doesn’t support VPN apps natively, we’ve got to get a little creative. Here are the most effective methods, each with its own pros and cons, so you can pick the one that works best for your setup.

Method 1: Setting Up Surfshark on Your Wi-Fi Router

This is often my go-to recommendation because it protects every device connected to your home network, including your LG Smart TV, without needing individual setup on each one. Once your router is running Surfshark, your TV automatically uses the VPN as long as it’s connected to that Wi-Fi. It’s like a set-it-and-forget-it solution for your whole house. How to Connect Surfshark VPN on Your Laptop: A Complete Guide to Online Freedom

Pros:

Whole-Home Protection: Every device connected to the router gets VPN protection, including gaming consoles, smart home devices, and of course, your LG TV.
Always On: Your TV is always connected to the VPN as long as your router is on.
No Device Limits: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, and with a router setup, you’re not even thinking about that limit for individual devices.
Full Encryption: You get all the privacy and security benefits of a full VPN connection.

Cons:

Router Compatibility: Not all routers support VPN client installation. You’ll need a compatible router, often one that supports custom firmware like DD-WRT, OpenWRT, or specific models from brands like Asus, Gl.iNET, or Keenetic.
Complex Setup: It can be a bit more technical than other methods, requiring access to your router’s settings and sometimes flashing new firmware.
Changing Servers: If you want to switch VPN server locations, you’ll have to log back into your router’s admin panel each time.

Step-by-Step Guide: Router Setup

Check Router Compatibility: First things first, you need to find out if your router can even handle a VPN. Look up your router model online or check its manual for “VPN client” support. If it doesn’t, you might need to consider a different method or upgrading your router.
Get Your Surfshark Credentials: You’ll need specific Surfshark service credentials for manual router setup, not your usual email and password. Log into your Surfshark account on their website, go to the VPN section, and look for Manual setup. From there, choose the Router option. You’ll find your username and a password often referred to as service credentials. Keep these handy!
Download Configuration Files: While on the Manual setup page, you’ll also need to download the configuration files for the VPN server location you want to use. These are usually .ovpn files for OpenVPN or specific keys for WireGuard. Pick the protocol OpenVPN is common for routers, but WireGuard is generally faster if your router supports it and the location you want to connect to.
Access Your Router’s Admin Panel: Open a web browser on a computer connected to your router and type in your router’s IP address. This is usually something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If you don’t know it, you can often find it on a sticker on the back of your router or by checking your computer’s network settings. Enter your router’s admin username and password.
Find VPN Client Settings: Once logged in, navigate to the VPN section. This is often under “Advanced Settings” or might be labeled “VPN Client” or just “VPN”. The exact location varies wildly between router brands and firmware.
Configure the VPN:
- For OpenVPN: You’ll typically upload the .ovpn configuration file you downloaded earlier. Then, enter your Surfshark service username and password where prompted.
- For WireGuard: The process might involve copying and pasting keys and server addresses directly.
- Make sure to save the settings.
Activate and Connect: Look for an “Activate” or “Connect” button within the VPN client section. Click it to establish the VPN connection. Some routers might need a reboot for the changes to take effect.
Connect Your LG TV: Now, simply connect your LG Smart TV to your home Wi-Fi network as you normally would. All its internet traffic will automatically be routed through the VPN.
Verify the Connection: To double-check, you can use a device connected to the same Wi-Fi network like your phone or computer and visit a “What is my IP?” website. The IP address shown should match the VPN server location you chose, not your actual location.

Method 2: Using Surfshark’s Smart DNS

If the router setup seems too daunting or your router isn’t compatible, Surfshark’s Smart DNS is a fantastic alternative, especially if your main goal is to unblock geo-restricted streaming content. It’s generally much easier to set up directly on your LG TV. However, it’s important to remember that Smart DNS does not encrypt your traffic. It only reroutes your DNS requests to bypass geo-restrictions, so you won’t get the privacy and security benefits of a full VPN.

Easy Setup: It’s much simpler to configure directly on your LG TV.
Faster Speeds: Since there’s no encryption, you often experience minimal speed loss, which is great for streaming. Surfshark VPN Kokemuksia: Rehellinen Arvio ja Vinkit Vuodelle 2025
Unblocks Content: Excellent for accessing international streaming libraries like Netflix US or Hulu.
No Encryption: Your internet traffic isn’t encrypted, meaning your ISP can still see your online activities.
No IP Address Masking: Your real IP address isn’t hidden.
Less Secure: Not suitable for privacy-focused tasks or protecting against cyber threats.

Step-by-Step Guide: Smart DNS Setup

Activate Smart DNS on Surfshark: Log into your Surfshark account on their website. Go to the VPN section, then select Manual setup, and choose the TV and console option. Click Activate Smart DNS. If you’ve already activated it, you’ll find your primary and secondary Smart DNS server addresses there. Jot them down.
Access Network Settings on Your LG TV: Grab your LG Magic Remote, press the Settings button the gear icon, and navigate to Network Settings.
Choose Your Connection Type:
- If your TV is connected via Wi-Fi, select Wi-Fi Connection.
- If it’s connected via Ethernet cable, choose Wired Connection Ethernet.
Go to Advanced Settings: Select your connected Wi-Fi network or the Wired Connection. Then, look for Advanced Wi-Fi Settings or Advanced Ethernet Settings.
Edit DNS Server: Find the DNS Server option. You’ll likely see it set to “Set Automatically.” Click the red EDIT button or deselect “Set Automatically”.
Enter Surfshark Smart DNS Addresses: Manually enter the primary Smart DNS address you got from your Surfshark account. If there’s an option for a secondary DNS, enter that one too.
Save and Restart: Click Enter or Connect to save the changes. It’s a good idea to restart your LG TV after this for the changes to fully apply.
Verify: Open a streaming app on your LG TV. If you can access content from the region associated with your Smart DNS, you’re all set!

Method 3: Creating a VPN-Protected Wi-Fi Hotspot Virtual Router

This method is perfect if your router isn’t VPN-compatible and you want the full encryption benefits of a VPN without messing with router firmware. You essentially use your Windows PC or Mac to create a Wi-Fi hotspot that’s already connected to Surfshark. Then, your LG TV connects to this new, secure hotspot. My Surfshark VPN Won’t Connect? Here’s How to Fix It!

Full VPN Protection: Your LG TV gets the same encryption and IP masking as your computer.
No Special Router Needed: Works with any standard router, as the VPN is on your computer.
Easier Server Switching: You can change VPN server locations directly from your computer’s Surfshark app.
Computer Must Be On: Your computer needs to be turned on and connected to the VPN for your TV to receive the VPN connection.
Performance: Can sometimes be slightly slower than a direct router setup due to the extra hop, and relies on your computer’s hardware. Как установить VPN Surfshark: Подробное Руководство по Настройке
Requires Wi-Fi and Ethernet or two Wi-Fi adapters: Your computer needs to be able to connect to the internet e.g., via Ethernet and broadcast a Wi-Fi hotspot simultaneously.

Step-by-Step Guide: Windows PC as a Virtual Router

Install Surfshark on Your PC: If you haven’t already, download and install the Surfshark app on your Windows computer.
Connect to Surfshark: Open the Surfshark app and connect to your desired VPN server location.
Enable Mobile Hotspot in Windows:
- Go to Windows Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile hotspot.
- Toggle the “Mobile hotspot” switch On.
- Click Edit to set a name and password for your new Wi-Fi hotspot.
Configure Network Adapter Sharing:
- In the “Mobile hotspot” settings, look for “Related settings” or “More network adapter options”. Click on it. This will open the Network Connections window.
- Identify your Surfshark VPN adapter it might be named something like “Surfshark TAP Adapter” or similar and your newly created “Mobile Hotspot” adapter.
- Right-click on the Surfshark VPN adapter and select Properties.
- Go to the Sharing tab.
- Check the box that says “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection”.
- In the “Home networking connection” drop-down menu, select the Mobile Hotspot network you just created. Click OK.
Connect Your LG TV to the Hotspot: On your LG Smart TV, go to the Network Settings and scan for available Wi-Fi networks. You should see the name of the hotspot you created on your PC. Connect to it using the password you set.
Verify the Connection: Just like with the router method, use a “What is my IP?” website on your TV’s browser if it has one or any other device connected to this hotspot. It should show the VPN server’s IP and location.

Step-by-Step Guide: Mac as a Virtual Router

Setting up a virtual router on a Mac is similar, but the steps are a bit different.

Install Surfshark on Your Mac: Make sure you have the Surfshark app installed and running on your MacBook or iMac.
Connect to Surfshark: Open the Surfshark app and connect to your desired VPN server.
Open Sharing Preferences: Go to System Settings or System Preferences on older macOS versions > General > Sharing.
Enable Internet Sharing:
- On the left sidebar, find Internet Sharing and click on it.
- In the “Share your connection from” dropdown, select the connection your Mac is using to access the internet e.g., “Ethernet” if your Mac is wired to the internet.
- In the “To computers using” section, check the box next to Wi-Fi.
- Click Wi-Fi Options to configure a network name SSID and password for your new hotspot. Make sure to choose WPA2/WPA3 Personal security. Click OK.
- Now, check the box next to Internet Sharing on the left. You’ll likely be asked to confirm to start sharing. Click Start.
Connect Your LG TV: On your LG Smart TV, go to Network Settings, find your newly created Wi-Fi hotspot, and connect using the password you set.
Verify the Connection: Use a “What is my IP?” website on your TV to confirm it’s showing the VPN server’s location.

Why Surfshark is a Solid Choice for Your LG Smart TV

When you’re trying to get a VPN working on a device like an LG Smart TV that doesn’t have native app support, picking the right VPN provider is super important. Surfshark really stands out for a few reasons that make these workaround methods much smoother and more effective.

Kaspersky vpn vs surfshark vpn

Blazing Fast Speeds for Buffer-Free Streaming

Nobody likes buffering when they’re trying to unwind with a good movie. Surfshark consistently ranks as one of the fastest VPNs out there. In recent independent tests, it showed an average speed loss of only about 21% and achieved speeds over 950 Mbps using the WireGuard protocol, often maxing out internet connections. This kind of speed is crucial for streaming in HD or 4K, gaming, and video calls without any annoying lag. With their 3,200+ servers optimized for speed across 100 countries, you’re likely to find a fast connection no matter where you are or what content you’re trying to access.

Unmatched Unblocking Capabilities

Surfshark is a champ at bypassing geo-restrictions, which is probably one of the main reasons you want a VPN on your LG TV. It’s been tested and proven to reliably unblock a ton of popular streaming services, including multiple Netflix libraries like the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Japan, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and many more. This means you get a much wider world of entertainment right on your LG screen. Their robust infrastructure, which uses AES-256-GCM encryption and secure protocols, helps disguise your VPN usage from streaming platforms.

User-Friendly Smart DNS

For those times when you just want to unblock content without the full encryption overhead, Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature is incredibly handy. It’s designed to be straightforward to set up, even on devices like LG TVs that don’t support VPN apps. While it doesn’t offer encryption, it’s a quick and effective way to change your virtual location and access geo-restricted content from services like Disney+ and Hulu US. It’s a great option when simplicity and speed are your top priorities for streaming.

Extensive Server Network

With over 3,200 servers spread across 100 countries, Surfshark provides a huge range of connection options. This extensive network means you can almost always find a server close to your desired virtual location, which helps with speed and reliability. Having servers in so many different countries also gives you more choices for accessing diverse global content libraries. Plus, Surfshark offers different server types, including Static IP servers in locations like the USA, Germany, UK, Tokyo, and Singapore, which can be useful for consistent access to certain services though these are shared IPs, not dedicated ones. They even have MultiHop servers for an extra layer of privacy by routing your traffic through two VPN servers. Navigating Surfshark VPN’s Jurisdiction: What You Need to Know for Ultimate Privacy

Unlimited Connections & Strong Security Features

Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription. This is huge, especially if you have a household full of devices. Even though you’re using workarounds for your LG TV, you can still protect your phones, laptops, and tablets with the native Surfshark apps, all under one plan. Beyond that, Surfshark comes packed with security features like a kill switch which blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops, CleanWeb an ad, tracker, and malware blocker, and Camouflage Mode which hides the fact that you’re even using a VPN. These features contribute to a safer and more private streaming and browsing experience on all your devices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common issues you might run into when setting up Surfshark on your LG TV and how to fix them:

Connection Not Working After Setup

Double-Check Credentials: For router setups, make sure you used the specific Surfshark service credentials username and password for manual setup, not your regular account login. These are different.
Verify DNS Entries: If using Smart DNS, ensure you entered the Surfshark DNS server addresses correctly into your TV’s network settings. Even a single typo can break it.
Restart Everything: Seriously, a simple restart can fix a lot. Restart your router, your computer if using a virtual hotspot, and your LG TV.
Test on Another Device: Connect another device like your phone to the VPN-enabled Wi-Fi from your router or hotspot and check its IP address. If it works there, the issue might be specific to your TV’s settings.
Check Server Load: Sometimes a specific VPN server might be overloaded. Try connecting to a different server location within Surfshark, especially if you’re using the router or virtual hotspot method.

Geo-Restrictions Still Active Streaming Services

Clear TV Cache/Reinstall App: Streaming apps on your LG TV might cache your old location data. Try clearing the app’s cache if possible in your TV’s settings or even uninstalling and reinstalling the streaming app.
Ensure Smart DNS Activation if applicable: For Smart DNS, make sure you’ve activated it in your Surfshark account dashboard. Sometimes it needs a minute to register your IP address.
Refresh IP Smart DNS: Some Smart DNS services require you to periodically “register” or “refresh” your IP address in your VPN account if your home IP changes. Check your Surfshark account page for this option.
VPN Protocol: If using a router, ensure the VPN protocol is set correctly e.g., OpenVPN UDP or WireGuard for best streaming compatibility and speed.

Slow Speeds or Buffering

Switch Servers: Try connecting to a different Surfshark server. Sometimes a closer server or one with less load will offer better performance.
Change VPN Protocol: If your router supports it, try switching VPN protocols. WireGuard is often the fastest, followed by OpenVPN UDP.
Check Your Base Internet Speed: Do a speed test without the VPN to ensure your underlying internet connection is healthy.
Reduce Devices Virtual Hotspot: If you’re using a virtual hotspot, too many devices connected to your computer’s hotspot might slow it down.
Consider Ethernet: For router setups, connect your LG TV directly to the router with an Ethernet cable for a more stable and potentially faster connection than Wi-Fi.

Router VPN Setup Issues

Firmware: Confirm your router has the correct, compatible firmware installed. Flashing custom firmware can be tricky, so ensure you followed the exact instructions for your specific router model.
Config File Errors: Make sure the .ovpn file or WireGuard configuration details were uploaded/entered correctly and weren’t corrupted during download or copy-pasting.
Router Firewall: Check if your router’s firewall settings are blocking VPN traffic. You might need to adjust them.

If you’re still stuck, remember that Surfshark has 24/7 live chat support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them. they’re usually pretty good at walking you through specific issues with your setup. JJQQKK VPN: What You Need to Know Before You Download

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I download the Surfshark app directly on my LG Smart TV?

No, unfortunately, LG Smart TVs run on a webOS operating system that does not natively support VPN applications. You won’t find the Surfshark app in the LG Content Store. This is why we rely on workarounds like setting up Surfshark on your router, using Smart DNS, or sharing a VPN connection from a computer.

Which method is best for connecting Surfshark to my LG TV?

It really depends on what you need. If you want full encryption and to protect all devices on your network, setting up Surfshark on a compatible router is often the best option. If your main goal is simply to unblock geo-restricted streaming content and you prioritize ease of setup and speed, Surfshark’s Smart DNS is a fantastic choice. If you can’t or don’t want to configure your router, sharing a VPN connection from a Windows PC or Mac as a virtual router offers full VPN protection without router firmware changes.

Does Surfshark Smart DNS offer the same level of security as a full VPN?

No, Surfshark’s Smart DNS is primarily designed to bypass geo-restrictions for streaming and does not encrypt your internet traffic or hide your IP address. While it’s great for accessing content, it won’t provide the same privacy and security benefits like protection from ISP throttling or online snoopers that a full VPN connection offers. Unpacking the “Surfshark Scandal”: A Closer Look at the Concerns

Will using Surfshark on my LG TV slow down my internet speed?

Any VPN will introduce a slight speed reduction because your data is being encrypted and rerouted through a server. However, Surfshark is known for its fast speeds, with tests showing minimal speed loss around 21% on average. For most users, this difference is negligible, especially with Surfshark’s optimized servers and fast protocols like WireGuard, allowing for smooth HD and 4K streaming. Your actual speed may vary based on your base internet connection, server distance, and server load.

Can I use Surfshark to access different Netflix libraries on my LG TV?

Yes, absolutely! One of the main benefits of using Surfshark with your LG TV is its ability to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services. By connecting to a Surfshark server in a different country via router or virtual hotspot or using Smart DNS configured for a specific region, you can unlock and access content libraries from various Netflix regions e.g., US, UK, Canada and other streaming platforms.

What if my router isn’t compatible with VPNs?

If your router doesn’t support VPN client software, you still have options! You can either use Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature directly on your LG TV for unblocking streaming content, or you can set up a VPN-protected Wi-Fi hotspot using a Windows PC or Mac. Both of these methods allow your LG TV to benefit from Surfshark’s capabilities without needing a VPN-compatible router.

Surfshark VPN: Unlocking Your Digital World with Security and Ease

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for How to Get
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

BestFREE.nl

How to Get Surfshark VPN on Your LG webOS Smart TV (The Ultimate Guide)