ExpressVPN offers a native app designed to work with Amazon Fire TV devices.
The app is compatible with second-generation-or-later Amazon Fire TV Stick, Fire TV, or Fire TV Cube devices. The app allows users to unblock geo-blocked streaming services and hide their viewing habits from the prying eyes of their ISP or other Nosy Nellies.
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It’s easy to install ExpressVPN on your Amazon Fire TV Stick, and it takes only a few minutes to get everything into place.
- On your Amazon Fire TV Stick, use your remote to navigate to the magnifying glass in the top-left corner to activate the search bar.
- Search for “ExpressVPN” and click on the first result.
- Click on the yellow “Get” button to download and automatically install the ExpressVPN app. (If you have already downloaded and then deleted the app like I did to get these screenshots, you’ll see a “Download” button instead. Just pretend it says “Get”!)
- When the installation is complete, click on the yellow button again (it now reads “Open”).
- If you already have an ExpressVPN account (and you’re going to need one to make all of this work), click the “Sign In” option. If not, sign up. (A 7-day free trial is available for Fire TV users!)
- Click through the setup process by clicking “OK” when needed to complete the configuration process and set up a VPN connection.
- You’ll be asked if you’d like to send anonymous diagnostics reports to ExpressVPN in the background. The provider says that no identifying information is sent with the reports, so it’s up to you whether you want to send reports or not.
- Click the large power button (it has a power icon on it) to connect to a nearby server. To connect to a specific server, click the “Smart Location” field, change the location, and then click the power button.
- You are now connected and will remain connected while you use other apps. Enjoy your newly-available content and anonymous online usage!
When you’re on the main screen in the ExpressVPN app, you can navigate to the left to access a menu that allows you to manage your account, change the app’s settings, refer a friend, or set up other devices.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a VPN provider that delivers an excellent level of all-around service that goes above and beyond others.
When used with an Amazon Fire TV device, the VPN unblocks a large number of geo-blocked streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
In addition to unblocking popular streaming services, ExpressVPN also works well with the Kodi media player app. While not officially available for the device, it can be loaded onto the Amazon Fire TV. Kodi allows access to all types of streaming media.
ExpressVPN is a strict no-logs provider, meaning it keeps no records of your online activities while connected to its VPN servers. The provider’s apps offer military-grade encryption, keeping your online travels hidden from sight.
Plus, the provider’s connection speeds are fast enough to easily keep up with streaming HD video – even 4K video, which is available on some models of the Amazon Fire TV Stick.
You can also keep your other connected devices protected, as ExpressVPN provides native app support for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux devices. Plus, the provider’s services are compatible with numerous brands and models of routers.
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Using ExpressVPN With a First-Generation Fire TV Device
You may have noticed at the start of this article that I mentioned ExpressVPN only works with the second-generation-or-later Amazon Fire TV Stick, Fire TV, or Fire TV Cube. This is because older Fire TV devices are not compatible with VPN apps.
If you have an older Fire TV device, don’t fret, as ExpressVPN has other ways to help you unblock content.
Use MediaStreamer
The provider offers a handy smart DNS service called MediaStreamer, and it’s included with every ExpressVPN subscription.
MediaStreamer unblocks most of the same streaming services as the ExpressVPN app. Users simply change their device’s default DNS servers in the Wi-Fi settings to connect to ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer service.
MediaStreamer also works on other streaming devices that don’t support VPN apps, such as Roku, Apple TV, and your smart TV.
Be advised that MediaStreamer doesn’t protect your online antics from prying eyes as ExpressVPN does, as it’s a DNS service and not a VPN, so be careful when using apps like Kodi to view some video content.
Use ExpressVPN With a Router
ExpressVPN is compatible with many Wi-Fi router makes and models. The provider offers its own custom router firmware that can be installed on your router if it’s compatible. Be warned, however, that this process is not for the faint of heart.
Luckily, pre-configured routers are available from FlashRouters for those who’d rather avoid the trouble of installation.
An ExpressVPN-enabled router will protect any device connected to it, including your Amazon Fire TV Stick, even if it’s first-generation.
ExpressVPN-enabled routers offer a “split-tunneling” option as well, which allows you to pick and choose which devices that the VPN will protect and which apps will continue to navigate the web nude and alone.
This type of versatility makes an ExpressVPN-enabled router a great way to protect numerous devices via a single internet connection.
Create an ExpressVPN-Protected Wi-Fi Hotspot
Last but not least, you can also set up a VPN-protected hotspot using your Windows 10 or macOS laptop.
Most laptops are capable of broadcasting a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing other users to share their internet connection, which can be protected using ExpressVPN.
In Closing
ExpressVPN works well with the Amazon Fire TV Stick or any of Amazon’s Fire TV streaming devices, opening up streaming options that might normally be blocked in your area. The app also does a top-notch job of protecting your online activities from prying eyes.
For more information, visit the ExpressVPN website.
“Fire TV Stick” by Robert Nelson licensed under CC BY 2.0
