How To: Watch Apple TV Outside the US

The undoubtedly awesome Apple TV enables you to access a boundless abundance of movies and TV shows from the comfort of your living room couch. Unfortunately, if you’re living outside of the US, some of these awesome services are not available to you—including Hulu and Netflix. This limits the range of amusement that Apple TV can provide and puts a damper on its flexibility and entertainment options. Luckily, by using a VPN with your Apple TV you can “trick” the blocked movie services by accessing them using a US IP address. With a VPN, you can be anywhere in the world, and your Apple TV will be able to access Hulu, Netflix, and even the US iTunes store with the ease of a Cirque Du Soleil performer.

Set it up for the kill

Nice new VPN router! You need to get it ready to connect now. It should be noted that some wireless routers, such as this Linksys router by StrongVPN, come with everything you need pre-installed for a certain VPN provider (for example, you can buy a router that is already programmed to work with StrongVPN, assuming you know StrongVPN will be the provider you’re using). This is the easiest router to use because it’s ready to connect right out of the box.

If your VPN router does not have ready-to-go features, however, there are a few extra steps to take. Only routers with open source DD-WRT firmware can connect to a VPN. Some routers come with this already installed, in which case the packaging will specify. Many times though, you’re required to download the firmware from the company’s website and install it on your router before connecting to the VPN. For step-by-step directions, consult the company’s website or tech support.