The main argument for using Channels is that it behaves more like a regular cable DVR. After all, you can already subscribe to a half-dozen different live TV streaming services, most of which include local channels, cable channels, and cloud DVR service. The Channels web app lets you authenticate with pay TV services from cable, satellite, and streaming providers.įor cord-cutters, this might seem like an overly elaborate workaround. To capture those feeds, Channels’ server software launches an invisible version of Chrome that signs into the networks’ websites and loads the appropriate video. The addition of TV Everywhere support means you can also sign in with a cable, satellite, or streaming TV account and start pulling in basic cable channels without any extra hardware. Until now, Channels required an HDHomeRun device to supply live channels from either an antenna (with HDHomeRun’s Connect or Extend tuners) or CableCARD (with an HDHomeRun Prime device). This software will then stream video over your Wi-Fi network to the Channels apps on Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, iOS, and Android. Once the settings have been reset, simply use your VPN to connect to whichever server location you want, enter the corresponding location in your Roku menu, and enjoy region-free streams.To use Channels DVR, you need an always-on computer (such as a desktop PC or Mac), a compatible NAS box, a Raspberry Pi, or an Nvidia Shield TV to run Channels’ DVR Server software. To log in from another location around the world, you may need to reset your Roku’s factory settings. You can now use your VPN to stream American content on Roku. For new users, you’ll be asked to add a ZIP code. Make sure you configure your settings to the US. If you don’t already have an account set up, you can do so now.
Next, configure your Roku’s settings by heading to (opens in new tab) on whichever device you have connected to the VPN. First, make sure you’re connected to a VPN connection in the US.
While there are tons of options to choose from, we’ll stick with UK and US streams for now.Īssuming you’re located in a different country, you can set your VPN to stream content directly in the States. To do that, you first need to make sure your VPN and Roku are set to the same location. Now that your VPN is connected, you can start enjoying Roku on a whole new level. Once connected, your Roku should be covered by the VPN. With your Wi-Fi hotspot activated, simply use your Roku to connect to that hotspot. If done correctly a green light should appear next to your Internet Sharing status under your Sharing menu. You should be automatically greeted with a pop-up confirming your selection. Now, right click on the connection, scroll down to Properties and click Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection.įor Mac users, go to your Sharing Menu and check the box next to the Internet Sharing option. Next, open your Connection Settings and find the network option with the corresponding VPN. For Windows users, you can do this by opening Run and pressing Windows + R. Next, open your VPN app and share your Wi-Fi network. First, use your PC or Mac computer to set up a VPN connection. This option is arguably a little easier but requires a few more steps. How to set up a virtual router with a VPN All you need is a VPN connection, a Mac or Windows device, and an open Wi-Fi hotspot. Of course, if for some reason you prefer not to connect your VPN to your router, you can set up what’s known as a virtual router to use Roku with a VPN. More than that, the company offers its own router apps for easy installation. As our highest rated VPN provider, it offers the best all-round service for the asking price. If you’re worried about flashing your router or don’t want to deal with the cumbersome installation process, we recommend going with ExpressVPN (opens in new tab). You can read our installation guide for more tips on how to install a VPN on your router).Īnother option is to simply choose a VPN that offers pre-configured router apps. (Note that this process can actually permanently damage your router if not done correctly. One of the most common ways to do this is to install an open source firmware, namely either DD-WRT or Tomato, to help give your router the ability to run VPNs. That said, if your router doesn't support VPN functionality, you can often install new firmware that essentially ‘flashes’ it. More than that, the installation process often differs from router to router, so one guide may not work for another device. Keep in mind that not every router is VPN-capable. If you wish to configure a VPN on your router manually, you’ll need to first make sure your router is able to accommodate a VPN.
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