VPNs Aren't Just for Computers: You Should Install Them on These 5 Devices!

People have always used VPNs to keep their computer data safe, but that's just the start. From Smart TVs to game consoles, VPNs can do more than you think, boosting your security and unlocking some pretty cool perks.

5. Lightweight VPN for Browsers

A VPN browser extension serves the same purpose as a regular VPN (virtual private network) by hiding your IP address and encrypting your Internet connection. However, it only affects your browser and has several benefits:

1. Lighter and faster : VPN browser extensions only encrypt and reroute traffic from your browser, not your entire device, which reduces the load on your processor and often speeds up web browsing.
2. Quick and easy to use : Quick and easy to install. Once installed, it offers more convenience than a full VPN, usually only taking a few clicks to activate.
3. Targeted protection : Only browser traffic goes through the VPN browser extension, with other applications, such as streaming music and TV or online meetings, using your regular full-speed connection.
4. Cost-effective or free : VPN browser extensions are often cheaper than full-service VPNs and are even free in some cases, although not as secure they can be sufficient for casual users.

It's important to note that while using a VPN browser extension has many advantages, they don't provide the same level of protection as a regular (full) VPN. Some VPN browser extensions act as proxies, not using end-to-end encryption like a true VPN.

4. Dedicated VPN for gaming

Gamers will find that a dedicated gaming VPN offers several advantages, especially if optimized for low latency and performance.

1. DDoS Protection for Competitive Gamers : For those involved in competitive gaming, especially eSports players and streamers, hiding your real IP address makes it much harder for others to perform a connection flood attack and take you offline.
2. Bypassing geo-restrictions and IP bans : A VPN can help you access games or servers that are restricted to certain regions or buy games that are not available in your country. It can also serve as a workaround if your IP is unfairly banned from a server.
3. Solve ISP-related latency or routing issues : Some VPNs reduce latency by routing traffic through optimized servers if your ISP is routing inefficiently. VPNs can also provide a direct or faster path between you and the server, if the server is far away.

Keep in mind that free or poorly optimized VPNs often offer slower connections and are not suitable for gaming. Some companies, including NordVPN , offer dedicated gaming VPNs with ultra-fast servers to improve your gaming experience.

3. Use VPN with TV

There are some practical benefits to using a VPN with your Smart TV, especially if you're concerned about privacy or travel frequently.

1. Access geo-restricted content : If you travel frequently, you know how frustrating it is to not be able to access your favorite shows abroad. Not only does a VPN help you get around geo-restrictions, but changing your virtual location also means you can access content that is only available in other regions.
2. Improved privacy and security : Encrypted internet traffic means your ISP or third parties can't easily track your online activity. It also prevents advertisers from tracking you and adds a layer of protection if you're connecting to a public network (like in a campervan or shared accommodation).
3. Avoid bandwidth throttling : Sometimes ISPs will significantly slow down (throttling) your connection when they detect heavy traffic. VPNs can prevent this by masking your data usage.

The downside of using a VPN with a Smart TV is that you may be limited to what's available on your Smart TV's app store.

2. Comprehensive VPN for routers

Set up a dedicated VPN on your router to deliver powerful benefits throughout your home or office, without managing settings on each device.

1. Always-on protection : When you install a VPN on your router, all connected devices are protected, with consistent encryption and IP masking for game consoles, phones, tablets, IoT devices, and Smart TVs.
2. Easy Device Management : Once you install the VPN, the router takes care of everything. You don't need to install the VPN on multiple devices and remember to activate each one.
3. Simple setup and control : You can manage VPN settings, server locations, and encryption protocols from one place. This makes it easy to manage large households or offices with multiple computers and devices.

Not all routers support VPNs, and there are pros and cons when it comes to VPNs for routers. Keep in mind that a VPN installed on your router can slow down internet speeds on all your devices, especially if you have a less powerful router with weaker hardware.

1. VPN for smartphones and tablets

Our data is vulnerable to cybercriminals, scammers and data breaches on mobile devices, and this is often where our most sensitive information is found. This is why using a VPN on your smartphone and tablet is even more important, especially when connecting over an unfamiliar network.

Most VPN providers offer access to multiple devices on a single plan. Make sure your subscription covers as many devices as possible ( ExpressVPN , for example, covers up to 8 devices) and that perks include an ad blocker, 4K streaming support, a password manager , and built-in threat detection.

Protecting our privacy and security online has never been more important. VPNs provide an essential and relatively inexpensive solution to the rampant misuse of our data by scammers, data brokers, advertisers, hackers, cybercriminals, and more. By extending VPN protection across multiple devices, you not only increase your online security, but also gain greater control over your entire digital footprint.

Samuel Daniel

Update 26 May 2025