Have you ever wondered if your Internet provider can see everything you stream and access on your Chromecast device? The unfortunate truth is yes, they can.
Your IP address is visible to your ISP, government agencies, hackers and more when connecting a Chromecast to the internet.
This means your entire streaming and browsing activity is out there for them to monitor, log, and sell to advertisers.
Thankfully, there‘s an easy way to take back control of your privacy – a VPN.
In this guide, you‘ll learn:
- Why a VPN is essential for Chromecast streaming
- How to install and set up Surfshark on Chromecast
- Tips for managing your Surfshark VPN connection
- Answers to frequently asked questions
We‘ll also explain why Surfshark is the best VPN that works seamlessly with Chromecast devices.
Let‘s get started securing your streaming!
Why You Need a VPN on Chromecast
There are several important reasons to use a VPN with your Chromecast:
Encrypt Your Data From Your ISP
Your Internet Service Provider can see every website and streaming service you use on your Chromecast.
They can even throttle your connection speeds to certain streaming apps and sites.
A VPN like Surfshark encrypts all activity so your ISP only sees encrypted data going to Surfshark‘s servers.
This prevents them from logging, monitoring, slowing down, or selling your private streaming usage and browsing data.
Access Geo-Blocked Content
Many popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and DAZN use geo-blocking to restrict access to other regions.
By connecting to a Surfshark VPN server in another country, you can bypass this restriction and stream your favorite shows worldwide.
For example, try watching the NCAA March Madness basketball tournament on CBS Sports through a US server.
Stay Anonymous While Streaming
In 2022, over 34,000 streaming piracy lawsuits were filed in the US by copyright holders.
And new legislation continues to be proposed attempting to criminalize streaming copyrighted content through apps like Kodi.
A VPN keeps your IP address private so nobody can see what you‘re streaming over the internet.
Avoid Malware on Third-Party Sites
Free streaming sites are filled with malicious ads, trackers and even malware disguised as fake download buttons.
Surfshark‘s CleanWeb feature blocks these threats automatically so you can stream from unverified sites safely.
Why Choose Surfshark for Chromecast VPN?
There are many VPN providers out there, but not all are created equal when it comes to Chromecast support.
We think Surfshark is the best VPN that works seamlessly with Chromecast for these reasons:
Works on Google TV and Android TV
Surfshark supports both the newer Google TV interface and older Android TV operating systems.
This means compatibility with any Chromecast model.
3,200+ Global Servers
With servers in over 95 countries, Surfshark unblocks geo-restricted apps by masking your location.
More server options also means faster speeds by choosing nearby servers.
Speeds up to 10Gbps
Surfshark consistently provides fast download speeds up to 10Gbps for buffer-free 4K and HD streaming.
Many users even report improved speeds vs their ISP throttling certain streaming traffic.
Speed tests show Surfshark provides fast streaming bandwidth
Kill Switch Works
Unlike most VPNs, Surfshark‘s kill switch works properly on Chromecast devices to cut internet access if your VPN drops.
This prevents any IP leaks which compromise your privacy. Critical for secure streaming.
Unlimited Device Connections
Get one Surfshark account for all your devices – Chromecast, Firestick, mobile, PCs, etc. No need for separate plans.
24/7 Live Chat Support
Their customer support team is available around the clock to help troubleshoot any issues.
30-Day Money Back Guarantee
Try Surfshark risk-free and get a refund within 30 days if you‘re not satisfied.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install Surfshark on Chromecast
Ready to get Surfshark up and running on your Chromecast? Follow along below.
1. Sign Up for a Surfshark Account
First, you‘ll need to create a Surfshark account by visiting their website.
The process only takes a minute or two.
Be sure to use the promo code TROY at checkout to get the maximum discount:
- 82% off Surfshark VPN
- Plus 2 months free
This brings the monthly price down to only $2.21 per month!
And don‘t worry, their 30-day money back guarantee allows you to receive a refund if you‘re unsatisfied for any reason.
2. Allow App Installations
Next, we need to enable installation of apps outside the Chromecast app store.
Go to:
Settings > System > Enable Unknown Sources
Make sure this switch is turned ON to allow access to the Surfshark app.
3. Find the Surfshark App
From the main Chromecast home screen:
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Click on the Apps icon
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Select the Search magnifying glass
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Type in
Surfshark -
Choose the Surfshark app from the search results
It should look like this:
4. Install Surfshark
With the Surfshark app highlighted, click the Install button to begin the download.
This will only take a minute or two depending on your internet speeds.
Once finished, you‘ll see the Open button.
5. Launch and Log Into the App
Click Open to launch the newly installed Surfshark app.
The first time opening you‘ll be prompted to log into your Surfshark account.
Enter your username and password and click Log in.
Then follow the on-screen instructions to authenticate your account.
6. Connect to a Surfshark Server
Once logged in, choose the Quick Connect option to connect to the fastest available server.
The app will connect you to the Surfshark VPN network automatically.
And that‘s it – you now have Surfshark VPN protection on your Chromecast device!
Managing Your Surfshark VPN Connection
Surfshark provides many customizable settings to optimize your VPN connection.
Here are some of the key options to know:
Protocols
You can choose between protocols like WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN (TCP or UDP).
Try switching protocols if having connection issues.
Kill Switch
Make sure to keep the Kill Switch enabled at all times. This will cut off internet access if the VPN drops to avoid IP leaks.
Auto-Connect
Enable Auto-Connect so Surfshark launches automatically whenever your Chromecast powers on. Maintains constant protection.
Whitelisted Apps
Use the Bypasser feature to whitelist specific apps like YouTube or Netflix to bypass the VPN tunnel if desired.
Location Servers
Easily switch between over 3,200 servers in 95 countries and regions right from the main app screen.
This allows you to unblock content abroad or find faster servers nearby.
Troubleshooting Surfshark on Chromecast
Hopefully everything runs smoothly after setting up Surfshark on your Chromecast device.
But in case any issues pop up, here are some things to try:
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Reset your modem/router – This often fixes VPN connectivity problems.
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Update Surfshark app – Make sure you‘re running the latest app version with any bug fixes.
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Toggle protocols – As mentioned above, switching between protocols sometimes resolves problems.
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Contact support – Get 24/7 live chat assistance directly through the Surfshark app.
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Uninstall and reinstall – Deleting and reinstalling the app can clear up lingering glitches.
With a few troubleshooting steps, you should have Surfshark working perfectly fine on your Chromecast again.
FAQ About Surfshark VPN for Chromecast
Here we answer some common questions about using Surfshark on Chromecast devices:
Does Surfshark slow down my Chromecast streaming speeds?
No, Surfshark has minimal impact on streaming speeds. Many users even report speed improvements after installing the VPN due to ISP throttling.
What about other devices – do I need separate Surfshark subscriptions?
Nope! One Surfshark account supports unlimited device connections. So protect your phone, computer, Firestick, etc. too.
Can Surfshark be used to stream restricted content through Chromecast?
While VPNs allow access to more streaming apps, bypassing copyright restrictions would be unethical. Surfshark‘s terms prohibit such usage.
How many global streaming libraries can I unlock with Surfshark?
Their 3,200+ worldwide servers located in 95 countries allow you to easily switch geographic locations and access foreign catalogs.
Does Surfshark work in China and other restrictive countries?
Yes, Surfshark uses special protocols and obfuscation technology to bypass firewalls in nations that censor the internet.
What happens if Surfshark stops working on my Chromecast?
First try the troubleshooting tips mentioned above. If problems continue, Surfshark‘s 24/7 live chat support can help diagnose issues.
How many devices can use Surfshark at once?
Their plans place no limits on simultaneous device connections. So everyone in your household can use Surfshark.
And that about covers it! We walked through why Surfshark VPN is essential for privacy on Chromecast devices, step-by-step installation instructions, tips for managing your connection, and answers to common questions.
Happy streaming!
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