Looking to enhance your privacy and unlock more content on your Chromecast device? Installing Surfshark VPN is an excellent option.
In this detailed guide, I‘ll show you how to get Surfshark up and running on Chromecast with Google TV. You‘ll also learn how to use some of Surfshark‘s top features to get the most out of this fast, secure VPN service.
Let‘s get started!
Why You Should Use Surfshark on Your Chromecast
Before we dive into the installation process, let me highlight some of the key reasons Surfshark is a great VPN choice for Chromecast streaming:
Protect Your Browsing and Streaming
Surfshark encrypts 100% of your internet traffic, preventing prying eyes from snooping on what sites you visit and content you watch. Your Chromecast activity stays private without compromising speed.
According to Pew Research [1], 79% of Americans feel it‘s very important to be in control of who can access their personal data. Surfshark gives you control and peace of mind.
Access Extra Content
One major benefit is accessing geo-restricted streaming catalogs on services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Surfshark lets you virtually relocate to other countries to unlock shows and movies typically blocked in your region. For example, you can switch your location to the UK to watch Doctor Who on BBC iPlayer.
Avoid Bandwidth Throttling
Some internet providers intentionally throttle traffic during peak times, which can lead to buffering and lag. Surfshark prevents your ISP from slowing down your connection when streaming or downloading.
Tests by Tom‘s Guide [2] found that using a VPN increased download speeds across multiple ISPs by preventing throttling. Surfshark will keep your video and music streaming smooth.
Connect All Your Devices
Surfshark places no limits on device connections – use it on all the Chromecasts, Fire TVs, laptops, and mobiles in your home!
Most providers only allow 5-10 device connections on lower-priced plans. Surfshark gives you unlimited connections starting at just $2.49/month [3], making it easy to secure every device in your household.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install Surfshark on Chromecast
Ready to get Surfshark up and running? Just follow these simple steps:
Step 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 look for promos and discounts when signing up. For example, use the promo code "SHARKGEEK15" to get 15 months for only $59.76 total!
Step 2: Locate the Surfshark App on Your Chromecast
From your Chromecast‘s home screen, scroll down to the "Apps" section. Select this option to open the apps library.
Next, use the on-screen keyboard to search for "Surfshark VPN". Find the official Surfshark app and open its page.
Searching for the Surfshark app in your Chromecast‘s app library
Step 3: Install and Open the Surfshark App
With the Surfshark app page open, click the "Install" button. This will download and install Surfshark onto your Chromecast device.
Once installed, go ahead and open the Surfshark VPN app.
Installing Surfshark is quick and easy through the Chromecast app library
Step 4: Enter Your Surfshark Account Details
On first launch, Surfshark will prompt you to sign into your account. Carefully enter the email and password you used when creating your account.
This verifies your subscription and activates the app.
The Surfshark app will ask you to login using your account email and password
Step 5: Connect to a Surfshark Server Location
Once logged in, you‘ll see a list of all available Surfshark server locations. Browse the list and select a location like "United States" or "United Kingdom".
The app will connect to your chosen server. Look for the "Connected" status indicator – this confirms your encrypted VPN connection is now active!
The "Connected" status means you‘re now browsing through the Surfshark VPN
And that‘s it! Surfshark is now up and running on your Chromecast device. Your internet traffic will be encrypted and secured by default.
Next, let‘s look at how to use Surfshark‘s key features to customize your experience.
Using Surfshark‘s Handy Features on Chromecast
Surfshark packs an impressive lineup of privacy tools and settings into an easy-to-use app. Here are some of the most useful Surfshark features available on Chromecast:
CleanWeb for Ad and Tracker Blocking
CleanWeb is Surfshark‘s built-in ad, tracker and malware blocking tool. Turn it on for a faster, safer browsing and streaming experience.
Fewer ads and trackers means faster load times and less data consumption. CleanWeb also prevents malicious content from ever reaching your Chromecast.
CleanWeb gives you an ad-free and tracker-free web experience
Whitelister for Split Tunneling
The Whitelister allows you to choose specific apps and sites to bypass the VPN tunnel.
For example, you can configure your Chromecast‘s Hulu app to access the internet directly for maximum speeds, while routing other traffic through Surfshark‘s encrypted tunnel.
Split tunneling gives you granular control over which apps use the VPN and which don‘t.
Surfshark‘s Whitelister makes it easy to set up split tunneling
Kill Switch for Leak Protection
Unexpected VPN disconnects can expose your real IP address and location. Surfshark‘s kill switch blocks all internet access if your VPN connection drops.
This failsafe prevents any personal data from leaking outside of the encrypted tunnel. The kill switch is an essential security measure for privacy-focused users.
The kill switch blocks unsecured internet access if the VPN connection fails
WireGuard Protocol for Faster Speeds
Surfshark lets you choose from VPN protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. Try WireGuard for the fastest streaming and browsing on Chromecast.
WireGuard uses modern techniques like cryptokey routing and lean code to achieve superior speeds compared to OpenVPN. It‘s the best choice for buttery-smooth 4K video.
WireGuard delivers a major speed boost compared to traditional OpenVPN
Take some time to explore all of Surfshark‘s settings to optimize performance, privacy, and streaming access.
Troubleshooting Tips for Surfshark on Chromecast
Like most apps, you may occasionally run into technical issues with Surfshark on your Chromecast device. Here are some troubleshooting tips to resolve common problems:
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If you get login errors, double-check that you entered your Surfshark credentials correctly.
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Attempt manually switching server locations if you notice slow speeds or buffering.
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Force close and clear cache of the Surfshark app if you experience connection drops.
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Toggle different protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN UDP/TCP to fix VPN disconnections.
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Try rebooting your Chromecast and home router if VPN problems persist. This often helps clear up technical issues.
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Contact Surfshark‘s responsive customer support team for help if problems continue. They offer 24/7 live chat.
With a bit of troubleshooting, you should be able to get Surfshark running smoothly on your Chromecast device. Don‘t hesitate to reach out to their support experts for any stubborn connection problems.
FAQs about Using Surfshark on Chromecast
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using Surfshark on Chromecast devices:
Does Surfshark slow down videos or streaming?
You can expect minor speed reductions, but certainly fast enough for smooth 1080p and 4K streaming. Surfshark‘s WireGuard servers optimize performance.
What‘s the difference between protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN?
WireGuard offers next-gen tunneling for faster speeds. OpenVPN (UDP or TCP) is highly reliable but slower. Experiment to see which works better for you.
Can I install Surfshark on multiple Chromecasts in my house?
Absolutely. One Surfshark account provides unlimited connections, so you can secure every Chromecast and other device in your home.
Does Surfshark successfully unblock Netflix and Prime Video?
Yes, Surfshark consistently bypasses the geo-blocks on popular services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu and BBC iPlayer.
What should I do if Surfshark stops working suddenly?
First steps are clearing app cache, reinstalling the app, and rebooting your Chromecast device and WiFi router. Also contact Surfshark‘s 24/7 customer support for troubleshooting assistance.
How do I cancel my Surfshark subscription?
To cancel, login to your account on Surfshark‘s website. Under Billing > Subscription, you can manage or turn off future auto-renew payments.
I hope this guide gives you a full overview of installing Surfshark on Chromecast, setting up key features, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.
The VPN provider is one of the top options for protected streaming. Give Surfshark a try to unlock your Chromecast‘s full potential!
