Set Up NordVPN SmartDNS on Apple TV
Here's how to Set Up NordVPN SmartDNS on Apple TV. Get NordVPN@ https://nordvpn.sjv.io/c/376211/570073/7452.
i. Here's an overview of how NordVPN SmartDNS works:
SmartDNS is essentially a specialized DNS (Domain Name System) service provided by NordVPN and integrated into many of their apps.
Instead of routing all your traffic through an encrypted VPN tunnel like normal NordVPN servers, SmartDNS simply changes your device's DNS settings to use NordVPN's DNS servers.
When you request accessing a website, NordVPN's SmartDNS servers will resolve the domain name to give you the real IP address of website servers. But the key is the connection is still happening over a normal unencrypted path, not through a VPN tunnel.
The main purpose and benefit of SmartDNS is to allow you to easily access blocked streaming platforms and websites. NordVPN's SmartDNS servers are configured to provide DNS lookups indicating you are in a country that allows accessing geo-restricted content.
For example if you are in Canada trying to access Netflix USA, the DNS response will make it seem like you are located in the USA, thereby granting access. But your connection itself is not secured or encrypted at all.
In summary, the pros of SmartDNS is easy access to geo-blocked content without routing traffic through VPN. But there is no encryption or privacy enhancements like there would be when using a real VPN server. The choice depends on your needs - streaming access or security.
ii. Here are some of the commonly reported issues when using NordVPN SmartDNS on Apple TV and suggestions to fix them:
1. Buffering and video streaming problems:
- Update your Apple TV operating system
- Reenable or reconfigure the Smart DNS service
- Change to different Smart DNS server addresses
- Toggle connecting between WiFi and Ethernet
2. Certain apps not working with SmartDNS:
- Try using the NordVPN app instead which has an option for SmartDNS
- Manually set the DNS settings in your router to use NordVPN DNS addresses
3. Problems connecting or using certain streaming sites:
- Double check the Smart DNS addresses are entered correctly
- Clear app cache and force close the problematic app
- Ensure there are no conflicting VPN apps/services enabled
- Try manually setting DNS in network settings instead of configuring in the app
4. Connection timing out or geo-restriction messages showing:
- Retry connecting to the SmartDNS service
- Reboot your Apple TV device
- Configure using NordVPN app instead for better compatibility
5. Unstable internet performance:
- Check internet speeds without SmartDNS enabled to isolate the issue
- Try a wired Ethernet connection instead of WiFi
- Configure another device like a router to handle the DNS so Apple TV has a stable connection
Be sure to also check the official NordVPN SmartDNS configuration instructions for Apple TV. Reach out to their customer support if issues persist.