256-bit AES — the same standard that protects banking transactions

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Where to Install VPN: All Devices and Platforms

Updated: June 25, 2025

Connection protection is needed everywhere - on work computers, personal phones, home televisions. Let’s explore which devices support protection app installation and how to organize protection where direct installation is impossible.

Compatibility Overview

The setup method depends on the operating system.

Direct application. Available for desktop OS and mobile platforms. The simplest option - download a client, import configuration, connect.

Through router. For devices without native support - Samsung and LG TVs, gaming consoles. Set up a tunnel on the router, and all home traffic passes through it.

Browser extension. Protects only web traffic of a specific browser. Quick but limited.


Desktop Operating Systems

Windows

Full support. Many clients with graphical interface exist.

Popular solutions:

  • Hiddify - universal, works with all modern protocols
  • v2rayN - flexible settings for experienced users
  • Nekoray - cross-platform option

Process: install the client, add subscription link or configuration file, click “Connect.”

macOS

Similar to Windows. The system will request confirmation on first launch - allow profile installation.

Options:

  • Hiddify - free, functional
  • V2Box - minimalist interface
  • Shadowrocket - paid, but with excellent support

Linux

Setup via terminal. Suitable for servers and technically savvy users.

Main tools - sing-box or xray-core. Run with a configuration file. GUI wrappers also exist - Hiddify and Nekoray work on most distributions.


Mobile Platforms

Android

Two ways to get a client.

From store. If the app is available in your Google Play region - just download.

Installation file. If app is unavailable - download APK from developer’s website and install manually.

Proven clients:

  • Hiddify - recommended for most
  • v2rayNG - time-tested
  • NekoBox - extended capabilities

iOS

Clients available in App Store. If missing from your country’s store - temporarily change account region.

Best choice - Shadowrocket. Costs a few dollars, but it’s a one-time purchase with lifetime updates. Supports all current protocols.

Free alternatives: Hiddify, V2Box.


TVs and Set-Top Boxes

Android TV

Sony, Philips, Xiaomi devices, Chromecast with Google TV boxes run on Android. Client installation - through built-in store or APK file.

Apple TV

Fourth generation and newer can install client from App Store. Shadowrocket is available here too.

Tizen and webOS

Samsung and LG TVs don’t allow installing third-party tunneling apps. Only option - router-level setup.


Routers

Router setup creates a protected network for all connected devices at once.

Models with Good Support

Keenetic. Built-in support for multiple protocols including modern ones. Setup through web interface.

ASUS with Merlin. Merlin firmware extends capabilities. Supports WireGuard and OpenVPN.

MikroTik. Professional equipment with maximum flexibility. Requires technical knowledge.

OpenWrt. Alternative firmware for many models. Complete setup freedom.

Network-Level Advantages

  • Protection for gadgets without native support
  • Set up once - works for all
  • Centralized management

Limitations

  • Router CPU load reduces speed
  • All devices use same location
  • More complex to configure and maintain

Browser Extensions

Web traffic protection only within the browser. Other apps work directly.

Suitable for:

  • Quick privacy when browsing
  • Separating personal and work traffic
  • Situations where full client is excessive

Works in Chrome, Firefox and derivative browsers.


Gaming Devices

PlayStation and Xbox

Direct installation impossible. Solutions:

Router. All console traffic passes through tunnel.

Computer sharing. PC with active client creates access point, console connects to it.

Steam Deck

Full Linux. Direct client installation possible - via Flatpak or manual installation.

Nintendo Switch

Router only.


Approach Recommendations

One phone or laptop. Application - the simplest path.

Whole family with multiple gadgets. Router plus mobile device apps for use outside home.

TV and console. Router - the only option.

Web surfing only. Browser extension is enough.


Questions Answered

How many devices can connect? Depends on subscription terms. Tainet doesn’t limit quantity - one subscription covers all family gadgets.

How much will speed drop? With modern protocols - minimally, within ten to fifteen percent. On weak routers, losses may be higher.

Can smartwatches be protected? Not directly. But when connected to a phone with active tunnel or home network with configured router - watch traffic is also protected.


Summary

Almost any gadget can be protected - through direct client installation or at network level. Optimal option - combination of mobile device apps with router setup for home network.

Tainet supports all common platforms and doesn’t limit connection count.