You’ve subscribed to ExpressVPN. Now what? The download page shows options for a dozen different devices and operating systems, the app asks for an “activation code” you’re not sure where to find, and your router setup page looks nothing like the screenshots in the help article you found.

This guide shows you exactly how to install ExpressVPN on every major platform — Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, Linux, Fire Stick, Apple TV, Android TV, routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Each section is self-contained, so jump straight to the device you need. If you’re still deciding whether ExpressVPN is right for you, read our full ExpressVPN review first.

One thing to understand before you start: ExpressVPN uses an activation code system rather than a username/password login for its apps. Your activation code is the key that links the app on each device to your subscription. You’ll grab it once from your dashboard and use it every time you install the app on a new device. The section below walks you through that process first.

✔ 3,000+ servers in 105 countries ✔ Works on 10–14 devices simultaneously ✔ Native apps for every major platform ✔ 30-day money-back guarantee ✖ No GUI on Linux (CLI only) ✖ Router counts as one device slot

Before You Begin: Choose a Plan & Get Your Activation Code

ExpressVPN features overview — plans, device limits, and where to find your activation code before you download ExpressVPN

If you haven’t signed up yet, head to expressvpn.com and choose one of the three subscription tiers. Here’s a quick overview of what each includes:

PlanDevicesMonthly (2-yr price)Key Extras
Basic10$2.49/moCore VPN, ad blocker, 10 email aliases
Advanced12$2.99/moBasic + tracker blocker, password manager, 50 email aliases, identity protection, eSIM, 50% off Aircove router
Pro14$5.49/moAdvanced + dedicated IP, private AI, unlimited email aliases, deeper identity tools

Important — FIFA World Cup 2026 Promo: ExpressVPN is running a limited-time promotional offer from June 9 to July 10, 2026. During this window the standard 30-day money-back guarantee does NOT apply to new subscriptions. If you purchase during this period and want a refund, you’ll need to contact support and rely on their discretion. Buy before June 9 or after July 10 if the money-back guarantee matters to you.

How to Find Your ExpressVPN Activation Code

Your activation code is not the same as your email and password. It’s a separate string you’ll use inside each app to authenticate the installation. Here’s where to find it:

  1. Go to expressvpn.com and click Sign In in the top-right corner.
  2. Enter your email and password to access your account dashboard.
  3. On the dashboard, click Set Up Other Devices (or look for the “My Subscriptions” section).
  4. Your activation code appears prominently on this page — it’s a long alphanumeric string.
  5. Keep this page open or copy the code to a secure note. You’ll need it each time you install on a new device.

Good to know: Your activation code never expires and can be reused across all your allowed devices. The number of simultaneous devices active at once is capped by your plan (10 for Basic, 12 for Advanced, 14 for Pro). If you hit the limit, deactivate an old device from your dashboard before adding a new one.

Install ExpressVPN on Windows: Step-by-Step Download & Setup

ExpressVPN supports Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11. The Windows app includes the full Lightway protocol (including Lightway Turbo), Network Lock kill switch, split tunneling, and built-in speed test.

  1. Sign into your ExpressVPN dashboard and note your activation code.
  2. From the dashboard, click Windows under “Set Up Other Devices,” or go directly to expressvpn.com/vpn-download.
  3. Download the .exe installer file for Windows.
  4. Open the downloaded file and click Run when Windows asks for permission (User Account Control prompt).
  5. The installer completes in about 30 seconds. The ExpressVPN app opens automatically.
  6. Paste or type your activation code into the field shown and click Sign In.
  7. On the protocol screen, leave the setting on Automatic (this selects Lightway — the fastest option for most connections). Advanced users can manually pick Lightway UDP, Lightway TCP, OpenVPN, or WireGuard.
  8. Click the large power button to connect. The button turns green when connected.

Tip — Lightway Turbo on Windows: If you’re on Windows and want maximum speed, go to Settings → Protocol and select Lightway Turbo. This multi-lane variant increased download speeds by 15% in independent testing on US servers. It’s currently exclusive to Windows and rolling out to other platforms.

Network Lock (kill switch) is on by default on Windows. It blocks all internet traffic if the VPN drops — no data leaves your machine unencrypted. You can confirm this under Settings → General → Network Lock.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Mac

ExpressVPN supports macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) and later. You can install via direct download from the website or through the Mac App Store — both methods result in the same app.

Method 1: Direct Download (Recommended)

  1. Sign into your dashboard at expressvpn.com/sign-in and copy your activation code.
  2. Click Mac under “Set Up Other Devices” to download the .dmg file.
  3. Open the .dmg and drag the ExpressVPN app into your Applications folder.
  4. Launch ExpressVPN from Applications (or Spotlight).
  5. macOS may ask if you trust the app — click Open.
  6. Enter your activation code and click Sign In.
  7. When prompted, click Allow to let ExpressVPN add VPN configurations to macOS. This permission is required for the VPN tunnel to work.
  8. Click the power button to connect.

Method 2: Mac App Store

  1. Open the Mac App Store and search for ExpressVPN.
  2. Click Get then Install. Sign in with your Apple ID if prompted.
  3. Launch the app, then sign in with your ExpressVPN email and password (App Store version allows email/password login as an alternative to activation code).
  4. Grant the VPN permission when macOS asks.
  5. Connect by clicking the power button.

Note on split tunneling: Split tunneling on Mac is only available on macOS 10.15 (Catalina) and earlier. If you’re on macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, the split tunneling option will not appear in Settings. Use the Windows or Android app if split tunneling is essential to you.

Install ExpressVPN on iPhone & iPad (iOS Setup Guide)

How to install ExpressVPN on iPhone and Android — the ExpressVPN mobile app connect screen after iOS setup

ExpressVPN’s iOS app requires iOS 15 or later. It supports Lightway (UDP and TCP), IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols. The app is rated 4.7/5 on the App Store with over 412,000 ratings.

  1. On your iPhone or iPad, open the App Store and search for ExpressVPN.
  2. Tap Get to download and install the app. Confirm with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password.
  3. Open the ExpressVPN app once installed.
  4. You have two sign-in options:
    • Activation code — paste the code from your dashboard and tap Sign In.
    • Email and password — tap “Sign in with email” and use your account credentials.
  5. Tap Allow when iOS asks for permission to add VPN configurations. If iOS shows a second prompt (“Allow ExpressVPN to filter network content”), tap Allow again — this enables features like the ad blocker.
  6. Use Face ID or your passcode to authorize the VPN profile.
  7. Tap the power button on the main screen to connect. The status bar will show a VPN indicator when active.

Device limits by plan: Basic allows 10 simultaneous active devices, Advanced allows 12, and Pro allows 14. Each installation does not count against your limit — only active simultaneous connections do. If you need to free up a slot, go to your account dashboard and deactivate a device from the active list.

Comparing VPN options for your phone? Our roundup of the best mobile VPN apps for Android and iOS covers how ExpressVPN stacks up against NordVPN, Surfshark, and others on battery life, speeds, and ease of use.

App Store purchases and refunds: If you subscribe through the App Store rather than expressvpn.com, your billing is handled by Apple — not ExpressVPN. The 30-day money-back guarantee does not apply to App Store subscriptions. ExpressVPN’s direct website purchase is refundable; App Store purchases are subject to Apple’s refund policy.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Android

The Android app requires Android 5.0 or later. It includes Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols, plus one of the most complete split tunneling implementations of any platform.

  1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device and search for ExpressVPN.
  2. Tap Install on the official ExpressVPN app (published by Express Technology Inc.).
  3. Once installed, open the app.
  4. Sign in using your activation code or your email and password.
  5. Tap OK when Android asks to set up a VPN connection. This is required for the app to create the encrypted tunnel.
  6. Tap the power button to connect. The VPN key icon will appear in your notification bar when connected.

Setting Up Split Tunneling on Android

Android has the most flexible split tunneling of any ExpressVPN platform. To configure it:

  1. Open the app and tap the hamburger menu (three lines, top left).
  2. Go to Settings → Split Tunneling.
  3. Choose one of three modes:
    • All apps use VPN — default, everything routes through ExpressVPN.
    • Do not allow selected apps to use VPN — pick specific apps to bypass the VPN (e.g., banking apps that flag VPN connections).
    • Only allow selected apps to use VPN — send only specific apps through ExpressVPN while the rest use your regular connection.

Android kill switch: Called “Network Protection” on Android, it functions as a kill switch and blocks all traffic if the VPN connection drops. Enable it under Settings → General → Network Protection.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Linux

ExpressVPN for Linux is a command-line app only — there is no graphical interface. If you’re comfortable with a terminal, the installation is straightforward. ExpressVPN supports Ubuntu 20.04+, Debian 10+, Fedora 30+, Arch Linux (latest), Linux Mint 20+, and Raspberry Pi OS (Raspbian 10+).

Step-by-Step Linux Installation

  1. Sign into your ExpressVPN dashboard and navigate to Set Up Other Devices → Linux.
  2. Copy your activation code from the dashboard.
  3. Download the installer package for your Linux distribution (the dashboard automatically detects your distro, or you can choose manually):
    • Ubuntu / Debian / Mint / Raspberry Pi OS: Download the .deb package.
    • Fedora / CentOS / RHEL: Download the .rpm package.
    • Arch Linux: Use the AUR package or the generic installer.
  4. Open a terminal in the download directory and install the package:
    • Debian/Ubuntu: sudo dpkg -i expressvpn_*.deb
    • Fedora: sudo rpm -i expressvpn_*.rpm
  5. Activate with your activation code: expressvpn activate — paste your code when prompted.
  6. Connect to the fastest server: expressvpn connect
  7. Connect to a specific location: expressvpn connect "UK - London"
  8. Disconnect: expressvpn disconnect
  9. View available locations: expressvpn list all

Useful Linux commands:

  • expressvpn status — check connection status
  • expressvpn protocol — view or change protocol
  • expressvpn preferences set network_lock on — enable kill switch
  • expressvpn preferences set auto_connect true — connect on startup
  • expressvpn diagnostics — run diagnostics if something’s wrong

No GUI on Linux: ExpressVPN does not offer a graphical desktop application for Linux. Everything runs through the terminal. If you need a GUI on Linux, one workaround is to use the browser extension (which requires the desktop app running), but the extension controls the CLI app in the background. Chromebook users can install via the Linux development environment using the same steps above.

How to Install ExpressVPN Browser Extension

ExpressVPN offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, and Safari. Before you install any extension, understand one critical point:

The browser extension is a controller, not a standalone VPN. It connects to and controls the ExpressVPN desktop app running on your computer. You must have the full ExpressVPN desktop app installed and running on your Windows, Mac, or Linux machine for the browser extension to work. The extension does NOT encrypt traffic on its own — it simply provides a convenient in-browser interface to switch servers and toggle the VPN.

Install the Chrome Extension (also works in Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi)

  1. Make sure the ExpressVPN desktop app is installed and running on your computer.
  2. Open Chrome (or Edge, Brave, Vivaldi) and go to the Chrome Web Store.
  3. Search for ExpressVPN — #1 Trusted VPN and click Add to Chrome.
  4. Click Add extension in the confirmation popup.
  5. The ExpressVPN icon appears in your browser toolbar. Click it.
  6. Sign in with your ExpressVPN email and password (not the activation code).
  7. The extension connects automatically to the desktop app. You can now switch servers, connect/disconnect, and enable features like HTTPS Everywhere and WebRTC blocking directly from the browser.

Install the Firefox Extension

  1. Open Firefox and go to addons.mozilla.org.
  2. Search for ExpressVPN and click Add to Firefox.
  3. Click Add when Firefox asks for permission.
  4. Click the ExpressVPN icon in the toolbar and sign in with your email and password.

What the Browser Extension Adds Beyond the Desktop App

  • Block WebRTC leaks in-browser (WebRTC can expose your real IP even when connected to a VPN)
  • Spoof your HTML5 geolocation data to match your VPN server location
  • HTTPS Everywhere — redirects to secure HTTPS versions of sites where available
  • Switch servers without leaving your browser tab

How to Install ExpressVPN on Fire Stick & Fire TV

ExpressVPN has a native Amazon Appstore app that works on Fire Stick (all generations), Fire TV, Fire TV Cube, and Fire TV Edition televisions.

  1. From your Fire Stick home screen, go to the Search icon and search for ExpressVPN.
  2. Select the ExpressVPN app from the results and click Get (or Download).
  3. Once installed, open the app.
  4. Select Sign In and enter your activation code OR sign in with your email and password.
  5. Click Allow when prompted for VPN permissions.
  6. Press the power button to connect to the fastest available server.
  7. To choose a specific country (for streaming a specific Netflix library, for example), tap the location button and browse by country or city.

Older Fire Stick models: All current Fire Stick models support the native ExpressVPN app from the Amazon Appstore. If you have a very old first-generation Fire Stick that doesn’t support the app, use the router method instead — connect your router to ExpressVPN and all devices on that network, including the Fire Stick, will be protected automatically.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Apple TV

ExpressVPN support on Apple TV depends on which generation and tvOS version you have.

Apple TV (tvOS 17 and later) — Native App

  1. On your Apple TV, open the App Store.
  2. Search for ExpressVPN and select the app.
  3. Click Get to download and install it.
  4. Open the app and sign in with your activation code or email/password.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to allow VPN configuration.
  6. Press the connect button to start the VPN.

Older Apple TV (tvOS 16 or earlier) — MediaStreamer Smart DNS

If your Apple TV runs tvOS 16 or earlier, or if you have an Apple TV HD/4K on an older software version, you can still unblock geo-restricted content using ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer Smart DNS service.

MediaStreamer does NOT encrypt your traffic. It only changes the DNS servers your device uses, which allows content unblocking (like accessing US Netflix from abroad) but provides no privacy protection. For full VPN encryption on older Apple TVs, use the router method instead.

To set up MediaStreamer on older Apple TV:

  1. Sign into your ExpressVPN dashboard and go to DNS Settings to find the MediaStreamer IP address. You’ll also need to register your IP address on the same page for it to work.
  2. On Apple TV, go to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → (your network) → Configure DNS → Manual.
  3. Enter the MediaStreamer DNS IP address provided in your dashboard.
  4. Restart Apple TV. Content unblocking now works without launching any app.

Alternative: Router Method

Install ExpressVPN on your router (see the Router section below). Any Apple TV connected to that router automatically gets full VPN protection, regardless of tvOS version.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Android TV & Google TV

ExpressVPN has a dedicated Android TV app available on the Google Play Store. This covers Android TV devices, Google TV devices (like Chromecast with Google TV), Nvidia Shield TV, and Google TV built into certain Sony TVs.

  1. On your Android TV or Google TV device, open the Google Play Store.
  2. Search for ExpressVPN and select the official app.
  3. Click Install.
  4. Open the app and enter your activation code or sign in with your email and password.
  5. Tap OK or Allow when prompted for VPN permissions.
  6. Press the large connect button to connect to the nearest server.

Nvidia Shield: The Shield runs Android TV, so the Google Play method above works perfectly. The Lightway protocol is available on Android TV and delivers significantly better performance than OpenVPN on the same hardware.

Chromecast with Google TV: This device runs Google TV and supports the Play Store, so you can install the ExpressVPN app directly. Standard Chromecast (without Google TV) does not support apps — use the router method for those older models.

ExpressVPN Router Setup: How to Install on Any Compatible Router

Installing ExpressVPN on a router is the most powerful setup option. A single connection at the router level covers every device on your home or office network — smart TVs, consoles, IoT devices, printers, smart home gadgets — without any apps installed on those devices individually.

Device limit note: The router counts as one active connection against your device limit, regardless of how many devices connect through it. So on the Basic plan (10 devices), installing on your router frees up the other 9 slots for phone, laptop, and tablet apps — or you can protect your entire home through the router and still install apps on individual devices within your limit.

Option 1: Aircove — ExpressVPN’s Dedicated Router (Easiest)

The Aircove is ExpressVPN’s own WiFi 6 router with ExpressVPN pre-installed. No configuration required — it arrives ready to use.

  • Plug in the Aircove router, connect it to your internet modem, and power it on.
  • Access the Aircove setup page from your browser (usually 192.168.1.1 or via the Aircove app).
  • Sign in with your ExpressVPN account credentials.
  • You can create up to 5 separate device groups, each assigned to a different VPN server location. For example: group 1 routes through the US, group 2 through UK, group 3 with VPN off for local banking.

The Aircove has been independently audited by Cure53 for security. An Aircove Go portable version is also available for travel use without an Ethernet connection.

Advanced and Pro plan subscribers receive a discount on Aircove hardware (50% and 75% off, respectively).

Option 2: Manual Setup on a Compatible Router

If you already have a router that supports OpenVPN or Lightway (via the ExpressVPN browser-based router app), you can configure it manually. Supported router brands and firmware include:

  • Asus routers (running stock Asus firmware or AsusWRT-Merlin)
  • Linksys (with DD-WRT firmware)
  • Netgear (selected models)
  • DD-WRT flashed routers
  • Tomato firmware routers
  • Microsoft routers

General steps for manual router setup:

  1. Sign into your ExpressVPN dashboard and go to Set Up Other Devices → Router.
  2. Select your router make and firmware from the list.
  3. Follow the step-by-step guide provided for your specific router model — instructions vary by firmware.
  4. You’ll download a configuration file and enter it into your router’s VPN client settings.
  5. Save the settings and restart your router. Verify the connection by checking your IP address on any connected device.

Why use a router over the Aircove? If you already own a powerful router with DD-WRT or AsusWRT-Merlin firmware, manual setup avoids buying new hardware. The tradeoff is more initial configuration work. The Aircove is worth it if you want zero configuration and the 5-group device management feature.

How to Install ExpressVPN on Smart TV

Samsung, LG, Sony (non-Android TV), Vizio, and other major smart TV platforms don’t support VPN apps natively. For these TVs, ExpressVPN offers two approaches: MediaStreamer Smart DNS for content unblocking, or the router method for full VPN encryption.

MediaStreamer does NOT encrypt your traffic. It changes your DNS settings to unblock geo-restricted content (streaming libraries, region-locked shows), but your IP address remains your own and no encryption is applied. For privacy protection on your smart TV, use a router running ExpressVPN instead.

Setting Up MediaStreamer Smart DNS on Samsung/LG/Sony/Vizio TVs

  1. Sign into your ExpressVPN account dashboard.
  2. Go to DNS Settings (under Account menu). You’ll see the MediaStreamer IP address.
  3. On the same page, register your current IP address by clicking the registration button. MediaStreamer only works if your IP is registered.
  4. On your TV, go to Settings → Network → Network Status → IP Settings (Samsung) or Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → Advanced → DNS (LG).
  5. Change DNS from Automatic to Manual.
  6. Enter the MediaStreamer IP address from your ExpressVPN dashboard.
  7. Save settings and restart your TV.
  8. Open a streaming app (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) — content from the region associated with your MediaStreamer settings will now be accessible.

If your home IP address changes: Most home broadband connections have a dynamic IP. If your IP changes (common after a router restart), you’ll need to re-register your new IP on the ExpressVPN dashboard for MediaStreamer to keep working. Some routers let you automate this with a DDNS service.

Sony Android TVs: Sony’s newer Bravia TVs run Android TV and support the Google Play Store — install ExpressVPN directly from the Play Store using the Android TV steps above. MediaStreamer is only needed for older Sony TVs running the proprietary Sony smart TV OS.

TCL TVs (released after February 1, 2024): These come with ExpressVPN pre-installed and include a free 30-day trial subscription. Just launch the ExpressVPN app that’s already on your TV and sign in with your account.

How to Install ExpressVPN on PlayStation, Xbox & Nintendo Switch

Gaming consoles don’t support VPN apps. ExpressVPN reaches PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch through two methods: MediaStreamer Smart DNS (for content unblocking) or a router running ExpressVPN (for full VPN encryption and lower ping routing).

PlayStation 4 / PlayStation 5 — MediaStreamer Setup

  1. Register your IP and note the MediaStreamer DNS address from your ExpressVPN dashboard.
  2. On your PlayStation, go to Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection.
  3. Choose Wi-Fi or LAN Cable depending on your setup, then select Custom.
  4. Set IP Address to Automatic, DHCP Host Name to Do Not Specify.
  5. Set DNS to Manual and enter the MediaStreamer IP as the Primary DNS. You can leave the secondary DNS blank or use 8.8.8.8.
  6. Set MTU to Automatic and Proxy Server to Do Not Use.
  7. Save and test your internet connection. Streaming apps will now use MediaStreamer’s content unblocking.

Xbox One / Xbox Series X|S — MediaStreamer Setup

  1. Register your IP and get the MediaStreamer DNS address from your ExpressVPN dashboard.
  2. On your Xbox, go to Settings → General → Network Settings → Advanced Settings → DNS Settings → Manual.
  3. Enter the MediaStreamer IP address as the Primary DNS.
  4. Leave Secondary DNS blank or use 8.8.8.8.
  5. Press B to save. Test the connection to confirm it works.

Nintendo Switch — MediaStreamer Setup

  1. Register your IP and get the MediaStreamer address from your dashboard.
  2. On your Switch, go to System Settings → Internet → Internet Settings.
  3. Select your Wi-Fi network and tap Change Settings.
  4. Scroll to DNS Settings and switch from Automatic to Manual.
  5. Enter the MediaStreamer IP as the Primary DNS.
  6. Tap Save and reconnect.

Full VPN on Consoles — Router Method

For full VPN encryption (not just content unblocking) on any gaming console, use the router method: install ExpressVPN on your router, then connect your console to that router via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. The console gets full VPN protection automatically without any DNS changes needed on the console itself.

Tip for gamers: ExpressVPN’s VPN connection can sometimes actually lower ping if you connect to a server geographically closer to a game’s servers than your ISP routes naturally. This is common for players in areas with poor ISP routing. Try connecting to a server near the game server location and compare ping times with and without the VPN using the in-app speed test.

Troubleshooting ExpressVPN Installation Issues

Most installation problems fall into a handful of categories. Here are the most common issues and their fixes.

Activation code rejected

  • Make sure you’re copying the code from your ExpressVPN dashboard — not a confirmation email (codes in emails can expire).
  • Check for extra spaces before or after the code when pasting.
  • Your subscription may have lapsed — check billing in your account dashboard.
  • Try re-generating the activation code from the dashboard (some accounts have a “regenerate” option).

VPN configuration error on iOS (“Could not connect to the server”)

  • Go to Settings (iPhone) → General → VPN & Device Management → VPN and delete any old ExpressVPN VPN profiles.
  • Re-open the ExpressVPN app and follow the setup prompts to add a fresh VPN configuration.
  • If the issue persists, toggle Airplane Mode on and off, then reconnect.

Linux installation fails (dependency error)

  • Run sudo apt-get update then sudo apt-get -f install before reinstalling the .deb package.
  • On Fedora, run sudo dnf check-update first.
  • Make sure your distro version is supported: Ubuntu 20.04+, Debian 10+, Fedora 30+.
  • If you’re on a newer distro version that isn’t listed, try the --no-deps flag or contact ExpressVPN support for a manually patched package.

Browser extension shows “Disconnected” even though the desktop app is connected

  • Make sure the desktop app is open and running (not just installed — it needs to be actively running in the background).
  • Sign out of the browser extension, close and reopen the desktop app, then sign back in to the extension.
  • Reinstall the browser extension if the issue persists (this doesn’t affect your desktop app).

Can’t connect on any platform (all servers fail)

  • Switch the protocol: go to Settings → Protocol and try Lightway TCP or OpenVPN TCP. UDP is faster but sometimes blocked on corporate or hotel networks.
  • Check if your network blocks VPN traffic. Automatic obfuscation should handle this on most networks, but manually selecting Lightway TCP is the most reliable choice for restricted networks.
  • Try a different server — use the built-in speed test to find a fast, reachable server.
  • Contact ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat at expressvpn.com — connect time is typically under 60 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Install ExpressVPN

What is an ExpressVPN activation code and where do I find it?

Your activation code is a unique alphanumeric string that links the ExpressVPN app on a specific device to your account. It’s separate from your email and password. You find it by signing into your ExpressVPN account at expressvpn.com, then clicking “Set Up Other Devices” on your dashboard. The code appears prominently on that page. It does not expire and can be reused across all of your allowed devices.

How many devices can I install ExpressVPN on?

You can install ExpressVPN on an unlimited number of devices, but the number that can be actively connected at the same time depends on your plan:

  • Basic: 10 simultaneous connections
  • Advanced: 12 simultaneous connections
  • Pro: 14 simultaneous connections

If you hit your limit, deactivate an older device from your account dashboard or use the router method, which counts all home devices as one connection.

Does a router installation count as one device slot?

Yes. A router running ExpressVPN counts as a single device connection, regardless of how many devices connect to it through Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This is the most efficient way to protect an entire household — smartphones, TVs, game consoles, and smart home devices all receive VPN protection without using additional slots.

Is there a free trial for ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN offers a 3-day free trial, but only through the iOS App Store and Google Play Store apps. There is no free trial for the desktop apps or when purchasing directly through expressvpn.com. All direct-purchase subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee instead — you can get a full refund within 30 days by contacting live chat, no questions asked. Note that the 30-day money-back guarantee does not apply to App Store purchases or during the current FIFA World Cup 2026 promotional period (June 9 – July 10, 2026).

Which devices support split tunneling with ExpressVPN?

Split tunneling is available on:

  • Windows: Yes — route specific apps through VPN or bypass
  • Android: Yes — most complete implementation; per-app and per-website options
  • macOS: Only on macOS 10.15 Catalina and earlier; NOT available on macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later
  • Routers (Aircove and router app): Yes — per-device routing
  • iOS, Linux, Apple TV: Not available

What is the difference between Lightway and OpenVPN?

Lightway is ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, built in Rust with a 2,000-line codebase. It’s significantly faster than OpenVPN (especially on mobile), connects in under one second, handles network switches (Wi-Fi to cellular) without dropping, and uses a much smaller codebase that’s easier to audit. OpenVPN has been around since 2001 and is the industry standard, but it’s slower and reconnects take several seconds. For most users, leaving the setting on “Automatic” (which defaults to Lightway) is the right choice. If Lightway gets blocked, OpenVPN TCP is the reliable fallback.

Can I install ExpressVPN on a Chromebook?

Yes. Chromebooks support ExpressVPN in three ways:

  • Android app: Install the ExpressVPN Android app from the Google Play Store if your Chromebook supports Android apps (most models released after 2017 do).
  • Linux app: Enable the Linux development environment on your Chromebook and follow the standard Linux installation steps.
  • Browser extension: Install the Chrome extension — but remember this requires the desktop/Linux app running alongside it.

What is the difference between MediaStreamer and a full VPN?

MediaStreamer is a Smart DNS service. It reroutes only your DNS queries through ExpressVPN’s servers, which tricks streaming platforms into thinking you’re in a different country. This unblocks geo-restricted content. However, MediaStreamer does NOT change your IP address, does NOT encrypt your internet traffic, and provides zero privacy protection. A full VPN connection (through the app or router method) does all three: changes your IP, encrypts all traffic, and hides your location. Use MediaStreamer only when you want faster streaming performance and don’t need privacy; use the full VPN when you need both unblocking and security.

How do I get a refund from ExpressVPN?

Contact ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat at expressvpn.com within 30 days of your purchase. There are no questions asked — just say you’d like a refund. The support team typically processes the request within minutes, and the money returns to your original payment method within about 3 business days. Note that the 30-day guarantee doesn’t apply to App Store or Google Play subscriptions (those go through Apple/Google), and is suspended during the FIFA World Cup 2026 promotional period (June 9 – July 10, 2026).

Does ExpressVPN work on Apple TV 4K?

Yes, with conditions. Apple TV 4K running tvOS 17 or later supports a native ExpressVPN app from the App Store — this gives full VPN protection. Apple TV 4K on tvOS 16 or earlier cannot run the app and requires MediaStreamer (DNS only, no encryption) or the router method instead. Check your tvOS version in Settings → General → About on your Apple TV.

Can I use ExpressVPN on my Nintendo Switch?

Not through a native app — Nintendo Switch doesn’t support VPN applications. You have two options: set up MediaStreamer Smart DNS on the Switch (changes DNS settings only, unblocks content, no encryption) or connect the Switch to a router running ExpressVPN (full VPN protection). The router method is recommended if you want actual privacy protection while gaming, not just content unblocking.

What ExpressVPN protocol should I use?

For most people, leave the setting on Automatic. This defaults to Lightway UDP, which is the fastest and most reliable option on stable connections, and automatically switches to Lightway TCP or other protocols if UDP is blocked. Specific use cases:

  • Fastest speeds: Lightway UDP or Lightway Turbo (Windows only)
  • Unstable connection or public Wi-Fi: Lightway TCP
  • Restricted networks (school, hotel, corporate): Lightway TCP (obfuscation activates automatically)
  • Maximum compatibility: OpenVPN TCP
  • Post-quantum security: WireGuard (added late 2025)

Does ExpressVPN work on Samsung Smart TVs?

Samsung Smart TVs running Tizen OS cannot install VPN apps. Use MediaStreamer to unblock streaming content (DNS change only, no encryption) or install ExpressVPN on your router to provide full VPN coverage to your Samsung TV through the network. The router method is the only way to get actual VPN encryption on a Samsung TV.

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