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How to sideload apps on a Fire TV Stick

Updated:

In this article, you will learn how to successfully sideload an application onto your Firestick device.

You will need a Firestick device and an active Surfshark subscription, which you can purchase on Surfshark pricing page.

 

We will cover the following:

  1. Allow installation
  2. Install the downloader
  3. Download your application

 

Allow installation

 

  1. From the Fire TV or Fire TV Stick’s home screen, scroll to Settings.
    firestick_background_blur_netflix__1_.png

  2. Next, please navigate to the right and select My Fire TV.

    NOTE: It may be listed as Device or System on older models.
    enable2.jpg

  3. Then, scroll down and select Developer options.
    enable3.png

  4. Afterwards, select Apps from Unknown Sources to turn the option ON.
    enable4.jpg

  5. Select Turn On on the popup message that appears.
    enable5.jpg

 

Install the downloader

 

  1. Go to the Firestick home screen and use your remote to navigate the Search icon in the menu bar.
    downloader1.png

  2. Type in Downloader.
    downloader2.png

  3. Suggestions for Downloader apps will show up. Choose and install the one as in the screenshot below. 
    downloader3.png

  4. When the installation is complete, click Open.
    downloader4.png

 

Download your application

 

  1. When you open this app, you will find a line to enter a URL address. Here, you will need to type in the web address of the file you wish to download.
    sideload1.png

  2. Type in the URL address. Then click Go. 

    This link is for the Surfshark application: https://downloads.surfshark.com/android/Surfshark.apk

    NOTE: Keep in mind that the link is case-sensitive, so you should write it down exactly how it's written in the screenshot below.
    sideload2.png
  3. Wait until Firestick downloads the file.
    sideload3.png

  4. A suggestion to install the downloaded file will pop-up. Click Install.
    sideload4.png

  5. Wait until the installation finishes and go back to the Home screen. Then, go through the list of your apps until you find the See All button and click on it.
    sideload5.png

  6. At the end of this list, you will find your application.
    sideload_firestick_no_netflix_blurred.png

 

 

 

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