Kodi has gained popularity for its versatility in streaming various online content. To enhance accessibility, users can optimize their experience by using a VPN.
When it comes to enjoying the vast world of multimedia content on Kodi, ensuring your online privacy and security is of utmost importance. With the increasing surveillance and monitoring activities, it’s important to use a reliable Virtual Private Network to safeguard your digital footprint while streaming on Kodi.
A VPN not only masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, but it also allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access a wider range of content. In this short blog, we will explore the best VPN options available for Kodi users, taking into account factors such as privacy, speed, compatibility, and overall user experience.
Protect Your Kodi Streaming with the Top VPN Providers
Protecting your Kodi streaming sessions is important, and using a reliable VPN for Kodi is the key. With our top 5 VPN’s for KODI, you can safeguard your privacy, hide your online activities, and access geo-restricted content without any worries.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is widely regarded as the best VPN for Kodi due to its exceptional performance, robust security features, and extensive global server network. With ExpressVPN, users can enjoy unlimited bandwidth, fast speeds, and reliable connections, ensuring seamless streaming on Kodi.
It offers strong encryption, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy, guaranteeing privacy and anonymity while accessing geo-restricted content.
NordVPN
NordVPN is another popular choice for Kodi users. It boasts a large network of servers worldwide, allowing for bypassing of geographical restrictions. NordVPN offers top-notch security features like double VPN encryption, dedicated IP addresses, and an automatic kill switch. With its user-friendly interface and fast speeds, NordVPN provides a smooth streaming experience while ensuring privacy and data protection.
Surfshark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN option that doesn’t compromise on features or performance. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for households with multiple Kodi devices. Surfshark provides strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an ad-blocker feature, enhancing privacy and blocking intrusive ads while streaming on Kodi. With fast servers and unlimited bandwidth, Surfshark delivers a seamless streaming experience.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is known for its user-friendly interface and excellent performance for Kodi users. It offers specialized Kodi VPN servers optimized for streaming, providing fast and stable connections. CyberGhost provides strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch for added security. With its large server network and dedicated Kodi profile, CyberGhost ensures easy access to geo-restricted content.
Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN is a newcomer to the VPN market but has quickly gained popularity among Kodi users. It offers a generous free plan and an affordable premium option. With strong encryption and a no-logs policy, Atlas VPN ensures privacy and security while streaming on Kodi. Although it has a smaller server network compared to others on this list, it still provides reliable and fast connections for uninterrupted streaming.
What is Kodi?
Kodi is an open-source home theater PC application that allows you to play various types of digital media on different platforms. It is customizable and supports skins to change its appearance. With Kodi, you can stream content from online services like Crackle, Pandora, Spotify, YouTube, and more using plugins and add-ons. It is free and developed by the XBMC Foundation. You can also play your own files stored locally.
Kodi can be used on devices such as Fire TV Stick, Raspberry Pi, Smart TVs, and others. While there is a misconception that Kodi is associated with piracy, the software itself does not endorse or support unauthorized access to copyrighted material.
What is KODI VPN?
A Kodi VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service that provides you with online privacy and security while using Kodi or any other online activity. When you connect to a VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through a secure server, hiding your IP address and making your online activities more private and secure.
Why Do You Need a VPN for Kodi?
Using a VPN with Kodi offers benefits for your streaming experience. Here’s why:
- Privacy and Security: Kodi lets you stream content from various sources, but some may be illegal or infringe on copyright.
- Bypassing Geo-restrictions: Certain Kodi content is geo-restricted, available only in specific regions. A VPN helps bypass these restrictions by connecting to servers worldwide.
- Avoiding Throttling: ISPs sometimes intentionally slow down streaming activities. If your ISP detects Kodi streaming, they may throttle your speed.
- Enhanced Security on Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are unsecured, making your Kodi data vulnerable to hackers.
How to Install a VPN on Kodi
To employ a VPN with Kodi in the simplest manner, you can install a VPN application on the device you’re using to control Kodi. However, we’ll guide you through all the available options.
Installing a VPN on Kodi
You have the option to sign up either within the app itself or on the official website of the VPN company. Once you’ve signed up, proceed to connect to the VPN on the device you’re using to control Kodi.
Kodi Add-On
- Install your VPN add-on to Kodi.
- Open it.
- Click on Configuring Your VPN.
- Login.
- Click Activate to start.
An alternative method for installing a VPN on Kodi is to utilize an internal Kodi VPN add-on. However, it’s important to note that not all VPN providers offer add-ons specifically designed for Kodi, which may narrow down your options. Nevertheless, here are the steps to follow:
By Router, Phone, Tablet, or Computer
The process of setting up a VPN on Kodi will vary depending on the device you’re using to control it.
- Router
If you have a router with DD-WRT firmware, you can encrypt Kodi as long as it is connected to the router’s network. However, configuring a VPN on a router is not a one-size-fits-all procedure and will depend on the make and model of your router.
Please note that only routers with DD-WRT firmware are compatible with VPNs.
- Windows
- Download the Windows Kodi app from the Microsoft Store.
- Select your preferred VPN.
- Sign in to your VPN account.
- Click on the “Connect” button.
- Open Kodi.
- Ensure you choose a reliable VPN for Windows.
- Mac
- Download your VPN from the Apple Store.
- Click on “Login” and connect.
- Open Kodi on your Mac with the VPN enabled.
- For more information on setting up a VPN on Macs, refer to the relevant guidelines.
- Raspberry Pi
- On your OpenELEC Krypton or Isengard, access Kodi’s Settings.
- Click on “File Manager.”
- Select “Add Source.”
- Choose “None.”
- Enter the URL of the Kodi VPN add-on.
- Click “Done.”
- Click “Name Add-On.”
- Click “Done.”
- Click “OK.”
- Go back to the Kodi home screen and click on “Add-Ons.”
- Click on “Add-On Browser.”
- Install the add-on from the zip file.
- Once the add-on is installed, click on “Program Add-Ons.”
- Click on “VPN.”
- Click on “Add-On Settings.”
- Sign in to your VPN account.
- Connect to the VPN.
- iOS
Setting up a VPN for your iPhone is straightforward. To configure an iPhone VPN:
- Download a VPN from the Apple Store.
- Log in to your VPN account.
- Connect to a server.
- Open Kodi.
- Android
To set up a VPN on your Android device:
- Download a VPN for Android from the Google Play store.
- Log in to your VPN account.
- Connect to a server.
- Open Kodi.
By Streaming Device or Gaming Console
Think of Kodi as a gateway to various streaming devices, services, and gaming platforms. Setting up a VPN for Kodi on these devices may require some additional steps, but it can be done in less than 10 minutes.
- Roku
Currently, Kodi is not supported on Roku devices, so the only way to use a VPN is by screen mirroring from an Android device. Here’s how to do it:
- Using the Roku remote, navigate to the Home screen.
- Go to Settings.
- Select System Update.
- Ensure that your Roku device has the latest software update.
- Go back to Settings.
- Choose Screen Mirroring.
- Enable Screen Mirroring.
- Confirm the action.
- As long as your Android device is connected to a VPN, you will be protected when accessing Kodi on Roku.
Tip: Since Roku doesn’t support Kodi directly, you need to use Screen Mirroring from your Android phone to utilize a VPN on Roku.
- Fire TV Stick/Fire TV
Set up Kodi on your Fire TV Stick or Fire TV by configuring the VPN on your router. Ensure you choose a VPN that is compatible with Fire TV Stick.
- Xbox One
To use Kodi on your Xbox, you’ll need an Xbox One or a later model, a functional internet connection, and an Xbox Live account. Since Xbox doesn’t support VPNs directly, you’ll need to go through a router, a Mac, or a PC. Follow these steps:
- Select one of the best VPNs for Xbox.
- Set up the VPN on your Xbox.
- On the Xbox home screen, press Y on the controller to search.
- Type in “Kodi.”
- Select the Kodi app.
- Click “Get.”
- Launch Kodi when you’re ready.
- Android TV
Install a VPN on your Android TV and connect to a server. Under the Settings menu, enable the “Unknown Sources” option. Download Kodi from the Google Play store, install it, and sign in.
- Apple TV
Using Kodi on Apple TV involves signing up for an Apple developer account and downloading specific software/files. Here’s what you need to do:
- Connect your Apple TV to your Mac using a USB cable.
- Run the Xcode app.
- Create a new Xcode project and select “Application” and “Single View Application.”
- Fill out the necessary fields and save the project.
- Fix any error related to the provisioning profile.
- Sign in with your Apple developer account.
- Use the iOS App Signer app to select your Signing Certificate and Provisioning Profile.
- Choose the Kodi.deb file as your input file.
- Start the signing process.
- Install the .IPA file on your Apple TV.
- In Xcode, go to the Devices menu and select your Apple TV.
- Install the .IPA file on your Apple TV.
Note: The process for using Kodi on Apple TV can be complex and involves developer tools and files.
- Chromecast
When using Chromecast for streaming at home, note that it doesn’t directly support Kodi. Instead, you need to set up Kodi on your device and then cast it to Chromecast as usual. Here are the steps for different devices:
- Android
Casting from Android phones is easy, but it may consume more battery life. Make sure you’re prepared for streaming only:
- Download the Google Cast app from the Google Play store.
- Open the app.
- Click the Cast icon.
- Select your Chromecast.
- Launch Kodi on your Android device.
- PCs/Macs
- Add the Chromecast extension to your Chrome browser.
- Install Kodi.
- Launch Kodi along with the Chrome browser.
- In Chrome’s Settings (represented by three vertical dots), click “Cast To.”
- Choose “Cast Desktop.”
- In Kodi, select the video you want to stream, and it will play on your Chromecast.
- Chromebook
- Connect to your Chrome VPN app.
- Download the Kodi app from the Google Play store.
- Install and launch Kodi.
- PlayStation (PS4)
Instructions for downloading Kodi onto your PS4 vary depending on whether you’re using a VPN on your router, Windows, or Mac.
- Router
- Connect your VPN to your router.
- On your PS4, go to the XMB Menu.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Go to Network Settings.
- Click “Set Up Internet Connection.”
- Choose “Use Wi-Fi.”
- Set the connection method as “Easy.”
- Join your Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
- Click “Do Not Use A Proxy Server.”
- Accept all settings.
- Windows
- Connect to a Windows VPN.
- Connect your PS4 to your Windows PC using a crossover cable.
- Go to the Windows Menu and click “Control Panel.”
- Select “Network and Sharing Center.”
- Click “Change Adapter Settings.”
- Open VPN Properties.
- Go to the Sharing tab.
- Select “Allow Other Network Users to Connect.”
- Choose your Home Networking Connection (Wi-Fi network your PC is on).
- Click OK.
- Open the VPN.
- Connect to a server.
- On your PS4, go to the XMB menu.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Click on Network Settings.
- Choose “Set Up Internet Connection.”
- Select “Use a LAN Cable.”
- Choose “Easy” for the connection method.
- Click “Do Not Use Proxy Server.”
- Accept and test your connection.
- Mac
- Set up your Mac VPN.
- Connect the Mac to your PS4 using a crossover cable.
- On your Mac, go to System Preferences.
- Click on Sharing.
- Choose Internet Sharing.
- Share your connection from (Ethernet, AirPort, or Wireless).
- Under “To Computers Using,” select the same connection you’re using.
- Check the box next to Internet Sharing; it should turn green.
- In the VPN app, connect to a server.
- On your PS4’s XMB menu, click Settings.
- Go to Network Settings.
- Choose “Set Up Internet Connection.”
- Select “Use a LAN Cable.”
- Opt for “Easy” as the connection method.
- Your Ethernet connection will be scanned.
- Click “Do Not Use a Proxy Server.”
- Accept all settings.
- Test your connection.
Can You Use Kodi Without a VPN?
Yes, you can use Kodi without a VPN, but that has several implications, including:
- Internet service provider surveillance: Your ISP will have the ability to monitor and track your Kodi streaming activities, including what content you accessed, the duration of your streaming sessions, and the specific timestamps of your viewing.
- Restricted access to foreign streaming libraries: Each country has its own unique Netflix library and other streaming services. Without a VPN to change your IP address, you will be limited to accessing the content available in the country where you are physically located, missing out on the diverse selection offered in other regions.
- Lack of security on public Wi-Fi networks: When using Kodi on a public Wi-Fi network, your connection is vulnerable to potential security risks. Without a VPN, your device’s private IP address can be exposed, making it easier for malicious actors to monitor your online activities and potentially compromise your personal information.