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How to Install and Use IPVanish on Kodi?

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Whether you’re looking to safeguard your privacy or unblock new content on Kodi, IPVanish gets the job done.

And setting up the VPN service on the streaming player isn’t as complicated as it may sound.

In this post, I’ll show you how to install and use IPVanish on Kodi.

Keep reading to find out!

Summary: How to Install IPVanish on Kodi in 4 Quick Steps

Follow this quick guide to set up IPVanish on Kodi:

1. Subscribe to IPVanish.
2. Download and install the IPVanish VPN app on your device and log in.
3. Connect to your target VPN server location.
4. Launch Kodi and start streaming!

How to Set Up IPVanish on Kodi? (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Generally, the setup method is largely similar across most Kodi devices.

But if we get down to it, there are key differences, which I’ll outline below.

I’ll cover all Kodi devices from Windows and Mac to iOS, Android, and Firestick.

I’ll also show you how to install IPVanish VPN on Kodi directly through the VPN manager.

If you don’t have an active IPVanish account, you should start by getting one.

The VPN is relatively affordable, and with our signup link, you can enjoy a one-time discount.

Here are the steps you should follow when signing up for IPVanish:

1. Use our link to get a discounted price.
2. Select your preferred subscription length (I recommend a long-term plan for maximum savings).

1. Click “START NOW” and enter your email address and password.

1. Choose your payment method.

1. You’ll be asked to confirm automatic renewals. Mark the check box.

1. Lastly, click “Subscribe Now” to complete the signup process.

Once your IPVanish account is active, you can set up and use the VPN on Kodi.

Follow the steps below to install the IPVanish app on your Kodi device:

Installing IPVanish on Kodi for Android

If you’re using Kodi on an Android smartphone, tablet, or Android TV, here are the steps you should follow:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Tap the Google Play search box and type IPVanish.

1. Select IPVanish from the results and click the Install button.

1. Wait for the Android app to install and click Open.

1. Once the app launches, click the “LOG IN” button.

1. Enter your IPVanish details to sign in.

1. A warning prompt will appear asking you to confirm if you want to set up a VPN. Click OK.

1. Tap the “Connect” button on the home screen to connect to the fastest server in your region.

Quick tip: If you want to connect to a specific region, click the “Location” tab to access the server list.

1. Open Kodi, and that’s it!

Installing IPVanish on Kodi for iOS

On iOS, the IPVanish setup process is quite similar to Android.

You can install the VPN app directly from the App Store, and below are the steps you should follow:

1. Open the App Store and type IPVanish in the Search box.

1. Click the download icon to get the IPVanish VPN app.

1. Press the Open button to launch the app.

1. A prompt will appear asking you to allow IPVanish app notifications. Click Allow.

1. Enter your IPVanish email and password to log in.

1. A privacy policy screen will appear next. Click GET STARTED to proceed.

1. If you want IPVanish to connect when it detects an untrusted network, choose “ENABLE ON DEMAND” (recommended). Otherwise, select “DISABLE ON DEMAND.”

1. Click “FINISH,” and when prompted, click “Allow” to let the app add VPN configurations and complete the setup process.

1. Lastly, click the “CONNECT” button to connect to the IPVanish VPN servers.

1. Launch Kodi and enjoy!

Installing IPVanish on Kodi for Windows

The IPVanish app isn’t available on the Microsoft App Store.

To install the app on your Windows PC, follow the steps below:

1. Go to the IPVanish official website, and under the Apps tab, click “Windows” or the “Download Now” button.
2. On the resulting page, click “Download Windows VPN App.”

1. Locate the app in your download folder and double-click the .exe file to run it.

1. Confirm the file location to install the app program files. Click “Change” and browse to a different folder. Once satisfied, click “Install.”

1. Once the Windows app is installed, click the “Run” button.

1. Enter your IPVanish username and password to sign in.

1. Click the “Connect” button to establish the IPVanish VPN connection.

1. Once you’re connected, launch Kodi and start streaming!

Install IPVanish via Mac

Are you a Mac user?

Here is a quick walkthrough:

1. Visit the IPVanish official website, navigate to Apps > Mac, and click “Download Mac VPN App.”

1. Allow some time for the IPVanish app to download, and then go to your Downloadsfolder and locate the app file you just downloaded.

1. Drag and drop the IPVanish app file into the Applications folder

1. Once the app is installed, enter your IPVanish login credentials.

1. Select your preferred country, city, and server and click the “CONNECT” button.

1. What’s left now is to open Kodi, and you’ll be good to go.

How to Install IPVanish on Kodi Via Firestick?

As with all other devices, you’ll need to install IPVanish on your Firestick to use it with Kodi.

Thankfully, IPVanish is available in the Amazon App Store, making the process straightforward.

On your Firestick, follow the steps below to download and install the IPVanish app:

1. Go to Find, click the Search icon, and type “IPVanish.” Tap IPVanish on the search results.

1. Press on the “IPVanish” app icon and click “Download” to install the app.

1. Wait for the installation to complete and click “Open.”

1. Log in with your IPVanish credentials.

1. Click on “Country” and connect to your target VPN server location.

1. Launch Kodi and unlock a whole new world of entertainment on your Amazon Fire TV.

If you use the first-generation Firestick or need a more detailed guide, check my how to install IPVanish on Firestick article .

Once you’ve successfully installed the VPN on your Amazon Fire TV Stick, launch Kodi and enjoy access to geo-restricted add-ons.

When publishing, remember to link to the corresponding article.

How to Install IPVanish on Kodi Via Xbox?

Remember XBMC (Xbox Media Player)?

That’s what Kodi was known as in its early days.

Designed as a media player for the first-generation Xbox, it now works with Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S.

Unfortunately, you can’t use IPVanish or any other VPN with Xbox.

That’s because the gaming console doesn’t support VPNs.

But there are a few workarounds that allow you to use IPVanish with Kodi on your Xbox.

The easiest way is to set up IPVanish on your router.

The second solution is to set up the VPN on your PC or Mac and share the VPN internet connection to your Xbox via Wi-Fi.

Install IPVanish Via Kodi VPN Manager

While I recommend installing IPVanish on your Kodi box for reliable protection, you can also choose to install the VPN on Kodi directly.

Here is a step-by-step walkthrough:

1. Start by downloading the Zomboided repository.
2. Open Kodi and go to Add-ons.

1. Click on the package installer (the open box-like icon on the top-left corner)

1. Select “Install from zip file.”

1. Navigate to the Zomboided Repository zip you downloaded earlier and double-click to add it.

1. Next, click Install from the repository.

1. Select the Zomboided Add-on Repository.

1. Select Services >VPN Manager for OpenVPN and press Install.

1. When prompted, select “Wizard” to automatically configure OpenVPN.

1. Under “Select Your VPN Provider,” choose IPVanish.

1. When prompted, click Ok to create a VPN connection to IPVanish.

1. Next, you’ll need to select a server. Pick one that corresponds to the add-on you want to unblock..

IPVanish is now up and running.

You can now open your favorite add-ons and stream safely.

Using IPVanish on Kodi VPN Manager

Although it may seem complex at first, the Kodi VPN manager is straightforward to use once you learn the ropes.

You can access it from Add-ons > Program Add-ons.

Once you set up IPVanish, you can get many of the features you get with native clients.

This includes features like auto-connect and multiple server switching.

You can also change between UDP and TCP.

But, since it’s based on OpenVPN, you can’t use other IPVanish protocols such as WireGuard, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec.

How to Log out or Disconnect from IPVanish on Kodi?

If you wish to disconnect from the VPN at some point, open the “VPN Manager for OpenVPN” home screen and select “Change or disconnect VPN connection.”

What IPVanish Features Do You Get on Kodi?

While aspects like speed and server network remain constant across different Kodi devices, some features like VPN protocols vary depending on your Kodi device.

For instance, on Android, the VPN provider offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.

On Windows, you also get three additional protocols – L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, and SSTP.

Usability also varies, but IPVanish has 24/7 customer support if you get stuck.

Interesting Reads:

Best IPVanish Alternatives for Kodi

IPVanish works reliably well with Kodi. It’s super fast and unblocks virtually all Kodi add-ons, including iPlayer WWW, MLB.TV, and NBC Sports Extra Live. The VPN is compatible with virtually all Kodi devices. However, its lack of a Smart DNS service means you can’t set it up directly on devices like Xbox to unblock streaming content. If IPVanish isn’t your cup of tea, you can check my top 3 alternatives:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services on the market. The VPN boasts an impressive track record and can be relied on to keep you safe when streaming torrents on Kodi. Unlike IPVanish, which is located in the US, NordVPN is based in Panama and outside the 14 Eyes jurisdictions. Another great thing about NordVPN is that it supports Smart DNS. With this feature, you don’t need elaborate workarounds to unblock Kodi add-ons on Xbox and Apple TV media players. Compared to IPVanish, NordVPN is also much faster. It delivers incredible speeds, allowing you to stream HD content on Kodi without interruptions.

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN for Kodi that offers a SmartDNS service – MediaStreamer. In my speed tests, the service bested both NordVPN and IPVanish. So if speed is your top priority, you’ll be pleased with this IPVanish alternative. And the VPN comes with premium security features. It also features a no-logs policy, which should put you at ease when streaming on third-party Kodi add-ons. But to enjoy all these features, it’ll cost you a pretty penny. Luckily, with our one-time discount, you can lower the subscription cost.

3. Surfshark

If you’re looking for an alternative in the same price range, Surfshark is an excellent option. It offers superior speeds and is equally good at bypassing geo-restrictions. Security-wise, the VPN uses robust encryption and keeps neither connection nor activity logs. And all its servers support P2P traffic, allowing you to stream content on Kodi torrent add-ons. On top of that, Surfshark offers smart DNS. I also found its apps quite intuitive and straightforward to use, which is perfect for beginners.

FAQ

Yes, IPVanish is compatible with Kodi. You can use IPVanish with Kodi by setting it up on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. This will ensure that your Kodi internet traffic is encrypted, keeping you safe. And the IPVanish apps are user-friendly, so you will have an easy time setting them up.

Kodi works with multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, tvOS, Linux, Amazon Firestick, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Raspberry Pi.

While Kodi itself is free to use, IPVanish isn’t. The provider also doesn’t offer a free trial. But, you can use the VPN service risk-free with Kodi, thanks to its 30-day refund guarantee. However, you should note that the money-back guarantee only applies to the yearly plans. You won’t get a refund if you subscribe to the monthly and quarterly plans. It also doesn’t cover payments made via iTunes.

Conclusion

I hope you can now successfully install and use IPVanish on Kodi. With the VPN, you’ll protect your Kodi streaming activities from your ISP and other prying eyes. It’ll also help you unblock the geo-restricted official Kodi add-ons. Why wait around? Grab our exclusive IPVanish discount and safeguard your anonymity on Kodi!

The Best Free & Premium VPNs for Kodi

Simon Migliano is a recognized world expert in VPNs. He’s tested hundreds of VPN services and his research has featured on the BBC, The New York Times and more.

Fact-checked by Callum Tennent Additional Testing by Luke Williams

Many popular Kodi add-ons are either geo-blocked or host copyrighted works. By changing your IP address, a VPN for Kodi unblocks region-restricted video content and hides your identity from ISPs and copyright owners.

What Is the Best VPN for Kodi in 2023?

Based on our streaming and privacy tests, the best free and premium VPNs for Kodi are:

1. IPVanish: Overall Best VPN for Kodi
2. ExpressVPN: Best Kodi VPN for Beating Geo-blocks
3. NordVPN: Fastest VPN for Kodi
4. Proton VPN Free: Best Free VPN for Kodi
5. Windscribe Free: Best Free VPN for Unblocking Kodi Add-ons

The overall best VPN for Kodi in 2023 is IPVanish, scoring 9.4/10 in our Kodi VPN tests. IPVanish’s fast streaming speeds, no-logs policy, and best-in-class Fire TV Stick app are ideal for using Kodi add-ons anonymously.

Comparison of the Best VPNs for Kodi

The table below compares the best Kodi VPN services we tested and reviewed based on speed, security, device support, price, and more.

The VPNs we recommend are quick, secure, and don’t log your streaming activity. They passed our IP leak tests, which we performed using Kodi 20 Nexus and Kodi (Matrix) 19.4.

You can use these VPNs on Android TV Kodi boxes, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick, and LibreELEC. Setting up and using them with Kodi is straightforward.

Top Kodi VPNs: Summary Test Ratings

Below is a table summarizing how the best VPNs for Kodi fared in our key testing categories:

Why Trust Top10VPN.com?

We’re completely independent and focused on VPN software. We’ve spent thousands of hours testing and reviewing Kodi VPNs using our Kodi VPN review process to recommend the best ones.

Here is a summary of our Kodi VPN testing statistics:

Total Hours of Testing	30,000+
Weekly Speed Tests	3,000+
VPN Services Reviewed	55
Test Devices	Lenovo T480s & Fire TV Stick
IP & DNS Leak Tests Performed	9,500+
Kodi Versions Tested	20 Nexus & 19.4 (Matrix)

Analysis of the Best Free & Premium Kodi VPNs

1 . IPVanish: Overall Best Kodi VPN

The best VPN for Kodi, Fire TV and Android-based Kodi devices.
Ranked #1 out of 55 VPNs for Kodi

Rated 4.8 out of 5
175 reviews
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Pros

• Very fast streaming speeds
• P2P traffic allowed on all servers
• The best Fire TV Stick VPN application
• Safe no-logs policy & no IP address leaks
• Working VPN kill switch on desktop apps
• APK file for sideloading on Android devices

Cons

• VPN kill switch not enabled by default
• No kill switch in the iOS app
• Based in privacy-unfriendly US
• PC app could be more user-friendly
• Not effective at bypassing geo-restrictions
• No Linux user interface for LibreELEC

Overall Rating for Kodi: 9.5/10

This overall rating is calculated based on the following category ratings. To learn more, read our Kodi VPN testing methodology.

IPVanish is the very best VPN for Kodi, with great compatibility with all Android-based Kodi devices.

The no-logs service has an excellent VPN app for Fire TV Stick, and it also offers an APK file for Android devices without access to the Google Play store.

You can see how well IPVanish works with Kodi in our demonstration video below:

We used IPVanish with the Crackle Kodi add-on without issues.

Fast streaming of IPTV and P2P-based streams

IPVanish is consistently fast, especially within the USA. The service has a large list of no-log servers to choose from, all of which allow P2P-based traffic.

In our streaming speed tests, we recorded average local download speeds of 95Mbps on a 100Mbps connection.

This represents a speed drop of only 5%, which was more than fast enough for streaming Kodi in HD and 4K.

IPVanish’s fast streaming speeds are partly a result of the WireGuard protocol, which it implemented not too long ago.

No IP or DNS leaks on any platform

From a security and privacy standpoint, IPVanish is one of the safest VPN services available.

The VPN service has a VPN kill switch that worked effectively in our tests. It prevented our IP address from being exposed when we forced the VPN connection to drop.

Furthermore, we have never suffered from an IP address or DNS leak while using IPVanish. We have also never found any major faults in IPVanish’s apps on any platform.

The VPN uses AES-256 encryption across all its software, and it owns all its servers, which is rare among even the best VPNs.

Not good for bypassing geo-restrictions

The main issue with using IPVanish for Kodi streaming is that it doesn’t unblock as many geo-restricted apps as its rivals.

For instance, IPVanish struggles to unblock popular streaming apps like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max.

If you want your VPN to unblock most Kodi add-ons, then IPVanish is probably not for you. We recommend using ExpressVPN or NordVPN, instead.

If you still want to give IPVanish a go, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, and it operates a helpful 24/7 live chat service.

All in all, IPVanish is the best choice of VPN for Kodi. This is especially true if you want to use Kodi on your Fire TV Stick or Android-based Kodi box.

2 . ExpressVPN: Best Kodi VPN for Geo-Unblocking

Fast VPN optimized for anonymous worldwide streaming.

Rated 4.8 out of 5
1,849 reviews
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Pros

• Very fast streaming speeds
• Bypasses aggressive geo-restrictions
• No user logs & no IP address leaks
• Fire TV Stick app includes a kill switch
• Excellent 24/7 live chat support
• Offers the best VPN app for routers

Cons

• More expensive than many top VPNs
• Firestick app doesn’t have many settings
• No split tunneling on macOS
• No Linux GUI for LibreELEC

Overall Rating for Kodi: 9.2/10

This overall rating is calculated based on the following category ratings. To learn more, read our Kodi VPN testing methodology.

ExpressVPN is a very fast and highly reliable VPN, ideal for private streaming. The VPN’s fast download speeds make it ideal for Kodi streaming.

There are not many downsides to ExpressVPN, apart from the rather expensive month-to-month subscription plan. The Fire Stick TV application could also do with a design refresh and more advanced settings.

We accessed several geo-blocked Kodi add-ons with ExpressVPN.

Great for bypassing streaming geo-restrictions

ExpressVPN is our main recommendation when it comes to streaming with a VPN.

It is one of the most effective VPN services at getting around video geo-restrictions.

Several streaming platforms, like BBC iPlayer, have developed Kodi streaming add-ons, which ExpressVPN unblocked in our latest tests.

High security for anonymous P2P streaming

P2P traffic is allowed on all of ExpressVPN’s servers, which is beneficial since some Kodi add-ons are P2P-based. These add-ons stream content sourced from sites that host torrent files.

ExpressVPN protects your internet traffic through AES-256 encryption, RAM-based (diskless) servers, and privacy-first logging policy.

When we torrented with ExpressVPN, we thoroughly tested the VPN’s kill switch and it worked infallibly.

ExpressVPN is also based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction — the British Virgin Islands. This protects against third-parties obtaining access to your online streaming data.

Broad device compatibility

Similarly to IPVanish, ExpressVPN works with all Kodi-compatible devices, including Android-based devices.

Not only does the VPN come with a very efficient (although simple) Fire TV Stick app, but it also offers an official APK file for devices with no Google Play access.

Like many VPN services, including IPVanish, NordVPN and Windscribe, ExpressVPN doesn’t have a Linux GUI app for LibreELEC.

If you run Kodi on LibreELEC, you can set up ExpressVPN on your router by using its best-in-class router app. It’s an actual VPN application, which is a rarity in the VPN industry.

3 . NordVPN: Fastest VPN for Kodi

The fastest VPN for Kodi over short and long distances.

Rated 4.7 out of 5
246 reviews
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Pros

• NordLynx protocol is fast and safe
• Private logging policy & no IP address leaks
• Highly functional kill switch
• Well-designed app for Fire TV & Android TV
• 24/7 live chat support
• P2P traffic allied on many servers

Cons

• No Linux user interface for LibreELEC
• No official APK file
• No VPN router application
• Doesn’t accept PayPal
• Renews at a much higher subscription price

Overall Rating for Kodi: 9.0/10

This overall rating is calculated based on the following category ratings. To learn more, read our Kodi VPN testing methodology.

NordVPN is the fastest VPN we’ve tested with Kodi. NordVPN is also cheaper than IPVanish and ExpressVPN on sign-up, with little difference in performance.

NordVPN encrypts Kodi traffic for a cheaper price than alternatives.

Fast speeds for HD Kodi streams

NordVPN’s speeds are very impressive, especially when you connect to a nearby server. The VPN uses the WireGuard protocol, which it has rebranded to NordLynx.

NordLynx has been improving ever since it was launched, and currently it’s average an exceptional 2% speed loss connecting to nearby servers.

In our recent long-distance speeds, the VPN has started outperforming ExpressVPN, which has historically been the fastest service internationally.

Connecting to far away servers, NordVPN’s speeds only dropped by 17% on average. On the other hand, ExpressVPN’s slowed down by 20%.

Secure encryption & DoubleVPN

The privacy and security standards of NordVPN are equally remarkable.

The VPN software encrypts internet connections with the yet-to-be-cracked AES-256 cipher, and protects your identity through its RAM-based servers and functioning VPN kill switch.

In all our security tests over the years, we’ve never detected any IP or DNS leaks using NordVPN.

With NordVPN you can also take advantage of its Double VPN setting, which channels your VPN traffic through an extra secure server for added security.

P2P traffic is blocked on some servers

The main drawback to NordVPN is that not all servers support P2P traffic, unlike ExpressVPN and IPVanish do.

It’s not a major problem, since 85% of servers are P2P-compatible, however it could cause a slow down in traffic at busy times.

Also, NordVPN’s device compatibility isn’t as rich as ExpressVPN’s and IPVanish’s.

The VPN doesn’t provide an APK file for Android devices that don’t support native applications.

Just like IPVanish and ExpressVPN, NordVPN doesn’t offer a Linux user interface for LibreELEC users. Sadly, NordVPN doesn’t have a VPN router application, either.

4 . Proton VPN Free: Best Free Kodi VPN

The best safe free Kodi VPN with an unlimited data policy.

Rated 5 out of 5
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Pros

• No data usage limits
• Linux GUI app for LibreELEC
• Strong encryption & private logging policy
• Fast speeds on nearby servers
• Kill switch & IP leak protection
• Fully-featured app for Android TV

Cons

• Doesn’t work with geo-blocked add-ons
• Just three server locations
• Blocks some P2P traffic
• One connection per account
• No live chat customer support

Overall Rating for Kodi: 7.8/10

This overall rating is calculated based on the following category ratings. To learn more, read our Kodi VPN testing methodology.

Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Kodi. Unlike all other secure free VPNs, you can use it to watch as much Kodi content as you want.

Although streaming speeds are slow in some locations, and there is no live customer support, Proton VPN is the best choice if you don’t want to pay for a Kodi VPN.

Proton VPN Free doesn’t work with most geo-blocked Kodi add-ons.

No data usage cap & fast download speeds

The free version of Proton VPN lets you use an unlimited amount of data. The other top free Kodi VPNs that we tested, like Hide.me and Windscribe, limit usage to 10GB of data a month, at most.

Proton VPN is also faster than other free VPNs. On nearby connections, it only lost 5% speed versus Windscribe’s 46%.

The problem is Proton VPN’s free servers are in just three countries: the US, Netherlands, and Japan. If you’re not close to one of these locations, you’ll likely experience much slower speeds.

Robust encryption & no user logs retained

Proton VPN Free beats even most premium VPNs on privacy and security features.

The VPN uses AES-256 encryption, WireGuard, and blocks IPv6 leaks. Its Secure Core technology provides higher encryption, and it also has a TOR via VPN server tool.

Moreover, the VPN’s logging policy is very privacy-oriented. It doesn’t track or store any personally-identifiable internet data. The only data point Proton VPN logs is when you last logged in, for account security.

Doesn’t unblock geo-restricted Kodi add-ons

Like with all free VPNs, Proton VPN comes with a number limitations that undermine its performance versus premium VPNs.

Not only does the free VPN only cover three server locations, it can’t bypass geo-restrictions in these countries, either.

We tried unblocking several US-only Kodi add-ons using Proton VPN Free without success.

Furthermore, the VPN doesn’t officially allow any P2P traffic on its free servers.

Based on our tests, this no-P2P policy isn’t strictly enforced, since Proton VPN did work with some P2P-based streams. It won’t always work, though.

5 . Windscribe Free: Best Free Kodi VPN for Geo-Unblocking

The only free Kodi VPN that works with Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

Rated 5 out of 5
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Pros

• Works with 32 Netflix regions & BBC iPlayer
• VPN kill switch & IP/DNS leak protection
• Apps for Fire TV & Android TV
• Doesn’t log any user data
• Unlimited simultaneous connections

Cons

• 10GB monthly data cap
• No longer works with US Netflix
• Slow streaming speeds
• Only provides email customer support
• Based in Canada (Five Eyes)
• No Linux GUI

Overall Rating for Kodi: 6.7/10

This overall rating is calculated based on the following category ratings. To learn more, read our Kodi VPN testing methodology.

Windscribe is a good alternative free VPN for Kodi. Unlike Proton VPN, Windscribe is effective at bypassing geo-blocks, like those imposed by Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

However, the free VPN comes with a restrictive 10GB monthly data limit. Furthermore, its streaming speeds are much slower than Proton VPN’s.

Windscribe Free can unblock BBC iPlayer’s Kodi add-on.

Good free VPN for Netflix & BBC iPlayer add-ons

Windscribe is our top-rated free VPN for streaming. It unblocks many popular official Kodi add-ons like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Crackle.

In our many years of testing, Windscribe has been the only safe free VPN to consistently unblock these content platforms.

Sadly, Windscribe has stopped working with the American Netflix library. Currently, it works with 6 Netflix regions, including the UK, France, and Germany.

Unlike Proton VPN, Windscribe Free also allows P2P traffic on its 10 free server locations. This lets you unblock geo-restricted add-ons in the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway, and Romania.

Easy-to-use apps for Fire TV and Android TV

Windscribe has native apps for Fire TV and Android TV. You can easily set up and use the VPN on all popular Kodi boxes.

These apps are some of the best for TV we’ve used, with interfaces optimized for larger screens. Because of this, Windscribe tops our free Firestick and free Android VPN rankings.

Like all the other VPNs in this guide, apart from Proton VPN, Windscribe doesn’t offer a user interface for Linux users, though. LibreELEC users should therefore opt for Proton VPN.

10GB data cap is too restrictive

Windscribe imposes a 10GB data usage cap on free users. This is to encourage upgrades to its premium subscription.

10GB of data lets you stream roughly four hours of HD video content. This is simply not enough if you regularly use Kodi, but is okay for occasional use.

Therefore, unless you want to bypass streaming geo-restrictions, Proton VPN is most likely a better choice of VPN for Kodi.

Popular VPNs to Avoid Using with Kodi

Because of the risks associated with certain Kodi add-ons, we strongly advise using the most private and secure VPNs.

We thoroughly tested 55 VPNs with Kodi, and below is a summary of the test ratings for five very popular services you shouldn’t use.

These risky VPNs below are very popular on Firestick, the most common device used with Kodi. They either log too much internet data, or they suffer from worrying security and privacy flaws.

Hotspot Shield

Overall Rating: 7.7/10 7.7

Logging Policy: 3.2/10 3.2

Speed & Reliability: 10.0/10 10.0

Streaming: 6.0/10 6.0

PureVPN

Overall Rating: 6.9/10 6.9

Logging Policy: 6.5/10 6.5

Speed & Reliability: 7.2/10 7.2

Streaming: 5.0/10 5.0

VPN Unlimited

Overall Rating: 7.1/10 7.1

Logging Policy: 3.8/10 3.8

Speed & Reliability: 8.1/10 8.1

Streaming: 9.0/10 9.0

VPN Proxy Master

Overall Rating: 2.1/10 2.1

Logging Policy: 3.0/10 3.0

Speed & Reliability: 4.0/10 4.0

Streaming: 1.0/10 1.0

Hola VPN

Overall Rating: 4.1/10 4.1

Logging Policy: 0.1/10 0.1

Speed & Reliability: 8.5/10 8.5

Streaming: 6.5/10 6.5

Why You Need a VPN for Kodi

Here are the two main reasons to use a VPN with Kodi:

1. Hide Your Kodi Activity from Your ISP

Sadly, many Kodi add-ons host copyrighted works. Streaming content from these sources is illegal. The problem is that it’s often hard to tell which add-ons contain files that are not copyrighted, and which ones don’t.

If you accidentally use an illegal Kodi add-on without a VPN, your internet service provider (ISP) can see what you’ve streamed and when. If compelled by law enforcement, your ISP is obliged to pass on this information.

You could be issued a fine, be prevented from accessing Kodi on your network, or even end up in serious legal trouble.

A VPN service prevents this. A VPN encrypts your traffic, changes your IP, and obfuscates your Kodi activity from any third party. As a result, your ISP won’t be able to monitor what you watch on Kodi.

VPN software connects your device to a remote server through an encrypted tunnel.

2. Bypass Geo-Restrictions

Some legal streaming services, like BBC iPlayer and Crackle, provide Kodi add-ons. This lets you watch all your content in the same place.

However, these many streaming add-ons geo-restrict their content to specific countries. Without a VPN, you won’t be able to access many or even all the content they offer.

A VPN lets you change your IP address by connecting to a proxy server in another country. For example, we accessed the BBC iPlayer Kodi add-on by connecting to ExpressVPN’s UK server.

ExpressVPN works to bypass geo-blocks on legitimate Kodi add-ons.

How We Test VPNs for Kodi

Every VPN we review for Kodi is subject to the same rigorous scientific testing process. We do this to ensure fair and unbiased rankings.

When we test VPNs for Kodi, we look for the following characteristics:

• Compatible with streaming devices, including Fire TV Stick
• Reliably fast speeds
• No user logs or IP leaks
• Lots of P2P-compatible servers
• Unlimited bandwidth with no throttling

Below is a more detailed breakdown of our testing and rating methodology:

1. Kodi Device Compatibility: 30%

Minimum Requirement: Can be installed on Amazon Fire TV.
We Recommend: User-friendly app that’s compatible with Fire TV, Android TV, and LibreELEC.

The VPN you choose must be compatible with the device you stream Kodi on. It’s also key that you can easily use your VPN with Kodi.

We download and test Kodi on several Kodi compatible devices and platforms including:

• FireTV Stick
• PC
• Mac
• Android TV
• Android
• Linux (LibreELEC)

Since Kodi is very popular on Fire TV Stick, whether or not a VPN has a good Fire OS app is a key aspect of this rating criteria.

Kodi is most popular on Fire TV Stick and Android-based Kodi boxes. Whether or not a VPN has a good app for these is a key aspect of this rating criteria.

We expect to see these apps designed for easy use. Finding and connecting to servers using a remote needs to be straightforward, and advanced security settings need to be understandable and quick to enable.

2. Privacy & Logging Policy: 30%

Minimum Requirement: A minimal logging policy and a record of following it.
We Recommend: Zero-logs policy with no record of breaking it.

We read each VPN’s privacy policy from start to finish. Then, we research the VPN company’s history. We do this to check whether, and how, the service stores your usage and account data.

The best VPNs operate a no-logs policy. This means they don’t keep any records of your activity, not even anonymous timestamps or metadata.

We also research torrenting policies, to make sure providers have no record of forwarding DMCA requests to users.

3. Speed: 30%

Minimum Requirement: 60Mbps local download speed & 3MiB/s P2P speed.
We Recommend: 80Mbps local download speed & 7MiB/s P2P speed.

If you plan to use Kodi to stream or torrent, then speed is a really important part of finding the best VPN. A fast VPN is vital for buffer-free streaming.

Local download speed is the most relevant to streaming, so we use it as a benchmark to judge performance on Kodi.

We regularly measure the local download speeds of all VPNs on a standard 100Mbps connection.

Unlike many other speed ratings, this ranking criteria also factors in P2P speed, as some popular Kodi add-ons require a P2P connection.

4. P2P Servers: 10%

Minimum Requirement: At least one P2P server in every region.
We Recommend: P2P servers in every country.

If you want to torrent or use certain add-ons with Kodi, you’ll need to connect to a server that allows P2P traffic.

Some VPNs allow P2P traffic on every server in the network, but most restrict you to dedicated servers.

For the best speeds, you need a VPN with multiple P2P servers in your country or region.

Data Cap Penalty: Up to 50% Reduction

Almost all free VPNs come with a data cap. Like with most limitations on free VPNs, this is imposed to encourage users to upgrade to a premium subscription.

Data allowance for free Kodi VPNs is particularly important, though, as streaming video uses a lot of bandwidth. For instance, a standard 10GB data allowance only allows you to watch a few hours of content each month.

If you use up your data cap, the rest of your Kodi activity will be outside of the VPN tunnel. Consequently, your ISP can monitor the streams and torrents you access on Kodi.

We apply a penalty to the VPN’s final overall rating for Kodi based on its data cap:

• 10GB per month: -20% to the overall rating
• 500MB per day: -25% to the overall rating
• 5GB per month: -30% to the overall rating
• 1GB per month: -35% to the overall rating
• 200MB per day: -40% to the overall rating
• 500MB per month: -50% to the overall rating

The Best VPN for Kodi

Securely access Kodi add-ons and remain more private with the best Kodi VPN.

• Apps for Android TV, Fire TV, Apple TV, Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, and more.
• Multiple VPN protocols
• Extensive server network
• Stream safely while maintaining fast speeds

Choose the plan that works for you.

End-to-end data protection. High-speed VPN connections. 30-days risk-free.

Monthly

11.99/mo

2-Year

2.99/mo

Billed $71.76 first 2 years

Save 75%

30 days risk-free

Yearly

3.49/mo

Billed $41.88 first year

Save 70%

30 days risk-free

VPN for Kodi: Everything You Need to Know

What is Kodi?

Kodi is the centralized solution for digital entertainment. It is developed by the XMBC Foundation. Unlike most set-top boxes that are limited to specific media sources, operating systems, and file formats, Kodi’s become increasingly popular for its versatility.

As a free, open-source software application, Kodi works well with tons of different devices. It isn’t restricted to streaming video from pre-loaded apps either; Kodi supports apps, plug-ins, and online services from all over the world – from sports to music, and much, much more.

What is a VPN?

Now that we’ve explored what Kodi is in more detail, it’s time to talk about VPN services. So, what is a VPN, exactly? Short for virtual private network, a VPN is a digital tool used to encrypt your online connection to any network

With your connection encrypted, your data is better protected. VPN encryption rewrites your data from easily readable code into indecipherable ciphertext. This helps shield your personal online activity from others, and offers added protection from ISP tracking, online identity theft, Wi-Fi snoopers, and hackers who share network access with you.

How To Use a VPN for Kodi

It’s easy to install a VPN for Kodi on a Fire TV Stick, desktop device, or tablet. Just run the automated IPVanish app in the background and you’ll have secure, unrestricted access to all of the Kodi add-ons that you can install. But if you’ve sideloaded Kodi, or if you’ve got it running on a Smart TV or a set-top box, a manual configuration may be required.

IPVanish Kodi VPN Setup Guide

What devices does Kodi work with?

One of Kodi’s biggest draws is its compatibility. Kodi is available to download as native application for Android, Linux, Mac OS X, iOS and Windows operating systems. This flexibility means it works well on devices such as Fire TV Stick, set-top boxes, Smart TVs, and more.

What devices does IPVanish VPN work with?

So, we’ve established that Kodi is compatible with multiple devices; IPVanish is, too. We provide user-friendly VPN apps for desktop, mobile, and more. Like Kodi, we even provide apps for streaming devices, like the Fire TV Stick. So regardless of the platform you choose, you’ll be able to achieve a high-speed, more secure Kodi connection with IPVanish.

How to set up a Kodi VPN

Follow up the step-by-step process below to set up IPVanish VPN for use with Kodi:

1. Ensure that Kodi is already set up on the device you want to use a VPN with Kodi on.
2. Sign up for your preferred IPVanish plan.
3. Download the IPVanish VPN app on the device you want to use it with Kodi on. Want to use your VPN with Kodi on multiple devices? Go for it. IPVanish offers unmetered connections, so you can download our app on multiple devices and establish a simultaneous connection across devices.
4. Open the IPVanish VPN app on your preferred device and connect before you use Kodi. Remember, you can optimize your VPN server selection based on your needs.

Looking for more detailed instructions? Refer to our VPN setup guides or explore How to set up a VPN on any device.

Why Should I Use a VPN for Kodi?

Data Privacy

Network interference can ruin the Kodi experience. But it doesn’t have to. With IPVanish, you can better avoid intrusive data collection and bandwidth throttling.

When it comes to your online activity, you should have the right to privacy. But various entities, such as your ISP, are constantly trying to monitor what you do online. Fortunately, with IPVanish, your data is better protected from any potential onlookers.

Identity Protection

Companies use tools to collect IP addresses from file-sharers. Evade these faceless third parties and cut them off from your personal information when you change your IP address!

When you use IPVanish, your true IP address will be masked. To the rest of the internet, you’ll appear as if you’re connecting with your VPN server’s IP address. And because IPVanish uses shared, dynamic IPs, no activity can be attributed to individual users. This provides greater anonymity and identity protection.

Wi-Fi Hotspot Security

On a shared network or public Wi-Fi, you become a prime target for hackers and tech-savvy identity thieves who are using the same local area network. But with a VPN, you can better keep your activity to yourself.

This IPVanish benefit is crucial if you want to use the internet away from home. Even if you’re not actively using Kodi, it’s important to use a VPN like IPVanish whenever you connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots.

What Does IPVanish VPN Provide For Kodi?

A VPN from IPVanish establishes a protected internet environment, with added protection from various snoopers, hackers, and cybercriminals. With IPVanish VPN, you have the ability to mask your IP address, the internet address issued by your ISP to identify your personal web activity. This helps prevent websites, online advertisers, and additional third-parties from monitoring your internet activity in real-time.

Simultaneously, IPVanish protects your entire internet connection with 256-bit AES VPN encryption. These VPN benefits are crucial. No matter what app you’re running, your internet traffic will be better shielded from others online who try to access your data.

What Makes IPVanish VPN Work So Well For Kodi?

Speed and Performance

Because Kodi is a streaming platform, speed is an essential component of the Kodi experience. So any VPN you use with Kodi must be able to maintain high speeds. Fortunately, IPVanish is up to the task. We consistently test as one of the fastest VPNs available, so you won’t have to worry about lag, latency, or endless buffering when you use IPVanish with Kodi.

Multiple VPN Protocols

To deliver reliable speed, IPVanish makes use of multiple VPN protocols to meet all your Kodi needs. Regardless of the device you’re using Kodi on, IPVanish offers a capable protocol to provide the performance you deserve and desire. This includes WireGuard® – the latest evolution in high-speed VPN connectivity – as well as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and IPSec.

User-friendly VPN Features

To maximize privacy, security, and speed, IPVanish offers an array of user-friendly VPN features. These include a VPN kill switch, which “kills” all internet traffic if your VPN connection ever drops. They also include automatic startup, which turns the VPN on whenever internet traffic is detected, split tunneling, which allows you to pick and choose which apps use a VPN connection, and more.

Expert Customer Support

We want your Kodi VPN setup to go as smoothly as possible. So, should you ever need help getting started, we’re with you every step of the way. Our expert customer support team is available 24/7, 365 to assist you any way they can. They also maintain a database with regularly updated answers to frequently asked questions, as well as tutorials for all your VPN needs.

No Logs

As a virtual private network service, we’re passionate about data security. So when we say we don’t monitor or log your activity when you use IPVanish, we mean it. But don’t just take our word for it. Our no-logs policy has been independently verified by third-party cybersecurity experts to ensure your internet traffic is never recorded by our VPN apps.

Kodi VPN – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a VPN recommended for Kodi?

Yes. While a VPN isn’t necessary for Kodi to function, it is highly recommended. This is due to the numerous privacy and security benefits that come with using a VPN in tandem with Kodi. And with IPVanish, you can enjoy these benefits without compromising your streaming experience.

2. Does a VPN slow down Kodi?

Because a VPN adds a layer of security to your internet connection, in theory, it can slow down Kodi. But this isn’t necessarily the case with IPVanish. For starters, IPVanish never throttles your VPN connections. And thanks to our fine-tuned global server network, you’ll be able to securely access Kodi streams in HD, buffer-free, with lightning-fast connection speeds.

3. What is the best free VPN?

Unfortunately, the best free VPN is non-existent. Free VPN providers don’t charge to use their service, and this means they have to make money other ways. Some of these money-making methods may include major privacy violations, such as collecting and selling user data. Additionally, free VPN providers often offer a limited number of VPN servers to choose from, and may also provide poor connection speeds.

4. Which country VPN is best for Kodi?

Which country’s VPN server is the best for Kodi depends entirely on the user. Because Kodi can use significant bandwidth, however, we recommend prioritizing speed with your VPN server selection. While it’s not always the case, servers that are physically near your actual location tend to be faster than distant ones. So you can start by choosing a server that’s relatively close by. If you want to take the guesswork out entirely, however, and aren’t particularly concerned about the specifics of your server location, you can simply use the IPVanish ‘Fastest Available’ feature.

5. Will Kodi work better with a VPN?

Whether Kodi will work better with a VPN ultimately depends. In theory it might not, as some VPN services, including free VPNs, may hinder performance significantly. However, as we’ve established, this isn’t the case with IPVanish. With IPVanish, Kodi should work better with a VPN, for the simple fact that IPVanish adds a layer of encryption to the process. This ultimately makes Kodi more private and safer to use.