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Introduction
If you are using Kodi, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard for the umpteenth time about using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) while streaming content. In this article, we will go over what Kodi is, why you need a VPN to use it, and what makes a VPN important for Kodi use.
Key Takeaways
What is Kodi and why do you need a VPN?
Kodi is a free, open-source media player software application that lets you play movies, TV shows, live streams and other content from a wide range of sources, including unofficial repositories and add-ons. Although Kodi is legal, some of these add-ons and repositories allow access to copyrighted material, which may be illegal where you live.
Using a VPN while streaming with Kodi is crucial for several reasons:
Privacy and Security: When you stream content without a VPN, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can see exactly what your online activities consist of and what content you are streaming. With a VPN, all of your internet traffic gets encrypted, which makes it nearly impossible for your ISP or third parties to obtain any information about your online activities, therefore protecting your privacy and security.
Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Third, plenty of streaming services and add-ons are geo-restricted (ie, they are not available outside a number of countries or regions). By connecting to a VPN server located in a different country, you can bypass this geo-restriction and gain access to content that may not be available from your geographical location.
Avoid Throttling: some ISPs throttle your bandwidth when they notice you’re streaming, which will definitely cause buffering or poor video quality, whereas a VPN will help you by keeping your ISP in the dark about your streaming.
Overview of the importance of VPNs for Kodi users
Using a VPN while streaming with Kodi is essential for several reasons:
- Legal Protection: Since a VPN will greatly decrease the chance that you’re caught streaming copyright content (ensuring your internet traffic is encrypted and anonymized from your ISP but also any third parties, too), then – theoretically – a VPN can help keep you out of trouble too.
- Improved Streaming Experience: With a solid VPN, you’ll get more stable and faster streaming connections, which
- Access to More Content: Your VPN would let you side-step geo-blocks and tune into TV channels, movies and TV shows available across regions.
- Enhanced Privacy and Security: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, which prevents your online activities from being peeked at by anyone (hackers, governments, cybercriminals) that might be able to do so otherwise.
In a nutshell, a VPN will boost your online security and privacy and protect you from having your right to whatever you like streaming taken away from you. Not using a VPN means you’ll be using vulnerable connections with ISPs and studios spying on everything you do online. You can stop worrying about illegality and your ISP throttling your streaming, and start using your PC with your Kodi box to watch the latest episodes, seasons and movies securely with a VPN.
What to Look for in a VPN for Kodi
Is any VPN good enough to stream content with Kodi? Not really. Even when using Kodi we need a VPN that meets the following factors. In this section, we shall explain why this is so.
Security Features: Encryption, Leak Protection, Kill Switch, and No-Logs Policy
If you don’t want your ISP or, indeed, anyone else to snoop on what you are watching on Kodi, you need a good VPN. So, be sure to choose your VPN wisely and pick a service with solid security in place: Make sure the VPN you are using has AES-256 encryption or better – this will ensure that all your information is scrambled and can’t be read by anyone but you when it leaves your device.
Furthermore, an effective VPN should protect itself against leaks so that your IP address doesn’t get exposed, for instance, if you abruptly lose connectivity to the virtual private network (VPN). To this end, it’s useful to have a kill switch that essentially kills your internet, if you lose connectivity to the VPN so you won’t inadvertently leak data.
Another important consideration is whether the VPN company keeps any kind of logs on your online activity – a ‘no-logs’ policy means your privacy is completely protected at all times.
Speed and Performance: Fast and Reliable Connections for Smooth Streaming
To stream high quality content on it with the best Kodi addon, you need a stable and fast internet connection. It is important, then, that the VPN that you choose for Kodi is quick in loading and has good performance. Go for VPNs with high download and upload speeds and less latency for streaming movies, music or shows without jittering or buffering.
On top of this, a good VPN should have servers set up specifically for streaming and with plentiful tiers of bandwidth available to handle high-definition video streams without interruption or buffering.
Server Network: Wide Range of Servers in Multiple Countries for Geo-Restriction Bypassing
The other main advantage to running a VPN while using Kodi is that it can help you get around censorship, allowing you to see content available in more than one region. You’ll want a VPN with a large network of servers located in more than one region to do this.
The more servers assigned to a large network, the more options you have in getting around regional restrictions, as well as better speed and reliability. The more servers available nearby you (assuming that you are physically in the same part of the world), the faster and the less lag you will experience.
Device Compatibility: Compatibility with Various Devices and Operating Systems
Kodi is available on numerous devices, from Smart TVs and streaming boxes, to gaming consoles and mobile devices, so it is important to make sure that the VPN provider you opt for works well with your operating system and the devices that you intend to use it with.
Check if the VPN has dedicated apps or software for the key operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, as well as Linux, if that’s your preference. Some provide specialized support for router installation to secure all devices on your in-home network with a single VPN connection.
Free Plan Limitations: Awareness of Data Caps, Speed Restrictions, and Limited Server Locations
Sure, you can try a free VPN. But in all honestly, they don’t even come close to cutting it when it comes to Kodi streaming. This is because most free VPN services have data caps that wind up being exhaust emitting seamlessly from your Buffuster ‘Hot Chick Talk Show’ streaming sesh.
Additionally, free VPNs will either throttle your speeds or limit your server locations, which can impede your streaming experience and prevent you from getting around geo-restrictions. Secondly, free VPNs sacrifice your privacy and security, often doing so by selling your information to third parties, or worse, by showing you sexually explicit pop-ups.
If you opt for a free VPN for Kodi, research everything you can about it – and be prepared to deal with its limitations and dangers.
These factors (security features, speed and performance, server network, device compatibility, and limitations of the free plan) are what you should keep an eye out for when selecting between different providers and finding a VPN that best suits your specific needs, for an optimal and secure experience of Kodi streaming.
Top VPNs for Kodi
The difference in your Kodi streaming experience could largely depend on the VPN provider you choose that’s why it’s important to know which VPN is the best for Kodi. With so many VPN providers out there, it can be quite confusing to choose the right one. This section looks at some of the best VPNs for Kodi, their features and also their demerits.
1.ExpressVPN
Best For Speed  9.7 / 10 | Outstanding | |
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Privacy 98% | Interface 97% | Speed 98% | Features 96% |
Key Facts
Overview of ExpressVPN’s Features and Benefits
ExpressVPN routinely ranks as the best VPN overall because it offers a combination of exceptional speed, the best security and encryption features, superb value, and a simple setup. Its network of more than 3,000 servers in more than 94 countries is constantly growing, so you can watch geo blocked entertainment from across the globe.
ExpressVPN doesn’t just unblock US and UK Netflix – it also works with most other popular streaming services, including Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and a bunch of others. None of the other VPNs on my recommended list are remotely competitive here.
Speed and Performance
ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN we test and it has the best streaming performance available. ExpressVPN’s own proprietary Lightway protocol, coupled with its optimised server network, means that it always provides very high download and upload speeds, which is reflected in the performance it delivers while using Kodi.
In fact, independent speed tests indicate that it consistently scores amongst the fastest of any VPN provider. So you can watch high-quality video streams without the annoying buffering and lag.
Privacy and Security
When it comes to privacy and security, there’s no room for compromise. ExpressVPN protects all your internet traffic with industry-leading AES-256 encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and a rigorous no-logs policy so no one, not even gov, can see what you’re doing online.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN has split tunneling, DNS leak protection and a kill switch that guarantees your data remains secure even if the VPN connection suddenly drops.
User Interface
ExpressVPN is also popular with people using Kodi because it’s easy to use. The VPN has apps that run across its own servers for just about every platform – Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and Linux – as well as browser extensions and router support.
The apps are intuitive and straightforward — with a minimalist look and feel that makes it easy to connect to servers, tweak and tune the various settings, and dig into the more advanced features. ExpressVPN is a cinch to use, and great for the less tech-oriented among us.
Servers
ExpressVPN has a large server base. More precisely it has over 3,000 servers across 94 countries and counting. This sheer quantity is nearly guaranteed to provide for a good IPDES wherever you are located. It will also help you to access such content, which is crucial for users of Kodi.
Pricing
Although ExpressVPN is a VPN service that is on the upper end of pricing, its costs are competitive and promotions occur and discounts are common for longer-term subscription plans.
Currently, ExpressVPN offers the following pricing plans:
1-month plan: $12.95 per month
6-month plan: $9.99 per month (billed $59.95 every 6 months)
1-year plan: $8.32 per month (billed $99.95 annually)
Also, ExpressVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you’re safe to try out if it fits your requirements before paying for a long-term package.
Pros
Cons
In brief, ExpressVPN is the best all-round option for Kodi users. It may be a bit more expensive than the competition, but you certainly get what you pay for. Fast, secure, and with a wide array of excellent extra features, it’s easily the best value on the market.
2.NordVPN
Best Overall  9.8 / 10 | Outstanding | |
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Privacy 97% | Interface 96% | Speed 95% | Features 97% |
Key Facts
Overview of NordVPN’s Features and Benefits
The second on our list of premium VPNs is NordVPN, which is known for its cutting-edge security, broad server selection, and fast speeds. It is another excellent pick for Kodi users who demand utmost privacy and are interested in bypassing geo-restrictions.
All of its advanced security features – double VPN and Onion over VPN encryption (which protect your data through the Tor network) – make it virtually impossible for anyone to track you.
Speed and Performance
NordVPN has a very fast and solid performance. The server network has been carefully fine-tuned to improve speeds even more. NordVPN has developed WireGuard-based technology called NordLynx, which doubles down on faster streaming and flawless Kodi use. With it, the connections are fast and very stable, excellent for streaming high-quality video content.
Privacy and Security
Nordvpn has your back with features such as using military-grade AES-256 encryption. They use perfect forward secrecy and do not keep logs, ever, that could be traced back to you.
In addition, NordVPN has features such as ‘split tunneling’ (which permits you to send specific traffic over an unencrypted connection), DNS leak protection (which prevents DNS requests from leaking), and a kill switch (which terminates your internet connection entirely if the VPN connection drops, to prevent your data from leaking).
User Interface
NordVPN’s interface is minimalist but super user-friendly, accessible even by a beginner. The provider has purpose-built native applications for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux and browser extensions, as well as operational support for some routers.
The apps themselves are beautifully designed and quite intuitive to use. Besides the basic settings, you have some options to make the VPN work in your own way.
Servers
NordVPN surpasses the industry average with an impressive 5,400+ servers distributed in 59 countries. This guarantees great connectivity at great speeds anywhere in the world and, especially important to Kodi users, helps access content from all over the globe.
Pricing
NordVPN offers several pricing plans to suit different budgets and needs:
1-month plan: $11.95 per month
1-year plan: $4.92 per month (billed $59 annually)
2-year plan: $3.71 per month (billed $89 every 2 years)
Similarly, NordVPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee allowing you to try it for a month before committing to a lengthy subscription.
Pros
Cons
In short, if you want to remain as secure as possible while using Kodi, don’t settle for anything less than NordVPN. And if you’re simply looking for the best VPN to use with Kodi, don’t let this opportunity pass you by. It’s great, it’s robust, it’s proven. This is one you really want to get behind and remain connected to.
3.Surfshark
Best For Value  9.4 / 10 | Excellent | |
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Privacy 95% | Interface 93% | Speed 93% | Features 94% |
Key facts
Overview of Surfshark’s Features and Benefits
But unlike many of its rivals, including Express and Nord, Surfshark is a relative newcomer to the VPN scene – founded only in 2018 – and has quickly established itself as a preferred option for users where privacy, security and value for money currently top the wish list. The price is just £2.08 a month when taking out an annual subscription. Surfshark is a popular and effective VPN for Kodi users.
Surfshark also includes features that help with unblocking restricted geo-localised streaming experiences, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and more. With Surfshark, Kodi users can unblock the widest variety of geo-locked streaming options on Kodi.
Speed and Performance
A key advantage of Surfshark is the speed and snappy performance for your Kodi streaming. Surfshark has one of the fastest VPN networks out there. Surfshark servers offer great streaming speeds, meaning you can live stream all the HD video your eyes can handle on Kodi without seeing black bars, buffering or killing your Kodi-watching mood. It is awesome.
Privacy and Security
You can use Surfshark securely in the knowledge that everything is as it should be, backstopped by military-grade AES-256 encryption, perfect forward secrecy and a no-logs policy. Moreover, Surfshark has split tunneling, DNS leak protection and a kill switch, which kills off the internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks.
User Interface
Surfshark has a clean, modern UI that is straightforward and easy to use, even if you have never used a VPN before. Its software works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux operating systems, plus browser extensions and routers.
The apps are well-designed and intuitive with clear instructions and a good range of configurations to allow for personalisation of the VPN experience.
Servers
We also like the fact that not only does Surfshark boast a large and growing server network – more than 3,200 servers in 65 countries – but its servers provide very good access speeds globally, and typically have several options in each country, making it easier for us to find a Surfshark server and bypass content restrictions related to location.
Pricing
One of the most attractive aspects of Surfshark is its affordable pricing plans:
1-month plan: $12.95 per month
6-month plan: $6.49 per month (billed $38.94 every 6 months)
2-year plan: $2.49 per month (billed $59.76 every 2 years)
Surfshark also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test out the service to see if it truly works for you before you commit to a long-term subscription.
Pros
Cons
How good is this for use with Kodi? Overall we highly recommend Surfshark for Kodi users just in general. It’s a good quality, cheap, and privacy-oriented VPN service with an easy-to-use interface.
4.Private Internet Access (PIA)
Best For P2P  8.7 / 10 | Excellent | |
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Privacy 92% | Interface 87% | Speed 86% | Features 89% |
Key facts
Overview of Private Internet Access (PIA)’s Features and Benefits
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a standard in the VPN industry: a respected provider that has been around for more than a decade. If you are running Kodi, PIA is likely a first choice. It’s robust, comprehensive and cheap.
Aside from that, you’re getting the same great PIA package that is so attractive for Kodi users – namely the no-logs policy, meaning that our servers will never keep any data about what you do online.
Speed and Performance
One of the reasons PIA delivers such speed and performance is its global infrastructure of servers. The other key is the use of the latest encryption protocols like WireGuard. This makes PIA one of the fastest VPNs on the market. It’s not the fastest, but PIA’s speed is fine, more than fast enough for Kodi high-quality video streaming (i.e., 1080p HD) without buffering or lag.
Privacy and Security
And, as its name indicates, privacy and security are the keystones of what it provides, employing military-grade AES-256 encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and a policy of not logging information. Besides that, PIA provides you with DNS leak protection and a kill switch, which will effectively close the door (your internet connection) should your VPN connection drop, and a room full of data leak.
User Interface
The PIA user interface is simple and easy to use. Even tech beginners will find it a straightforward system. The VPN has dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and Linux, and browser extensions and router support.
Although not as aesthetically pleasing as some competitors, the apps are straightforward, easy to use and access the key features and settings.
Servers
Among its many impressive features, PIA has one of the largest VPN server networks in the world, covering ground in 78 countries (more than 35, 000 servers through their network). The wide coverage enhances speed and reliability while accessing any content. It gives users an advantage by helping them bypass geo-restrictions. And of course, it’s usually important to Kodi users who stream content from various locations.
Pricing
Selling points of PIA include affordability. Here are their pricing plans:
1-month plan: $11.95 per month
1-year plan: $3.33 per month (billed $39.95 annually)
2-year plan: $2.19 per month (billed $53 every 2 years)
The 30-day money-back guarantee from PIA is also a good safety net in case you want to check out the service for yourself, see that it works for your needs, and commit to the contract.
Pros
Cons
In short, if you want to find a VPN for Kodi that is private, secure and cheap, look no further than Private Internet Access. Above all, PIA provides a large server network, commitment to a no-logs policy and reliable speeds at an affordable price.
5.CyberGhost
Best For General Purpose  9.1 / 10 | Very Good | |
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Privacy 92% | Interface 95% | Speed 89% | Features 87% |
Key facts
Overview of CyberGhost’s Features and Benefits
CyberGhost is one of the longest-standing VPN providers in the market today. It holds great popularity among Kodi users due to its user-friendly features, streaming advantages and strong security standards.
A very nice feature is the customised streaming profile which optimises the connection for streaming on Kodi and other platforms. The result: buffer-free streaming of your favorite content.
Speed and Performance
CyberGhost offers fast and reliable performance, in large part thanks to its huge server network and support for tightly encrypted and fast tunneling protocols like WireGuard. CyberGhost is not the fastest VPN available, but its speeds are generally more than fast enough for high-quality streaming on Kodi without a great deal of buffering or lag.
Privacy and Security
If you’re after premium privacy and security online, then CyberGhost might just be the right VPN for you. This provider uses military-grade AES-256 encryption along with perfect forward secrecy to keep your data safe, while its no-logs policy means that your privacy is protected at all times.
Furthermore, it has DNS leak protection, a kill switch and an ad-blocker to bolster your online anonymity.
User Interface
CyberGhost has an excellent interface. Does the VPN have dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux (and perhaps newer platforms as well)? Does it have browser extensions? Can it run on a router? CyberGhost has an excellent interface with dedicated apps for all platforms we’ve mentioned.
The apps are attractive, easy to use and intuitive, so the novice user will have no problem figuring it all out. CyberGhost, for instance, receives praise for how easy their app is to use.
Servers
CyberGhost has the biggest network of any VPN provider at the moment – with over 7,900 servers in 91 different countries, you’re bound to be close to a server in most places and won’t be slowed down by traveling your online signal a long way. We also found that there were numerous servers in each country, which makes it easier to find one that hasn’t been geo-blocked. This is very important for anyone using Kodi, as many servers claiming great speeds are actually inaccessible because of content filters.
Pricing
CyberGhost offers a range of pricing plans to suit different budgets and needs:
1-month plan: $12.99 per month
1-year plan: $5.99 per month (billed $71.88 annually)
2-year plan: $3.99 per month (billed $95.76 every 2 years)
3-year plan: $2.29 per month (billed $82.44 every 3 years)
All these features are unlimited too, allowing you to protect all devices on your network if you wish, which includes smart TVs and game consoles. CyberGhost also offers an impressive 45-day money-back guarantee, meaning you’ve got plenty of time to assess the service in depth before you decide if it’s best for you or not.
Pros
Cons
In conclusion, CyberGhost is a fantastic choice for Kodi streamers. CyberGhost is a fast and easy-to-use all-around VPN. Its vast server spread, dedicated streaming profile, as well as the surgical interface, make it a good choice for Kodi users who place emphasis on user-friendly, streaming-capable and rock-solid security.
Other VPNs Worth Considering
Though Kodi users would do well to stick with the VPNs mentioned above, there are several other VPN providers which offer stellar service, and which would be a good choice for you depending on your needs.
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is considered one of the most privacy- and security-focused VPN services, with no previous reports of security incidents. Its servers are located in Switzerland, which is outside 14-Eyes countries. The company uses strong encryption, operates on a strict no-logs policy, and comes with a great variety of additional features (like Secure Core servers and Perfect Forward Secrecy). ProtonVPN also offers a completely free plan with limited features, which will allow you to try out the service before you spend money on its paid subscription.
IPVanish
One of the most trusted VPN providers, IPVanish can be counted on to deliver fast speeds, a large selection of servers in many countries, and top-quality security features. It is among the most popular VPN services that Kodi fans recommend for bypassing geographic restrictions, unblocking a huge variety of streaming channels, and enabling unlimited connections on multiple devices at the same time.
PureVPN
PureVPN is another long standing VPN service. Their service has a great privacy reputation, a strict no-logs policy, and good, affordable price points. PureVPN also has a huge server network with good performance. The purevpn VPN is best for budget-conscious Kodi VPN users.
TunnelBear
TunnelBear is the easiest VPN service we’ve encountered. The service is transparent about its security measures and has a pretty solid tracking record behind it. It also includes a free version with a limited amount of data, giving you the option to try it out before you upgrade to the paid version. The drawbacks to TunnelBear are the same as with other VPNs – the network isn’t the largest, and it doesn’t have many more advanced features.
When determining what’s the best VPN for Kodi, ask yourself: what are your needs, preferences, concerns and priorities – be it speed, security, server network, device compatibility or price? And of course remember to read user reviews, compare features and take advantage of free trials or money-back guarantees where applicable.
Please note – while free VPNs are tempting, they’re usually also subpar when it comes to offering secure connectivity and unrestricted access to content. If you want to watch live TV on Kodi, have good speeds, and don’t want to lose in the long run because of data theft or reselling your bandwidth, we recommend investing in a reliable paid VPN service with an excellent security pedigree and strong no-logs policy.
How to Install a VPN on Kodi
Installing a VPN on Kodi is always highly recommended since Kodi Streaming on its own is not safe. Only when a VPN is used, your connection will be secured and also private. Installing a VPN on Kodi is not easy for tech-savvies, but there are different installation methods to choose from. In this section, we take a look at the different installation methods and also give clear instructions including screenshots, so that you can get started instantly.
Manual Installation: Downloading and Installing the VPN Application from the Provider’s Official Website
Simply put, perhaps the most reliable (so far) way to install a VPN on your Kodi platform is installing it manually – after downloading and installing a VPN on your platform directly from the domain of the VPN provider. The process to do so goes as follows.
A manual installation is usually easy and gives you full control over the configuration of your VPN application, but it does require some technical knowledge as you’ll have to enter all the VPN settings manually.
How to install Kodi on Android TV
The use of Kodi on Android TV enables one to stream movies, TV series, live television and so much more. For instance, it is possible to install Kodi by either downloading it manually or using Google play store.
We’ll take you through several simple steps that will help set up your Kodi on an Android TV in order to start enjoying all your favorite content. It will also include two methods the user can follow to install the same; from the play store and by using the downloader app for manual installation
Kodi Add-Ons: Installing VPN Add-ons such as OpenVPN, Zomboided VPN Manager, and VPN Manager for OpenVPN
The other way to use a VPN with Kodi is through a Kodi add-on. Kodi offers a vast selection of add-ons, including several VPN add-ons that can be installed right inside the Kodi interface. Here are some of the best VPN add-ons for Kodi:
- OpenVPN: An add-on that creates an OpenVPN tunnel to an OpenVPN server from within Kodi. This requires a valid OpenVPN configuration file from your VPN provider.
- Zomboided VPN Manager: This add-on supports a lot of VPN providers, and lets you connect to their servers right from within Kodi’s interface.
- VPN Manager for OpenVPN: This add-on lets you log on to an OpenVPN server but does it with a friendlier interface than OpenVPN.
To install a VPN add-on, please follow these steps:
While VPN add-ons are convenient, they are not always as stable or current as their own companies’ VPN apps. Often, the add-on is less fully-featured than the native app, or will not work with certain VPN providers.
Choosing a Server Location: Selecting a Server that is Close to Your Physical Location for Optimal Speed
Regardless of the installation method you decide to go with, picking the right server location is quite essential for good streaming performance with your VPN. As a general rule, mounting the nearest server to your location is the way to go because that way, your internet traffic has to travel less distance, thereby delivering faster speeds as well as lower latencies.
With the exception of a few providers, most VPN providers provide a tool to choose the server or a list of available countries to which you can connect (within the application/add-on). When selecting a server, here are some points you can pay attention to:
- Physical proximity: pick the geographic server location closest to your physical location for the best speeds.
- Server load: Good VPN services display the current server load and let you stay away from overly congested servers.
- Streaming capabilities: If you want to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services or content, choose a server that’s known to work well with that streaming service or content.
- Specific use case: If you’re running other services on the same server, choose the most appropriate location to do that (for example, to access regional services or to work around censorship).
By applying these tips you should be able to configure your VPN in a way that will allow you to stream using Kodi with no issues. Of course, you ultimately need to think about the specific needs you have.
Installation of a VPN for Kodi is a decisive action that also ensures you don’t expose your identity when streaming. In case you elect to configure the software solution or an add-on, always opt for a high-quality VPN service with powerful security, fast speeds and a massive selection of server locations.
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Benefits of Using a VPN with Kodi
In this section, we will analyze the main advantages of using a VPN with Kodi, as they will improve your streaming experience and protect your online privacy and security at the same time.
Accessing Geo-Restricted Content: Bypassing Geo-Blocks on Various Streaming Sites and Add-Ons
With Kodi being such a big attraction that’s exactly what they end up doing In fact, bypassing geo-restrictions forced by streaming services and content providers is probably the top use-case for Kodi users who want a VPN. You see, many popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and BBC iPlayer are geo-blocked. That is, they will not let you watch certain shows, films and more if they know where you are (or where you are trying to connect from).
You can simply connect to a VPN server located in a different country in order to bypass such restrictions and get access to more content that’s supposed to be exclusive to other countries. If you always check holiday destinations, movie streaming sites and sports events on your laptop, you would much appreciate the unlimited entertainment VPNs provide.
Besides, sometimes it is possible that you’re trying to access geo-restricted Kodi add-ons that are unavailable in your region or targeted by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). A quality VPN will help you bypass these restrictions, authorizing you access to the needed add-ons and a bounty of entertainment content.
Protecting Online Privacy: Encrypting All Internet Traffic and Preventing ISPs from Tracking Browsing Activities
Without a VPN, when you are watching any video over the internet, your ISP and other third parties can see which site you are watching and what you are doing afterward. Even watch your browsing history.
A VPN shares the same properties as a standard (i.e. non-Kodi) VPN, namely that it will encrypt all of the traffic coming from your device to the internet and back again, meaning that neither your ISP nor anybody else could realistically monitor what you are up to. In this manner, a Kodi-friendly VPN should be able to keep you safe from both negative attention and potential prosecution at the hands of copyright owners for streaming potentially copyright-infringing content.
So with a VPN, no one can see what you’re doing online, and your data and browsing habits are safe and sound.
Improving Streaming Quality: Avoiding Throttling and Improving Connection Speeds
Some ISPs will add throttling or the deliberate reduction of your broadband speed when they’re aware you’re streaming or otherwise using up a lot of data. You might experience an irritating display of buffering, cheap-looking video, or a weaker connection to whatever your ISP has marked as a competitor.
As well as getting around ISP throttling and enjoying connection speeds closer to what you paid for by using a VPN with Kodi, your ISP is then unable to see what you are streaming, as you are encrypting your internet traffic and directing it through your VPN server.
In addition, most VPN vendors optimize their servers for streaming, making sure that you can stream in HD or higher with no interruptions and no lags.
In addition to the underlying benefits, using a VPN with Kodi can also provide a couple of other advantages, such as:
- Increased Security: VPNs insulate you from malicious threats such as malware, hackers, and man-in-the-middle attacks, by encrypting your internet traffic and obscuring your IP address.
- Anonymity: VPN masking of your IP address and online activities will help you stay anonymous while you’re streaming media over Kodi.
- Compatibility: Many VPNs provide apps or software clients for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and other operating systems so that you can access a VPN with Kodi on several devices.
To sum up, there are many benefits of using a reliable VPN with Kodi, and you will realize the huge difference it creates in Kodi streaming, apart from providing anonymity and security to your browsing.
It provides you with fast and reliable connectivity, access to content otherwise unavailable to you, and a carefree space where you can freely engage with streaming and access geo-locked content, bank on HD quality of streaming, escape DMCA notifications, bypassing ISP bandwidth slowdown and throttling, and have an overall private experience.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
Kodi is all about content, which means that using a VPN with Kodi offers some advantages – but will also require changes to your routine. In this section, we’ll cover additional best practices and recommendations to get the most out of your Kodi setup with a VPN.
Choosing the Right VPN for Your Needs: Considering Factors Such as Security Features, Speed, and Server Network
Given that there are hundreds of VPN providers out there, deciding on the right one is a bit tricky. However, it’s worth remembering your exact need, before buying any VPN. Below are some of the most important aspects you should be considering.
- Security Features: VPNs that provide security should include military-grade encryption, not logging data, DNS leak protection and a kill switch to protect you.
- Speed and Performance: If you’re looking for high-quality uninterrupted video streaming, you’ll need a fast and reliable connection. Ensure your VPN provider offers dedicated streaming servers and delivers high speeds all the time to eliminate buffering and lag.
- Server Network: A bigger server network, with more physical servers across multiple countries, can both let you defeat geo-blocks and access more content, but it can also get you closer to servers geographically, potentially improving your general speeds.
- Device Compatibility: Make sure your VPN service also has dedicated apps and software for the devices and operating systems you intend to use with it, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and Linux.
- Pricing and Plans: Free VPNs have their fair share of problems, so consider a paid VPN service to ensure your privacy and security – you’ll have a wider range of features and more support from the vendor.
If you take the time to critically analyze exactly what you need, and match those needs against providers according to these categories, you’ll stand a far better chance of picking a VPN that’s right for you.
Avoiding Free VPNs: Free VPNs Often Have Limitations and May Compromise Security and Privacy
So while free VPNs are tempting, often it’s possible to recognize disadvantages and constraints in their services that may invalidate the use of free services with Kodi, without even taking into account any deliberate malicious action. Here are some good reasons to be suspicious of free VPN services.
- Data Limitations: many of the free VPNs include severe usage caps, which are easily exceeded watching video and can shut you down when streaming from Kodi. One second you have full speed, the next moment it’s severely throttled or cut off.
- Speed and Performance Issues: Because free VPNs usually have limited bandwidth and/or server capabilities and low levels of investment compared with paid VPN services, you can expect to receive slow and unreliable service. For example, video streaming qualities may be unsuitable for high-definition viewing.
- Security and Privacy Concerns: Some free VPNs may log your data and sell it to third parties, or put adverts into your internet traffic to make money, both of which put your privacy and security at risk.
- Lack of Customer Support: You are going to be on your own with a free VPN. Usually, there is no customer support to help if something isn’t working or if you simply have questions about what a feature does or how to use it.
Free VPNs are available, but for the sake of your own online security, it is best to steer clear. Instead, you should invest in a reputable paid VPN service that offers a high level of features, fast speeds, and a watertight no-logs policy. A good overall package that works hard to keep your identity, activity and streaming experiences as safe as possible to ensure that you watch Kodi online.
Using a VPN Manager Add-On: Installing a VPN Manager Add-On to Simplify the VPN Setup Process
If you haven’t set up a VPN on your computer before so you’re not exactly a techie, or you’re not sure about which VPN you should be installing or configuring, why not let a Kodi VPN manager add-on help you?
VPN manager add-ons such as Zomboided VPN Manager and VPN Manager for OpenVPN provide a more versatile approach by offering a single-setup means of connecting to a myriad of VPN providers directly from the Kodi interface.
Such solutions can often have a better designed and more streamlined user interface and usually provide a better selection of servers, through which users can quickly navigate and connect, various means by which to manage connections, and a means to easily configure settings.
To install a VPN manager add-on, follow these general steps:
- Open Kodi and navigate to the “Add-ons” section.
- Select the option to install from a repository or a third-party source, depending on the add-on you want to install.
- Browse and select the VPN manager add-on you prefer.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
- Once installed, open the VPN manager add-on and configure it with your VPN account credentials and preferred server location.
Using a VPN manager add-on, however, can simplify the process and make it easier for novice users (and those who don’t like the command line) to understand and follow. Not all VPNs are currently compatible with these add-ons, so you might end up not being able to use a VPN add-on, and these add-ons often have incomplete or outdated information.
Further, take care that you do not allow the melons that you grow at home to grow too big before harvesting. This will improve the quality of your melons. Caution needs to be distributed when inserting unapproved add-ons from unidentified sources as these could potentially be infected or worse. Only use secure VPN manager melons from recognized repositories and keep them up to date to avoid unsavory pests and rogue hackers.
By taking these extra pointers into account, you will better set yourself up to enjoy everything Kodi has to offer, including the fastest VPN streaming speeds available and a secure connection when streaming video from abroad.
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Conclusion
Setting up a VPN for Kodi is more than a tool to reach some overseas content – it’s about keeping your online identity safe and secure when streaming! Over the course of this guide, we’ve examined why Kodi users need a VPN, the most important things to seek from a VPN service, how you can install and set up your VPN, and some top tips to get the most from your VPN.
If you want to ensure your online safety while enjoying streaming entertainment using Kodi, now more than ever you need a VPN that can encrypt your internet traffic and hide your online activities from unwanted watchdogs. And you need to defeat the increasing attempts of content providers to geo-halt our entertainment.
When searching for a secure Kodi VPN service it’s imperative to search for a service provider that provides the highest level of security with military-grade encryption, strict no logs policy, private DNS leak protection / IPv6 leak protection, automated kill switch, strong jurisdiction and much more. But you will also need to take into consideration the following things when it comes to choosing a Kodi VPN service provider – speed, servers wide global network, devices that you plan to use and of course pricing.
With hundreds of VPNs out there, we’ve listed some of our top choices, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Private Internet Access (or PIA), and CyberGhost.
Moreover, we have written guides on how to install a VPN with Kodi, installing a VPN to Kodi either manually, dedicated Kodi add-on or a Kodi add-on that opens up your Kodi setup to a swathe of different VPNs and makes connecting, disconnecting and changing a VPN server as simple as clicking a button through a handy VPN manager add-on, such as Zomboided VPN Manager or VPN Manager for OpenVPN. These step-by-step guides are aimed at making configuring a secure, cost-effective and high-quality VPN system to and with your Kodi setup dead simple, regardless of your computer knowledge.
Final Thoughts
Basically, using a VPN with Kodi isn’t just a neat way to improve your streaming experience but it also puts you in the driving seat of your online privacy – and security – which has never been more important. With the amount of hacking and data breaches making headlines, a VPN can be your biggest weapon in the fight against international data bazookas who want your precious personal information – and in guaranteeing wide access to the best content the world has to offer.
Leveraging these best practices and a reliable VPN, Kodi users get to have their cake and eat it too. They receive all the benefits of the open-source solution on their screen, with the additional peace of mind that comes from knowing their online activity is private and secure.
In the end, choosing a VPN is a matter of personal taste. These selections suit our needs, and we have tried to clarify why. Do you agree with the picks? Not at all then – a quick look at the good alternatives available can help you to decide on the best Kodi add-on VPN for yourself. With a suitable VPN provider and a proper setup, any Kodi experience can be taken to the next level, with the streaming performance you desire, unlimited choices, and absolute privacy – a recipe for online freedom.
