If you’re a Kenyan who is traveling abroad or a Kenyan expat living in another country, you may find that it’s not easy viewing your favorite Kenya-based websites and services. Just like most other countries around the globe, content that is designated for viewing inside Kenya isn’t available to the rest of the world.
Luckily, there is a readily available tool you can use to gain access to your favorite Kenyan online content. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide access to geo-blocked content based in Kenya or nearly any other country around the globe. Here’s how a VPN works.
How Can a VPN Get a Kenyan IP Address?
Internet-connected devices, like the one you’re reading this article on right now, are all assigned an IP address when they connect to the internet. An IP address acts as a unique identifier, so all of the other devices and computers on the internet can identify your device to know where a request for information originated and where to send the reply. Think of it as a mailing address for your device.
Since each country is assigned a range of real IP addresses intended for use only by devices located inside of the country. This means an IP address can be used to determine a device’s geographical location.
That means Netflix and other sites and services can check your IP address and determine where you are located. If your device’s IP address isn’t inside the right country, they’ll block you from accessing their content and services.
A VPN service has servers located in countries around the globe, including Kenya. When you connect to one of those servers, the VPN temporarily assigns your device a new IP address located in that country. While you’re connected, the rest of the internet sees you and your device as being located inside of that country, allowing you to access content designated for that country.
In this article, I’ll provide information about the three VPN providers that provide the best access to an IP address located inside of Kenya.
How to Get an IP Address in Kenya
Do the following to obtain an IP address in Kenya.
How to get an IP address in Kenya:
- Purchase a subscription to a VPN service, like ExpressVPN, the top pick in this list.
- Install the app(s) from your VPN of choice on your favorite device(s).
- Connect to a Kenya-based server.
- Visit a Kenyan site or service that you normally can’t access. (You may need to clear your browser’s cache and delete your browser’s cookies.)
- Enjoy your favorite Kenyan content!
TRY A TOP VPN RISK-FREE: Most VPN providers offer a risk-free trial period. Their no-questions-asked money-back guarantees give you the opportunity to try a VPN service, then cancel it for a full refund during the trial period if you don’t want to continue with the subscription. The length of a free trial period can vary, so check with the VPN provider.
Best VPNs for Getting an IP Address in Kenya
After rounds of testing, the following three VPN providers have proven to be the best providers for obtaining an IP address from inside Kenya.
Best VPNs for getting an IP address in Kenya:
- ExpressVPN: #1 VPN for Kenyan IP addresses. This provider is admittedly more expensive than its fellow top VPN providers, but its premium level of services offers an excellent return on investment. Fast, well-protected connections come from a large global server network with servers inside of Kenya. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- CyberGhost: Good option for first-time VPN users. CyberGhost is a valid option for users with little to no experience with VPNs. The provider’s easy-to-use app selection offers fast access to streaming- and downloading-optimized servers around the globe, including in Kenya.
- Hotspot Shield: Reliable access to Kenyan IPs. Hotspot Shield delivers fast speeds that are perfect for all types of online activities. The provider’s wide-ranging global server coverage includes servers based in Kenya.
How to Choose the Best VPN for an IP Address in Kenya
Keep the following important factors in mind when considering a VPN for getting an IP address in Kenya:
- Has servers located in Kenya (seems logical, right?)
- Provides fast download speeds
- Offers comprehensive security and privacy protections
- Provides a high level of native app support
- Offers responsive customer support
You can find out more about the criteria I used above in the testing methodology section further down this article.
Best VPNs for a Kenyan IP Address – Summary table
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for getting a Kenyan IP address.
No value | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | Hotspot Shield |
---|---|---|---|
Website | ExpressVPN.com | CyberGhost.com | Hotspot Shield.com | Ranking for Kenyan IP | 1 | 2 | 3 | Kenyan Servers | 10+ | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | Popular Sites Unblocked | 86% | 85% | 85% | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Chrome, Smart TVs, Routers |
Best deal (per month) | $4.99 61% off plus 4 months Free! | $2.19 SAVE up to 83% off 2 year plan + 2 months free | $2.99 SAVE 77% on the 3 year plan |
These are the three best VPNs for getting a Kenyan IP address.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a premium, if a bit high-priced, provider that offers reliable access to Kenyan content.
ExpressVPN has one of the largest global server networks in the VPN industry, with more than 3,000 servers based in Kenya and more than 90 other countries.
The provider’s server network offers connections that were some of the fastest in my most recent speed tests, providing more than enough bandwidth for HD and 4K streaming, fast-moving online games, and sharing large files. You’ll never need to worry about data caps or throttled connections when using this provider.
All ExpressVPN connections are protected with government-grade encryption, as well as a kill switch and IP and DNS leak prevention. The provider offers a split-tunneling option that allows internet users to select which apps will take advantage of the provider’s protective encrypted tunnel. This allows users to better fine-tune their online protection.
As for privacy protections, the provider’s no-server-logs-ever policy and their Bitcoin payment option keep things locked down on that end of things. Plus, ExpressVPN’s “TrustedServer” technology runs all server operations from RAM, ensuring no data is ever written to a physical hard drive, so all data is erased when the server is rebooted.
ExpressVPN has most device platforms covered thanks to app offerings for macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, and Amazon Fire devices. Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions are also available.
ExpressVPN’s extensive router compatibility (including custom apps and firmware) protects all of your connected devices via a single point of access.
The provider’s “MediaStreamer” Smart DNS service enables streaming-capable devices like game consoles, smart TVs, and set-top boxes to access geo-blocked content. Be advised, however, that MediaStreamer does not offer encrypted connection protection.
ExpressVPN allows you to simultaneously connect five devices to its servers on one account. If you need more than that, the provider’s router capabilities will come in handy at home or in the office.
Customer support is available around the clock thanks to the provider’s 24/7 live chat, email support, trouble ticket tracking system, and easy-to-use searchable support library.
Pros:
- Kenyan servers included in a massive global server network
- Reliable access to geo-controlled content
- Super fast connection speeds
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
- Top-notch app support
Cons:
- Only allows five concurrent connections
BEST VPN FOR A KENYAN IP ADDRESS:Although ExpressVPN is a rather expensive VPN option, it provides top-notch services that include fast connections, comprehensive app support, extensive global server coverage, and more, providing an excellent return on investment. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of ExpressVPN.
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost, while offering a reliable VPN service for all users, should be particularly attractive to first-time VPN users.
The provider boasts a huge global server network that includes 9,000+ servers based in Kenya and 90+ other countries around the globe.
CyberGhost offers blazing download speeds, meaning all of your favorite online activities will go off without a hitch. Plus, you never need to worry about being hit by data caps or connection throttling.
CyberGhost provides industry-standard online security, including military-grade encryption, a kill switch and DNS leak protection. The provider then offers extra online protection, with malicious website and online tracker blocking and an option to force websites to serve up secure versions of their pages when they are available.
The provider keeps no logs of your online activities and welcomes Bitcoin as a privacy-friendly payment option.
CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps offer an excellent way for users of Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, macOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire devices to protect their favorite devices. Chrome and Firefox browsers extensions are also available, as is router support for numerous router makes and models.
CyberGhost allows seven simultaneous connections per account.
In addition to comprehensive VPN protection and enhancement, the provider also offers a password manager and data breach alerts. Windows users can take advantage of the provider’s virus and malware protection, Windows privacy customizations, and more.
24/7 customer support options include around-the-clock live chat, a trouble ticket tracking system, and an easy-to-search support library.
Pros:
- Access to Kenyan IP addresses
- Easy-to-use yet powerful apps
- Value-priced
- Top-notch online security and privacy
Cons:
- Apps lack some advanced options
GREAT VPN OPTION FOR FIRST-TIMERS:CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps will make the provider an attractive choice for rookie VPN users. The provider’s huge global server network provides blazing connection speeds and comprehensive connection protection, all at a budget-friendly price. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of CyberGhost.
3. Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield’s global server network is the smallest on this list, but it provides reliably fast and well-protected connections to Kenyan content.
The Hotspot Shield network includes 1,800+ servers located in more than 80 countries, including Kenya.
The usual suspects are present and accounted for when it comes to online security, including military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak prevention. An option is also available to automatically enable the service when you connect to a public WiFi hotspot.
While Hotspot Shield never saves any server logs related to your online activities, it does not offer a Bitcoin payment option.
It should be noted that in the past Hotspot Shield did log its users’ activities. However, it is now under new ownership and has changed its official policy, and now does not save any logs that can be tied back to individual users.
Also to be noted is that the provider’s privacy policy states the following: “We may share your information if we are required to do so by applicable law; to comply with our legal obligations; to comply with legal process; and to respond to valid law enforcement requests relating to a criminal investigation, or alleged or suspected illegal activity that may expose Aura, you, or any of our other users to legal liability.”
If you’re looking for a provider that will never ever save any logs of your online activities for any reason whatsoever, you may want to look elsewhere.
The provider’s connections deliver formidable, no-data-cap speeds, making it a good option for use with streaming services, online gaming, and more.
A variety of native apps are available, including options for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire, and Android TV devices. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as are manual setup instructions for certain routers. You also have an option of purchasing already set up routers.
If you opt for the Premium subscription (which is the base paid-for option), you can connect up to five devices simultaneously to the provider’s servers on a single set of user credentials.
Customer support is a 24/7 proposition, thanks to the provider’s live chat and email, and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- Server locations in Kenya
- Reliable, fast connections
- Great content-unblocking power
- Comprehensive privacy and security protections
Cons:
- No cryptocurrency payment option
- Privacy policy is a bit confusing
RELIABLE ACCESS TO KENYA:Hotspot Shield offers connection speeds fast enough to handle any of your favorite online pastimes. The provider’s security protections are reassuring, although its privacy policy is a bit confusing. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.
Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Kenya IP Addresses
If you’re looking for a VPN to grab a Kenyan IP address, there are numerous features to consider. Never select a VPN provider without first considering its features and performance. I’ve listed the most important features below:
- Global server network: If you’re looking for access to content stationed in Kenya (or other countries), make sure you choose a VPN that has servers located there. Plus, keep in mind that the more servers in a single country, the better, as that helps prevent any individual server from being hit with too many users.
- Value: A VPNs true value can easily be determined by comparing the services it offers with its asking price. All of the VPNs on my list offer an excellent return on investment.
- Ease of use: A VPN worth its salt should at the least offer apps for popular devices. Those apps should also be well-designed. Each VPN on my list offers easy-to-use apps for the most popular device platforms.
- Connection speeds: According to Speedtest.net, Kenyan internet connections in many locations are under 20 Mbps. This makes a VPN’s bandwidth policies an important factor to consider. The VPNs on my list do not slow your connection down to a useless level.
- Security and privacy: A VPN should protect your online security and privacy. It should also offer, at a minimum, banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. A no-logs policy is also a must-have.
- Streaming: Video streaming is a popular activity around the globe. The VPNs on my list offer reliable access to numerous streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and others.
The list above isn’t where my research ends. The above considerations make up only a part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. My data-based approach provides me with a better understanding of each VPN and its services. This allows me to recommend only those VPNs that are a good fit for your needs.
Why Are Websites and Services Geo-Blocked?
While you have subscriptions to numerous streaming services in your home country, you’ll likely find that while you’re abroad you either won’t have access to the streaming services, or the content you can access is different from what you watch at home.
This is because streaming services sign distribution contracts with movie and television studios that lay out the specific regions of the world where the services are allowed to stream the content to. Rights to television and film content are almost always sold on a region-by-region basis. This allows the studios to get paid multiple times for the same movie or show.
While this type of distribution arrangement makes sense money-wise, it’s a bit of a pain in the rear for movie lovers who travel internationally or for expats living in a country other than their usual home country.
In addition to entertainment content, users may find that when they’re traveling in another region of the world, they lack access to their financial accounts back home. This can include banks, investment firms, and other services. This is actually a security measure, as it helps prevent the bad guys from accessing your account.
A VPN can help you avoid geographic blockades by temporarily assigning your connected device a new IP address, one that is located inside your home country. This makes it appear to the rest of the internet that your device (and you) are located in that country. In this case, we’re looking to grab a Kenyan IP address.
How Is Content Geographically Blocked?
Online services and sites can easily block your access to their content by using one thing: an IP address. To be more specific, your device’s IP address.
An IP address identifies your connected device on the internet. Much like your home’s postal address identifies it, an IP address tells other devices which device made a request for data, and where that data should be sent.
Also, much like your home’s postal address, an IP address can also be used to identify a device’s geographical location.
You see, each country is assigned a range of IP addresses that are to be used to identify devices inside that country. If your device’s IP address falls inside of a particular country’s IP address range, then devices and computers on the internet see you as being located in that country.
So, if a content provider checks your IP address and sees that it is not located in the area where they’re authorized to stream content, they will block you from viewing or otherwise accessing that content.
How Can I Access Blocked Kenyan Content From Overseas?
Kenyan geo-blocked content can be accessed by using a little tool I (and everyone else) like to call a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
As I mentioned previously, a VPN can temporarily assign a new IP address to your connected device.
When you select a VPN server located inside of Kenya’s borders, your device is assigned an IP address in Kenya, and will be identified by that IP address until you disconnect from the VPN provider’s server. This will enable you to access geo-blocked content available to users inside of Kenya.
Keep in mind that you do need to be subscribed to the streaming service or have a login for other blocked sites or services to gain access.
Simply follow the steps below:
- Subscribe to a VPN provider (ExpressVPN is the top pick in this case).
- Download and install the VPNs app(s) for your device(s).
- Fire up the app and connect to a Kenyan server.
- Visit the site or service you’re interested in. (You may possibly need to delete cookies and clear your cache in your browser.)
- Enjoy your newly enabled access to your favorite Kenyan content and sites!
What Else Can a VPN Do For Me?
A Virtual Private Network does dual duty. A VPN both protects and enhances your online activities.
A VPN keeps your online activities from being observed and recorded by nosy third parties, like hackers, the government, your Internet Provider, and other interested folks. It does this by encasing your internet connection in a protective tunnel of encryption, which hides your online activities just like a physical tunnel hides the traffic that passes through it.
Encryption is especially helpful when you’re connecting to the internet via a public WiFi hotspot, which are usually not encrypted, meaning your online activities are left open to monitoring by other users, like hackers.
Hackers love unencrypted public WiFi hotspots, as they’re excellent places to monitor other users’ online activities, allowing them to steal those users’ personal and business information, including bank account information, credit and debit card numbers, and more. A VPN’s encryption blocks hackers from having any access to your personal and financial information.
A VPN can also prevent your ISP from throttling or blocking your home internet connection simply because you’re engaging in activities they don’t approve of, like streaming or file sharing. Unfortunately, a VPN can’t help you with the restrictive data caps that many Internet Service Providers impose on their subscribers’ usage – data use is data use, encrypted or not.
Can I Use a Free VPN Provider to Access Content in Kenya?
While “free” is always an enticing word, don’t let it entice you into entrusting your online protection to a free VPN.
First of all, free VPNs are notoriously inconvenient to use.
You may be required to wait before being allowed to connect to a free VPN’s small global server network. Once you’re given the okay to connect, you’ll either be faced with a limited number of countries to select from, or you’ll simply be automatically connected to a server of the VPN provider’s choice.
There is a good chance that the connection will not be in the country you were looking for.
When you are successfully connected, you’ll likely discover that your download speeds have been greatly slowed. That’s because VPN providers preserve their available bandwidth for use by their paying customers.
Freebie providers also restrict their free users’ online activities with daily or monthly data caps. If you like to stream video, you’re going to eat up the limited data allowance in no time at all.
You also risk your privacy when using a VPN. Even free VPNs need to pay the bills, and many do so by logging their users’ online activities, then selling that information to advertisers and other nosy types.
Some providers have even been caught inserting unwanted ads and tracking cookies into their users’ browsing sessions.
If you decide to use a free VPN, best of luck, but don’t expect top-notch service or protection.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to enjoy the same online content you usually enjoy in Kenya, subscribe to a VPN today. The best VPN for a Kenyan IP address is ExpressVPN.
ExpressVPN offers fast, reliable, and well-protected connections via its large global server network. It offers comprehensive app support, strong online security and privacy, and comprehensive customer support.
For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the ExpressVPN website.
IP Address from Kenya FAQs
Are VPNs Legal in Kenya?
Although online freedom in Kenya has declined in recent years, using a VPN inside the country is still legal.
Which VPN Provider Can Give an IP Address From Nairobi?
All of the providers that are ranked in this article can provide a Kenyan IP address via their Kenyan servers. This will provide access to geo-blocked content inside of Nairobi and other areas of Kenya.
Is it Necessary to Get a Static IP Address From Kenya?
As a rule, it isn’t necessary to get a static or dedicated IP address from Kenya. Most geo-blocked online content is easily accessible by using the shared IP address (which could change each time you connect to the Kenyan servers). However, some companies may require a static IP address before they allow you to access their servers. Luckily, many of these firms will have their own VPN network for this purpose.
Contents [hide]
- How Can a VPN Get a Kenyan IP Address?
- How to Get an IP Address in Kenya
- Best VPNs for Getting an IP Address in Kenya
- How to Choose the Best VPN for an IP Address in Kenya
- Best VPNs for a Kenyan IP Address – Summary table
- 1. ExpressVPN
- 2. CyberGhost
- 3. Hotspot Shield
- Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Kenya IP Addresses
- Why Are Websites and Services Geo-Blocked?
- How Is Content Geographically Blocked?
- How Can I Access Blocked Kenyan Content From Overseas?
- What Else Can a VPN Do For Me?
- Can I Use a Free VPN Provider to Access Content in Kenya?
- Conclusion
- IP Address from Kenya FAQs
- Are VPNs Legal in Kenya?
- Which VPN Provider Can Give an IP Address From Nairobi?
- Is it Necessary to Get a Static IP Address From Kenya?