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What Is the Best VPN for Kodi in 2024? Fast, Safe, Secure Streaming

Choosing a VPN to use with Kodi doesn't have to be difficult. In this article, I review the best VPNs for Kodi, discussing their connection speeds, global server coverage, security and privacy protections, and more.

Kodi allows users to stream video content from local and internet sources, stream music and podcasts, and much more. However, you may have noticed that some content is only available in the country you live in.

Can a VPN Help Me Access Content With Kodi?

A VPN is required to access otherwise region-restricted content through Kodi and its vast library of third-party plugins, such as accessing Netflix, Hulu, and Pandora streaming content, as well as other internet radio streams.

In addition, a VPN keeps your internet data and activities private from advertisers, your ISP, and from Kodi third-party plugins, which may leave you open to attacks from those who would enjoy stealing your info. However not all VPNs are made equal, so selecting the right VPN for your streaming needs is highly important.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the six best VPN services that have shown the best ability to enhance and protect your Kodi-related activities.

How to Use a VPN To Protect and Enhance Your Kodi Activities

To use a VPN with Kodi, do the following:

  1. Subscribe to a quality VPN provider. (NordVPN is my #1 choice.)
  2. Install the VPN’s app(s) on your favorite Kodi-compatible device(s).
  3. Log into the VPN service.
  4. Select a VPN server located inside the country whose streaming content you wish to access. Or, if you’re simply looking to protect your in-country content access, select a server inside your own country.
  5. Grab your remote control & enjoy the show!

Best VPNs for Use With Kodi

These six best VPN services have proven to provide the best VPN protection and enhancement for Kodi use.

My best VPNs for Kodi:

  1. NordVPN: #1 Kodi VPN. This provider offers the best protection for your Kodi-related online activities. The VPN also does an optimal job of enhancing your Kodi viewing thanks to its fast connection speeds and comprehensive global server coverage. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: Budget-priced Kodi VPN. This low-priced provider offers unlimited simultaneous connections, while also providing access to geo-blocked media content around the globe. This is all delivered at a budget price, making Surfshark an excellent VPN option for budget-minded users.
  3. ExpressVPN: Premium Kodi VPN. ExpressVPN is a well-rounded provider that offers fast speeds, extensive global server coverage, great content-unblocking power, and high-end security and privacy.
  4. CyberGhost: Easy-to-use Kodi VPN. This provider’s easy-to-use apps are perfect for first-time VPN users, and for users who are looking for a quick way to connect and enjoy their favorite shows. Kodi users will also appreciate the provider’s streaming-optimized servers, scattered around the globe.
  5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable Kodi VPN. PIA provides fast, reliable, and protected access to global content for Kodi devices. Fast connections provide smooth streaming.
  6. PrivateVPN: Small but powerful VPN network. This provider offers excellent access to streaming channels around the globe, despite a somewhat spread-thin global server network. Kodi users will also appreciate the provider’s high download speeds, allowing for stutter-free streaming.

You’ll find that all VPN providers have their own particular set of strengths and weaknesses. While some providers offer super-fast connections, they may lack optimal multi-platform support or comprehensive global server coverage.

When ranking the best VPNs to use with Kodi, I considered the following factors:

  • Access to popular streaming services
  • Global server coverage
  • Download speeds
  • Online security
  • No-logs privacy protection
  • Native app support

Check out the testing methodology section later in this article for more in-depth information about the criteria I considered.

Here is my list of the top six best VPNs for fast, secure, and safe Kodi streaming.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Dec 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is the top choice for the best VPN to use with Kodi. The provider offers reliable access to numerous streaming services via super-fast connections.

At last check, NordVPN provides access to Netflix in the U.S., Canada, Germany, Japan, the U.K., the Netherlands, Australia, Spain, France, and Italy. A helpful Netflix page is available on the provider’s website, providing information about using their service to access the streaming service.

The provider also offers access to Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streamers.

Its nearly 5,500 servers are spread out among close to 60 countries. The provider offers information about which servers offer the best access to popular streamers on their help page. Simply search using the name of the service.

NordVPN offers some of the fastest download speeds on this list – actually some of the fastest I’ve seen from any VPN provider. Its download speeds are easily up to handling HD and 4K video content from any streamer. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to be found here.

The provider’s connections are protected with banking-grade encryption, and kill switch protection, as well as DNS and IPv6 leak protection, ensuring your online activities remain incognito.

Your online privacy is well protected at NordVPN thanks to the provider’s strict no-logs policy and cryptocurrency subscription payment option.

NordVPN’s privacy protections don’t end there. The provider’s owned-and-operated servers keep outside contractors away from your personal information. Plus, all NordVPN servers are run 100% from RAM. This means no data is ever written to a physical hard drive, meaning all data is completely wiped when a server is rebooted or shutdown.

Most popular device platforms are protected thanks to the provider’s multi-platform app support, including devices on iOS, Android, Android TV, macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Linux, Amazon Fire, and Windows platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available.

The provider also offers a SmartDNS service that enables devices that are not compatible with VPN apps, like gaming consoles and some set-top boxes, to access international content. However, it doesn’t encrypt your online activities like the VPN service does.

Platforms not covered by app support can be protected via the provider’s compatibility with numerous routers. Up to six concurrent connections are allowed using a single set of login credentials.

The provider’s 24/7 customer support includes email support, live chat, and a searchable support library.

Pros:

  • Servers in 59+ countries
  • Great content-unblocking power
  • High-speed servers
  • Optimal privacy and security protections
  • Budget-priced

Cons:

  • App user interfaces could be friendlier

BEST VPN FOR KODI:NordVPN is the best VPN for protecting and enhancing your Kodi-related online activities, as well as your other online antics. The provider does a top-notch job of unblocking geo-blocked streaming services, while providing 4K-capable, well-protected connections. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark is the best bet on this list for budget-minded Kodi users who are looking for reliable and good VPN service without breaking the bank.

This provider not only unblocks Netflix in many countries, it also opens access to Amazon Prime Video content (in the U.S.), HBO Go, BBC iPlayer, and other services.

The provider has 3,200+ servers located in 65+ countries, more than double what it was offering last year.

Surfshark delivers connections with plenty of speed for streaming, gaming, and sharing files, and no data caps of any kind are ever imposed.

Those connections are protected by banking-grade encryption, as well as a kill switch and ad blocking protection. “MultiHop” protection offers the option of routing your internet connection through twin VPN servers for added protection.

Surfshark keeps no logs whatsoever and accepts Bitcoin to keep your payment info anonymous.

Native apps are available for Linux, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS (including native M1/M2 support), and Amazon Fire TV platforms. Firefox, Edge, and Chrome browser extensions are available. Extensive router support is also available to protect all of your connected devices.

No matter how many devices you or your family or friends (or townsfolk) own and use, you can simultaneously connect them to Surfshark’s servers, thanks to its unlimited simultaneous connections policy.

In addition to quality VPN protection, Surfshark also offers other protective services, such as private search, antivirus protection, and data breach alerts.

Customer support includes a 24/7 live chat option, a searchable support library and FAQ section, and a contact form.

Pros:

  • Champagne service for a beer-bottle pocket
  • Provides access to multiple streaming services
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Top-notch privacy and security protections

Cons:

  • Apps lack some advanced options

BEST FOR BUDGET:Surfshark delivers reliable internet access to numerous streaming services for a low price. An unlimited concurrent connections policy will prove attractive to users with multiple devices and/or multiple users. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN performs at a reliably high level in multiple areas at once: content-unblocking, global server coverage, connection speeds, and more.

ExpressVPN can open access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other popular streaming video content services.

The provider has 3,000+ fast servers in 94+ countries, providing excellent access to all sorts of content around the globe.

ExpressVPN provides more than enough horsepower for 4K and HD video streaming, online gaming, and any other online activity. With unlimited bandwidth streaming, you also never have to worry about daily or monthly data caps.

Your internet connection is well-protected thanks to military-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch option, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. Plus, the provider’s split-tunneling option allows you to protect your Kodi activities using ExpressVPN’s encrypted tunnel while leaving the rest of your device’s activity out in the open.

The provider saves no user logs on its servers, and a Bitcoin payment option keeps your payment info undercover.

ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology runs all of the provider’s servers completely from RAM, writing no data of any kind to a physical hard drive. This means all data is securely wiped from a server whenever they are shutdown or rebooted.

Native apps are available for iOS, macOS (with native M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Chromebook, and Linux platforms. Browser extensions for Firefox, Edge, and Chrome platforms are also available.

ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer DNS service for game consoles, set-top streaming boxes, and smart TVs allows those devices to access geo-blocked content. However, please take note that the MediaStreamer service does not provide encrypted protection for your connection like the provider’s VPN service does.

While the provider limits simultaneous connections on a single login to five, its router feature allows you to protect all of your connected devices via a single access point.

Customer support is a 24/7 operation, thanks to a live chat option, email support, a trouble ticket tracking system, and a searchable support library.

Pros:

  • Unblocks most streaming channels
  • Excellent global server coverage
  • Comprehensive app support
  • HD and 4K-ready connections

Cons:

  • More expensive than many comparable providers
  • Only five simultaneous connections

ALL-ROUND GREAT VPN:ExpressVPN is a solid provider, offering wide-ranging global server coverage, speedy and reliable connections, satisfying security and privacy protections, and support for a multitude of devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.CyberGhost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost is an excellent option for novice VPN users, or Kodi users who simply want to be able to quickly connect to streaming- or file sharing-optimized servers without a big hassle.

CyberGhost has streaming-optimized servers stationed around the globe, providing access to numerous streaming channels, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and many more. In addition, the provider also offers plenty of servers that are optimized for file sharing.

The provider’s global server coverage is well above average, with more than 8,900 servers stationed in 90+ countries.

The provider’s streaming speeds are well above average, providing more than enough oomph for HD and 4K streaming, online gaming, and sharing of large files.

Those connections are well protected with government-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. Tracker and ad blocking is also available, as is the option to force websites to serve up HTTPS versions of their pages if they’re available.

Privacy is also well-protected thanks to the provider’s strict no-logs policy and its Bitcoin subscription payment option.

Easy-to-use apps are available for Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows platforms. Browser extensions protect Chrome and Firefox browser users. Other devices can be protected thanks to the provider’s excellent router compatibility.

The service allows up to seven devices to connect simultaneously while using a single set of login credentials.

CyberGhost also offers additional protective features, such as Windows virus and malware protection, alerts if/when your email address is exposed in a data breach, a password manager, Windows privacy customizations, and more.

Always-available support options include 24/7 live chat, a searchable support library, and a trouble ticket tracking system.

Pros:

  • Streaming- and file sharing-optimized servers in numerous locations
  • 4K-ready download speeds
  • Keeps no logs of online activity
  • Fast, well-protected connections

Cons:

  • Advanced users might prefer more advanced app options
  • Doesn’t work in China

STREAMING-OPTIMIZED VPN SERVICE:CyberGhost is a good VPN service for users who have little experience with VPNs, or who are looking for easy internet access to streaming-optimized connections to numerous streaming services. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.privateinternetaccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access (PIA) provides a reliable VPN service for Kodi users.

The provider has 3,300+ servers stationed in more than 80 countries, providing reliable access to geo-controlled content from most locations around the globe.

PIA’s native app support is available for most popular device platforms, including Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is compatibility with multiple router makes and models.

Up to 10 devices can be concurrently connected to PIA servers.

PIA’s connection speeds are certainly not the fastest around, far from it. However, its well-protected connections provide more than enough horsepower for viewing HD and 4K streaming services. It also never spoils the fun by imposing data caps or bandwidth throttling.

The provider keeps its users’ online activities undercover, thanks to its use of government-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and kill switch protection. Blocking of ads, trackers, malware, and perilous sites are also available.

PIA servers never save any user logs and the provider also accepts Bitcoin as payment for its services. These two features help protect your usage and payment privacy.

A live chat option, a trouble ticket tracking form, and a searchable support database are there to aid you in your time of need.

Pros:

  • Provides access to numerous streaming platforms
  • Comprehensive online security and privacy
  • Above-average global server coverage

Cons:

  • No streaming-enhanced servers listed in app
  • Doesn’t work well in some restrictive regions

RELIABLE VPN FOR KODI USERS:Private Internet Access provides reliable, well-protected connections to multiple streaming services. The provider is a great choice to protect and enhance all of your online activities. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.


6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN delivers reliable access to multiple streaming services and other geo-blocked content, despite a somewhat limiting global server network.

Netflix and other streaming channels (including Hulu, Amazon Prime, CBS, iTV, HBO, and BBC iPlayer) are accessible with PrivateVPN.

While their server count of 200+ is admittedly low, the provider has located them strategically, spreading them among 60+ countries around the globe. My only concern is that some server locations may get a bit overloaded, so you might want to take advantage of the provider’s 30-day money-back guarantee before committing to the provider.

PrivateVPN connection speeds are above average, delivering more than enough horsepower for HD and 4K streams, online gaming, and more. No data caps to worry about with this provider.

Your online privacy is well-protected thanks to the service following a solid no-server-logs-ever policy, as well as offering a Bitcoin subscription payment option.

This provider’s protected connections offer military-grade encryption, kill switch protection, and IPv6 and DNS leak prevention. The provider’s “Stealth VPN” option hides your VPN activity by disguising it as normal browser activity.

PrivateVPN’s device support is somewhat more limited than the other providers on this list, but still provides protection for the top platforms. Amazon Fire, Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows apps are available, and Linux can be manually set up to use the service. Router support for quite a few makes and models is also available.

Up to 10 streaming devices at once can access the service on a single login.

Customer support options include live chat and a “Contact Us” form. While an FAQ section is available, it unfortunately isn’t searchable.

Pros:

  • Opens internet access to multiple streaming services
  • High speeds for streaming
  • Excellent security and privacy protections

Cons:

  • Server numbers are the lowest I’ve seen
  • Multi-platform support could stand improvement

STEALTHY KODI PROTECTION:PrivateVPN unblocks numerous streaming providers on up to 10 devices at once. Stealth VPN protection makes the provider’s fast, well-protected VPN connections appear to be typical browser traffic. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Kodi Users

Users looking for a reliable VPN for Kodi will quickly find that not just any VPN will do an acceptable job.

Here are the critical aspects of VPN services that I considered:

  • Connection speed: Streaming HD and 4K video requires a fast, reliable connection. Slow connections can cause long buffering periods, as well as pauses in the middle of the action. My regular connection speed tests provide assurance that each VPN on my list offers streaming-ready connections.
  • Streaming access: Reliable access to geo-controlled streamers is a must for true television and film fans. All of the VPNs on my list offer reliable access to numerous streaming services, including Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and many more.
  • Global server network: A VPN’s large global server network can enhance any online activity. That is especially true when it comes to video streaming. Plus, having plenty of servers located in a country helps ensure that a single server in that location won’t be overloaded with too many users.
  • Value: A VPN should ask a reasonable asking price. All of the VPNs I include on my list offer an excellent value for the price.
  • Ease of use: Easy-to-use VPN apps allow you to quickly connect and start watching your favorite shows and films. Make sure a VPN provider offers support for the device, browser, or router you currently use. The VPNs I include on my list all offer easy-to-use apps for popular devices.
  • Security and privacy: A VPN at a minimum should protect your internet connection with banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. Additional protections and features are a welcome bonus. The providers on my list offer the above, while also protecting your privacy by not saving any server logs related to your online activities.

While this may seem like a long list, my research does not end here, as this is just a snippet of what I considered as a part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach provides a better understanding of these VPNs, allowing me to recommend only VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ needs.

Can I Use a Free VPN With Kodi?

This is what I sound like when my cat begins scratching on my furniture: “NO! NO! NO!” Did you get that last part? NO!

While there are several reasons you should not use a “free” VPN for any reason, when it comes to the Kodi usage scenario, perhaps the most important one would be that of convenience and efficiency.

First, convenience. When you connect to a free VPN service, you could find yourself stuck waiting in a queue before you’re allowed to connect to a VPN server. This delays showtimes.

Once you’re allowed to connect, you might find that you are faced with a severely limited selection of server locations, or you’re automatically connected to a server of the provider’s choice. Goodbye, choice of geo-blocked content.

Now for efficiency. Netflix and other streaming services are always on the lookout for users who are accessing their servers through a VPN service. When they discover an IP address that a VPN is providing, they will almost always block that IP. Goodbye, access to that provider.

When this happens, it’s up to the VPN service to set up a new VPN server sporting new IP addresses. This requires the VPN provider to have the deep pockets necessary to continue the inevitable back-and-forth battle with the streaming provider.

It may not surprise you that many free VPNs are run on a shoestring and simply do not have the resources to compete in this game of virtual whack-a-mole, resulting in unreliable access to streaming services.

Privacy is also a losing proposition with a “free” VPN. Many freebie VPNs will make money by tracking their users’ online traffic, Kodi activity included, and selling that information to advertisers and other nosy third parties.

Other sans-fee VPNs have been caught injecting unwanted ads and tracking cookies into their users’ browser sessions. (And those cookies continue tracking your online antics, even after you’ve disconnected from the VPN.)

So yeah, if you enjoy danger, go for it. But those of you with an ounce of common sense will want to spring a few bucks per month for a reliable and secure VPN service.

What Else Is a VPN Good for?

In addition to protecting and enhancing your Kodi-related online traffic, a VPN also offers features to protect and enhance all of your other online activities.

Its ability to spoof your device’s IP address means it allows access to streaming services (yes, outside of Kodi too), provides access to gaming servers and content you might normally not have access to, and even provides advantages for business users by providing access to websites and services that might not be available for security reasons.

A VPN also prevents your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from monitoring your online activities and throttling or blocking your connection simply because you’re streaming from “unapproved” sources (such as those available in Kodi) or because you’re sharing files via P2P file sharing.

That same encryption comes in handy when you’re forced to use an unprotected public WiFi hotspot, such as those found at coffee shops, hotels, and other public places. This provides protection to hide your online identity against hackers who love it when public WiFi users use the hotspot to pay bills, shop online, or do some online banking.

Conclusion

It’s a big, wonderful world full of streaming content out there, and Kodi gives you access to it. By using a Virtual Private Network – like my #1 choice, NordVPN – you can view all of the content you’d like without being worried about being tracked or blocked or hacked by rogue third-party Kodi plugins.

NordVPN Logo

NordVPN delivers fast, well-protected connections via a comprehensive global fast server network. The provider offers apps for most popular streaming device platforms, and its excellent router compatibility keeps all of your connected devices protected.

For more information, visit the NordVPN website.

Kodi Media Player FAQs

Is Downloading the Kodi Media Player Legal?

Downloading the stock Kodi Media Player is completely legal. (After all, it’s available in the Microsoft Windows and Xbox One Stores. Those stores aren’t going to offer an illegal app on their virtual shelves.)

The Kodi Media Player allows users to extend the abilities of the player by installing add-ons. These add-ons allow users to stream content from various sources. Where some users get into trouble is when they download and install the wrong add-ons. If a user sticks to the official repository, called the Kodi Add-on Repository, they’ll remain totally legal.

However, third-party repositories contain many add-ons that illegally access streaming services, or that access copyrighted content that has not been properly licensed. Streaming content in this way is clearly illegal.

Is Using Kodi Without a VPN a Big Risk?

It depends on what you’re using it for. If you stick to legal add-ons that access legal materials, you won’t be running the risk of being cited for accessing copyrighted materials. However, you are depending on the developer of any add-on to know exactly what are and are not legally accessible materials.

Plus, security is an issue when using third-party add-ons. There is no way to know if a developer has either inadvertently or on purpose, left open security holes that could allow hackers to monitor your online streaming activity.

Also, without a VPN, your ISP can monitor all your Kodi-related online activities, and throttle or block your connection if they decide you are streaming from “unapproved” sources.

How to Stop My Internet Provider From Blocking The Kodi Box?

As I mentioned in the previous section, your internet service provider can block or throttle your connection if they believe you’re streaming from certain sources or engaging in other “unapproved” activities. By using a VPN, you are encrypting your internet connection, preventing your ISP (and any other outsiders) from monitoring your online activities. This prevents them from blocking your Kodi-related online activities.


Roundup - best VPNs for speed

Position Our Score Verdict
1.
4.5/5
Verdict: Our top rated VPN
Get NordVPN »
2.
4.5/5
Verdict: Best budget option
Get Surfshark »
3.
4.0/5
Verdict: Great privacy options
Get ExpressVPN »
4.
4.0/5
Verdict: Highly versatile
Get CyberGhost »
5.
3.0/5
Verdict: Up to 10 devices
Get PrivateVPN »

PRIVACY ALERT: Websites you visit can see these details about you:

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

By using a VPN you can hide these details and protect your privacy.

I recommend NordVPN - the top provider in my testing. It offers outstanding privacy features and there is currently a discounted rate available through this link.

Visit NordVPN

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