Why you need a VPN for Kodi

At its core, Kodi is software for managing and playing your movies, TV shows, and music. However, that hasn’t stopped the software from becoming a popular online streaming solution. Thanks to its huge number of add-ons, you can watch endless movies and even stream live TV. Running a VPN service on your Kodi box can seal loopholes and safeguard your security and privacy. All your traffic will be encrypted, preventing anyone from tracking your online activities.

Kodi 101

Kodi is a free, open-source software designed specifically with home entertainment in mind. The service was started in 2002 and until 2014, was known as Xbox Media Center. It lets you play digital media files from local and network storage media and the internet on any platform including a smartphone, tablet, computer, or set-top box.

The software can be installed on all of Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS, and it features a great interface for use with TVs and remote controls.

What is a Kodi box?

This is one of the terms that confuses most people when it comes to Kodi. A Kodi box is nothing more than a misnamed term for devices running Android or Linux upon which the Kodi software is installed. Popular for their plug and play capability, most Kodi boxes are essentially set-top boxes or HDMI sticks that come with a pre-installed version of the software.

How to Install VPN on Kodi

Almost all Kodi boxes can support a VPN; all you have to do is install one. The good news is that Installing a VPN application on a Kodi device is actually easier than you might think. There are a number of ways you can install a VPN on Kodi and ensure your privacy is guaranteed.

Dedicated VPN add-ons for Kodi

Some add-ons allow you to run a VPN directly through Kodi, however, the solution is not a widespread option for many Kodi users. While it’s true that loading a dedicated VPN add-on can provide a layer of protection and security, many of them do not allow you to use the full set of VPN features that are offered by most providers. Regardless, it’s worth using a VPN with Kodi and  IPVanish, NordVPN, PIA, ExpressVPN, and Vyper all work with Kodi.

If you’re looking to set up a VPN directly on Kodi through an add-on, here is the step by step process.

1. Click on the Settings menu.
2. Navigate to Security Settings.
3. Click on the Security Settings option and look for Unknown Sources.
4. Turn on the Unknown Sources option.
5. When prompted, click Yes,  and go back to the main menu.
6. Find the VPN file, click on it,  and install the Kodi VPN add-on.

Installing VPN onto the Kodi box

Another alternative is to install the VPN directly onto your Kodi box. There are two ways you can achieve this.

Installing directly from Google Play Store

This is the most preferred option. If you are using an Android device, you can install your preferred VPN directly from the Play Store. Since most Android boxes come preloaded with Google Play Store, installation is a breeze.  All you have to do is open the app store and from there, you’ll be able to download and install a Kodi VPN free of charge. Yes, that is correct: it won’t cost you a dime!

Let’s take a look at the step-by-step process:

1. From your Kodi box, navigate to the Play Store app and open it.
2. Once you’ve opened the app, you’ll need to log in to your Google account. If you don’t have an account yet, there’s no need to worry. Registering for a Google account is quite easy and won’t take much of your time. Simply create an account at Gmail.com
3. Search for your preferred VPN service or simply type the term “VPN.” You’ll be presented with a number of suggestions from which to choose. In our example here, we are using IPVanish.
4. Click Install to get the VPN on your Kodi box.
5. Go back to your home menu, find the installed VPN, and click on it to run it. Note that to use some of the VPN services, you’ll need to register an account and log in. Once you have logged in, you can then select a server from the list to establish a secure connection.

Sideloading the APK onto a Kodi device

If you are unable to access the Google Play Store, you can download Kodi VPNs from official websites as well as trusted third-party sources. However, be careful when downloading APK from third party websites to ensure they are legitimate.

Once you have downloaded the APK, transfer it to the Kodi box using a USB drive, and install it. Here is the step by step process:

1. First, you’ll need to install a file manager. If you have one already, you can skip this step.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Look for Unknown Sources, and click to enable this feature.
4. Open File Manager.
5. Locate your APK, and click to install it. It’s as easy as that!

With most Kodi VPNs, you’ll need to register an account. Once you’re logged in, you should then select a server, sit back, relax, and enjoy the benefits.

Most Kodi VPNs run smoothly, but when it comes to navigating around the app, things can get a little bit tricky. The problem usually comes down to the fact that most VPN apps are built for touch screens (phones and tablets). Imagine using an app that requires a mouse, but you only have a remote. It can be a headache. Thankfully, you can install a mouse pointer that lets you use your remote as a mouse, complete with scrolling, dragging, and of course, clicking.

Installing directly onto the router

Rather than install a VPN on your Kodi box, you can also install the VPN on your router. With a single installation, all the devices in your network will be covered. Your router is the gateway through which all your connections pass, and having the VPN installed at this level means that all the data in your network is encrypted. Each connected device will automatically be supported by a VPN, and you won’t have to worry about multiple installations or hardware compatibility.

Zomboided VPN Manager

The Zomboided VPN Manager is another option for loading and running a VPN directly from within Kodi. To install a Kodi VPN add-on, you’ll need a VPN manager such as Zomboided. Setting up the VPN manager does not differ much from installing any other Kodi add-on. You just need to download and install its repository and then get the VPN add-on. Note that not all VPN services work with the Kodi VPN Manager. Below are some of the best VPNs you can use with Zomboided:

• IPVanish
• ExpressVPN
• NordVPN

Is Kodi Legal?

Yes, Kodi is legal. However, this doesn’t mean that everything you do with it is legal. While it’s fine and totally legal to watch free-to-air content, streaming copyrighted content can lead to a run-in with the law.

The software comes with a huge collection of official Kodi add-ons that users can enjoy including SoundCloud, Crackle, and Comedy Central among others. These add-ons do not in any way infringe on copyrights and are therefore legal. However, the same cannot be said for most third-party add-ons which allow for illegal streaming.

The add-ons available in Kodi by default are all paid add-ons, and as a result, there has been a continued increase in the number of third-party Kodi add-ons offering free content to users.

Why You May Need a VPN for Kodi

Using a VPN for Kodi has a lot of benefits. Think of it as taking that extra step to keep yourself secure. This is important especially if you are using a third-party add-on, as you never know what’s hidden in those free streams.

Some of the reasons why most Kodi users install VPNs are:

• Privacy – There’s a huge difference between privacy and anonymity. Using a VPN with Kodi can help stop your ISP from tracking your activity and monitoring your streaming habits.
• Security – Kodi is open source, and installing a VPN will protect it from hackers. If you care about protecting your personal information, you need to secure your streaming device with a Kodi VPN.
• International Content – Since VPNs enable users to work as if they in a different country, they essentially have the capability to make worldwide content available.

Devices that support Kodi

Here, we’ll outline some of the most popular boxes that support Kodi.

Amazon Fire TV

The Amazon Fire TV Stick boasts breathtaking picture quality and can support 4K Ultra HD and HDR. In addition, it features an ultra-fast processor, ensuring users enjoy a smooth and more responsive experience. What’s more, the device supports Alexa for hands-free control.

Here is a complete guide on how to install Kodi on a Fire TV Stick.

Chromecast

Google Chromecast is a terrific media streaming device. In our opinion, the device offers the best value for the money. The device features a sleek, compact device and 5 GHz Wi-Fi support. Chromecast’s ease of use and its obvious portability puts it in a league of its own.

Check out this complete guide on how to install and stream Kodi content on Chromecast.

Xiaomi Mi box

Xiaomi Mi box is one of the best Android TV boxes on the market now. The device supports 4K and HDR video playback and comes with support for Google Cast. In addition, it comes with a compact Bluetooth voice remote, a popular feature among many users, and we love the  Android TV box’s sleek and innovative design.

Here is a step by step guide about how to install Kodi on Xiaomi Mi box or any other Android TV box.

Nvidia Shield TV

Nvidia Shield is a streaming beast that comes with built-in support for 4K HDR video. The device is powered by  Android, which means you will be able to install all of your favorite apps including Kodi.

If you are looking to install Kodi on your Nvidia Shield TV, here is a step by step guide.

FAQs: VPN for Kodi

What is Kodi VPN?

Kodi VPN is an application that you can install on your Kodi box to safeguard your privacy and improve security by creating an encrypted internet connection.

Can a VPN be installed in all Kodi boxes?

Compatibility usually depends on the Kodi box you are using as well as the VPN service. In general, it’s unlikely that you’ll find a streaming device that doesn’t support VPN services.

Does the Kodi VPN slow down streaming speeds?

This is usually a common problem with VPNs. The fact that your traffic is first encrypted before it’s tunneled through a secure server can reduce your internet speeds. However, there are lots of great Kodi VPNs available that offer excellent speeds. You can also improve your speed when using Kodi by connecting to the nearest server.

Why should I install Kodi VPN?

Kodi VPN can help keep you secure when streaming content. It helps keep your identity private as well as protects you from malicious individuals who may try to steal your personal information.

Conclusion

Using a VPN with Kodi has undeniable benefits when it comes to security and privacy. If you are streaming anything other than your local media collection, then you need to install a Kodi VPN. There are just too many security loopholes that hackers can exploit. A VPN connection will allow you to rest easy knowing that your data is safe. We recommend you go for a service that offers a highly secure tunnel, zero logging, and more importantly, fast speeds.