How to Install a VPN on FireStick (& Fire TV) Easily in 2023

Installing a VPN on Fire Stick is straightforward, providing you have the right VPN. VPNs let you bypass geo-restrictions and give you privacy on streaming platforms and Kodi. However, not all VPNs have apps for Fire Stick and some are too slow to support UHD streaming.

My team and I tested 60+ VPNs on Fire Stick, Fire TV, and Fire Cube and shortlisted services that are fast enough for streaming in the highest quality. More importantly, all my recommendations have native apps for Fire Stick. Once you sign up, you can download your VPN on your Fire device straight from the Amazon App Store.

norMy favorite Fire Stick VPN is ExpressVPN. It has a bespoke app for Fire devices and its UHD-friendly speeds and worldwide server network allow you to stream content from anywhere. What’s more, its robust security protects you on Kodi and IPTV. You can try ExpressVPN completely risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can easily get a full refund.

Get ExpressVPN for FireStick >>

Why You Need a VPN for FireStick

Some content on Fire Stick is limited by geo-restrictions. These are blocks set by websites and streaming platforms to restrict access to content in certain regions (usually because the streamer only has the rights to broadcast in one country). Geoblocks identify your location by checking your IP address, a unique number your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigns you. If you’re in the wrong country, you get blocked.

A VPN allows you to connect to servers in different countries. This masks your real IP and replaces it with one from the server you’re connecting to. You will now appear to be online in that country. All you have to do is choose a server in a country that has the content you want to access. Log in to your streaming account and the platform will think you’re in the right location, unblocking the show or movie you want to watch.

A VPN can also help protect your online privacy and security. By encrypting your internet traffic, VPNs prevent your ISP, government agencies, and cyber criminals from snooping on your activity. The best VPNs have some kind of malicious site blocker to stop intrusive ads, trackers, and malicious sites. Remember, your Fire device is a computer and is just as vulnerable to viruses and malware as your PC or mobile device.

Try ExpressVPN for FireStick >>

Best VPNs for FireStick in 2023

1. ExpressVPN — Native FireStick App for Easy Installation and Use

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested July 2023

Can access:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN offers an easy-to-install app for Fire TV devices that you can download directly from the Amazon App Store. I set up the ExpressVPN app on my Fire Stick in under 2 minutes during my tests. It’s simple to navigate the app’s sleek design to get straight to streaming. You can even configure shortcuts for easy access to your favorite apps and sites.

ExpressVPN also lets you install the VPN to your router, which is ideal if you’ve got multiple Fire devices

This service is also the fastest VPN I’ve ever tested. I got 120.68Mbps from Frankfurt, Germany — just 6% below my starting speed. Impressive, considering Frankfurt is over 800Km away. I then got 110.32Mbps from New York (5,500KM away). You only need 25Mbps for Ultra HD and 5Mbps for HD, so I could watch Prime Video in the highest quality from my Fire Stick with zero buffering.

The VPN’s unblocking abilities are second-to-none, and every server supports streaming and P2P connections. That means you can go from watching Disney+ to file sharing on Kodi to playing Pac-Man 256 on your Fire TV — without disconnecting or changing a single setting.

Plus, ExpressVPN keeps your viewing private on IPTV with bank-level security. It uses 256-bit encryption to scramble your data, so in the unlikely event that anyone intercepts it, it’ll be meaningless. It also has automatic obfuscation on every server, which makes your VPN traffic look like regular traffic. That means it can get around anti-VPN software used by streaming sites and that it works in regions with strict internet censorship or VPN blocks.

The subscriptions can be a little pricey, starting at $6.67/month. However, you can test out all of ExpressVPN’s features completely risk-free since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is easy if it doesn’t set your heart on Fire. I tested this myself using live chat. The agent asked a few questions about my experience and quickly approved my refund. I had my money back in 2 days.

Useful Features

• Exclusive Lightway protocol. Protocols are a set of rules that manage your data in transit. ExpressVPN has stripped away all the code that isn’t necessary for a commercial protocol to give you fast, lightweight, but still highly secure connections on Fire devices.
• Split tunneling. Select which apps and sites use the VPN. For example, if you live in the UK, you can set the BBC iPlayer app to use your regular IP while unblocking other apps with a VPN IP address.
• Threat Manager blocker. Some apps and addons on IPTV and Kodi have been known to contain viruses and malware. Threat Manager blocks malicious sites and apps at DNS level, so they never even reach your Fire device.
• RAM-only servers. ExpressVPN’s servers automatically wipe all data on reboot, guaranteeing it can’t store any of your Fire activity.

Get ExpressVPN for FireStick >>

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers for Easy Access to Geoblocked Content

Can access:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has a collection of streaming and torrenting-optimized servers. The torrenting servers are designed to boost P2P speeds, so they are ideal for streaming content with Kodi or IPTV. The streaming servers are designed for reliable access to specific streaming platforms on Fire Stick. I connected to the Hulu Firestick server and watched 4 episodes of Atlanta in UHD without lag.

CyberGhost’s regular servers all work with popular streaming platforms

The VPN’s native Fire Stick app is super easy to use, even for VPN beginners. While testing CyberGhost, I downloaded and installed the app on my Fire Stick in under 2 minutes. Plus, I could easily connect to a US server or search for the right optimized server with a few clicks. Since CyberGhost is compatible with a few routers and offers an APK file, you also have other options when installing the app.

The fast speeds are ideal for streaming too. Using a server in New York, I got an average of 98.85Mbps. This is more than enough to enjoy buffer-free streaming on your Fire Stick in Ultra HD quality. It took just a few seconds for each episode to load.

CyberGhost’s money-back guarantee is trustworthy. If you sign up for the long-term option, you’ll get 45 days to test the service. Just note that the shorter monthly plans only give you a 14-day refund period. They’re more expensive too, so I recommend the 6-month or 2-year plans anyway.

Useful Features

• WireGuard protocol. This open-source protocol is built specifically for faster download and streaming speeds.
• 7 device connections. You can use your VPN on Fire Stick while others in your household browse, study, game, or chat.
• Content Blocker. Block malicious sites, files, and viruses which are rife on Kodi and IPTV.
• Split Tunnel. Unlike ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s Split Tunnel only works on apps and not websites.

Get CyberGhost for FireStick >>

3. NordVPN — Proprietary NordLynx Protocol Offers Speed and Security on its Native Fire App

Can access:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's proprietary protocol, NordLynx, is available on the native Fire app. It’s based on WireGuard, which is fast but has some security concerns (every user that connects to a server with WireGuard is assigned the same IP address). NordVPN has closed that loophole by using double NAT technology to give each user a unique IP. NordLynx was consistently the fastest protocol during my tests on my Fire Stick.

You can switch to OpenVPN (UDP) if you’re having network issues

You also benefit from having exclusive P2P servers, enhancing file-sharing efficiency and optimizing speeds. Enhance your anonymity with Onion over VPN servers that direct your data via the Onion network, providing an additional level of encryption and facilitating dark web access. Plus, Double VPN servers encrypt your data twice, boosting security but potentially lowering speeds.

With NordVPN’s Meshnet feature, you can create a secure and private network by connecting multiple devices within your own network. This feature is particularly useful for homes or offices with multiple devices. I struggle to mirror my iPhone to my LG TV, so I used Meshnet to display a photo gallery from my phone.

You can try NordVPN with your Fire device without risk since it has a money-back guarantee. If you don’t like it, you’ve got 30 days to claim a full refund. Unlike CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, there’s no live chat — and the email service was slow to respond. However, my refund was approved without any fuss.

Useful Features

• Threat Protection Lite. An effective malicious file blocker that’s actually better than CyberGhost at stopping ads — useful on torrent apps like Kodi.
• Recent connections. Recent server locations show clearly on the Fire app’s home screen.
• Locations in 60 countries. NordVPN’s many locations allow access to global streaming libraries. The only service I couldn’t unblock was Hotstar (India).

Get NordVPN for FireStick >>

Tips on How to Choose a VPN for FireStick

Here are the factors you should consider when choosing a VPN for Fire Stick. If you’re still unsure, feel free to use it as a checklist to help you make a decision.

• Compatibility with Fire Stick. Make sure your chosen VPN is compatible with Fire Stick. Ideally, it should have a user-friendly native app for Fire devices.
• Fast connection speeds. Buffer-free streaming on your Fire Stick requires a fast internet connection. Look for VPNs that have servers close to your location to minimize lag.
• Large server network. A large server network is important if you want to access content from different regions.
• Strong security measures. Features like 256-bit AES encryption, ad and malicious site blockers, and secure protocols can give you protection against hackers and malware on Fire Stick.
• Reliable money-back guarantee. Choose a VPN with a tested refund policy so you can get your money back if it doesn’t work for you. Look for VPNs that offer 24/7 customer support too — so you can claim your refund right away.

How to Install a VPN on FireStick & Fire TV

The easiest method is to get a VPN that offers a native app in the Amazon Appstore, like the VPNs listed above. This way, you don't have to configure anything manually and can get straight to streaming on your Fire Stick. ExpressVPN is my top choice for Fire Stick, so I've used it as an example below, but the process will be about the same no matter which VPN you use.

Secondly, make sure your Fire device supports VPNs (1st-gen Fire Sticks don’t) and that you’ve chosen the right provider.

1. Search for the VPN app. Go to the search bar on your device’s home page and look for the VPN app. If it doesn’t show up, you’ll need to use the second method. ExpressVPN’s Fire Stick app is easy to use
2. Download and launch the app. Click the Download button and give it a minute to install. Find the app in your application list and open it.
3. Log into your account. In order to use the VPN app, you need to log in with the credentials you used to set up your VPN subscription. Simply start the app and click here to log in to your account
4. Connect and start streaming. Choose a country where the streaming platform you want to access is available, connect to the server, and watch without restrictions. The dropdown list of servers is easy to browse

Get ExpressVPN for FireStick >>

Install a VPN on FireStick Using the APK File

If the VPN doesn’t offer an app for Fire Stick, you can manually download the VPN’s APK file. VPNs that offer this will provide the downloadable file on their website. For example, you can download ExpressVPN’s APK file directly from its website. I don’t recommend downloading APK files from a third-party website, as these may be modded or contain malware.

1. Set up the permissions. Before you install any APKs on your Amazon Fire TV Stick, you need to go to the settings tab, then My Fire TV and find the Developer Options. You will see an option called Install unknown apps — click on it and turn it on. If you wish, you can deactivate it after you install the VPN.

   This is called “jailbreaking” your Fire Stick

2. Get the Downloader app. You can find this app by searching "Downloader" in the search bar of Amazon's app store. Follow the prompts to download it. Then, click Open to start the app.

   You can get this app for free, and it will allow you to download apps that are not available in the App Store

3. Download the VPN’s APK file. Most VPN providers will provide a link for an APK file download directly on their website. Copy and paste this link in the Downloader app, and you should see the install option. If not, navigate to your list of downloads in the Downloader app and click the APK file from there.

   I was able to find ExpressVPN’s APK file link on its website, on its Android download page

4. Launch the VPN. Since you installed the VPN through another app, you’ll find it under Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications.

   Simply select the VPN and click the Open button to launch the app

5. Sign in to your VPN app. Use the credentials you signed up with.
6. Connect and start streaming. Choose a server where the platform you want to access is available, and enjoy your favorite shows.

   I connect to a US server anytime I want to access HBO Max, Hulu, and Disney+

Get ExpressVPN for FireStick >>

Install a VPN on FireStick With Your Router

If your VPN doesn’t have an APK file, there’s also the option to set it up on a supported router. This way, all your devices (including Fire Stick and Fire TV) connected to the router can use the VPN connection. However, you’ll need a VPN that is compatible with routers — I recommend ExpressVPN since it provides native apps for several different router models.

Outlined below are instructions for configuring ExpressVPN on Linksys routers. It's important to note that the steps may vary slightly depending on the specific router model, therefore, a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for each model cannot be provided. However, you can typically find router-specific instructions on the VPN provider's website if your router model is compatible.

1. Download the ExpressVPN firmware. You can download it from the ExpressVPN website. To do that, go to your Dashboard, click Set up other devices, and select routers. Under the Firmware download section, select your router model from the list and click Download Firmware.
2. Connect your router to the internet. After that, connect the device on which you downloaded the firmware to the router. Ignore this step if already connected.
3. Install the ExpressVPN firmware. In your web browser’s address bar, enter 192.168.1.1. If prompted, enter your router credentials to sign in. On the admin panel, click Connectivity, select Choose File, and select the firmware you just downloaded. Then click Start. Follow the prompts to finish the installation process and initiate a reboot of the router.
4. Complete the setup on the router. Connect your device to the router. Once connected, you should see your router’s setup page. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the VPN setup, and you’re all set.

Install a VPN on FireStick Using a Hotspot

The virtual router method setup is a bit complicated and it slows down your speeds, so I don’t recommend it. If your VPN provider doesn’t have an app or a downloadable APK file, I suggest switching to a VPN provider that has a native app for Fire Stick, like ExpressVPN.

Windows

1. Connect your VPN. Choose a server in the location you wish to stream from and connect to it. For example, if you want to stream Netflix US, you should use a US server.
2. Navigate to Network settings. On your PC, open Network settings, choose the Mobile Hotspot option and turn it on.
3. Scroll down to related settings. Under this, go into Adapter options, which will open a window called Network Connections. Here, you’ll see a network called Local Area Connection #.
4. Locate your VPN connection. Use your VPN’s name to access this (i.e., “ExpressVPN Wintun Driver”). Then, right-click to open Properties.
5. Allow sharing. Go into the sharing tab, and check the box that says Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection.
6. Go into Home Networking Connection. Select the name of the mobile hotspot (Local Area Connection #) and click OK.
7. Set up your Fire Stick connection. On your Fire Stick, navigate to Settings > Network and then connect to your PC’s network.
8. Start streaming on your Fire Stick. Your VPN is now connected to your Fire Stick by using your PC as a mobile hotspot.

macOS

1. Share your internet connection. On your macOS device, navigate to System Preferences > Sharing > Internet Sharing. Under Share your connection from, select your VPN. Under To computers using, choose WiFi.
2. Create a name and password. Click WiFi options and choose any name you wish for your password and hotspot connection. If you see a pop-up that says, To share your Internet connection, you must turn on WiFi, click Turn WiFi On.
3. Turn on Internet Sharing. If you see a pop-up saying, Are you sure you want to turn on Internet sharing?, click Start.
4. Connect your VPN. Open up the VPN app on your Mac and choose a server to connect to (depending on the location you wish to stream from).
5. Set up your Fire Stick connection. Go to Settings > Network > and then connect to the network you just set up.
6. Start streaming on Fire Stick. Your Fire Stick is now connected to your VPN by using your Mac’s mobile hotspot.

Get ExpressVPN for FireStick >>

FAQs on Installing a VPN on Amazon FireStick

How do I change regions on Fire devices?

You can easily change your virtual location using a VPN to access geo-blocked content. To change regions using a VPN for Fire Stick, get a reliable VPN for Fire Stick and simply connect to a server in the region you want to access. Once you connect, your virtual location will change, and you can access region-specific content.

What if my VPN doesn’t have a Fire Stick app?

There are other methods you can use if you don’t have a VPN with a native Fire Stick app:

• Install the VPN using an APK download file. You can download this file from the provider's website and install it directly onto your Fire device. Remember that this method may not be as quick or user-friendly as a native app.
• Install the VPN on your router. This will connect your entire network to the VPN, including any Fire devices. To do this, you'll need a compatible router and follow the instructions provided by your VPN provider. This method is reliable, but it does require some manual setup and configuration.
• Use a computer hotspot to connect your Fire Stick to a VPN. This involves using your computer as a middleman, where you connect to the VPN on your computer and then share that connection with your Fire Stick. This method may not be the most convenient, but it’s a good option if you don't have a router that supports VPNs.

Why won't my VPN work on Fire Stick?

Problems with your Fire Stick may be due to a blacklisted server, an out-of-date VPN app, or a poor internet connection. The best solution is to use a VPN that supports Fire devices. Here are a few other things you can try:

• Switch to a different server. There may be issues with the server you’re connecting to. Switching to a different server can resolve the issue.
• Restart your Fire Stick. Go to Settings, select My Fire TV, and click Restart. This can fix bugs.
• Reinstall your VPN. If your app has an error, reinstalling it could fix the problem. Just uninstall the app, reinstall it with the latest version, and reconnect.
• Ensure you have the correct login credentials and that your subscription is still active. VPNs require you to enter your login information to connect, so double-check that you're using the correct credentials. Additionally, check that your subscription is still active and you’re not exceeding your device limit.
• Check that your Fire Stick software is up to date. VPNs may not work correctly if your device runs an old Fire Stick software version. To update your device, go to the settings menu and select "My Fire TV" or "My Device." Then, select "About" and click "Check for Updates." If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it.
• Check your internet connection. A weak or unstable connection can prevent the VPN from working. Try resetting your router or modem, or moving your Fire Stick closer to your router to improve the signal.
• Check that your VPN is compatible with Fire Stick. Not all VPNs are compatible with Fire Stick, so double-check you’ve got a VPN that supports Fire devices. You may also need to install the VPN using an APK file or connect to the VPN through a router or hotspot.

Will a VPN unblock Netflix US on Fire Stick?

Yes, providing you have a reliable VPN with a native Fire app. Simply install your VPN’s app from the Amazon App Store and connect to a US server. This masks your real IP address with a US IP address, allowing you to access Netflix US.

Are all VPNs compatible with Fire Sticks?

No, many VPNs are either tricky or impossible to use with Fire TV Sticks. The VPNs that work well with Amazon Fire support all but 1st generation models. 2nd and 3rd sticks are fully compatible, as are 4K Fire TVs and all Fire TV Cubes.

Is it legal to use a VPN on a jailbroken Fire Stick?

Using a VPN on a jailbroken Fire Stick is generally legal. However, jailbreaking your Fire Stick may void its warranty and violate Amazon's terms of service. Accessing copyrighted content without permission is also illegal in most countries. That said, using a VPN on Fire Stick isn’t illegal in itself and is actually recommended for improving online security on the device — which is why the best VPNs have native Fire apps.

Install a VPN on Your Fire Device in Minutes

You need some very specific things for a VPN to work well with your Fire devices, which is why my list isn’t long. Ideally, you need a native Fire app to download and use in minutes. Plus, you need servers that support streaming and Ultra HD speeds and locations in all the countries you want to access.

The best VPN for Fire devices is ExpressVPN. It fulfills all the above criteria and offers exceptional privacy and security for Fire Stick, including the Threat Manager blocker to keep you safe on streaming platforms. You can even try ExpressVPN risk-free with a 30 day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for FireStick...

Rank

Provider

Our Score

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1

9.8 /10

Save 49%!

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2

9.8 /10

Save 83%!

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3

9.6 /10

Save 69%!

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