How to Install Kodi on Firestick — Step-By-Step Guide for 2023

Installing Kodi 19.4 on your Firestick can be tricky. The media player isn’t an official app from the Amazon Appstore, and it takes extra steps to sideload it onto a Firestick. This workaround can also come with some risks.

Sideloading unofficial apps can compromise your online privacy and leave your device vulnerable to hackers. Luckily, a VPN can help you safely complete the installation process. VPNs encrypt your online activity, making it difficult for anyone to unscramble your data. That way, you don’t have to worry about Kodi leaving you vulnerable to cyber threats.

I recommend ExpressVPN for Firestick. It’s easy to configure on Fire TV devices (including Firestick) and has robust security features that protect your privacy. Plus, its ultra-fast global network lets you watch your favorite Kodi content from anywhere, buffer-free. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free because of its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Get the Best VPN for Firestick Today

Why You Need a VPN to Install Kodi on Firestick

Configuring Kodi for Firestick can be risky. You need to allow the installation of unofficial apps, which could leave you vulnerable to hackers, viruses, and malware. Even the best Kodi addons can, at times, expose you to ISP snooping. So you may unknowingly compromise your privacy and security.

On top of that, most Kodi addons are also geoblocked to specific countries. They use your IP address to check where you are and block you if you’re in a country where your chosen content is unavailable.

A VPN is the best solution to overcome these limitations. VPNs let you bypass geoblocks by routing your traffic through private servers in different locations. This hides your real IP address behind an IP from your chosen location. For example, if you connect to a US server, you get a US IP that can access Kodi addons like HBO Max, PBS Kids, and Crackle. Additionally, VPNs protect you from online threats that can come with using Kodi.

My recommended VPN for Kodi and Firestick is ExpressVPN. It can quickly bypass geo-restrictions and has robust security features that let you use Kodi from anywhere with increased security and privacy. Plus, it has an easy-to-install and intuitive app for Firestick.

You can use ExpressVPN to improve your online safety when streaming Kodi on Firestick

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free Today

How to Install Kodi on Firestick With Downloader App

The Kodi app for Firestick isn’t an official app from the Appstore, and Fire TV devices don’t allow downloading from unofficial sources. So you need to adjust the default setting of your Firestick to allow the installation of apps outside the official store.

To get Kodi on Firestick, you need to sideload the media player. This is where the Downloader app comes in handy. I recommend this app because it’s easy to use and available on the official Firestick store. Follow these steps below to learn how to put Kodi on Firestick with Downloader.

1. Install a VPN on your Firestick through the Amazon Appstore. It’s safest to download third-party Firestick apps with a VPN, to ward off hackers and cyber threats. I recommend ExpressVPN because it's easy to configure and works on almost every Amazon device. If your preferred service doesn’t offer an app for Firestick, you can sideload the APK file from the official website.

It takes a few seconds to sideload ExpressVPN

• Download and launch the app. Choose ”Download” then hit “Install” and give it a minute for installation to complete.

  Customer support is reachable 24/7 on live chat if you have any questions

• Sign in to your account. Enter the credentials you used to set up your VPN subscription.

  Create a new account if you don’t have one

• Connect to a server. Choose a server in a country where the Kodi addon you want to watch is available for viewing. For example, connect to an Australian server to watch Binge.

2. Allow the installation of apps from unknown sources.

• Go to the Firestick home screen. Click the gear icon.

  Click on the gear icon to access the “Settings” menu

• Choose the “My Fire TV” tab.
  

  Hit the tab to access “Developer options”

• Go to Developer options. Toggle to allow “Apps from Unknown Sources”. If you want to interact with your Firestick from a computer or smartphone remotely, then you may want to allow “ADB debugging”. Your Fire device and computer must be on the same network for this to work.

  You can now install apps on your Firestick that aren’t from the Appstore

• Go back to the “Settings” menu. Find “Preferences” and click on it.

  Next to the 'My Fire TV" tab, you'll find the "Preferences" option

• Select “Privacy Settings”. From the list that appears, turn off both “Device Usage Data” and “Collect App Usage Data”.

  Next, turn off both “Collect App Usage Data” and “Device Usage Data”

3. Install the Downloader app through the Amazon Appstore.

• Launch Firestick. Click the search icon on your device’s home page and look for the “Downloader” app.

  If your Firestick comes with Alexa, you can use voice search to locate the app

• Install Downloader. Select the app from the list and click “Download” to start the installation process.

  Wait for the app to download

4. Download and install Kodi on your Firestick.

• Open the Downloader app. Enter “https://kodi.tv/download” in the URL box, click “Go”, and select “Android”. Alternatively, enter Downloader code 35625.

  You can either type in the URL string or enter the Downloader code to open the app

• Select “ARMV7A (32Bit)” to download Kodi 19.4. Once the download is complete, click “Install” and wait for the “App installed” notification.

  It took only a few minutes for the app to install during my tests

• Open Kodi. The installation of Kodi on your Firestick is now complete. Click “Open” to launch the app and stream content from your favorite addons.

Use Kodi on Firestick With a VPN

How to Install Kodi on Firestick Using ES File Explorer

ES File Explorer is a great alternative to Downloader and is available on the official Amazon store. However, there’s one snag — you need a subscription package to use its sideloading features. So, it may not be a good option if you’re on a tight budget.

You also need to go to the “Settings” tab of your device to allow the installation of unofficial apps. On top of that, remember to keep your connection secure with a VPN while downloading and using Kodi.

1. Download the ES File Explorer through the Amazon Appstore.

• Open Firestick and look for ES File Explorer. Click the search icon on your device’s homepage and search for “ES File Explorer”.

  It should be the first option in the results

• Install the app. Choose “ES File Explorer” from the list and click “Download” to start the installation process.

  Wait for the download to finish

2. Download and install Kodi on your Firestick.

• Open ES File Explorer. Look for the downloader icon and click on it. After that, select “+New.” It’s in the bottom right of the screen.

  Open ES File Explorer to install Kodi on your Firestick

• Input the path to your media and give it a name. ”Enter “https://kodi.tv/download” in the “Path” section and add a name in the “Name” box. Next, select “Download now”.

  Confirm you have entered the right URL before clicking “Download now”

• Click “Open file”. Choose “Install” and hit “Install” again when prompted. That’s all, Kodi is now installed on your Firestick.

How to Install Kodi on Firestick With AppStarter

Unlike Downloader and ES File Explorer, AppStarter isn’t available on the Amazon Appstore. However, you can sideload it on your Firestick with apps like Downloader. Just make sure to use a reliable VPN, as it's a third-party app.

On top of that, don’t forget to adjust the installation permission of your device before anything else. It’s a prerequisite step for downloading unofficial apps through APK files. Here’s how to add Kodi to Firestick with AppStarter.

• Launch Downloader. Type “https://troypoint.com/as” in the URL box and click “Go”.

  Hit “Go” once you add in the right URL

• Install AppStarter. When prompted, click on “Install” to start the installation process.

  Wait a few seconds for the installation process to finish

• Install Kodi. Choose “Updates” then click “Install” to download Kodi 19.4.

  Tap “Install” to download the latest version of Kodi

• Open Kodi. Wait for the “Ready to launch!” notification. After that, you can watch content from Kodi on your Firestick.

Safely Use Kodi With a VPN

Alternative Methods to Installing Kodi on Firestick

If you need more options, I recommend giving these alternatives a shot. I tested each method and can guarantee (at the time of writing) that they’re still working. You still need to change your Firestick installation permissions to install Kodi, so do this in advance. Plus, remember a VPN is essential to maintain a safe streaming experience on Kodi.

Install Kodi 18 on Firestick With FireDL

• Launch Firestick. Open the Downloader app, enter “troypoint.com/fdl” in the address bar, and hit “Go” to download the FireDL APK file.
• Install FireDL. A “Ready to launch!” notification will pop up once the installation is complete.
• Open FireDL. Type “kodi1832” in the URL box. The code automatically changes to a URL once you finish typing. Now, tap “Next” to download the app. (At the moment, there’s no FireDL code for Kodi 19.)
• Install Kodi. Click the “Install” button on the lower right corner of your screen. Kodi is now installed.

Install Kodi on Firestick With Apps2Fire

• Download Apps2Fire on your Android phone. Head to the Google Play Store to do this.
• Install Kodi on your Android phone. You can find Kodi in the Google Play Store too.
• Open your Firestick. Choose “Settings” and click “Network” to find your Firestick’s local IP address. Note it down.
• Launch App2Fire. Click the “Setup” tab in the top right, enter the IP you just copied, and tap “Search Fire TVs”.
• Find the “Local Apps” tabs. This takes you to the list of local apps that are already installed on your phone. Scroll down to “Kodi”, select the app, and click “Install”.
• Allow USB debugging. Check for a pop up message on your Firestick and tap “OK”. This makes it possible to install apps from your phone to the Firestick.
• Use Kodi. Be prepared for this process to be a bit slow. App2Fire will notify you once the Kodi installation is complete.

Install Kodi on Firestick With Unlinked App

• Launch the Downloader app. Type “https://unlinked.link” in the URL box and hit “Go”.
• Install Unlinked. Scroll down and choose “Download Android App”. After that, tap “Install” once the download is complete.
• Open Unlinked. Click on the “Add a new library” tab and enter this code “12341234” to enter “IPTV SuperStore”.
• Download Kodi. Now scroll to the right, click on “Kodi 19 Matrix” and choose “Download”.
• Install Kodi. Wait until the Kodi TV download process is completed and hit “Install”.

Install Kodi on Firestick With FileSynced

• Launch Downloader. Type “www.filesynced.com” in the URL box and hit “Go”.
• Install FileSynced. Scroll down and click “Download V3.3”. Wait for the download to complete and then select “Install”.
• Open FileSynced. Type this code “20212021” and click “Enter code”. This takes you to a list of Kodi versions, including Kodi 19.4 and Kodi 18.
• Install Kodi. Scroll to your preferred version and click on the download icon.
• Go back to the FileSynced home screen. Choose the “Downloads” option.
• Install Kodi. Tap “Install” once the file is downloaded.

Install Kodi on Firestick With Aptoide TV

• Run Downloader. On the app’s home screen type “https://bit.ly/3zCnVxQ” and click “Go” to download the Aptoide TV.
• Install Aptoide TV. Choose “Install” and wait for the installation to complete.
• Launch the app. Type “Kodi” in the search box and wait for the results.
• Install Kodi. Select “Kodi”, click “Install”, and hit “Open” once you see the “Ready to launch” notification.

Install Kodi on Firestick With AppLinked

• Launch Downloader. On the app’s home page enter “applinked.store” and tap “Go” to download the APK file.
• Install AppLinked. Scroll down and choose “Download”. Wait for the file to download. Next, click on the “Install” button.
• Open AppLinked. Select “Public Store”, type “Kodi” in the search bar, and wait for the results.
• Install Kodi. Choose the version you wish to install (I selected Kodi 19.4) and tap the “Download” button. After that, click “Install” on the bottom right.
• Open Kodi. You have now successfully installed Kodi on your Firestick. You can also check our how to install Kodi on iPhone or iPad.

Safely Use Kodi on Firestick With a VPN

Best VPNs for Kodi on Firestick — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

My shortlisted VPNs provide solid protection when installing Kodi on Firestick. Each one comes with world-class security measures to protect you from online threats. Plus, they work with most Fire devices, including Firestick and Fire Cube.

These VPNs have a global server network for unblocking Kodi and offer responsive live chat support too. You can even try them risk-free since they all have tried-and-tested money-back guarantees.

1. ExpressVPN — Specific Fire TV App to Easily Install and Use With Kodi on Firestick

ExpressVPN’s Firestick app works on most Fire TV devices. The interface of the app is intuitive and self-explanatory. It only took me 3 minutes to download and install the VPN on my Firestick during my tests. After that, I found and connected to a VPN server location (I chose the USA - New York) in just 2 clicks.

In just a few minutes, the app was installed on my Firestick

Speeds are super fast for streaming Kodi on Firestick without any buffering. I tested servers in the US and Ireland — my average download speed hovered around 28.2 Mbps. This was just a 6% drop from my base connection, faster than the 25 Mbps you need for 4K streaming on Kodi. The VPN’s Lightway protocol gives you a further speed boost.

Boasting an extensive array of servers worldwide, you can effortlessly stream content from Kodi addons on Firestick, no matter your location. During my evaluations, every US server I utilized granted me access to my Disney+ account, allowing me to view shows like I Am Groot and The Emperor’s New Groove. The VPN also facilitated seamless access to my ESPN and HBO Max accounts.

Robust security measures protect you during the installation and usage of Kodi on Firestick. All ExpressVPN applications secure your private information with the virtually unbreakable AES 256-bit encryption. In addition to this, the service includes a kill switch, which cuts off your internet connection if the VPN unexpectedly drops. Throughout my VPN evaluation, I didn't detect any leaks, which implies that the service effectively hides your DNS/IP information.

One drawback is that plans are expensive, starting at $6.67/month. However, ExpressVPN regularly offers generous discounts. I managed to get 49% off my 12-month subscription and 3 months of service free.

There’s also a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not impressed, it’s easy to get a refund. I tested the cancelation process via 24/7 live chat. The support agent only asked about my experience with the app and then processed my request. The money appeared in my bank account after just 2 days.

Get Kodi on Firestick With ExpressVPN

2. CyberGhost — Vast Server Network to Access Your Favorite Kodi Content on Firestick

CyberGhost's worldwide network of servers lets you access geoblocked Kodi content in seconds. With over 9,487 servers worldwide, you can always find a reliable connection for Kodi. I tested servers across the US and UK — my connection remained stable.

It's also serious about protecting your privacy when using Kodi on your Firestick. The VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption to keep you safe from cyber threats. Like ExpressVPN, the service has DNS/IP leak protection and an automatic kill switch to prevent your actual location from being exposed. My real IP address remained concealed while testing Cyberghost for leaks.

The VPN successfully hid my actual IP address and replaced it with one from Taiwan

Fast speeds let you stream movies and shows on Fire TV in UHD. I averaged 27.3 Mbps while testing servers across the UK and Australia (only a 9% drop from my base connection). This is more than enough for 4K streaming. I watched titles like The 30 Day Rule and Sew The Winter to My Skin from the Crackle Kodi addon on my Firestick without any delays.

Using CyberGhost is super easy, too, even if you’re new to VPNs. I installed the VPN on my Firestick and connected to a server in under 5 minutes. There's an extensive knowledge base with video tutorials and screenshots of step-by-step how-to guides.

I found the monthly plan expensive with a short 14-day refund period. However, if you sign up for a long-term subscription, you pay as little as $2.19/month. I recommend the 3-year option because it's the most affordable.

With the VPN’s extended money-back guarantee, you can use CyberGhost with Firestick and Kodi free for 45 days. I asked support to cancel my subscription via the 24/7 live chat feature. The refund process was hassle-free — I just had to provide a reason for canceling. My money was back in my PayPal account within 4 days.

Get Kodi on Firestick With CyberGhost

3. IPVanish — Fast Speeds to Stream Kodi on Firestick Without Buffering

Due to IPVanish's exceptional speeds, I was able to stream content on Firestick in UHD with no buffering. When connected to servers in the US and UK, my average speed was 26.2 Mbps (representing a mere 12.7% speed reduction). This allowed for viewing Kodi content on Firestick in outstanding clarity. Every Kodi addon that I tested loaded in a matter of a few seconds.

I was impressed by its global network, as well. You can access geo-restricted Kodi content regardless of your location. When I tested IPVanish’s US servers, I successfully unblocked and watched Clifford the Big Red Dog on PBS Kids. The same servers worked just as well to access my Disney+ and HBO Max accounts.

Videos loaded instantly without delays or buffering

Like CyberGhost, the VPN’s high-end security features protect you while installing and using Kodi. It uses high-level encryption to make your connection unreadable to anyone monitoring your traffic. A kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection further guard against data exposure, and I didn’t find any leaks in my tests.

I was concerned when I saw that IPVanish is headquartered in the US, a country with strict data-sharing laws. But your online activity won't be collected or shared thanks to a strict no-logs policy.

Long-term subscriptions are available from only $2.49/month. The 1-year plan gives you access to the same features as the short-term ones, but at a fraction of the costs, so I recommend it.

You can also test IPVanish risk-free as it’s supported by a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the refund policy by canceling via my dashboard on the website (you can also request a refund via 24/7 live chat). It was straightforward, and I didn't even have to talk to anyone. My money was returned to my credit card before the week was out.

Get Kodi on Firestick With IPVanish

FAQs on Installing Kodi on Firestick

Is it safe to install Kodi on Firestick?

Yes, it’s safe when using a reliable VPN. Some unofficial Kodi addons offer streams of pirated content that could accidentally throw you into a legal gray area. You might want to use a VPN with solid security measures to stay safe online and not accidentally break any laws. VPNs protect you from the risks of allowing unofficial downloads on your Firestick.

Can I install Kodi on Firestick without an Amazon account?

No, you need to create an Amazon account to download and use any app on Fire TV devices. Luckily, it's easy to install Kodi once you register your Firestick to your Amazon account. A reliable VPN also comes in handy when downloading and configuring Kodi on Firestick. VPNs keep you safe during installation and help you access geoblocked Kodi addons.

Can I install Kodi on Firestick with an addon?

Yes, you can. Kodi comes with an official addon repository installed by default and also offers you an opportunity to install more addons from third-party sources. However, addons not downloaded from the official repository can expose you to cyber threats. That’s why it’s best to use a reliable VPN when installing and using Kodi on Firestick.

What's the best Kodi addon for Firestick?

Most popular Kodi addons work on Firestick. These include Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Trakt, YouTube, DAZN, Crackle, iPlayer WWW, and Real-Debrid (an unlimited downloader that lets you enjoy Kodi buffer-free). However, some addons are geo-restricted to specific countries. Fortunately, a VPN can give you access to all Kodi addons regardless of your location.

How do I install Kodi on the Fire TV cube?

The Kodi installation process is pretty similar no matter the Fire TV device you use. It's recommended to first use a VPN to keep you safe during the installation process. You can put Kodi on almost every Amazon device, including:

• Fire TV Stick 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation
• Fire TV 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation
• Fire TV Stick 4K and 4K Max
• Fire TV Stick Lite
• Fire TV Televisions
• Fire TV Cube

How can I install Kodi 19 build on Firestick?

It’s straightforward — simply sideload a Kodi 19 build onto your Firestick. Kodi builds aren’t available on the Amazon Appstore, but apps like Downloader and ES File Explorer can help with that. However, you need to be careful as most builds can impact the performance of your device and expose you to online threats. To protect your online privacy, install and use any Kodi build on Firestick with a VPN.

How do I fix Kodi on Firestick?

Updating the latest version of Kodi can fix most problems. Fortunately, an app like AppStarter comes in handy here — it makes it easy to check for Kodi updates. Other methods for fixing Kodi on Firestick include reinstalling Kodi if it loads a black screen every time you fire it up. Just make sure to restore all your Kodi addons too.

What other devices can Kodi be installed on?

You can install Kodi on all major platforms. This includes Firestick Cube, Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, and Linux. However, some Kodi addons are geo-restricted to specific locations, and others can expose you to cyber threats. Luckily, using Kodi with a reliable VPN can take your streaming experience up a notch.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free Today

Install Kodi on Firestick Now

Setting up Kodi on your Firestick doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Several methods can help you install the media player in just a few steps, but this doesn’t come without risk. With that in mind, a quality VPN keeps your data safe while installing Kodi on Firestick.

ExpressVPN is best for both Firestick and Kodi. It's easy to install, offers robust security features, and has an ultra-fast global network to access Kodi addons from anywhere. Plus, there’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee so that you can try all ExpressVPN features risk-free.

To summarize, the best VPNs for Kodi on Firestick are...