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How to Install NordVPN on Kodi in 2023: Quick & Easy Setup

Husain Parvez Updated on 20th July 2023 Cybersecurity Researcher

You can’t always access services like your BBC iPlayer and Netflix US accounts on Kodi as they’re geo-restricted. Besides, some Kodi add-ons might contain malware, leaving you vulnerable to man-in-the-middle (MITM) and phishing attacks.

But there’s a way to watch your favorite content on Kodi and protect your devices from snoops and malware. I don’t want anyone prying on my online activity, and I bet you don’t, either. A VPN like NordVPN lets you unblock the content you need quickly and safely. Plus, it helps avoid bandwidth throttling for interruption-free 4K streaming.

Installing NordVPN on Kodi can be tricky — that’s why I made this easy-to-follow tutorial. It guides you through the setup process, even on Linux and Fire Stick. NordVPN has a large network of servers to access your content while traveling. The service also protects your connection with robust AES 256-bit encryption. You can try NordVPN risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, getting a refund is hassle-free if you’re not fully satisfied.

Install NordVPN on Kodi Today

Quick Guide: How to Install NordVPN on Kodi in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download NordVPN. With its large server network, unblocking the content you need takes no time. The service also offers fast speeds for streaming with no buffering. You can try NordVPN for free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Choose one of the setup methods. I recommend installing the NordVPN app directly on Kodi, as it’s the easiest and safest way.
  3. Start using Kodi. Connect to a server, and have unrestricted access to your favorite platforms.

Why You Need a VPN for Kodi

Kodi is a free, open-source media player designed to bring your movies, TV shows, music, and games together. It’s excellent for watching on-demand content on a big screen. However, platforms like Disney+ and HBO Max are geo-restricted (only work with certain IP addresses). This means you can’t fully access Kodi’s library and watch all your favorite shows when traveling.

Plus, installing Kodi add-ons can be unsafe and leave you vulnerable to hackers and snoops targeting your private data. Your ISP can also intentionally slow down your speeds when it detects too many high-bandwidth activities (like gaming and UHD streaming).

If you’re subscribed to NordVPN, you know that a VPN hides your current location and changes it with an IP address of a chosen country. This helps you get access to your streaming accounts while on vacation. For example, a VPN can change your location by assigning you a US IP address. So, you can watch shows on your Hulu and Netflix US subscriptions while traveling around the UK.

NordVPN has an extensive network of 5,640 servers across 60 countries for easy unblocking. It offers excellent speeds to stream in 4K without buffering. My average download speed clocked at 95.3Mbps. I recorded the fastest speeds while using the proprietary NordLynx protocol. Some servers are P2P-optimized for reliable torrenting.

You’re also safeguarded with robust security and privacy features (like AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy) to keep your Kodi device safe from cyber threats. Besides, obfuscation tech helps you bypass the toughest firewalls, and Threat Protection blocks malware. Many of these options are customizable, so you can set them up the way you like it.

If you ever get stuck, contacting customer support using 24/7 live chat is very convenient. NordVPN is easy-to-use and compatible with all major operating systems. I quickly set it up on my Kodi device. The VPN allows up to 6 simultaneous connections. Plus, you can install it on a router and cover your entire home network, including an Xbox, Kindle Fire, and Google TV.

Plans are affordable, starting at $3.49/month. Payment methods include major credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency. It’s possible to try NordVPN for free since it’s backed by a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee.

Try NordVPN With Kodi Risk-Free

How to Set Up NordVPN on Kodi — 2 Tried-And-Tested Methods

Setting up NordVPN on Kodi can get a bit tricky with all the steps you have to go through. However, my guide below helps you install NordVPN on your Kodi device in no time. There are 2 easy-to-follow methods, so go ahead and choose the one that works for you.

Make sure to subscribe to NordVPN first — choose the plan best suited to your needs before downloading the app. You can try NordVPN without risk, as it’s backed by a tried-and-tested 30-day money-back guarantee. To safely access your favorite content on your Kodi device, follow the steps below.

Note: Make sure OpenVPN is installed. You can skip this step if you’re running Kodi on LibreELEC and OpenELEC (they should have OpenVPN pre-installed). Windows users must install OpenVPN first and ensure it’s accessible from the command line.

Method 1: Use the NordVPN Client With Kodi

Using the NordVPN client is the easiest way if you have Kodi installed on your phone, laptop, or Smart TV. This helps you access geo-blocked streaming platforms, watch game streams (for example, on Twitch, Steam Community, and YouTube), and protect your Kodi experience with reliable security and privacy features. It’s recommended to connect to a NordVPN server before launching Kodi to ensure your new IP works properly.

Install NordVPN on Kodi for Windows/macOS

It's worth noting that certain versions of Windows 10 may not be compatible with NordVPN, specifically those that lack the.Net Framework 4.8 or higher. For installation on Windows, Kodi provides both 32-bit and 64-bit options, so you should select the one that matches your PC's configuration.

Step 1. Download the NordVPN installer for your device from the official webpage.

Screenshot of NordVPN's download pageChoose a subscription that suits your needs before downloading

Step 2. Run the downloaded.exe/.pkg installer and complete the setup process.

Screenshot of NordVPN's Windows installerDouble-click the.exe/.pkg file and follow the installation process to set up NordVPN on your PC

Step 3. Launch the VPN service, log in to your account, and connect to a server.

Screenshot of NordVPN's Windows UIChoose the server you want to use for unblocking geo-restricted platforms

Step 4. Launch Kodi and access your favorite streaming platforms without geo-blocks.

Note: You can also follow the steps above to install Kodi on your Xbox and then use the NordVPN tunnel by installing the service on your router.

Install NordVPN With Kodi on Android/iOS and Fire TV/Android TV

Step 1. Install the NordVPN app on your device using Google Play Store (for Android, Fire Stick, Fire TV, and Kindle Fire devices) or Apple App Store. You can also sideload the app on Android devices (Google TV or Android TV) using the.apk file.

Step 2. Launch the VPN and connect to a server.

Step 3. Start Kodi and have unrestricted access to your favorite content.

Note: Kodi can be installed on iPhones and iPads using Cydia Impactor. You can also set it up using the Cydia software on jailbroken devices.

Install NordVPN on Kodi for Linux

Step 1. Download the NordVPN.rpm installer (for RedHat distros) or the.deb installer (for Debian distros).

Step 2. If you’re using GUI distros such as Ubuntu or Mint Linux, you can run the installer and start installing NordVPN. However, if you want to use the Terminal, follow the commands below to set up the VPN directly:

sudo wget -qnc https://repo.nordvpn.com/deb/nordvpn/debian/pool/main/nordvpn-release_1.0.0_all.deb
sudo dpkg -i /pathToFile/nordvpn-release_1.0.0_all.deb

Make sure to change the /pathToFile/ with the location of the folder where you’ve downloaded the.deb installer file.

Step 3. Enter the root password for your Linux distro and wait for the process to complete.

Step 4. Enter the following command and update the package:

sudo apt update

Step 5. Input the command below to start installing NordVPN:

sudo apt install nordvpn

Step 6. After installing the VPN, sign in to your account by running the following command:

nordvpn login

Step 7. Connect to a server using the command below:

nordvpn connect

Step 8. Launch Kodi and start streaming without restrictions.

Note: Installing Kodi on Linux can be challenging. With all my experience with Linux, I still struggle with some Terminal commands. However, here’s a quick guide on installing Kodi on your Linux distro. Enter the following commands below one by one:
  • sudo apt-get install software-properties-common
  • sudo add-apt-repository ppa:team-xbmc/ppa
  • sudo apt-get update
  • sudo apt-get install kodi

Install NordVPN on Kodi Today

Method 2: Use the NordVPN Add-on for Kodi

Using the NordVPN add-on also allows you to install the service on your Kodi device. It lets you stream content like documentaries and TED Talks without restrictions. Plus, you get all the security features the VPN offers.

However, this method is more challenging than installing the app. This option usually works better if you have Kodi set up on a TV box or other streaming device.

Install the NordVPN Add-on on Kodi

Step 1. Make sure you have an active NordVPN plan. If you’re not yet subscribed, you can try NordVPN risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Step 2. Download the NordVPN add-on zip for Kodi. Copy the zip on a USB flash drive and insert it into your Kodi device.

Step 3. Go to the Add-ons tab under System Settings and toggle on Unknown sources.

Screenshot of Kodi's Add-ons Settings pageClick the Yes button if a “Warning!” window pops up

Step 4. Head back to the Add-ons menu and click on the Package button in the top-left corner. Use the Install from zip file option and select the NordVPN add-on zip file to install the service on your Kodi device.

Screenshot of Kodi's folder viewYou’ll see a notification on the top-right corner after NordVPN is set up

Step 5. Once the installation completes, you’ll see a notification saying, “Add-on installed.” The setup wizard will guide you and ask you to log in to NordVPN with your credentials.

Screenshot of NordVPN add-on password authentication pageYou must also enter your account's username to log in

Step 6. Choose the server you want to connect to automatically, then hit the Yes button.

Screenshot of NordVPN add-on server selection pageYou can also let NordVPN automatically choose the fastest server for you by clicking the Quick Connect button

Step 7. Once you’re connected to a server, enjoy Kodi streaming without geo-restrictions.

Note: The NordVPN add-on only works with versions older than Kodi 19 or Kodi Matrix. If you try installing it on Kodi 19 or Kodi Matrix, an error message (xbmc.python version could not be satisfied) should pop up. However, you can bypass this issue by installing NordVPN on your router and connecting Kodi to the VPN network.

Install NordVPN on Kodi Today

Install NordVPN on Kodi for Raspberry Pi

This setup process requires some technical knowledge. But after the installation, your Kodi device will be protected by NordVPN.

Step 1. Download the Kodi OpenVPN plugin for your Raspberry Pi.

Step 2. Copy the file to a USB flash drive and transfer it to your Kodi device.

Step 3. Go to Settings and select the Add-ons tab. Click on the Install from zip file option.

Screenshot of Kodi's Add-ons pageYou can use the file manager to select the downloaded zip file

Step 4. Locate the downloaded zip file and start the installation process.

Step 5. Once the process is completed, create a new.txt file (for example, nordvpnaccount.txt) with two lines. Enter your NordVPN username in the first line and the password in the second one.

Step 6. Download the.ovpn configuration file of the server you want to connect to (click Show available protocols).

Step 7. Once the download completes, edit the file and change the auth-user-pass line to contain the location of the.txt file on your Kodi. For example: auth-user-pass /location/of/nordaccount.txt.

Step 8. Transfer both files to your Raspberry Pi. Run the OpenVPN add-on and select the.ovpn configuration file to connect to a VPN server.

Step 9. You can safely access geo-restricted platforms on Kodi using your Raspberry Pi.

How to Disconnect/Log Out NordVPN From Kodi

Disconnecting NordVPN from Kodi isn’t that tricky. If you want to log out, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Run NordVPN on your device.

Step 2. Select the Change or disconnect VPN connection button.

Step 3. Click the Disconnect button and log out.

How to Change Servers/Countries on NordVPN with Kodi?

Changing servers on NordVPN can help you get around geo-blocks and access the content you need. Just follow the steps below:

Step 1. Launch the VPN and click the Change or disconnect VPN connection button.

Step 2. A list of server locations should pop up. Choose a server in a desired location and wait for it to connect.

Step 3. Start Kodi and stream your favorite shows without issues.

Try NordVPN Risk-Free Today

FAQs on Using NordVPN on Kodi

Is it legal to use NordVPN with Kodi?

Yes, using NordVPN on Kodi is legal. It’s even recommended to safely access your streaming accounts, such as Fox Sports Go. Once you’re done setting up NordVPN, just connect to a server and unblock the content you want on Kodi.

However, bypassing geo-restrictions can go against the terms of service of some streaming platforms. VPNs are also banned or restricted in countries like China and Russia. So ensure you check the laws of using a VPN in your location beforehand.

Why should I use NordVPN on Kodi?

You get many benefits from using NordVPN with Kodi, like accessing geo-blocked services thanks to its extensive server network. The VPN comes with impressive speed for buffer-free streaming. Plus, your device is safeguarded by robust encryption and IP leak protection. Thanks to a trusted money-back guarantee, you can try NordVPN without risk.

A VPN helps you safely install add-ons and stream your favorite English Premier League and Test cricket matches on Kodi. VPNs also encrypt your traffic, so your ISP can’t see your activity. Some add-ons have copyrighted content and don’t inform you about it, so you should be wary of this.

What NordVPN servers should I use with Kodi?

The best server for Kodi depends on your location. You can use the Quick Connect feature to let NordVPN automatically choose the fastest server for your device. Or, it’s possible to select a specific server to get an IP that allows you to access the content you want. Install the VPN and connect to a server to quickly unblock your Spotify, Vimeo, and Pluto TV accounts.

How do I stop my ISP from blocking Kodi?

A VPN helps you avoid any restrictions imposed by your ISP. Kodi’s library can be filled with pirated content that, if filtered out, might result in your ISP throttling your speeds or entirely blocking your network. Using a premium VPN (like NordVPN) masks your location information. It also gives you a US IP address to watch shows on platforms like MLB.TV and Red Bull TV while on vacation.

Besides, ISPs can reduce your speeds if they detect high-bandwidth activities. Using a VPN helps avoid discrimination against particular types of internet traffic (like UHD streaming and gaming).

Can I watch Netflix and Hulu with NordVPN on Kodi?

Yes, you can watch Netflix and Hulu shows on Kodi with NordVPN. Just make sure you install the add-ons and log in to your streaming accounts beforehand. Simply set up NordVPN and connect to a server to safely bypass geo-blocks.

What should I do if NordVPN is not working with Kodi?

Resetting your Kodi to default settings is a good way to solve most errors. You can also set up NordVPN on a different device and connect to a new server to see if it works. Just reinstall the app to access your favorite content on Kodi. However, if these don’t work, try the fixes below:

  • Ensure you have the official NordVPN app installed.
  • Check and fix the date and time on your Kodi device.
  • Try changing to a different server, as it might be down.
  • Unblock Kodi and NordVPN in the firewall settings of your device.

If all else fails, there are other VPNs to consider, like ExpressVPN. This is a highly recommended service that also works well with Kodi.

Will I know I’m protected while using NordVPN with Kodi?

The easiest way to see if you’re protected is on the NordVPN page. At the top, you’ll see your IP address and “unprotected” if your connection isn’t safe. Make sure you see “protected” here before using Kodi, and set up NordVPN beforehand.

You can also perform an IP and DNS leak check by using a site like IPleak.net.

Can I install a free VPN on Kodi?

You can, but using a free VPN on Kodi can be risky. Free services usually don’t run on Kodi devices. They also don’t offer reliable servers to unblock geo-blocked content. A premium VPN (like NordVPN) with a money-back guarantee is a safer option.

Many free VPNs lack advanced security and privacy features — some even sell your sensitive information to make a profit. It’s also common to face bandwidth limitations that restrict your speeds and receive annoying pop-up notifications that push you to upgrade to a paid plan.

Try NordVPN Today

Start Using NordVPN on Kodi Now

Installing NordVPN on Kodi is easy if you follow the right guide. You can use two simple methods to get the VPN on your Kodi device — setting it up via a NordVPN client or installing it as an add-on. Just make sure you’re subscribed to NordVPN before proceeding with the installation process.

My top choice for Kodi devices is NordVPN. It offers speedy connections and has a vast server network to unblock your favorite content from anywhere. The service also comes with reliable security and privacy features to keep your data safe. You can try NordVPN risk-free since it's backed by a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee. So, getting a refund is straightforward if the VPN isn’t right for you.

Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.

Visit ExpressVPN

About the Author

Husain Parvez is a Cybersecurity Researcher and News Writer at vpnMentor, focusing on VPN reviews, detailed how-to guides, and hands-on tutorials. Husain is also a part of the vpnMentor Cybersecurity News bulletin and loves covering the latest events in cyberspace and data privacy.

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