Which VPNs are Suitable for Amazon FireStick and How to Install It?
Willing to use a FireStick VPN but have no idea how to get started? Well, scroll down to learn everything about using a FireStick VPN and how to use VPN on FireStick.
Amazon FireStick is not an unfamiliar word for entertainment buffs. As per market trends, there are more than 30 million users of Amazon FireStick across the world. In India alone, over 1 million units of Amazon FireStick were sold in two years. Without binding you with one cable subscriber, this technology opens up a new set of entertainment opportunities.
This cord and cost-cutting technology are what people use to access movies, shows, documentaries, and other diverse content. However, not all of us are lucky to access Amazon FireStick in full swing. Hurdles like geo-blocked content, high-priced Amazon FireStick subscription, speed throttling, and many others are here to ruin your experience with FireStick.
The only resort here is a FireStick VPN.
Not sure what is it? Don’t know how to install a VPN on FireStick? Wondering what is the best VPN for FireStick?
Well, if all these questions are unanswered for you, referring to this post would be the wisest move to make right now.
What Might Hurdles One Face As An Amazon FireStick User?
Even though we have no qualms about admitting that Amazon FireStick has shown up as a boon for entertainment seekers, it’s not always so hassle-free. For example, see this Redditor’s trouble.
Depending upon your location and copyright law, you might end up dealing with various issues while using Amazon FireStick. For instance:
- Different costs of FireStick
It’s obvious to experience a particular price difference while you intend to buy this tool. For the same device, one might pay $30 in the US and $20 in Africa. It is a universal business strategy to ensure that a product finds its product-market fit at every location. But, from a consumer point of point, such a huge price difference is unacceptable.
- Geo-blocked content
Even if one gets ready to pay for the requested FireStick cost, there is no end to misery as one deals with geo-restricted content. You won’t be able to access the desired content on the apps that you might access using Amazon FireStick. FireStick can help you access online streaming services like Hulu (VPN for Hulu), Netflix (VPN for Netflix), Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video (VPN for Amazon Prime Video), BBC iPlayer, and many more from a single place. But, when content is geo-blocked, you will only access half of the content. It is very annoying.
- Speed throttling by ISP
If you’re a hardcore streamer, your ISP won’t like it. It will try everything possible to stop you from consuming too much bandwidth. One of the most effective ways for the ISP to make this happen is through speed throttling. ISP will hinder the speed, leading to slow streaming and buffering. If this happened, it would undoubtedly ruin your entire streaming experience.
In case you are interested to learn about ISP proxies – ISP Proxies 101 [Updated for 2023 Readers]
Some useful info about the best proxies in general – 10 Best Proxy Server Service Providers: Free and Paid – 2023 Review
- Surveillance while using third-party apps
When using third-party streaming apps such as Live Net TV or Cinema APK, you can get in trouble if you access any banned or restricted app. You can end up in the nippers of government agencies.
- Poor security over a Wi-Fi connection
You can’t expect buffer-free streaming while using a mobile internet connection. You have to use a broadband Wi-Fi connection to stream interruption-free with FireStick. There is nothing to worry about as long as you’re using a private Wi-Fi connection. But, if you’re using public WiFi, you can be a victim of a virus/malware attack and experience slow speed. Public Wi-Fi is not a safe place to be.
I guess that all these things are enough to make you understand that even if FireStick is very popular, you can’t use it casually. You have to take specific measures to fix all these issues.
How Can a FireStick VPN Help?
All the above situations can make anyone concerned and forced to accept what is offered. But I won’t suggest you do that.
There is one way to fix all these hassles in one go. That way is FireStick VPN. A highly advanced technology, a FireStick VPN is the best way to explore streaming in its powerful capabilities (learn what a VPN is here).
Here is how it happens:
- FireStick VPN hides IP addresses and makes you virtually present elsewhere. The entire geo-blocking industry works as per the IP address of the internet user. By tracking the IP addresses, service providers determine what to offer and what to block. With the best FireStick VPN, you can hide the IP address entirely or impose yourself to be located in a different location to get rid of geo-blocking.
- With features like military-grade encryption, security protocols, IP and DNS leak protection, ad blocker, and many more, a VPN ensures that you’re good at using public Wi-Fi while causing no harm to the data saved.
- As online activities are completely hidden, your ISP will have no opportunity to seize your speed. Some of the best FireStick VPNs even offer unlimited bandwidth. So you don’t have to worry about running out of bandwidth.
With all these and more ways, a FireStick VPN ensures that you have nothing to worry about while you stream on your FireStick. So, if you haven’t started using VPN on FireStick, do it today.
Best FireStick VPNs To Use In 2023
If you’ve paid attention to the points mentioned above, I assume that you’ll have no reason to raise the utility of a VPN. But, before we get too excited and start using a VPN on FireStick, I suggest you hold your excitement for a while as you need to understand that you need to only bank upon the best VPNs.
All the above-said benefits won’t be at your disposal if you’re not having the aid of the best FireStick VPN.
I, along with my team, tested many famous streaming-compatible VPNs and hand-picked the best options for you.
ExpressVPN – The Best VPN For FireStick
Key Statistics
- Number of Servers – 3,000+ in 94 countries
- Security Protocols – Lightway UDP and TCP, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, IKEv2
- Streaming Optimized Servers – Yes
- Average Speed – 135mps
- Multiple Device Compatibility – Works well with iOS (VPN for iPhone), Android, Linux, Windows, routers, smart TVs, extensions for Chrome, Firefox (VPN for Firefox), Edge browsers, and Kindle Fire.
- FireStick Versions Supported – 2nd and 3rd generation
- Simultaneous Connections – 5
Pros
- Private DNS on every server
- Advanced TrustedServer technology
- Unlimited bandwidth
- HD video support
- Split Tunneling
- Network Lock kill switch
Cons
- No ad blocker
- The price is higher than the industry’s average.
#ExpressVPN: This VPN server has the best combination of ease-of-use, really fast servers, and supports streaming media and torrenting, all for a reasonable price.https://t.co/gklKC7rBf5 pic.twitter.com/wEG0fr5Go4
— China Educational Tours (@CEducationalT) May 9, 2022
ExpressVPN is a trusted name in the VPN industry and is well-known for its amazing security features and other facilities. With more than 3,000+ servers at various locations, the Express VPN for Firestick makes sure that you have the assistance of a VPN regardless of your location.
What Makes ExpressVPN the Best FireStick VPN?
It’s best suited to FireStick because it’s compatible with all the versions of FireStick and related devices like Fire TV and Fire TV Cube. There is a dedicated app for FireStick, and it takes only a few seconds to install and get started.
While I tested the Express VPN FireStick VPN app, I was amazed to see that it works great with 2nd and 3rd-generation FireStick. Most of the FireStick users are using these generation devices only. Hence, you’ll have no trouble using ExpressVPN on your FireStick. As far as Fire TV is concerned, 2nd and 3rd-generation devices are supported.
Of course, you will stream on your FireStick, and it’s crucial to understand how streaming-friendly ExpressVPN is.
Well, it didn’t disappoint me at all.
It offers streaming-optimized servers. You can connect to them manually or let the app select the best streaming servers for you. Either way, you’ll enjoy a buffer-free streaming experience.
There is a speed-test facility too.
Use this feature to check your server’s speed. The best thing about the speed test is the results are sorted out as per the Speed Index, Latency, and Download Speed. So, whatever your preference is, you’ll get a suitable server.
With unlimited bandwidth and zero speed throttling, the sky’s the limit. You can stream and download without any fear or hassles.
The only poorly-missed thing in ExpressVPN is.
There is none, and it could be an issue for streamers looking for an ad-free viewing experience. Other than this, I have no reasons to put ExpressVPN aside and think of any other FireStick VPN. It’s undoubtedly the best choice that one can ever make.
#2 – NordVPN
Key Statistics
- Number of Servers – 5,399 in 60 countries
- Security Protocols – OpenVPN, Internet Key Exchange v2/IPsec, PPTP, NordLynx, and IKEv2
- Streaming Optimized Servers – Yes
- Average Speed – 120mps
- Multiple Device Compatibility – Compatible with iOS, Android (VPN for Android), Linux, Windows, routers, smart TVs, Xbox, PlayStation, Kindle Fire, and Chromebook, and offers extensions for Chrome (VPN for Chrome), Firefox, and Edge browsers.
- FireStick Versions Supported – 2nd and 3rd generation and FireStick 4K
- Simultaneous Connections – 6
Pros
- Unlimited bandwidth and speed
- Specialty servers like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Obfuscated, and P2P servers
- 100% RAM-disk, co-located, and bare metal servers
- Dedicated IP addresses
Cons
- Not-so-friendly OpenVPN configuration
If there is any best VPN FireStick in the market that can beat ExpressVPN, it’s only NordVPN. I have been following these two VPNs for a long time.
To be honest, I have no qualms admitting there is a cat-and-mouse race between these two. One tries to be better than others.
NordVPN is a globally acclaimed VPN for FireStick and is offered in 60 countries. It owns more than 5,300 servers at various locations. Recently, NordVPN replaced its old-school servers with advanced RAM-Disk and bare-metal servers, making it more advanced and fast.
@NordVPN if anyone is sceptic about Nordvpn service quality, their services by default is really good, whats even better is their support when I face some issues, very responsive support and very helpful and they never disappoint, keep it up Nordvpn.
— Ibrahiem F (@iDamascene1) October 7, 2021
What Makes NordVPN the Best FireStick VPN?
While there is a lot to talk about NordVPN, my focus is on telling you how good it is for streaming and FireStick. So, let’s get started.
NordVPN helps you deal with ISP speed throttling issues by hiding your IP address and online activities (here’s how to change your IP). It offers streaming and P2P-optimized servers. Use these servers to experience uninterrupted streaming.
Most of the VPNs for FireStick work well with 2nd and 3rd-generation FireStick. But, NordVPN supports 4K FireStick as well. Hence, you’ll have quality streaming with a VPN.
As there is native app support for FireStick, you can stream smoothly with this VPN. Nord VPN on the Firestick app is user-friendly and takes only a fraction of a second to get started. As it supports 6 simultaneous connections, you can protect many FireStick devices simultaneously.
The advanced protocol, NordLynx, will help you access many streaming platforms and will keep you miles away from the reach of ISP and the government’s prying eyes.
NordVPN offers SmartPlay technology as a default facility to make your streaming top-notch. Using this feature, you can access any content without fear as it deploys SmartDNS at your service. All in all, it’s a great choice to make when you want to use a VPN on FireStick.
#3 – Surfshark
Key Statistics
- Number of Servers- 3200 in 65 countries
- Security Protocols – OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols with AES-256-GCM encryption
- Streaming Optimized Servers- Yes
- Average Speed- 91mps
- Multiple Device Compatibility- Works well with iOS, Android, Linux (VPN for Linux), Windows (VPN for Windows) , routers, Xbox, PlayStations, and smart TVs. It also offers extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
- FireStick Versions Supported- 2nd, 3rd, and 4K
- Simultaneous Connections – Unlimited
Pros
- A clean Web ad blocker that keeps all sorts of hassles at bay
- Unlimited device support
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Private DNS
- Automated kill switch
- No Border mode
Cons
Torrenting is not that great.
@surfshark Your customer service rocks!!!! I had a billing issue and I had two options, my preferred and not so preferred option. Your rep Mike was excellent and even went with my preferred billing option. I'm getting you for the two year plan.
— Rafael Cabrero (@RafaAntonioDC) August 3, 2021
Surfshark is relatively new compared to ExpressVPN and NordVPN. However, its unmatched performance on every front is praise-worthy. Its server network is decent, its impressive security profile and customer support are responsive. The cherry on the cake is its super affordable Subscription. You’re going to save big with this FireStick VPN.
What Makes Surfshark the Best FireStick VPN?
For a hardcore streamer, there is nothing that can beat the excitement that unlimited devices, speed, and bandwidth bring. Well, all these things await you if you’re using Surfshark. It’s a very streaming-friendly VPN that works best with 2nd, 3rd, and 4 K-generation FireStick.
It’s a great VPN for jailbroken VPNs as it keeps the security front strong and has a robust ad blocker named Clean Web to keep tons of headaches away.
If you’re wondering whether or not you’ll be able to hide your activities with Surfshark, let me tell you that you can, as it offers a Camouflage Mode that can hide your online activities from your ISP as well. You can’t afford to miss it as its subscriptions are very pocket-friendly, and it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Hurry and avail the free trial today (learn about premium VPNs that offer free trials).
How To Install VPN On FireStick?
Now that it’s very clear to you what is the best VPN for FireStick, you must go into the quest ‘how to download VPN on FireStick’ as it will lead you to hassle-free FireStick VPN usage.
If you’re not a very technologically-sound person and wondering whether or not you’ll be able to pull this off, don’t fret. Using a VPN on FireStick is a simple job that doesn’t demand you to be a tech buff. I will explain to you the steps involved in using ExpressVPN as an example.
Step #1 – Visit ExpressVPN and get a subscription of your choice. Make the payment and activate the subscription.
Step #2 – Open your FireStick device and go to the Amazon App Store. Look for an ExpressVPN app. Once you find the app, click on ‘Download.’
Note: It’s very unlikely that ExpressVPN isn’t available on the Amazon App Store. But, it might happen due to censorship and geo-restriction. If that’s the case with you, don’t worry. You can have the option to sideload the ExpressVPN App APK. All you need to do is allow your FireStick to enable downloads from other sources. Go to Settings > My Fire TV > Developer Options, and select Apps from Unknown Sources.
Now, go to the search option and search for Downloader. Complete the Downloader installation and app the app to access media, files, and photos.
Continue by selecting ‘OK.’ Enter the URL of the ExpressVPN APK and choose ‘Go.’ Wait for a while as installation takes place. Now, the app is downloaded.
Step #3 – After downloading, start with its set-up. Sign in using the verified email and password.
Step #4 – Based on your location and subscription, the app might seek permission for certain actions. Allow or deny as per your preferences.
Step #5 – Permit a connection request and click on ‘OK.’
Step #6 – Go to the server list to connect with a server or use the Auto-Connect feature to connect with a high-speed server.
Step #7 – Once connected to a server, you’re all set to enjoy a secure connection, unblock geo-restricted content, and hide your online activity while using the FireStick.
It’s as simple as that. And if you want to find more content of your choice on Firestick VPN, these filelinked codes will come in handy.
I don’t think you’ll have hassles getting started with ExpressVPN FireStick VPN. But, if you face any troubles, there are responsive customer care support and detailed tutorials for your help. Don’t hesitate to share your concerns and problems with them.
How To Use VPN On First-Generation FireStick?
If you own a first-generation FireStick that doesn’t come with an Amazon or Google Play store and even doesn’t allow you to access an APK file, don’t lose hope. You can still use a FireStick VPN and protect the first-generation FireStick devices.
But this time, you don’t need a FireStick VPN. Instead, you would need a VPN that is compatible with your router. Yes, you read it right. By installing a VPN on a router, you protect every device connected to the router. So, go with the router app of a VPN, install it on the router, and enjoy unmatched safety.
How To Update a FireStick VPN App?
No matter what sort of apps you’re using, updating them regularly is essential as it helps you enjoy the best services. If you’re using the native FireStick VPN app, updating it won’t be an issue, as you will get the automatic update notification.
But, the FireStick app update can be an issue for you if you’re using a sideloaded or APK app, as there won’t be a direct update notification.
In that case, you have to go with manual updates. Go to the ‘About’ or Information Page to learn about the current version of sideloaded or APK apps. Once you know the version and are aware of the fact that an updated version is available, here is what you should do next:
- Go to the Fire TV home screen and open Settings > Applications > Manage installed applications.
- Look for the FireStick VPN that you need to update inside the section.
- Open the app and click on Force Stop.
- Open Downloader and enter the latest APK URL in the search bar.
- When asked whether or not you need to replace the existing app, select Yes.
- Wait for a while, as the updated APK version is downloading.
- Complete the installation, and the latest FireStick VPN app is at your service.
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FAQs
Suppose you’ve jailbroken your FireStick just to access the apps that are not initially available. You have to be extra cautious while using FireStick as its default security will be weakened.
Security-focused VPNs offering top-notch VPNs are best in this case. You can place your bet on VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. All three comprise cutting-edge security protocols, military-grade encryption, protection against IP address leaks, and other advanced technologies essential to keep you protected while using a jailbroken FireStick.
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