The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s most powerful console yet, offering affordable gaming with access to top titles like Halo and Forza Horizon 5 through its Game Pass subscription. Many gamers look for the best VPN for Xbox to protect their privacy, prevent DDoS attacks, and ensure smooth gameplay.
The best VPN services such as ExpressVPN can help maintain low ping, stop bandwidth throttling, and give access to geoblocked content. Whether you want secure gaming or to play in unsupported regions, the right VPN makes all the difference. So, what’s the best option for Xbox Series X/S in 2024? Let’s explore!
- Overcome Geo-restriction: VPNs like ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, IPVanish, and PIA effectively unblock Xbox by masking your IP address, allowing seamless access to content.
- Speed and Performance: ExpressVPN stands out for its high-speed servers, ensuring smooth, buffer-free streaming in HD quality, making it ideal for Xbox.
- Security and Privacy: Top VPNs prioritize security with features like AES 256-bit encryption, no-logs policies, and kill switches, ensuring a safe streaming experience on Xbox.
Quick Overview – Best VPN for Xbox
Looking for the best VPN for Xbox? Here’s a list:
Why Do You Need a VPN for Xbox?
Privacy: When you use an Xbox for gaming or streaming, a VPN helps keep your online activities private. It encrypts all your web traffic and hides your IP address so that your internet provider can’t track what you’re doing.
Streaming: After a long gaming session, many people use their Xbox to stream shows and movies. A reliable VPN such as ExpressVPN can enhance your streaming experience by keeping it secure and private.
Quick Comparison Table: Best VPN for Xbox in 2024
Check out the latest comparison table for the best Xbox VPNs:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Speed (Mbps) | 92.26 | 81.32 | 83.82 | 86.75 | 65.78 |
| Total Country Servers | 105 countries | 100 countries | 61 countries | countries | 84 locations |
| Simultaneous connections | 8 | Unlimited | 10 | 7 | Unlimited |
| Pricing | $4.99/mo | $2.49/mo | $3.99/mo | $2.99/mo | $2.03/mo |
Best VPNs for Xbox in 2024 [In-Depth Analysis]
After carefully assessing 40+ VPN services for their speeds, unblocking strength, and security, I found the following five best VPN for Xbox. Let’s dive in to discuss them in detail:
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Xbox
ExpressVPN is the best VPN you can get for Xbox One consoles, thanks to its excellent unblocking ability and compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Even though it is not possible to use this VPN on Xbox directly, you can install ExpressVPN on your router quite easily with its Install Wizard feature that sets up ExpressVPN’s firmware on your router. The ExpressVPN Smart DNS feature lets you enable the VPN’s location-changing feature on your Xbox.
ExpressVPN offers thousands of servers in 105 countries, which is ideal for players to connect to game servers in various countries.
According to my ExpressVPN speed test, I received a download speed of 92.26 Mbps and an upload speed of 89.45 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
ExpressVPN’s downloading speeds enable easy, fast, and secure gaming.
ExpressVPN protects with security features, including split tunneling, 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a robust kill switch. Its Lightway protocol provides an extra layer of security and speeds up the communication process.
Discover the best hardware VPN solutions to ensure top-notch security, seamless connectivity, and ultimate protection for your network infrastructure.
Furthermore, ExpressVPN’s dedication to privacy is validated by a recent independent audit conducted by KPMG, which confirmed the integrity of their no-log policy through their TrustedServer technology.
Those users who wish to test the service out without commitment can do so through the ExpressVPN free trial for up to a week.
I have covered all its features in my detailed ExpressVPN review.
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Pros
Cons
Surfshark
Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN for Xbox
Surfshark is a great budget-friendly VPN for Xbox and Xbox Series X. Like most other VPNs, Surfshark doesn’t have an official Xbox app, but you can get Surfshark pre-configured on a router or use its comprehensive router setup tutorials.
Despite being a low-cost VPN, Surfshark offers high-speed servers with low latency. Surfshark offers 3200+ servers in 100 countries. As a result, you will have numerous options for switching to a different IP address and avoiding unforeseen DDoS attacks.
It was a seamless experience to connect to the New York server of Surfshark to unblock streaming platforms and gaming websites and download and play games online using Xbox.
According to my Surfshark speed test, I received a download speed of 81.32 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
This speed is good enough for lag-free gaming on Xbox.
The fact that the speed of Surfshark Xbox maintains an average of 81% of the original internet speeds is largely due to using the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. So, while playing games, you won’t notice any lagging or speed reductions.
Surfshark offers users a variety of security features, including a kill switch, Smart DNS, 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leak protection. It also offers premium features, including CleanWeb, MultiHop, and Whitelister.
Surfshark delivers apps compatible with macOS, Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux. It also offers users the ability to connect unlimited simultaneous devices, which makes it the best VPN for multiple devices.
To make the pot even sweeter, you can test the service out for free for up to a week through the Surfshark free trial.
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Pros
Cons
PIA
Private Internet Access – Reliable VPN for Xbox
Private Internet Access is a great and reliable VPN for Xbox with excellent encryption and security protocols.
Like most other VPNs, it has no official Xbox app, but you can use its comprehensive router setup tutorials. If you just want to change your location without encryption, you can also take advantage of the provider’s SmartDNS feature to enable VPN usage on your Xbox.
It is highly recommended for Xbox, thanks to its impressive server network of 35000+ servers in 84 countries that provide seamless access to geo-restricted content and fast speeds.
Gaming demands fast speeds for a buffer-free experience, and PIA delivers. The PIA speed test offered a download speed of 65.78 Mbps and an upload speed of 57.16 Mbps, you can enjoy a seamless internet experience with this reliable speed without lagging.
Using these speeds by PIA, I faced no buffering.
This means you can enjoy Ultra HD streaming on platforms like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and Peacock TV without the annoyance of buffering or interruptions.
PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections and supports various devices and operating systems, including Mac, Android, Windows, Linux, Kodi, Roku, FireStick, and more.
It comes with various security features to prevent DDoS attacks on your Xbox. PIA ensures your connection is secure with AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, strong OpenVPN encryption, and split tunneling. PIA’s MACE feature also blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites, ensuring a clean and secure streaming session.
PIA offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality and is affordable for users. Its plans are backed with a 30-day refund policy and 24/7 customer support if you need assistance. You can even test it out for free through the PIA free trial.
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Pros
Cons
NordVPN
NordVPN – Secure VPN for Xbox
NordVPN is the most secure VPN for Xbox thanks to its advanced security features and high-end encryption. It is the provider with the best router support. While it doesn’t have a native Xbox One app, it is compatible with numerous routers and offers detailed installation guides for 29 routers on its website.
If you don’t want to configure your router manually, NordVPN offers pre-flash routers for ease. If you only need to change your location, you can use the provider’s SmartDNS feature for VPN-like functionality on your Xbox.
It offers a huge server network of 6000+ secure servers across 61 countries worldwide, cutting-edge security features, and top-notch speeds.
To ensure lag-free gaming, NordVPN offers a dedicated protocol, NordLynx, which delivered a download speed of 88.18 Mbps and an upload speed of 80.13 Mbps during the NordVPN speed test on a 100 Mbps connection.
By consistently outperforming in the speed tests, NordVPN proved itself a genuine streaming VPN.
It also comes with some of the best security and privacy features, including an automatic kill switch, Double VPN, and DDoS protection, and it also supports Tor over VPN. With its DDoS protection feature, you can have your dedicated IP address and run your server for gaming.
Whether you’re using Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, or iOS, NordVPN has a custom app. It doesn’t have a native Xbox app, so you can not directly install NordVPN on Xbox. But it is the best VPN to produce compatibility with numerous devices, including Kodi, Roku, and Firestick.
You can even test the service out commitment-free for a week through the NordVPN free trial without subscribing to any package.
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Pros
Cons
IPVanish
IPVanish – Fastest VPN for Xbox
IPVanish is undoubtedly the fastest VPN for Xbox. It also offers high-speed servers and consistent connection speeds with low pings. With IPVanish, you don’t have to worry about getting slowed down or experiencing latency during online gaming.
IPVanish boasts an extensive server network with 2200+ servers in 75+ locations. This vast server fleet makes finding a location that suits your needs easy, allowing you to change your IP address while maintaining optimal speeds.
Speed is crucial for online gaming and browsing, and IPVanish delivers on this front. It utilizes the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, which top VPN providers commonly use.
During my IPVanish speed test, it proved to be incredibly fast, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking low ping. I recorded an impressive download speed of 86.75 Mbps and an upload speed of 73.67 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
No significant speed drop was recorded during IPVanish speed testing.
The VPN comes with several useful features. One notable feature is traffic obfuscation, which helps hide the fact that you are connected to a VPN. IPVanish also provides a reliable kill switch, which ensures that your internet connection is severed if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
It is also compatible with Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS. Speaking of connecting multiple devices simultaneously, IPVanish offers unlimited multi-logins.
The provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans, allowing you to try out the service and receive a refund if you want to cancel IPVanish subscription.
Still, if you would rather test the service out before committing, you can do so through the IPVanish free trial.
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Pros
Cons
How to Choose the Best VPNs for Xbox
Some features are essential in a VPN for Xbox if you want to use it for gaming:
- Easy to use – Xbox VPNs must be manually configured with wifi routers. The top Xbox VPNs include manual setup instructions for gaming consoles, making this easier to use. The assistance should be available 24/7 through email and chat help.
- Speed Performance- High-speed servers are essential for uninterrupted Xbox gameplay and streaming. I found the fastest VPNs for a smoother gaming experience on Xbox in NZ.
- Worldwide Servers – You may wish to unblock a country-specific Xbox app. For better speeds, connect to a server near you. The top Xbox VPNs provide servers in dozens of countries, making this easy.
- Security – Xbox Online poses security hazards, including DDoS and swatting. Use a VPN to encrypt your data and mask your IP address and location. All of my VPNs have kill switches and DNS leak prevention.
- Price- Despite delivering all of the above, the best Xbox VPNs are typically cheaper than those without these capabilities. You may test each VPN risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Customer Support- Ensure the VPN has a responsive support team, ideally available 24/7 via live chat or phone, to assist with any issues.
How to Install a VPN on Xbox
Gaming with a VPN becomes necessary when facing serious lag issues on your normal internet. Sometimes, your ISP may be throttling your connection for online gaming.
This is where a VPN comes in quite handy. Unfortunately, Xbox does not have native support for VPNs, and no VPN apps are available for the console. Now I know what you’re thinking, how to use a VPN on Xbox One when there’s no support for it?
Well, you’ll have to rely on indirect methods such as sharing a VPN with your computer or connecting your Xbox One setup to a VPN-enabled router, which can be done in just 5 minutes.
Here are some methods that will guide you on how to get VPN on Xbox:
Share Windows PC VPN Connection with Xbox:
To connect your Xbox to VPN, you must first ensure that your PC has a VPN installed in it. Subscribe to one if you don’t already have one. When you’re done with that, turn on your VPN by connecting to a suitable server, and you are ready to share the VPN on Xbox One.
- Connect an Ethernet cable between your VPN-enabled PC and Xbox One.
- On the start menu, search Run > Type cpl. This will open Network Connection settings.
- You should see a few Ethernet connections here. Right-click the one associated with your VPN and click Properties.
- Selecting Sharing tab > Check the box against the “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection” box.
- Now, click on the Select a private network connection box.
- Select your Xbox One Ethernet connection > Press OK.
- On your Xbox One controller, press the Xbox button.
- Press the RB button thrice.
- Select Settings > Network tab > Network settings > Test network connection.
- Leave the VPN running on your Windows PC to keep your Xbox One connected to a VPN for the duration of your whole session.
That’s it! This is how simple Xbox one VPN setup easy to make gaming more secure and unblock geo-restricted services.
Share Mac VPN Connection with Xbox:
Mac’s Xbox One VPN setup is similar to that of Windows and not difficult to do. Since there is no Xbox One VPN app, you must rely on your Mac to encrypt the connection.
To connect to VPN Xbox One, ensure you have a VPN installed and running on a Mac. From there, follow the steps below to lend a connection from your Mac to your Xbox.
- Connect an Ethernet cable between your Mac and Xbox.
- Navigate to System Preferences > Sharing and click on Internet Sharing from the list on the left of the screen.
- Click Wi-Fi from the share your connection from the drop-down.
- In the “To computers using” list, select Ethernet (if you are connected to the Internet on your Mac via Ethernet, you should share your connection using Wi-Fi instead).
- Check the box next to Internet Sharing on the list to share the VPN between your Mac and Xbox One. The icon will turn green if successfully enabled.
- Follow steps 6 to 9, like above, to successfully connect Xbox to a VPN.
Setting Up Xbox VPN on Router
Routers can be configured to work over a VPN, but only some router firmware and manufacturers support this. Here is how to use VPN on Xbox one with your router:
- Sign up for the best Xbox VPN (I recommend ExpressVPN).
- Go to your Router’s control panel.
- In the control panel, go to Network > Set up > Settings > WAN tab.
- Enter your VPN details (username, password, VPN server address).
- Press Confirm > Accept > Save > Close the control panel.
- Turn on your Xbox One > Go to Settings.
- Select Network.
- Click on Set Up wireless network (your Xbox will show you different wireless networks and ask: Which one is yours?).
- Select your Wi-Fi network and press connect. And that’s it; you are good to go!
Alternate Method: Utilize a Mobile Hotspot for Xbox VPN Connectivity
When looking to secure an Xbox with a VPN, an alternate method worth considering is using the mobile hotspot functionality on a Windows PC.
This approach is particularly useful for those who may not have a VPN-compatible router or prefer not to adjust their router settings. Follow the steps below.
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN.
- Navigate to the Settings” menu on the Windows PC, then select Network & Internet.”
- Choose the Mobile Hotspot” option from the sidebar and toggle it on to enable the feature.
- Access the Network and Sharing Center” and click on Change Adapter Settings” to locate the new mobile hotspot network. It will often be listed as Local Area Connection.”
- Right-click on the VPN connection adapter and open Properties.”
- Within the Sharing” tab, check the option to allow other network users to connect through the PC’s internet connection.
- From the dropdown menu, select the newly created mobile hotspot network.
- Activate the VPN service by connecting to a preferred server.
- Turn on the Xbox and go to the network settings to find and connect to the mobile hotspot network.
Differences in VPN setup for Xbox One vs Series X/S
Highlighting the difference, as it is important to consider your specific console model when setting up and optimizing a VPN for the best gaming experience in New Zealand.
| Aspect | Xbox One | Xbox Series X/S |
| Interface and Settings Navigation | Older interface with different steps to access network settings | Updated interface with slightly different navigation path for settings |
| Performance Optimization | May require more manual adjustments for optimal performance | Better hardware handles VPN connections more efficiently |
| Router Configuration | VPN setup typically done at the router level | VPN setup typically done at the router level; newer routers may offer advanced VPN features |
| Firmware Updates | Ensure the latest firmware for optimal compatibility | Frequent updates may improve network settings and VPN compatibility |
Tips for Optimizing VPN performance on Xbox
To optimize VPN performance on your Xbox, consider the following tips:
- Use a Wired Connection: Connect your Xbox to the router via Ethernet for stability.
- Select Nearby Servers: Choose VPN servers close to New Zealand for lower latency.
- Optimize Router Settings: Adjust router settings for optimal VPN performance.
- Close Background Applications: Ensure no other devices or apps are consuming bandwidth.
- Regularly Update VPN Software: Keep your VPN software up to date.
- Test Different Protocols: Experiment with different VPN protocols for speed.
Changing the Region on Xbox
Some apps for Xbox One can’t be downloaded unless your region is configured to the correct region. You will first need to change your region to gain access to apps only available within certain areas.
With these easy steps, not only can you use a VPN on Xbox, but you will not need any outside assistance either:
- Start your Xbox console.
- Select My Games and Apps from the Xbox Home Screen.
- Navigate to Apps -> Settings.
- Select System -> Language & Location.
- From Location, choose if you want to download your desired app.
- Restart your Xbox console and connect to a VPN-enabled connection using the same server as the region your Xbox is configured to.
- Now, search for the app you need and download it on Xbox.
Troubleshooting VPN issues on Xbox
If you’re experiencing problems with your VPN on Xbox, here are some concise troubleshooting tips:
- Check VPN Connection: Ensure the VPN is properly connected on your router.
- Restart Devices: Restart your Xbox and router to refresh connections.
- Update Firmware: Ensure your router’s firmware is up to date.
- Select Different Server: Try connecting to a different VPN server.
- Check Network Settings: Verify Xbox network settings are correctly configured.
- Contact VPN Support: Reach out to your VPN provider for assistance.
Can I Use a Free VPN for Xbox?
Yes, you can use a free Xbox VPN, like ProtonVPN, which allows for cost savings and access to geo-restricted content by masking your IP address. It also adds a layer of security and privacy to your gaming, offering some anonymity and protection against online threats.
However, be aware that free VPNs typically have limitations such as slower speeds due to high user traffic, fewer server locations, which may cause connectivity issues, and data caps that can hinder your gaming experience. Some free VPN services may also log and sell user data, potentially compromising your privacy and online security.
Therefore, I recommend using a premium VPN for Xbox series X, such as ExpressVPN.
VPNs to Avoid While Accessing Xbox
During my testing, I was able to find the best VPN for Xbox. However, not all are reliable or safe enough to be used VPNs for Xbox Live multiplayer in NZ are reliable or safe enough to be used:
Hola VPN:
Streaming or gaming on a Hola VPN might put your data in danger because Hola sells user activity behavior. It’s cheap, but it reveals all of your online activity, personal information, and credit card numbers. Read an in-depth review on Hola VPN to help you learn more.
Hoxx VPN:
Hoxx VPN has a terrible reputation for exposing user information. The problems with this VPN include slow connections, inability to connect to Xbox, and a lack of privacy. Read an in-depth review on Hoxx VPN to help you learn more.
HideMyAss:
This VPN has a large user base and promotes itself as the best free VPN for Xbox. Unfortunately, it did not perform well in my tests. There has been a background of unsecured information transfer and IP address disclosure. Read an in-depth review on HMA VPN to help you learn more.
More VPN Guides by VPNRanks
- Best Firestick VPN: Secure your Firestick streaming experience with reliable VPNs.
- Best Apple TV VPN: Stream your cherished content on Apple TV.
- Best VPN for iPad: Enhance your iPad experience with a premium VPN.
- Best iPhone VPNs: Experience seamless privacy on your iPhone with a top VPN solution.
- Best VPN for Mac: Unleash boundless possibilities on your Mac with a VPN.
FAQs – Best VPN for Xbox
What VPN works best on Xbox?
ExpressVPN is the top choice for Xbox due to its fast speeds, clear setup, strong security, and great geo-unblocking. NordVPN and Surfshark are great for speed and value, and Proton offers a reliable free option.
Can I put a VPN on my Xbox?
You can’t install a VPN app directly on Xbox, but you can set it up on your router or share the VPN connection from your PC to enjoy VPN benefits on your console.
Can you play Xbox Game Pass with a VPN?
Yes, using a VPN can lower ping and help access Xbox Game Pass in regions where it may not be available or has limited servers.
Is there a free VPN for Xbox?
Yes, there are free VPNs for Xbox. Proton is a reliable option for gaming and streaming at no cost.
Does ExpressVPN work on Xbox?
Yes, it works on all Xbox models. Just install ExpressVPN on your router or PC, then connect your Xbox to the network.
Does NordVPN work on Xbox?
NordVPN is compatible with Xbox when set up on a router or shared via PC.
Will using a VPN for Xbox increase my ping and slow down my internet?
Some VPNs can slow your connection, but ExpressVPN maintains fast speeds, especially with a nearby server. It can even reduce ping if your ISP throttles your connection.
Can I install a VPN directly on Xbox?
No, Xbox doesn’t support VPN apps directly. However, you can connect your Xbox to a VPN through your router or by sharing your PC’s VPN connection.
Why should I use a VPN on my Xbox console?
A VPN stops bandwidth throttling, helps access blocked streaming apps, and protects against DDoS and cyber-attacks. With a VPN, you can enjoy faster speeds, access geo-restricted content, and enhance your online security.
Wrapping Up!
Gaming consoles like the PS4 and Xbox are more than just gaming devices—they support 4K streaming, allowing you to watch ultra HD movies. But sometimes, the games and movies you want to enjoy are restricted based on your location, limiting what you can see and play. To get the most out of your console and protect your privacy, using the best VPN for Xbox is a smart move.
ExpressVPN is a fantastic option for Xbox users. It provides strong security features that keep you safe from cyberattacks, ensures fast speeds, and makes it easy to access content from around the world without any hassle.
Recent Comments 5
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