Thursday, March 23, 2023

How To Connect Amazon Fire Stick To VPN

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If you connect to a public wi-fi network any other user could access your browsing information. If youre not using an encrypted connection a malicious user with easily available tools can find out websites you visit, your username and passwords, personal details including your name and address and videos you download and stream.

Anyone connecting to public wi-fi should use a VPN which will encrypt and hide all your browsing activity.

A VPN will also mask your online activity if you connect via your home or work internet provider. This is particularly important in countries such as the US where ISPs can legally sell and share your data with other organizations. This data includes sites you visit and the content you stream. Weve tested the best VPNs for security and privacy and NordVPN is our #1 choice for Firestick users.

General Firestick VPN Troubleshooting Tips

Most of you will never need these, but just in case TROYPOINT has you covered.

  • If your IPVanish Firestick/Fire TV/Fire TV Cube VPN application is not connecting, go into Settings / VPN Protocol and change to OpenVPN or OpenVPN , whichever one isnt currently active
  • Restart both your Fire TV/Stick and router by unplugging from power, let sit for a minute and then plug back in.
  • If your download speed seems slow or you are experiencing buffering, choose a different server, close to where you are located within the VPN application. Keep in mind that there are multiple servers available for each location and you can try each of them to see which provides better results.
  • Uninstall the IPVanish VPN app on the Fire TV or Fire TV Stick by going into Settings / Applications / Manage Applications / IPVanish and then click uninstall. After you have removed the VPN, reinstall with the guide above.
  • If the IPVanish application doesnt appear in Amazon App Store on your device, follow the screenshot guide above for installing through the Downloader app.
  • If you forgot or lost your IPVanish password, you can reset it by clicking the Forgot Password link within the login area on the IPVanish Website.
  • No VPN will work on the 1st Generation Firestick due to low processing power.
  • If you need help with something, send IPVanish an email at and include TROYPOINT in the subject line for an expedited reply.

What Else Can A Fire Stick VPN Do

While the monthly cost of your Fire Stick VPN might be worth it purely for the extra content you can access, all of the options on this list can be installed on a range of devices, too.

Install a VPN on your PC, and you can torrent and stream in safety, plus avoid network throttling and sidestep sneaky trackers and hackers.

On your mobile device, you can also connect to vulnerable public Wi-Fi networks without worry, as all your traffic will be encrypted and anonymous.

Recommended Reading: How To Change VPN Location On Mac

How To Install Tunnelbear On Amazon Firestick

The installation process of TunnelBear on Amazon Fire Stick is a bit more complicated than your usual VPN installation for the device. Why? Because the provider does not have an application for the platform. As such, youll need to set it up using its Android APK.

Below are all the steps needed to get TunnelBear running on your Fire TV Stick:

Installing The Android App With An Apk

Cómo configurar Fire TV y Fire TV Stick: Tutorial rápido y ...

The second method involves using an APK from the NordVPN website to install the Andriod version of the app onto your device. Be advised that this method is mostly obsolete and rather difficult because it doesnt work with the official Fire Stick remote.

  • From the home screen, go to Settings > Device and scroll down until you find the Developer options.
  • Enable the Apps from unknown sources and ADB debugging options.
  • Go back to the home screen, search for the app and download it onto your device.
  • Allow Downloader to access your files.
  • In the Downloader app, enter the URL of the NordVPN APK. This will open a browser that will allow you to download and install the APK file.
  • Return to the home page and go to Settings > Applications > Manage installed applications.
  • Find the NordVPN app and launch it.
  • This is where youll notice that the app is not supported by the official remote. You will either need to use a virtual remote with something like CetusPlay or Remote for Fire TV. Alternatively, you can use a Bluetooth mouse.
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    Nordvpn Best VPN For Fire Stick

    Unblocks: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Youtube
    Servers/countries: 5500+ servers in 59 countries
    SmartDNS:

    This provider is our best overall choice, so it’s not shocking to see it at the top of this list as well. NordVPN offers some of the industry’s best speeds, which will let you stream in HD or 4K provided that your connection is decent. We tested it on Amazon Firestick and the speeds were really good.

    However, if you still need more performance use the SmartPlay feature. This way, your traffic won’t be encrypted while you can still unblock geo-restricted content.

    Furthermore, NordVPN is great for Netflix and other streaming platforms. You’ll be able to unblock YouTube, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and HBO, among others. With 5,400+ servers in 59 countries, you shouldn’t have a problem withchoosing the desired local version to watch.

    The app is available on the Amazon Appstore, so don’t panic if you can’t find it on the NordVPN.com website.

    Many best VPN for Amazon Fire Stick and Fire TV lists include Surfshark, and the reasons are pretty obvious. For starters, this provider allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Therefore, you can have as many devices as you want, while the opponents above offer 5 to 6 slots.

    • Fewer features than top choices
    • No stealth VPN

    Install VPN On Firestick With Es Explorer

    Before I tell you in detail how you can install Amazon Fire TV VPN without root, I must tell you that not all VPN providers Ive tested worked properly on the Fire TV. IPVanish was the best of the bunch. So, if you want to enable VPN on your device, Id suggest subscribing to IPVanish. Once done, follow these steps.

    Read Also: How To Change VPN For Pokemon Go

    Buy An Amazon Fire TV Stick

    The award-winning Fire TV Stick streaming devices each plug into the back of a set and give you access to streaming video and Alexa voice support through an included remote control.

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    The main difference between them is that the slightly more expensive Fire TV is capable of 4K HDR video playback, while the Stick offers a maximum of 1080p video.

    Install A VPN App On Your Amazon Fire TV Stick

    How to Install a VPN on Amazon Fire TV Stick to Watch Netflix

    Both ExpressVPN and IPVanish have an app you can download onto your Fire TV Stick. We used ExpressVPN as an example in the following steps.

  • Look for ExpressVPN in your Fire TV Stick app library.
  • Open the ExpressVPN app an fill in your personal information to log into your ExpressVPN account. Dont have an account yet? Go to their website to create one.
  • Once you have filled in your login information the app is activated. Now you have to change some settings. An automatic message from ExpressVPN will pop up. Click ok.
  • In the pop-up, ExpressVPN asks if you are okay with the fact that they want to connect via a VPN. Click ok.
  • Now ExpressVPN will ask you if you would like to, anonymously, share information with them so they can improve their services. This is optional, so you can either click allow or dont allow.
  • The app is now installed and ready for use. When you open the app you will see if it is turned on or off. Once you have pressed the button your VPN is working and you can stream safely and anonymously on your Amazon Fire TV Stick.
  • To disconnect, simply press the same button again in your ExpressVPN app.
  • Optional: For the purpose of bypassing geographical restrictions you can select a server in a different country. In the ExpressVPN app you click the button that says choose location and select the server you want to connect to.
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    Install A VPNs Apk File With A Direct Download

    This method works with any APK file that isnt available on Fire TVs App Store. If your VPN has an APK file available on its website, we recommend downloading it directly from the site rather than through other sites.

    • Search for Downloader on your Fire TV or TV Stick
    • Once downloading has finished, click open to launch the Downloader app.
    • Once the app is open, enter the direct download URL for the VPNs APK file. Youll typically find this on the VPN providers Android app pages.
    • As the app was downloaded through another app, i.e. Downloader, the VPN wont show up in the Apps menu. Instead, youll need to find it in Settings.
    • Go to Settings and then Applications.
    • Sign in to your VPN app.
    • Select a VPN location in the US and click Connect.

    How To Update The App After I Install VPN On Firestick Or Fire TV

    After installing VPN on Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, or Fire TV Cube, you cant leave your VPN just like that. You should make sure that your VPN client gets regular updates from the service provider to keep your device secure.

    However, unless you install the VPN app from the official Amazon App Store, your app wont likely receive updates.

    So, what should you do then?

    Dont worry you can still update them manually and keep your streaming experience safe and private. Just follow these steps.

    • Open your Fire TV and go to the Settings menu from the home screen.
    • Go to the Applications, and then select the Manage installed applications menu.
    • Lookup for the VPN app you installed. Tap on Force stop once you find it.
    • Repeat the method you used before to install the same VPN again.
    • As the app already exists on your device, you will see a prompt asking you to install the updated app version to the existing version with all new permissions. Thats what you exactly want here. So, tap on Yes to allow the update.
    • Once done, sign in back to your VPN to enjoy a safe streaming experience again.

    You can periodically check the app version on your device and the one on the Google Play Store to ensure that you have the latest version running on your device. Whenever you spot a difference, install the updates via the method I just described.

    Also Check: How To Change Country In Google Play Store Using VPN

    Recommended: Install Nordvpn On Firestick In 1 Minute

    The NordVPN app is available on the Fire TV and Fire TV Sticks default app store. If you have a NordVPN subscription and a 2nd-generation Fire TV Stick or later, heres how to install a VPN on Amazon Firestick or Fire TV:

  • Starting from the home screen, go to Apps > Categories > Utility or run a search for VPN
  • Select NordVPN from the list
  • Click the yellow button next to Get to download and install the app
  • Once the app is installed, click the yellow button next to Open on the same page to launch NordVPN
  • Enter your NordVPN account username and password and log in. This is a pain with the remote control but you should only need to do it once.
  • Either click the Connect button to connect to the VPN right away, or select a specific server location to connect to.
  • And thats it! Your connection will be established after a few moments. You can now leave the VPN app running in the background while you stream.

    Although NordVPN is our favorite VPN for Firestick, ExpressVPN, IPVanish, CyberGhost, and a few other great VPNs now also have apps on the Fire TV app store. If you want to know how to install another app, however, weve got instructions for that below.

    Important reminder: If youre currently running a side-loaded APK installation of NordVPN for Firestick , you WILL NOT be able to receive app updates from the Amazon App Store. Instead, you must first uninstall the NordVPN APK before downloading the new native app.

    What To Do If Your VPN Isnt Working On Fire Stick

    Best VPN services for Amazon Fire Stick and Fire TV

    If you have successfully installed your VPN onto your Amazon Fire Stick, then it should work. If you are experiencing connection problems, we recommend taking the following steps:

  • Try a different VPN server. Some servers may be slower than others, so test a few.

  • Test a different encryption protocol.

  • Shut down your Fire Stick and restart it to refresh the devices settings. Leave it switched off for a couple of minutes before restarting it.

  • Uninstall the VPN app and reinstall it. Check with your VPN provider to ensure you have the latest version.

  • Contact your VPNs customer support for advice.

  • Written by:Ray Walsh

    Digital privacy expert with 5 years experience testing and reviewing VPNs. He’s been quoted in The Express, The Times, The Washington Post, The Register, CNET & many more.

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    How To Set Up A VPN On Your Amazon Fire TV Stick

    Keeping your binge-watch private is easier than you think.

    Setting up a VPN on your Amazon Fire TV Stick is an easy way to protect your privacy.

    Finally found the right virtual private network for your Amazon Fire TV Stick or Fire TV? Excellent. Getting the VPN installed and running is easier than you think. And doing so is a good idea, because it both helps you get around regional restrictions on streaming services and protects your privacy from your internet service provider and advertisers.

    Keep in mind that not all VPNs work with . Likewise, not all Amazon Fire TV Sticks are going to work with your VPN. The VPNs we most recommend for this platform, however, will all at least work with second generation Sticks or later.

    You can also check out our full list of best VPNs for 2021, where you’ll find bullet points beside each VPN, listing the platforms it’s compatible with.

    Here’s the easiest way to install your VPN on your Amazon Fire TV Stick.

    How To Install VPN Unlimited On Amazon Fire Stick

    VPN Unlimited can be installed on your Fire Stick in two ways. Whichever method you utilize is alright because both are easy. However, if ever you need assistance, its best to contact customer service or tap into VPN Unlimiteds rather large online knowledgebase.

    Heres every step needed to install VPN Unlimited on Amazon Fire TV Stick:

    Also Check: Best Free VPN For Xbox One

    How Did We Pick The Best VPN For Firestick And Why I Choose Expressvpn Over Other VPNs

    When I first started writing this guide, I had the idea to round up multiple VPNs here. I quickly realized that putting 10 VPNs on this list will only lead to more confusion and have you guessing which one to buy. To make things easier for you, I decided I would rather talk about the top 5 VPNs in this tutorial.

    It took me a while to pick the best from the lot. I tested several VPNs several times before arriving at a conclusion. Here are some of the most important factors I considered before reaching the verdict.

    Updating Your Firestick VPN App

    How to use our VPN on your Amazon Fire Stick

    One hassle you might encounter with sideloaded Google Play apps and direct download APKs is that they dont automatically receive updates. If you have a working stable version and its secure, then this isnt so much of a problem. But occasionally you might be forced to update the app. You can compare versions between the about or information page in the installed app versus the version number listed on Google Play.

    The process is more or less the same as the steps you took in either method #1 or #2. However, before you begin, its important to force stop the existing VPN app.

  • From the Fire TV home screen, go to Settings > Applications > Manage installed applications
  • Find your VPN app, click it, and choose Force stop
  • Use method #1 or #2 to push the app onto your Fire TV and install it
  • This time, a page will appear that asks if you want to install an update to the existing application along with any new permissions. Select Yes
  • After the update, you will have to log back into the app using the steps in the previous section.
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    Best VPNs For Amazon Prime Video In 2021

    The free VPN plans we recommend are trustworthy providers that don’t skimp on privacy, which means that they are 100% secure. However, please bear in mind that studies have shown that the vast majority of free VPNs are untrustworthy. Many contain malware and spyware, have poor privacy policies and falsely advertise the level of encryption they provide. For this reason, it is essential that you stick to our recommended free VPNs.

    Jailbreak Your Amazon Fire Stick Now

    If you want to jailbreak your Fire Stick so you can download typically unavailable apps, a VPN can help you access them quickly and safely.

    My recommendation is ExpressVPN because its extensive server network can connect you anywhere you need while protected by its military-grade encryption. You can try the VPN out risk-free and see if its right for you. Its backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.

    Recommended Reading: How To Setup VPN On Att Uverse Router

    Sideloading Using A VPN App Apk

    If youve chosen a VPN service that doesnt offer a custom app for Firestick, its still possible to install it with a little bit of work. Firstly, you need to change your Firesticks settings so it will allow you to install third-party apps.

  • Once youve booted up your Fire TV or Fire TV Stick, navigate to Settings and then Device
  • Locate Developer Options and toggle on both of them Debugging and Apps from Unknown Sources
  • Go back to the System menu, click About and then select Network
  • Note down the IP address of your Fire TV or Fire TV Stick and set it to one side
  • Your Firestick will now allow you to install apps that arent available on Amazons App Store.

    Once youve completed the steps listed above, you then need to check if your chosen VPN service makes its Android APK file available to download directly from its website. You should only download these types of files directly from your VPN provider any third-party files could be infected with malware and damage your device.

    For this method to work, youll need a second-generation Firestick and a download URL for the APK file of your VPN service.

  • Open your Fire TV, search for Downloader and install the Downloader App
  • Run Downloader App and enter the download URL for your VPNs APK file
  • Once the download is finished, youll see a prompt to install the app. If this doesnt happen, open the downloads section in Downloader and select the APK file
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