How to Install Kodi on Firestick — Easy 2024 Guide

Kodi isn't available in the Amazon Appstore, but that doesn't mean you can't use it on your Firestick. In fact, installing Kodi on Firestick is pretty straightforward and only requires a few additional steps to sideload it onto your device.

That said, installing Kodi on your Firestick comes with its own set of risks. Sideloading unofficial apps can make your device vulnerable to security threats and can put your online privacy at risk. Below, I’ve shared an easy guide for installing Kodi on Firestick without compromising your online safety.

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3 Ways to Install Kodi on Firestick

How to Install Kodi on Firestick With Downloader App

The Kodi app for Firestick isn’t an official app from the Amazon Appstore, and Fire TV devices don’t allow downloading from unofficial sources. So, you need to adjust the default settings 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. 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.
  Click this tab to find the Developer options settings
• 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.
  Next to the Alexa tab, you'll find the Preferences option
• (Optional) Get back Developer options. Amazon has hidden the Developer options on some devices. In case you don’t see it on your Firestick, go to About, then repeatedly tap on the Fire TV Stick button (about 7 times) until you receive a notification saying, "No need, you are already a developer." This will enable the Developer options, and you can allow apps from unknown sources.
• Go back to the Settings menu. Find Preferences and click on it.
  This is a good idea for any Firestick owner, regardless of if you’re installing Kodi
• Select Privacy Settings. From the list that appears, turn off both Device Usage Data and Collect App Usage Data.
  This is a good idea for any Firestick owner, regardless of if you’re installing Kodi

2. 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 - it should only take a minute

3. 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. 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.

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 are a few snags — 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. Plus, we found that it’s not available worldwide. I couldn’t find it on the Appstore in India, while my colleague in the UK found it easily.

Similar to the Downloader method, you need to go to the Settings tab of your device to allow the installation of unofficial apps.

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 home page and search for “ES File Explorer.”
  It should be the first option in the results if it’s available in your country
• 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 on 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. Click Install and hit Install again when prompted. That’s it! 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 in the Amazon Appstore. However, you can sideload it on your Firestick with apps like Downloader. Just make sure to use a reliable VPN to protect your privacy, 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.
  Then, wait a few seconds for the installation process to finish
• Install Kodi. Go back into AppStarter and click Updates. You should see Kodi listed on the menu. From here, click the Install button next to Kodi.
  It’s always worth checking that you’re using the most recent version of AppStarter, too
• Open Kodi. Wait for the Ready to launch! notification. After that, you can watch your favorite shows and movies from Kodi on your Firestick.

Alternative Methods to Installing Kodi on Firestick

If you're looking for more ways to install Kodi on your Firestick, there are several alternative methods you can try, each involving a sideloading app. These apps include FireDL, Apps2Fire, Unlinked, FileSynced, Aptoide TV, and AppLinked. Here’s a general guide that encapsulates the key steps common to these methods:

1. Prepare your Firestick. First, ensure your Firestick allows installations from unknown sources. Go to your Firestick settings, select My Fire TV, navigate to Developer Options, and enable Apps from Unknown Sources.
2. Download a sideloading app. These methods require a sideloading app like Downloader, FireDL, Apps2Fire, or AppLinked. Choose one based on your preference and install it on your Firestick. These apps allow you to download and install other apps that are not available on the Amazon Appstore, including Kodi.
3. Enter the Kodi download URL. Once you've installed a sideloading app, enter the URL for the Kodi installation file. This URL might vary slightly depending on the sideloading app you are using, but it typically leads to the latest version of Kodi.
4. Install and launch Kodi. After entering the URL, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install Kodi. Once the installation is complete, open Kodi from your Firestick applications menu and start streaming your favorite platforms.

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How to Stay Safe While Using Kodi on Firestick

Kodi can turn your Firestick into a powerful streaming tool, but it's important to be mindful of safety and privacy. Here are some tips to ensure a secure experience with Kodi on your Firestick:

• Use verified addons. Stick to Kodi addons that have a strong reputation for safety and reliability. Unverified addons can be risky, as they might not have robust security measures and could expose you to vulnerabilities.
• Keep Kodi updated. Regularly update Kodi to the latest version. Updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities. Staying current helps minimize the risk of security threats.
• Secure your Wi-Fi connection. Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is secure. Using Kodi on an unsecured or public Wi-Fi network increases the risk of your data being intercepted. Always use a password-protected network for streaming.
• Use a VPN. A VPN is essential when streaming with Kodi. It hides your real IP address, encrypts your internet traffic, and protects your online activities from prying eyes (including your ISP). This is especially important since Kodi streams content from various sources, some of which may not be secure.
• Be wary of pirated content. Avoid streaming pirated content on Kodi. Not only is it illegal, but such content often comes with increased risks like malware or exposure to unsafe links. Before watching anything, check that it’s being offered through a legitimate streaming service or it’s in the public domain.
• Regularly review privacy settings. Periodically check and adjust the privacy settings on your Kodi app to ensure you’re comfortable with the level of data sharing and access permissions.

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Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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FAQs on Installing Kodi on Firestick

Is it safe to install Kodi on Firestick?

Yes, it is safe to install Kodi on your Firestick. However, I recommend using it alongside a reliable VPN with strong security features. Kodi itself is a reputable, open-source media player that many users trust for its versatility and customization options. When properly installed and used, Kodi can significantly enhance your streaming experience on Firestick.

That said, you have to be careful with unofficial Kodi addons some may contain malware or snoop on your connection while you stream, which is why I recommend using a highly secure VPN to keep your data and activity private.

Can I install any Kodi addon on a Firestick?

Yes, you can install virtually any Kodi addon on a Firestick. These addons can enhance your streaming experience by letting you watch various types of content, from live TV and sports to movies and TV shows. However, it's important to be discerning about which addons you choose to install.

Stick to reputable and reliable addons to ensure a safe streaming experience. Some addons may not be officially supported, could offer pirated content, or may even contain malware. Always consider the security and legality of the addons you install on your Kodi setup.

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, Pluto TV, SportsHD iPlayer WWW, and Real-Debrid (an unlimited downloader that lets you enjoy Kodi buffer-free). However, some Kodi addons could potentially log user data. So, I recommend using a VPN with strong security and privacy features to keep your data safe.

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. 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 to update Kodi on Firestick to the latest version?

Updating Kodi on your Firestick is pretty straightforward. Simply download the latest Kodi APK through your chosen sideloading app (like Downloader) and install it. Some sideloading apps like AppStarter will let you click a button to check for and install any updates, so you won’t have to reinstall Kodi each time.

This will update your Kodi install to the newest version while typically keeping your existing addons and configurations intact. This way, you can enjoy the latest features and security updates of Kodi without starting from scratch. Remember, regular updates are key to a smooth and secure Kodi experience.

What are the best Kodi builds for Firestick?

Choosing the best Kodi builds for your Firestick depends on your streaming preferences. Whatever build you choose, it’s important to use a VPN with Kodi. A VPN not only protects your privacy but also ensures a smoother streaming experience without ISP throttling.

Some of the popular Kodi builds include Titanium Build, No Limits Magic Build, and Xanax Build. Titanium Build offers a wide range of entertainment choices. No Limits Magic Build stands out for its user-friendly interface and diverse streaming options. Xanax Build is known for its lightweight design, making it easy to use.

Each build has unique addons and features, so consider your streaming preferences and the build's compatibility with the latest Kodi version on Firestick.

How do I fix Kodi if it stops working on Firestick?

If you’ve installed Kodi on your Firestick and it stops working, there are several steps you can try to resolve the issue:

• Update Kodi. Ensure Kodi is updated to the latest version. Outdated versions may lead to compatibility issues or bugs.
• Reinstall Kodi. Sometimes, a fresh install can resolve issues related to corrupted files or improper installation. Uninstall Kodi and then reinstall it using a sideloading app like Downloader.
• Clear cache. Over time, Kodi’s cache can become cluttered. Clearing it can improve performance and might fix issues that cause Kodi to stop working.
• Check addons and builds. If you’ve recently installed new addons or builds, they could be the cause of the problem. Try removing them to see if Kodi's performance improves.
• Reset Kodi to default settings. If other methods fail, consider resetting Kodi to its default settings. This will remove all your addons and configurations, so use this as a last resort.
• Check the Kodi Wiki. The Troubleshooting section contains a ton of guides to help you fix problems with your Kodi installation. If you still can’t find an answer, then it also has links to various support channels where you can ask the community.

Conclusion

Installing Kodi on your Firestick might seem complex, but it’s actually fairly simple. By following our guide, you can have Kodi up and running in just a few minutes.

However, it's important to be mindful of privacy and security risks while using Kodi since you'll be dealing with third-party addons that aren't verified by the Amazon Appstore. Being selective about what you install is key to maintaining a safe and enjoyable streaming experience with Kodi on your Firestick.