How to Install a VPN on Fire Stick & Amazon Devices in 2024

Installing a VPN on Fire Stick is straightforward, provided that you have the right VPN. VPNs give you privacy on streaming platforms and Kodi. However, not all VPNs have apps for Fire Stick, and some are too slow to support UHD streaming.

My team and I tested 60+ VPNs on Fire Stick, Fire TV, and Fire Cube and shortlisted services that are fast enough for streaming in the highest quality. And because they all have global server networks, they also work with regional streaming platforms and libraries.

My favorite Fire Stick VPN is ExpressVPN. It has a bespoke app for Fire devices, and its UHD-friendly speeds are ideal for streaming. What’s more, its robust security protects you on Kodi and IPTV. You can even try ExpressVPN completely risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group. 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.

Try ExpressVPN for Fire Stick >>

Why You Need a VPN for Fire Stick

A VPN safeguards your data from anyone monitoring your network, securing your Amazon Fire Stick activity from online surveillance. It does this by encrypting your traffic and providing a new IP address. This also prevents ISPs from throttling your speeds. This way, VPNs keep your Fire Stick streaming activities private and fast.

However, only the best VPNs for Firestick with servers worldwide can bypass geo-restrictions to safely access popular streaming platforms, like Netflix, from anywhere. Make sure to choose a VPN that’s simple to set up and use with a native Fire Stick app. This allows for secure HD streaming without hassle, even if you’re a VPN beginner.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Fire Stick in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

How to Install a VPN on Fire Stick — Step-By-Step Guide

The easiest method is to get a VPN that offers a native app in the Amazon Appstore, like those listed above. It just means you don't have to configure anything manually and can get straight to streaming on your Fire Stick.

Secondly, make sure your Fire device supports VPNs (1st-gen Fire Sticks don’t) and that you’ve chosen the right provider.

1. Search for the VPN app. Go to the search bar on your device’s home page and look for the VPN app. If it doesn’t show up, you’ll need to use the second method. I recommend ExpressVPN as it has a native Fire Stick app.
   ExpressVPN's native Fire TV Stick app is easy to install and use
2. Download and launch the app. Click the Download button and give it a minute to install. Find the app in your application list and open it.
3. Log into your account. In order to use the VPN app, you need to log in with the credentials you used to set up your VPN subscription.
   Simply launch the app and input your login details to start
4. Connect and start streaming. To get the fastest speeds and the best streaming quality, pick the closest server possible.
   Click the connect button and your Fire viewing will be protected and private

Install a VPN on Fire Stick Using the APK File

If the VPN doesn’t offer a native app, you can manually download the VPN’s APK file. VPNs that offer this will provide the downloadable file on their website. For example, you can download ExpressVPN’s APK file directly from its website. I don’t recommend downloading APK files from a third-party website, as these may be modded or contain malware.

1. Set up the permissions. Before you install any APKs on your Amazon Fire TV Stick, you need to go to the settings tab, then My Fire TV, and find the Developer Options. You will see an option called Install unknown apps — click on it and turn it on. If you wish, you can deactivate it after you install the VPN.Installing third-party apps that are unavailable in the Amazon Appstore means you might need to jailbreak your Fire Stick.
   This is known as "jailbreaking" your Fire Stick, but it's allowed in Amazon's Terms & Conditions
2. Get the Downloader app. You can find this app by searching "Downloader" in the search feature on your Fire device. Follow the prompts to download it. Then, click Open to start the app.
   Downloader is free, and allows you to install apps that aren't on the official App Store
3. Download the VPN’s APK file. Most VPN providers will provide a link for an APK file download directly on their website. Copy and paste this link in the Downloader app, and you should see the install option. If not, navigate to your list of downloads in the Downloader app and click the APK file from there.
   I was able to find ExpressVPN’s APK file link on its website, on the Android download page
4. Launch the VPN. Since you installed the VPN through another app, you’ll find it under Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications.
5. Sign in to your VPN app. Use the credentials you signed up with.
   I was able to find ExpressVPN’s APK file link on its website, on the Android download page
6. Connect and start streaming. The fastest server will be selected by default (usually the nearest).

Install a VPN on Fire Stick With Your Router

If your VPN doesn’t have an APK file, you may be able to set it up on a router. The major advantage is that all your devices that connect to the router can use the VPN connection. However, you’ll need a VPN that is compatible with routers — I recommend ExpressVPN since it provides native apps for several different router models.

Below are guidelines for setting up ExpressVPN on Linksys routers. Keep in mind that the VPN router setup process is different for various VPNs, and the process differs based on the particular model of your router. As a result, a universal, step-by-step manual for each model is not feasible. Nevertheless, if your router model is compatible, you can generally locate tailored instructions on the VPN provider's website.

1. Download the ExpressVPN firmware. You can download it from the ExpressVPN website. To do that, go to your Dashboard, click Set up other devices, and select Routers. Under the Firmware download section, select your router model from the list and click Download Firmware.
2. Connect your router to the internet. After that, connect the device on which you downloaded the firmware to the router. Ignore this step if already connected.
3. Install the VPN firmware. In your web browser’s address bar, enter 192.168.1.1. If prompted, enter your router credentials to sign in. On the admin panel, click Connectivity, select Choose File, and select the firmware you just downloaded. Then click Start. Follow the prompts to finish the installation process and initiate a reboot of the router.
4. Complete the setup on the router. Connect your device to the router. Once connected, you should see your router’s setup page. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the VPN setup, and you’re all set.
5. Use the router app. With the router app, you can easily change any settings or switch locations as needed for your Fire Stick.

Install a VPN on Fire Stick Using a Hotspot

The virtual router method setup is a bit complicated, and it slows down your speeds, so I don’t recommend it. If your VPN provider doesn’t have an app or a downloadable APK file, I suggest switching to a VPN provider that has a native app for Fire Stick.

Windows

1. Connect your VPN. VPNs offer multiple server locations that can easily access popular streaming platforms available on Fire Stick.
2. Navigate to Network settings. On your PC, open Network settings, choose the Mobile Hotspot option, and turn it on.
3. Scroll down to related settings. Under this, go into Adapter options, which will open a window called Network Connections. Here, you’ll see a network called Local Area Connection #.
4. Locate your VPN connection. Use your VPN’s name to access this (e.g., “ExpressVPN Wintun Driver”). Then, right-click to open Properties.
5. Allow sharing. Go into the sharing tab, and check the box that says Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection.
6. Go into Home Networking Connection. Select the name of the mobile hotspot (Local Area Connection #) and click OK.
7. Set up your Fire Stick connection. On your Fire Stick, navigate to Settings > Network and then connect to your PC’s network.
8. Start streaming on your Fire Stick. Your VPN is now connected to your Fire Stick by using your PC as a mobile hotspot.

macOS

1. Share your internet connection. On your macOS device, navigate to System Preferences > Sharing > Internet Sharing. Under Share your connection from, select your VPN. Under To computers using, choose WiFi.
2. Create a name and password. Click WiFi options and choose any name you wish for your password and hotspot connection. If you see a pop-up that says, To share your Internet connection, you must turn on WiFi, click Turn WiFi On.
3. Turn on Internet Sharing. If you see a pop-up saying, Are you sure you want to turn on Internet sharing?, click Start.
4. Connect your VPN. Open up the VPN app on your Mac. Nearby servers usually give the best speeds.
5. Set up your Fire Stick connection. Go to Settings > Network, and then connect to the network you just set up.
6. Start streaming on Fire Stick. Your Fire Stick is now connected to your VPN by using your Mac’s mobile hotspot.

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.

Best VPNs for Fire Stick Streaming in 2024

My listed VPNs offer native Fire Stick apps that are easy to install and use. Plus, they have servers worldwide and fast speeds to stream uninterrupted from anywhere. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of my top picks:

1. ExpressVPN — Most Convenient to Install and Use on Fire Stick

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN offers an easy-to-install Fire Stick app that you can download directly from the Amazon Appstore. It’s simple to navigate, and you can even configure shortcuts to your favorite streaming apps. For older Fire Sticks, you can easily install ExpressVPN on a compatible router since it offers custom firmware and apps, something that VPNs rarely offer. During my tests, the router app made it easy to change settings and locations (with most VPNs, this is a cumbersome manual process).

It’s also the fastest VPN I’ve ever used. I got an average download speed of 120.23Mbps — just 4% below my base connection. Furthermore, a ping of just 8ms is ideal for Fire Stick gaming, and I could play Horizon Chase Turbo smoothly and with zero lag. Also, its global server network covering 105 countries offers secure access to popular streaming libraries from anywhere.

The subscriptions can be a little pricey, starting at $4.99/month. However, you can test out ExpressVPN’s features risk-free on your Fire Stick since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t set your heart on fire, getting a refund is easy. I tested this myself using 24/7 live chat. The agent quickly approved my refund, and I had my money back in 2 days.

2. CyberGhost — Specialty Servers for Streaming on Fire Devices

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has a collection of streaming and torrenting-optimized servers. The torrenting servers are designed to boost P2P speeds, so they are ideal for streaming content with Kodi or IPTV. The streaming servers work reliably with platforms on Fire Stick. I used the Hulu Fire Stick server to watch 4 episodes of High Hopes in UHD without lag.

With its native Fire Stick app, it’s quick to install and start streaming. While testing CyberGhost, I downloaded and installed the app on my Fire Stick in under 2 mintues. Once downloaded, I could easily search for the right optimized server with a few clicks. On the downside, CyberGhost doesn’t have custom router firmware and apps like ExpressVPN. However, it's compatible with a few routers and offers an APK file, so you have various installation options.

3. NordVPN — NordLynx Protocol Offers Speed and Security on its Native Fire App

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's fast and secure protocol, NordLynx, is available on the native Fire app. It’s based on WireGuard, which is speedy but has a basic privacy flaw. NordVPN has closed that loophole by using double NAT technology so it doesn’t store your real IP when you connect. Speeds aren’t compromised, though. My speed dropped by only 9%, testing nearby servers. NordVPN's servers are also distributed globally throughout 111 countries. All this means you can safely watch your favorite shows in HD from anywhere.

You also get dedicated P2P servers to improve file-sharing speeds on your Fire Stick. One minor con of NordVPN is that its live chat feature requires you to go through a chatbot before speaking to an agent. This was a bit annoying, but once you connect, the support team is helpful and efficient.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Amazon Fire Stick

I looked at some essential criteria to find the best VPNs for Amazon Fire Stick and Cube. In addition to native apps for Fire Stick, I tested speeds to enable smooth HD streaming. Each listed VPN also works with streaming apps on the Amazon Appstore. While a few free VPNs for Fire Stick technically do work, they aren’t nearly as fast or reliable for safe UHD streaming as premium VPNs.

How to Change Regions on Fire Devices

You can change Fire device regions by adjusting your Amazon account settings to reflect your new region. You should also make sure that your VPN is using obfuscation to avoid geoblocks. Obfuscation conceals your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS, making it difficult to detect.

Connect to a VPN server then go to your account and click Your Addresses. Click Add Address, input your new details, and click Set as default. Note that for security reasons, you can’t switch to a Japan or Canada address. For those regions, you will need to set up a new account.

What To Do if Your VPN Won't Work on Fire Stick

If your VPN isn’t working on your Fire Stick, try these troubleshooting steps:

• Check that your VPN is compatible with Fire Stick. Many VPNs don't work on Fire devices. I recommend using a VPN with a native Fire Stick app, like ExpressVPN.
• Restart your Fire Stick and VPN app. This can fix a wide range of functionality issues.
• Update the VPN app. Updates can fix basic bugs and errors. Go to Home > Recent, and select your Fire Stick VPN app. If an update is available, you will see an Update button. Click it to start the update process. You should also update your Fire Stick software if you don’t have the latest version.
• Contact your VPN for assistance. If the above steps don't resolve the issue, reach out to customer support. They may have a fix or workaround for your Fire Stick problem.

FAQs on Installing a VPN on Amazon Fire Stick

Do I need a VPN for Fire Stick?

I recommend it — a VPN can enhance your streaming experience by improving privacy, security, and functionality on your Fire Stick. While not essential for basic use, a VPN is beneficial if you prioritize data security and privacy. It encrypts your internet connection, shielding your browsing habits from potential intruders and reducing tracking from advertisers.

A VPN can also access global libraries and content from anywhere since it offers servers in different countries. The VPNs listed all have extensive worldwide server networks.

Are all VPNs compatible with Fire Stick?

No, many VPNs are either tricky or impossible to use with Fire TV Sticks. The VPNs that work well with Amazon Fire support all but 1st generation models. 2nd and 3rd sticks are fully compatible, as are 4K Fire TVs and all Fire TV Cubes.

You can easily find out if a VPN is compatible with Fire Stick and other Fire devices by checking the downloads page on its official website. Some VPNs even offer APK files on their sites, providing a slightly more private way of downloading it to your device.

Is it legal to use a VPN on a jailbroken Fire Stick?

Using a VPN on a jailbroken Fire Stick is generally legal. However, watching pirated or copyrighted content is illegal in most countries. That said, using a VPN on Fire Stick is legal and recommended for improving online security on the device — which is why the best VPNs have native Fire apps.

How can I tell if the VPN is working on my Fire Stick?

You can verify if your VPN is working on Fire Stick by checking your IP address before and after activating your VPN. There are some free online tools you can use for this. Some VPN apps even have a built-in IP checker.

If the IP address changes to the server location you connected to via your VPN, it's working correctly. Additionally, you can use any online service that displays your current IP address to see this change.

Can I use a free VPN on my Fire Stick?

You may be able to find a free VPN that works with Fire devices, but I don’t recommend it. Opting for a reputable paid VPN service with a money-back guarantee is generally safer and more reliable.

It's important to be aware of the limitations and potential risks of free VPNs. They usually have slower speeds, data caps, and a limited number of server locations. In fact, if you’re not in the US or UK, it’s unlikely a free VPN will even have servers in your region or nearby. Moreover, some free VPNs may compromise your security by tracking and selling your data.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Fire Stick...

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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