The Best VPN for Xbox One [With Complete Set Up Steps]

For an exciting gaming experience on your Xbox One, Series X, and Xbox 360 there are a few factors to think about. For instance, a constant increase in security risks, geo-blocked content that’s only available in a few countries, and online surveillance. In such circumstances, using the best VPN for your Xbox is the best solution.

In this guide, we’ll be discussing the top and most reliable VPN services for Xbox gaming consoles. They’ve been selected on a few factors and tested for exceptional performance. We’ll also be discussing a couple of ways to set up a VPN on the Xbox console.

Quick Overview of Best VPN for Xbox One & Series X

To make things easier for you, we’ve shortlisted 6 best providers that make great VPN apps for Xbox. They are:

1. ExpressVPN – Offers blazing fast speed for Xbox consoles
2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN service for Xbox One
3. NordVPN – Offers top-notch security and privacy for Xbox
4. IPVanish – Offers excellent connectivity for Xbox
5. CyberGhost – Offers 45-day Money Back Guarantee
6. PrivateVPN – Offers protection against bandwidth throttling

Best VPN Services for Xbox One & Series X – Detailed Analysis

We’ve highlighted 6 of the top VPN services on our list, but ExpressVPN managed to top the list. It offers fast speed for gaming on Xbox One, streaming, protection, and access to more gaming servers for lower latency.

Below, you’ll find more details on this provider, along with the other Xbox VPN services on our top 6 list!

1. ExpressVPN – Offers blazing-fast speed for Xbox consoles

As mentioned above, ExpressVPN is highly recommended and tops the list for the best VPN for Xbox and much more! Gaming and streaming on your Xbox are best when the speeds are consistent. This is why ExpressVPN tops the list!

It offers servers that are optimized for fast streaming and low latency. During testing, we even found that ExpressVPN produces some of the fastest speeds in the industry, while other providers often cut the speed in half.

You have to connect to any of its 3000+ servers in 94 countries to access unlimited content. We managed to unblock the US Netflix, Showtime, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and a broad list of gaming content during testing.

Since ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a native app for Xbox, you can still add the connection to it using ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer DNS service.

This service can be set up on a supported router and then connected to the Xbox One console. However, the MediaStreamer doesn’t come with the same features as the VPN app. The security is down to a bare minimum, with the only perks of high speeds and blocked content access.

On the other hand, the VPN app operates on AES 256-bit encryption, has a Kill Switch feature, and offers various protocols to choose from (OpenVPN, IPSec, L2TP, PPTP, and Lightway).

Besides routers, you can also connect the VPN to multiple supported devices. A few of the compatible platforms include Windows, macOS, Firestick, PS4, Roku, iOS, and others. It is one of the most recommended VPNs for Nvidia Shield. Know what else is great? Along with your Xbox connected to an ExpressVPN router, you can add the connection to other devices since this VPN supports up to 5 multi-device connections.

Need to get a feel of the app before investing? ExpressVPN offers a free trial for smartphones and a 30-day money-back guarantee on every subscription. If you’re not in favor of the service or don’t find it within your budget, you can ask for a refund. ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live customer support who’s always on call to answer every query! Before buyng this VPN, read our detailed review of ExpressVPN.

Get Started with ExpressVPN Now!

2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN service for Xbox One

Surfshark is known as the more affordable VPN service that is powered by the most robust security features. It doesn’t log any user data and hails from a privacy-friendly region. So, using your Xbox to unblock geo-restricted content shouldn’t be an issue.

There are many reasons why Surfshark is one of the best VPN services for Xbox One, with high speeds being one of them.

Surfshark doesn’t offer an app for Xbox, but it does support routers. You can connect to unlimited devices and Xbox One by configuring the VPN connection on your router.

Additionally, if you’re only interested in unblocking services on your Xbox, Surfshark offers a Smart DNS service that you can configure on your Xbox Series X. However, the DNS service doesn’t come with the same VPN protection or encryption as the app.

On the app, you’re protected with military-grade encryption. It also offers in-app features like a Kill Switch, GPS Spoofing to mask your location, a Whitelister to run specific apps through the encrypted tunnel, and more.

According to what you require, you can choose between various protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Shadowsocks), with preference given to OpenVPN UDP for better speeds.

Apart from that, Surfshark supports a broad platform of devices and operating systems, some of which include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Firestick.

Another remarkable fact about this service, it is one of the best VPNs for multiple devices since Surfshark allows unlimited device connections.

The app comes with 3200+ servers in 65 countries. It means if you’re ever living within a geo-restricted region, you’ll be able to unblock unlimited content by connecting to one of the Surfshark optimized servers.

Our team managed to unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO NOW, Amazon Prime, and much more during testing. Surfshark also supports Kodi add-ons, which are available for download on the Xbox One.

Did you know you can try testing the app using its free trial? However, it can only be used on smartphones to give you an idea of the app’s performance. Other than that, you can test it on your Xbox using the 30-day refund period. If you want to know more about this VPN then read our full review of Surfshark.

Get Started with Surfshark Now!

3. NordVPN – Offers top-notch security and privacy for Xbox

You might’ve noticed that NordVPN always tops most best VPN lists for several reasons. It even makes one of the best VPN services for Xbox, mainly because of its security and unblocking abilities.

This provider puts great focus on its security features that’ll help protect you from many online threats during streaming or gaming sessions.

What else makes NordVPN great for Xbox? Firstly, this provider is very strict on its privacy policy, keeping user data safe, free from any logging.

Even though NordVPN doesn’t offer an app for Xbox, it does provide a dedicated app for routers. By installing NordVPN on your router, you’ll be able to add the VPN connection to your Xbox One or Xbox Series X safely. Since NordVPN supports simultaneous connections up to 6 devices, you’ll be able to connect your router to the Xbox and other devices. It supports devices and apps for Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, and others.

NordVPN is one of the few providers that offers a wide variety of robust security features. For starters, if you live anywhere near regions that are highly surveillance or where censorship is a huge issue, you’ll still be able to access unlimited content. This is because NordVPN offers obfuscated servers that’ll allow you to bypass the heavily blocked services.

You’ll also have access to security features like a Kill Switch, leak protection, CyberSec feature to remove ads, and much more. Gaming will be smooth and safe since NordVPN also offers protection against DDoS attacks.

To access unlimited streaming and gaming content, you can connect to its 5200+ servers in 59+ countries that are all optimized for fast streaming. We unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO GO, and much more. NordVPN also offers dedicated IP addresses for you to run your own game server with extra security.

If you’re looking to test the VPN speeds or unblocking abilities, there’s a 7 day free trial for smartphones available. However, to try it on your Xbox, you can use the 30-day money-back guarantee. NordVPN offers a full refund and account cancellation if you’re not happy with the service during the trial periods.

Get Started with NordVPN Now!

4. IPVanish – Offers Excellent Connectivity for Xbox

High speeds and low latency is exceptionally crucial for gaming, and that’s why IPVanish is one of the best VPN services for Xbox. This US-based provider is known to produce incredible streaming speeds and allows access to unlimited blocked content.

IPVanish doesn’t offer an app for Xbox, but it does offer one for routers. By installing IPVanish on your router, you’ll be able to connect it to your Xbox quite easily. Other than that, IPVanish allows simultaneous device connections. It means that along with a connection to the router for your Xbox, you’ll be able to connect multiple other devices.

IPVanish is compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Firestick, and many others.

For those who’re living anywhere outside the US and want to access US-streaming services or gaming content, you’ll be able to do so while connected to any of the IPVanish US servers. It offers around 2000+ servers in 75+ locations, with almost 400 of its servers in the US.

These servers are optimized for high-speed streaming and P2P activities. During our tests, we unblocked Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and others. We even accessed UK services like BBC iPlayer. You can easily stream Disney Plus in Philippines, Hulu in UK and so on

IPVanish is also known for being one of the best VPN services for Kodi & Firestick. Since Kodi is now available on the Xbox One, you’ll be able to access it from anywhere around the world.

IPVanish isn’t as packed with security features compared to ExpressVPN or NordVPN, but it does protect you from online threats and data retainers. It operates using AES 256-bit encryption, has a Kill Switch feature to protect you even if the VPN connection stops, and more. This provider doesn’t log any user data, so you don’t have to worry about your personal information being stolen and used in any way.

If you need to test the VPN’s features or speeds, you can use the provider’s 30-day money-back guarantee. It gives you plenty of time to test it on your Xbox and other devices if required. You can check our complete review of IPVanish before purchasing this VPN.

Get Started with IPVanish Now!

5. CyberGhost – Offers 45-day Money Back Guarantee

If you’re looking to access unlimited content with incredible streaming speeds, then CyberGhost makes a great app. Because of its features and unblocking abilities, it makes one of the best VPN services for Xbox One.

This provider is located in Romania, far away from countries within the 14-eyes alliance. It protects and observes a strict no-logging policy, which is what you’ll require when downloading or streaming restricted or censored content.

CyberGhost doesn’t offer an app for Xbox, but you can connect it through a supported router. When you install the service on a router, you’ll be able to connect your Xbox and multiple other apps to the VPN. Other than that, CyberGhost supports multiple other OS and devices.

A few of these include Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Firestick, Linux, and many more! Just in case you require CyberGhost on multiple supported devices, you can now connect them all since this provider allows multi-device connections on up to 7 platforms.

CyberGhost covers a wide coverage of 7700+ servers in 90+ countries. The unique distinction between CyberGhost and many other apps is that this provider offers servers optimized to unblock particular services. For instance, if you need to unblock Netflix on your Xbox, you’ll have to connect to the server that supports it. How convenient is that?

For an idea, CyberGhost unblocks BBC iPlayer, ESPN, DAZN, Disney Plus, and many other geo-restricted services.

For online protection against ISP throttling or government surveillance, CyberGhost is built with AES 256-bit encryption. It offers other features like a Kill Switch to protect your connection after the VPN stops midway and allows you to connect to multiple protocols, with OpenVPN being the best for gaming.

To test the app for your Xbox, you can utilize the 45-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not up for investing just yet, CyberGhost offers a 24-hour free trial for Windows. You can test it to see how the app performs. Read our full CyberGhost review, if you are thinking to get this VPN.

Get Started with CyberGhost Now!

6. PrivateVPN – Offers protection against bandwidth throttling

Last on the list of the best Xbox VPN service; we have PrivateVPN. This provider is known in the industry for being compatible with torrenting and P2P activities. It also makes an excellent VPN for the best gaming experience.

Firstly, it offers 200+ servers in 60+ countries, which produced great speeds for 4K streams. Besides streaming, most of its servers are optimized for torrenting. During testing, we were able to unblock popular streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, Hotstar, Amazon Prime, and a couple of others, including Kodi.

There’s no native app for Xbox, but the good news is that PrivateVPN is router-compatible. You’ll be able to add a VPN connection on your Xbox by configuring it on a supported router.

You can even add more devices to the VPN since PrivateVPN allows simultaneous connections up to 6 devices. A few of the other supported platforms include Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS.

PrivateVPN will maintain your online privacy since the app operates using AES 256-bit encryption. It offers a Kill Switch for the Windows app and is IPv6 leak protected to secure your anonymity if ever the VPN connection fails. The speeds weren’t as great as the other providers on this list, but good enough for gaming.

You can test the VPN app for your Xbox by using its 30-day money-back guarantee. You can ask their cooperative support team for a full refund before the trial run ends.

Get Started with PrivateVPN Now!

How We Chose the Best Xbox VPN Services

Choosing a VPN for gaming, streaming, or even for online privacy depends on several factors. Since we’re on the hunt for the best Xbox VPN that offers an unhinged gaming experience, we selected 6 VPN services based on:

1. Gaming optimized servers
2. High speed and low latency
3. Simultaneous connections
4. Router compatibility
5. Streaming abilities
6. Logging Policy
7. Security
8. Customer Support

1. Gaming optimized servers

We chose these 6 providers because they offer servers that are feature-rich and strong enough to unblock unlimited gaming content and streaming services for your Xbox One. We tested these providers using popular servers, e.g., the US and UK servers, that can unblock unlimited content.

2. High speed and low latency

It’s a fact that your internet service provider often throttles your connection speeds and bandwidth. What good is gaming or streaming on your Xbox with slow and wavering speeds? The VPN services selected for Xbox offer servers that allow high-speeds and low latency for gaming and live streams on Xbox.

3. Simultaneous connections

We chose these VPN services because they allow simultaneous multi-device connections. You’ll be able to protect and connect several devices to the VPN you choose. For instance, with a single VPN subscription, you can connect your Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and other supported devices to the VPN.

4. Router compatibility

Even if the VPN doesn’t offer a native app for Xbox consoles, all the VPN services chosen are compatible with routers. You’ll be able to create a WiFi Hotspot on your router, sharing the connection to unlimited devices, including the Xbox One.

5. Streaming abilities

Besides gaming, Xbox One is also used for streaming purposes, therefore, you need a VPN that is capable of unblocking popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and more.

This way, you can watch any content you want from anywhere without any restrictions.

6. Logging Policy

It is essential that the VPN you use has a strict no-logs policy and it keeps no identifying logs or data on its users. Moreover, it is best if the VPN is headquartered in a safe jurisdiction with no mandatory data-retention laws.

7. Security

There are a lot of security risks while playing games online on Xbox One such as DDoS attacks, Swatting, and more. Therefore, to protect yourself from such risks, it is essential that the VPN encrypts your data with a military-grade AES 256-bit cipher and hides your IP address.

All the VPNs covered in this guide offer fool-proof security with IP/ DNS leak protection, and a kill switch feature to protect your online identity in case your VPN connection drops.

8. Customer Support

Xbox One, like other gaming consoles, does not have native support for VPNs and you’ll need to manually configure it on your home router. Therefore, no matter how tech-savvy you are, you could run into problems, which is why it is essential that the VPN offers 24/7 live chat support in case you need assistance.

How do I set up a VPN on Xbox One?

Since Xbox is one of those gaming devices that VPN services don’t provide apps for, you’ll have to set it up using other methods. There are two ways for you to add VPN protection on your Xbox One to access the ultimate gaming experience. They are:

• Installing the VPN on your router
• Sharing a VPN connection via PC or Mac

Installing the VPN on your router

The thing about routers is that when you install a VPN on it, you’ll be able to connect multiple devices in one go. You won’t need to sign in to your VPN account numerous times. Since there’s no VPN app for Xbox, we’ll be installing it on a supported router. Then you can connect to the VPN on your Xbox. All you have to do is first sign up for any one of the best Xbox VPN services on this list, install it on your router, and then connect your Xbox to the router that’s already running on the VPN.

Sharing the connection via PC or Mac

By following the below steps you can easily share a PC or Mac VPN connection with your Xbox.

1. First, install the VPN on your PC and connect it to the best server.
2. Connect your VPN-PC to the Xbox One using an Ethernet cable.
3. Right-click on the Start button, and then click on Settings.
4. Now, click on Network & Internet
5. You’ll see the option called “VPN” click on it.
6. Now click on Change adapter options
7. Whichever VPN you’re subscribed to, right-click on it.
8. Click on Properties, then Sharing, and then enable the “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection” tab.
9. Click on “Select a private network connection and choose the Ethernet connection you require.
10. Click on “Ok”
11. Now, on your Xbox controller, press the Xbox button.
12. Press the RB button 3 times.
13. Now, select “Settings,” then “Network,” and then on “Network Settings.”
14. Enable the “Test network connection” tab.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best Xbox VPN?
2. How do I get a free VPN for Xbox One?
3. Does using a VPN for Xbox One boost gaming speeds?
4. Will using a VPN with my Xbox One protect my identity?
5. Can you get banned for using a VPN on Xbox One?

What is the best Xbox VPN?

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Xbox One. It is not only fast for gaming but also allows 5 simultaneous connections on single subscription. This VPN offers excellent security features for gamers and easily unblocks geo-restricted games and apps from anywhere.

How do I get a free VPN for Xbox One?

Here’s something to consider. Have you ever wondered why any provider would offer completely free services without charging you a dime for anything? Most free VPN services often make up for that fact by either stealing your data, selling it to third parties, and hacking your device through malicious apps.

Free services also lead to throttling of speeds and bandwidth – something that your ISP already does. When you’re using your Xbox, you mainly look forward to fast speeds, unlimited content, and online protection. That’s something a free VPN can’t offer. The VPN services on this list offer free trials and money-back guarantees. Consider using that instead.

Does using a VPN for Xbox One boost gaming speeds?

Yes, if you are currently suffering from slow connection speeds, it may be because your ISP is throttling your bandwidth. Using a VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth, like ExpressVPN, you can bypass throttling and enjoy faster speeds for gaming.

Will using a VPN with my Xbox One protect my identity?

Yes, using a VPN with Xbox One ensures that your identity is protected at all times. VPNs offer 256-bit AES encryption that makes it nearly impossible for hackers to access your personal information and data. Moreover, high-quality VPNs have a strict no-logs policy so your data is not collected or shared with anyone – offering anonymity.

Can you get banned for using a VPN on Xbox One?

No, you will not get banned for using an Xbox One VPN. There are no laws against it, and it is perfectly legal to use a VPN for gaming to avoid ISP throttling as well as to protect your online identity while playing games.

To Conclude

The Xbox One and the latest Xbox Series X is among the best gaming consoles that allow you a great streaming and gaming experience. However, as mentioned above, several factors like geo-restrictions, ISP throttling, and online surveillance hamper its performance.

Only the best VPN for Xbox can help protect you, your device, data, and more, all while allowing you access to unlimited content with the best speeds. We’ve rounded up 6 of the best VPN providers that made the cut! However, if we were to recommend the absolute best, it would be ExpressVPN.