Kodi is an open-source media player/home theatre that you can customize with repositories, add-ons, builds, apps, etc., for a tailored and better entertainment experience.
It offers an easy-to-use interface which makes it highly compatible with several platforms like android, android TV, streaming devices, windows, etc. You can use Kodi add-ons to stream content(audio or video) from both legal(Netflix, Prime Video, and more) and illegal sources.
However, streaming from illegal sources comes with risks and obstacles. You might risk your online privacy and security and can get bumps like non-working links, errors, and more.
Which is the best platform to use the Kodi media player?
Kodi works ideally on several platforms like windows, android, etc. However, I think Kodi gives the best experience with streaming devices. Using a home-theatre app on small devices is not as enjoyable as on larger screens.
I have Kodi installed on both my android phone and Amazon Firestick. I mostly used it on my Firestick. I recently updated it to the latest 19.4 Matrix because almost all apps work smoothly on this version. You can follow this guide if you need some assistance updating it on Amazon Firestick.
Can I use Kodi without VPN?
Yes, you can use Kodi without a VPN. You might not need a VPN if you use Kodi to access local storage without add-ons. Kodi is a legit app you can download and install from several play stores like Google, Windows, etc.
Using a VPN with Kodi is not a must but is very useful for several reasons. It becomes essential with add-ons for IPTV, live sports, movies, etc.
Why might you want to use a VPN with Kodi?
Avoid ISP’s vigilance
ISP often keep track of your online activities. It might go all wrong if your ISP tracks that you are streaming illegal content from illegal sources. Using a VPN becomes essential if you are streaming illegal or geo-restricted content.
It protects your identity from your Internet Service Provider and the government. Your ISP can legally throttle your internet connection if you are streaming illegal content or using illegal add-ons on Kodi. The original content owners can sue you for the same activity.
That is why using a fake IP address is essential if you can not resist streaming copyrighted or illegal content. You might want to use a VPN to avoid getting legal notices and e-mails from ISP, content owners, or the government.
Geo-restricted content
Once in a while, almost everyone finds themselves in a situation where they want to stream something that is geo-restricted. It is where a VPN plays an essential role. It allows you to stream content locked based on the origin.
It means you can stream explicit USA content from any country and vice-versa. It becomes even more essential if you take your Firestick to other countries. Using a VPN allows you to stream your favorite content from anywhere.
Online Security
You are more vulnerable to online scams, malware, and viruses if you use unverified or illegal add-ons. Hackers can effortlessly enter your device, which you might not want to happen.
A good VPN(mostly paid) can avoid such a thing. It will hide your identity from ISP, the government, and hackers. It adds a layer of security that also helps in stopping your ISP from selling your data to third parties.
Best VPNs to use with Kodi
- Nord VPN is one of the best VPNs for Kodi. It offers you 5000+ reliable and fast servers from 60 countries. You can get it for as low as $3.29 per month(T&C applied). It allows simultaneous streaming on six devices.
- Express VPN is also one of the most used VPNs for Kodi. It offers you 3000+ reliable and fast servers from 90 countries. You can get it for as low as $8.32 per month(T&C applied). It allows simultaneous streaming on five devices.
- Surfshark VPN is different as it allows you to stream simultaneously on unlimited devices. It offers you 3200+ reliable and fast servers from 65countries. You can get it for as low as $2.49 per month(T&C applied).
Conclusion
Using a VPN with the Kodi media player depends on your activities. I strongly advise you not to stream/download/upload copyrighted or illegal content. You might end up in legal trouble.
You might want to use a VPN if you are unsure about the add-ons and their security. However, avoid using a lot of free VPNs as they can steal/track/sell your data.
There are a few reliable free VPNs available today. You might want to use a VPN I recommended because these three VPNs are the most used and trusted VPNs for Kodi and other apps also.
