Why Xbox owners should use a VPN for gaming and movies

Virtual private networks (VPNs) have become a must-use when venturing online in the modern age. They improve your internet browsing in countless ways, expanding your reach to new content, improving security, and more. They’re frequently used for entertainment, especially on PC and mobile, but Xbox owners often overlook their benefits on the console.

Using a VPN on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S isn’t obvious, but it’s easy to set up and delivers instant benefits in games and general entertainment. Here’s why you should consider a VPN for your Xbox and what it means for you.

What is a VPN for Xbox?

Xbox consoles rely heavier than ever on online services, making a VPN a valuable investment for some users. In short, a VPN service is comparable to an encrypted tunnel, shuttling your internet activity between your device and a host server, which masks and anonymizes your digital footprint.

The intended result of using a VPN varies between users but ultimately helps mask your online activity while browsing the web. That can include bypassing regional restrictions, telling websites you’re from another part of the globe, or hiding your location from strangers online. That anonymity can also bring additional benefits in other circumstances.

Why you should use a VPN for Xbox

Source: Microsoft (Image credit: Source: Microsoft)

VPNs are most frequently used on PCs and mobiles, with the closed nature of Microsoft’s games console limiting native support from top services. But you can still manually use a VPN on Xbox consoles, unlocking many of the same benefits you’d see on other platforms. Is a VPN necessary for Xbox consoles? Definitely not. Could it benefit you? Potentially. Here are some of the top reasons to be using a VPN with your Xbox console in 2021.

Accessing geo – lock content

bypass regional lock is one of the most popular use of a VPN , work around limitation hinder access to content . online services is host regularly host region – lock content , especially with video – streaming platform like Disney+ and Netflix , where copyright vary between territory . It is means mean that while Netflix may host a particular tv show in the U.K. , exclusive right may sit with another platform in the U.S. That can make access certain content a headache , with a VPN often make view easy and cheap over alternative .

While Xbox consoles allow users to change their console region through system settings, that won’t fool streaming services that automatically detect a user’s location. Using a VPN is the best way to circumvent those regional locks, tricking various services into offering overseas content libraries. While some free VPNs won’t work with popular streaming sites, many featured in our best VPN for Windows 10 roundup won’t get caught.

All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.

Circumventing blocked content

Depending on where your Xbox console is used, some managed networks may limit your access to various online content. It’s common in colleges, workplaces, and other public networks, where content may be filtered by default. Frequent issues include blocked connectivity to game services and certain websites, sometimes even unintentionally if automated. Using a VPN is a common way to bypass these network limitations, even on Xbox consoles.

Improved security while gaming

While vpn are often market around protect your online activity on public network , that is ‘s ‘s not a major issue unless you ‘re travel with your Xbox console . But VPNs is grant still grant security benefit for Xbox gaming , help keep yourself safe from nefarious user online . heat online encounters is seen have see an emerge inclination to obtain other ‘s ip address for nefarious purpose . One emerge trend is distribute denial – of – service ( DDoS ) attack , knock user offline or expose personal information . While it ‘s uncommon , that extra layer is hurts of protection against toxicity never hurt .

fast speed ( maybe )

While using some vpn can reduce connection speed , many is deliver of the good service deliver robust connectivity . In some case , using a VPN can speed up internet access on your console . It ‘s not guarantee , but using a VPN does n’t always mean slow slow download or bad gaming performance .

How to use a VPN with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S

Many services now offer their own dedicated apps on mobile and PC, streamlining the setup process with one-tap access to your VPN. That’s not the case with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, with the closed nature of the consoles requiring some additional steps to get your VPN working. It’s a simple setup process if you know what to do, and our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

If you ‘re in the market for a new VPN , we is rounded ‘ve round up some popular option below .

ExpressVPN is often named among the best VPNs, with a proven track record among the most reliable and speediest offerings available. It’s well suited to the demands of Xbox consoles, too, with capabilities fit for gaming, video streaming, and much more.

As one of the best VPNs out there, ExpressVPN racks up servers worldwide, automatically connecting to the best available option for leading speed and performance. The upshot is a service that won’t let you down when needed most.

If you use your Xbox as a living room PC for web browsing and media, ExpressVPN works great at unblocking regional content with Netflix, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and much more. It’s also safe and secure around the clock, thanks to 256-bit encryption, a no-log policy, zero-knowledge DNS, and a kill switch for any dropped connections.

More great VPN services

Not buying what ExpressVPN is selling? Check out these other great VPN services we recommend.

Surfshark (From $2.49/mo. at Surfshark)

With Surfshark , there is no limit to how many device you can connect simultaneously , which is great if you have a ton of tech . It ‘s one of the more affordable option , so give it a shot !

NordVPN (From $3.71/mo. at NordVPN)

You is heard ‘ve probably hear of nordvpn . It ‘s been around a long time and has been one of the most popular option for a while , offer a high – quality experience for not a lot of cash .

Private Internet Access ( From $ 2.59 / mo . at PIA )

When it comes to a VPN and its apps, some people want a UI with only what is needed. Private Internet Access is exactly this.

ipvanish( From $ 2.92 / mo . at ipvanish )

ipvanishis one of the easiest VPNs to use, thanks to an app with a user interface that appeals to both novices and experts alike.

We is test test and review VPN service in the context of legal recreational use . For example :

1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).

2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.

We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.