Xbox VPN Setup Guide (2024) (2024)

Small Business and Tech Writer

Updated: Sep 21, 2023, 11:00am

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Xbox consoles do not natively support VPNs. That means using a VPN on Xbox is more challenging than installing it on your laptop. Instead, you can set up a VPN-protected hotspot on Windows or your router. Some VPN services, including Surfshark, can protect virtually any Xbox.

Let’s take a look at the best VPNs for Xbox.

NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the best VPN providers for gamers. It is easy to set up and offers several standout features, such as threat protection, split tunneling and a dark web monitor. Not only will you be able to block ads, malware and trackers—but you can also get notifications when your information gets leaked while gaming. If the connection drops, the kill switch feature will prevent your device from internet access.

NordVPN offers fast connection with 5,800-plus ultra-fast servers in 60 countries. The Meshnet feature lets you build virtual networks for LAN gaming with your gaming buddies. Build a private encrypted network, invite your friends, then you’re all set. If your connection becomes slower due to prolonged gaming sessions, NordVPN can protect you from bandwidth throttling.

The ultra-fast VPN lets you play on Series X, S, Xbox One and Xbox 360. Beyond using a VPN
on an Xbox console, your subscription can cover up to six devices.

Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a reliable VPN service with anonymous browsing, a kill switch, DNS protection and split tunneling. The free forever plan offers 2,900-plus servers across 65-plus countries and protection for up to 10 devices. And the VPN Accelerator lets you play on a high-speed server with unlimited bandwidth and data. It is 100% open source with no activity logs.

As for gaming, Proton VPN lets you access geo-restricted games including Lost Ark, PUBG and Ragnarok Online II. All traffic is encrypted with ChaCha20 so you can play securely on public Wi-Fi. At the same time, you can connect to the same server as your friends to have the best gaming experience.

Surfshark

Surfshark is a well-rounded VPN service that has 3,200-plus encrypted servers in 100 countries. You get unlimited connections on all your devices, even with a single account. Also, it is packed with core features including anonymous browsing, dedicated IP, kill switch and split tunneling.

When it comes to gaming, Surfshark has got you covered. The service offers distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) protection to protect yourself from hackers and lets you hide your IP address on Discord or other chats. You can prevent Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from throttling your data for fast speeds on long gaming sessions. You can even hop on the same server for a fast gaming experience if your friends are worldwide.

Before anything else, make sure to have a VPN service. That way, you’ll have essential information—such as IP address, subnet mask and VPN login information—to connect your Xbox to the VPN service.

Note that VPNs do not natively support Xbox consoles. As a result, you can’t install and set it up as quickly as on your laptop or mobile device, but other methods are available.

Here are some methods for setting up a VPN:

• Connecting a VPN to an Xbox through Windows
• Connecting a VPN to an Xbox through your router

We cover these options and how to set them up below.

Through Windows

1. On your Windows computer, press the Windows button.
2. Type the “cmd” command and right-click at the Result List Entry Command prompt.
3. Select the “Run As An Administrator” > type “netsh wlan show drivers” on the command prompt > press the Enter button.
4. Connect the computer to your VPN. This is a straightforward process.
5. Get your Xbox on the same network as your computer. Type the password, and your activities and IP address will be confidential.

Through Your Router

All devices connected to your home network will be protected when you set up a VPN on your router. The VPN’s encryption and security features will benefit all smartphones, tablets, computers, gaming consoles (including Xbox), smart TVs and other internet-connected devices.

Configuring a VPN on your router depends on your router’s brand, model and the VPN service you’re using. Generally, most routers support VPN connections, but not all routers have built-in VPN support. For example, the VPN service IPVanish collaborated with FlashRouters to offer routers with VPN built in. Once you purchase its routers, IPVanish will be preinstalled and pre-configured.

While the setup process may differ based on your router, here’s how the process usually works:

1. Follow the documentation instructions on the router to connect it to your VPN. Usually, this process involves signing up for your VPN service, identifying your router’s IP address, and using the IP address to log in to your router.

2. Next, find the tab labeled “Control Panel” or the screen that controls the network connection. It can also be called different titles such as WAN Setup or Network if you don’t see them.

You know you’re in the right place once you see text fields with a heading labeled “DHCP” and text fields such as Address, Subnet Mask and Gateway Address.

3. Type the details of your VPN service. The VPN service usually has the information you need to connect to your VPN, such as the IP address, subnet mask and VPN login information.

4. It’s time to connect your Xbox to the router at this stage. Turn on your Xbox and select “Guide.”

5. Select Settings > General > Network Settings.

6. Hold A and go to “Set Up Wireless Network.”

7. Connect the Xbox to your wireless home network. Type the password, and you’re all set.

There are several reasons to consider using a VPN on Xbox, including:

Access Geo-Restricted Content

Is the Game of the Year (GOTY) blocked in your region? Some games such as Lost Ark and PUBG have region-specific restrictions. You can connect to servers in different countries by using a VPN on Xbox. That means you can make it seem like you are located elsewhere and gain access to content unavailable in your region.

Reduce DDoS Threat

DDoS attacks can be a significant nuisance for online gamers. Imagine playing Fortnite or Counter-Strike, then you lose your connection, or your game lags. Malicious actors may target your IP address, which leads to disruptions. With a VPN, your IP address remains concealed, making it harder for potential attackers to target you directly.

Improved Online Gaming Performance

What if your friends are on another regional server? A VPN can optimize your experience by letting you switch to a gaming server closer to them. It can reduce lag, lower ping times and provide a more secure connection.

Enhanced Security and Privacy

Naturally, VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and add a layer of security to your online activities. This encryption prevents hackers and snoopers from intercepting sensitive data, such as login credentials, personal information and payment details.

Protection From Swatting

Swatting is a dangerous prank that involves someone calling the police to claim a false emergency that leads a SWAT team to go to an individual’s location. Since a VPN hides your IP address, it adds an extra layer of protection against potential swatting attempts.

Secure Multiplayer Communications

In multiplayer games, voice chats and in-game messaging systems can be vulnerable to prying eyes. A VPN encrypts these communications, so your conversations remain confidential. If you have children, a VPN adds more privacy protection. You can shield them from potential online risks and keep their gaming experience safer.