The entertainment world saw the birth of XBMC Media Center in 2003. The concept was simple, create a media player to play any content source seamlessly. Soon after, it became what we know today as Kodi.
The acclaimed media player became famous in a sprint thanks to all the possibilities offered by the software. Yet, it is precisely Kodi’s broad potential that has been one of the reasons for its controversy.
Developing an open-source multifunctional media player was the aim of the XBMC Foundation. Thus, it integrated various add-ons for users to make their way into an entire playback ecosystem. Users could find cutting-edge utilities in one place.
Whether it’s about add-ons for listening to the radio and stylish screensavers, using Google authentication systems, or even rewind tools with subtitles, Kodi encompassed it all.
But, the only, yet major, problem one could argue is where Kodi’s legality starts to fade into the background.
While the media player is 100% legal, some of Kodi’s most popular add-ons border on copyright infringement. Most users use the add-ons to download or stream media content, often from sources without permission to broadcast the titles.
As a result, different countries have banned Kodi from operating in their territories. The government’s concerns relate to using Kodi for piracy activities.
No matter your curiousness in a Kodi unblock hack! Whether you want to use only the multimedia player or popular Kodi add-ons for streaming, this article is for you. Buckle up as we reveal the finest methods for secure usage of Kodi in 2024.
Best ways to unblock Kodi – Quick list
Are you looking for concise info? No worries! Here’s a quick list of the best four methods to unblock Kodi for a secure experience. While in the next section, we’ll cover each approach in detail; you can examine this short version for a sprinted overview.
- Using a VPN: If you want to unblock Kodi’s add-ons, a VPN is the safest method. Not only you’ll circumvent restrictions, but you’ll also get privacy protection when surfing the web.
- Enabling a Proxy IP address: Proxy addresses are efficient when bypassing geo-restrictions. Users not prioritizing privacy can use this powerful method for unblocking Kodi’s add-ons.
- Adjusting the ISP configuration: Internet Service Providers often apply filters to people’s connections. Yet, in countries like the United Kingdom, it’s possible to reconfigure these ISP filters to avoid restrictions.
- Deploying Kodi repository installations: While several Kodi repositories aren’t active, users can still find them online. Even though controversial, it is still an effective method to circumvent add-on restrictions.
Method #1: Unblock Kodi using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
The most foolproof method for unblocking Kodi is to use a VPN. VPNs help you bypass different restrictions by creating a virtual tunnel, transforming your online data into one the website you wish to visit accepts.
Besides, they also provide robust security by encrypting your data and making your browsing 100% anonymous.
On the one hand, different risks related to cybersecurity vanish due to the robustness of the encryption. On the other, the user efficiently avoids linking assumptions to piracy activities.
Having a powerful VPN guarantees you can browse securely and confidentially. However, it is necessary to have the proper criteria for choosing the best VPN for your needs.
How to choose the best Kodi VPN
Regarding the selection of the best VPN to unblock and access Kodi, these are the criteria you should consider:
- The number of servers in the network: VPNs use a global network of virtual servers to operate. A powerful VPN is one in which the number of servers is considerable. Like this, there are enough options to connect to regardless of the geo-restrictions.
- Encryption protocol: The strength of the encryption protocol used by the VPN depends on whether your identity is private. You should bear this in mind when choosing a VPN. Pick an alternative with military-grade encryption protocols to ensure confidentiality.
- Connection speed: The user doesn’t require an ultra-fast connection every time. Yet, if the final purpose is downloading or streaming content, then swiftness is mandatory.
- Affordability of the service: The VPN industry is quite broad. With so many options on the market, the best scenario you can count on is to have a cost-effective VPN. It is a matter of obtaining the best quality at the best price.
- First-class customer service: Countless times, the difference between a good and a one-of-a-kind service relies on customer support. A worth-getting VPN service is one with 5-star quality customer support.
3 best VPNs for unblocking Kodi anywhere – Detailed list
Now that you know how to choose a Kodi VPN, it’s time to select a potent VPN service. Below we share details about the three best VPNs to unblock Kodi anywhere.
1. ExpressVPN
One of the most dependable VPN services with blazing-fast servers and undefeatable security practices. It offers strong unblocking capabilities to let you unblock Kodi from anywhere.
Owns a network of over 3,000 servers present in 88 different countries worldwide
TrustedServer technology (for enhanced security)
An industry-grade encryption – AES-256
Does not store users’ data
A functonal split tunneling feature
Has Network Lock (kill switch) feature
Supports Tor over VPN on all servers
Peer to peer enabled servers
Each account can connect up to five devices at once
30-day tested pay-back policy
Pros
- Has powerful encryption system
- Does not compromise on user privacy
- Boasts a plethora of exciting features
Cons
- There are VPNs with more affordable prices
At the top of our list could be none other than ExpressVPN. This powerful VPN is in the global top 3 of the best cybersecurity rankings due to its outstanding features.
For starters, it has the highest speed in the industry, with connections as fast as 475 Mbps. It also has one of the most extensive networks with over 3,000 servers worldwide, located in 94 countries. In short, unlocking Kodi using ExpressVPN is a rather simple task.
Its security protocol is one of the most robust in the industry. ExpressVPN makes use of the 256-bit AES encryption model, which shields users’ anonymity at all times.
As if that weren’t enough, ExpressVPN complements this with exceptional additional features. For instance, it has a Kill Switch button (dubbed as “Network Lock“) that protects privacy during sudden disconnections.
The most comprehensive VPN on the market
ExpressVPN is the VPN with the best set of features among the competition. Its impressive connection speed makes it ideal for relishing instant downloads and quality streaming nights.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
A price-friendly VPN service that boasts extraordinary unblocking features and a double security layer. It has an extensive number of servers located all around the globe.
An extensive network of over 35,000 secure VPN servers present in 82+ different countries
Allows Peer-to-peer connections on most servers
Protects connection with unbeatable encryption; AES 128-bits and 256-bits
Robust protection against malware and adware threats with in-built MACE
Enforces a policy of zero logs
Runs on RAM-only VPN servers (benefits privacy)
The split tunneling feature works as expected
Boasts an effective kill-switch feature
Each account allows connection to ten simultaneous devices
30 days no-questions-asked money-back guarantee
Pros
- Boasts streaming optimised servers for a better streaming experience
- An around the clock customer support
- Allows payments via anonymous methods
Cons
- Does not support selecting individual servers
Our second position goes without a doubt to PIA. The service offered by Private Internet Access is one of the most popular, and best of all, for the right reasons.
The service offered by PIA is unrivaled regarding having an extensive server network. More than 35,000 servers are part of the network this VPN provides for its users’ connections.
It also has a competent speed of 117 Mbps. Since streaming in 4K quality requires an average swiftness of 25 Mbps, PIA users can count on the VPN for a night of movies.
Also, if there is something truly remarkable about PIA is the additional functionalities. Not only will users enjoy the advantages of a powerful VPN, but they will also have protection against malicious content and an ad blocker.
Furthermore, PIA is one of the most affordable options. It has annual subscriptions starting at $3.33, which makes it an exceptional choice, along with the broad device compatibility.
The VPN with the most extensive network of servers
Private Internet Access is unparalleled in terms of the number of servers it has. While most services with large networks have less than 10,000 servers, PIA triples this figure. PIA users have countless servers to choose from at any given time.
3. NordVPN
One of the most impressive in the business for its outstanding performance and exciting features. It boasts super-fast servers with robust unblocking features.
Owns a network of over 5,500+ effective VPN servers scattered in over 60 countries globally
Robust threat protection (malware, tracking, and ad blocker)
Industry standard, most reliable encryption available: AES-256
A customizable kill switch feature
Split tunneling feature with high functionality
Offers multi-hop VPN for double encryption
Provides seamless Onion over VPN functionality
Ensures that no logging is done
Users can connect up to six devices simultaneously with each account
A 30-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked
Pros
- Runs on RAM-based servers better for privacy
- Does not allow any third party to interfere
- Offers competitive subscription pricing
Cons
- Some usability complaints
Closing our list is NordVPN. This VPN closes with a flourish by having many of the most desired features in its category. To begin with, NordVPN has over 5,500 ultra-fast servers in more than 60 countries globally. This is an excellent feature in terms of location-based unblocking.
Likewise, the speed offered by this VPN is impressive. After ExpressVPN, NordVPN is one of the fastest, with average connections of 369 Mbps. In short, downloading content, streaming, or simply surfing the internet at unparalleled speeds is easy for NordVPN users.
As for extra features, NordVPN has two impressive security features. The first is Double VPN – NordVPN allows users to double encrypt their data for unbreakable security. The second is the Kill Switch button which protects data during sudden disconnections.
Finally, the subscription prices offered by this VPN are competitive. In addition, it comes with a 30-day guarantee to test the service without any risk.
The VPN that values privacy the most
It’s not enough to secure data! NordVPN goes further. Its double-encryption feature ensures that users get shielded against any kind of virtual threat. With NordVPN, users will find the security they need to unblock any restricted website.
Can I use a free VPN with Kodi?
Free VPNs have multiple limitations. Since they don’t charge a fee for their service, they capitalize on users’ data. For instance, they sell personal information to third parties.
Moreover, they don’t count on rigid encryption protocols. Because of this, users are vulnerable to cyberattacks from hackers and other online risks.
The best option for unblocking Kodi is a private VPN like ExpressVPN.
Method #2: Enabling a proxy IP address to access Kodi
Using a proxy IP address is an effective method to unblock Kodi add-ons. As with a VPN, a proxy IP allows the user to circumvent location restrictions thanks to the juxtaposition of a new IP. In this way, the ISP cannot collect the user’s actual connection info. By obtaining the information from the proxy IP, the blocked website receives details with which it does allow access.
However, despite its effectiveness in unblocking geo-restricted sites, proxy IP addresses have a prominent flaw.
Let’s take, for example, a website like Kodi. Most users want to unblock Kodi’s plugins to watch movies for free online and for downloading facilities. But, even though IP switching allows website unlocking, this method does not offer user data encryption.
With this in mind, a latent possibility is that the user can be identified through data such as device type and location, among others. Consequently, the recommendation is for users to use this method only if their priority is not privacy; but access to content.
It is worth noting that another potential risk has to do with cyber-attacks by hackers. So, besides probable identification, users are subject to virtual threats such as identity theft.
Method #3: Adjusting the ISP configuration
Adjusting the settings of your Internet Service Provider can be an effective method. Although not common knowledge, you can change your ISP settings to unblock Kodi. Through the ISP, different governments – including the UK – apply filters so that connections don’t have access to certain content.
Like this, they prevent citizens from interacting with websites that pose a risk. In the beginning, this filter deployment had an important goal. To prevent minors from accessing uncensored content. Yet, the implementation has helped eradicate websites that may violate laws such as copyright.
It is feasible for users to change the ISP settings! Disabling the filters so they’re not active by default; allows websites like Kodi to open without restriction.
Method #4: Deploying Kodi repository installations
In programming jargon, a repository is a file in which a programmer can store different types of resources. It is a way for websites to access information or previous versions of their systems. On this basis, using Kodi repositories is another alternative for accessing Kodi securely.
This is, in essence, the most controversial method for accessing Kodi. As mentioned, different countries perceive Kodi as a threat to intellectual property. For this reason, many of the original repositories are inactive.
Despite this, there are still Kodi repositories online. Some of them provide direct access to the most popular add-ons. While accessing them is simple, the best tip is to maintain discretion.
The sources of these repositories are not related to Kodi; they may contain malicious files or other threats. In this sense, the suggestion is always to use a VPN to dissipate the associated risks.
Conclusion
Kodi is a multimedia player with one of the most influential add-ons integration in the industry. Its revolutionary features made it skyrocket in popularity in the early days. Yet, some of the great possibilities users found in the software granted Kodi multiple bans around the globe.
Since most users want to exploit Kodi for streaming purposes, it’s common thing to look for unblocking strategies. Concerning this, the safest method is to unblock Kodi with VPN services like ExpressVPN, the most rugged VPN in the industry.
With ExpressVPN, users can connect to a server in a different location to circumvent geo-restriction. Likewise, when streaming, they enjoy blazing-fast connections of 475 Mbps. Further, ExpressVPN offers data encryption to protect users’ identities while surfing the web.
Other methods to access Kodi include using a proxy IP address, changing the default configuration of the ISP, or adopting Kodi repositories. Although, none of them offer a 100% secure experience.
Proxy addresses lack encryption protocols to secure the users’ data, while ISP configurations work only in the presence of content filters. Finally, as per the repositories, cybersecurity risks arise without VPN usage.
FAQs
Yes. Your Internet Service Provider can stop you from accessing websites, including Kodi. Nevertheless, it depends on the legislation of your location regarding the media player.
Either way, you can circumvent geo-restrictions while protecting your privacy with a rugged VPN service like ExpressVPN.
The main reason for Kodi not working is government blocking. Your ISP blocks the website based on your location. To avoid this, you need to use a top-notch VPN like ExpressVPN.
Although, most private VPNs can easily unblock Kodi. But if you’re having issues with your VPN, try rebooting your router and start the process again. Be mindful that you need a subscription plan to use the functionalities of a private VPN.
Yes, a VPN creates a virtual tunnel for users to surf the internet without restrictions, including unblocking Kodi. Moreover, VPNs also protect users’ privacy by encrypting their personal information.
Kodi is a multimedia player created by the XBMC Foundation. The open-source software offers a hub for all types of content reproduction, including streaming. While using Kodi, you need to ensure confidentiality to avoid copywriting infringements. At the same time, you need ultra-fast connection speeds. A robust VPN like ExpressVPN can help you achieve all of that.
By default, using Kodi is not a safe activity. Yet, you can have a secure experience if you use it with a private VPN service. ExpressVPN offers one of the most muscular encryption systems to remain private while surfing the web. Also, you get a vast server network with blazing-fast swiftness to stream hassle-free.
If you live in a country where the software has no restrictions, you can use Kodi even without a VPN. Nevertheless, for safety reasons, the best option is to always use Kodi with a top-notch VPN offering privacy and swiftness.
With Kodi, you can reproduce multimedia content. Yet, its most prominent attribute relates to powerful add-on integrations allowing users much more. For example, users can listen to the radio or stream movies and TV series with Kodi.
