7 Best VPNs for Xbox in 2024 (For Lag-Free Gaming)

Xbox VPN Key Points

• VPN for Xbox protects you from DDoS attacks and Swatting
• You can set up a VPN for Xbox using routers or your computer’s hotspot
• Our testing has shown that NordVPN is the best VPN for Xbox

Are you an avid Xbox gamer looking to level up your gaming experience? Playing single-player games on Xbox is already incredibly fun, but have you considered taking your game online?

Doing so can bring new excitement and competition to your gaming experience. However, before you jump in, there are some online threats you need to be aware of. 

DDoSing and Swatting are just a few of the most common and concerning issues you may encounter while gaming online.

After extensive testing, our results have shown that NordVPN is the best VPN for Xbox. With NordVPN, you can enjoy seamless gaming without interruptions or latency issues.

Besides, by using a VPN for Xbox, you can protect yourself from online threats and enjoy the freedom of accessing any game server worldwide. 

Whether you have an Xbox One, Xbox X/S series, an Xbox 360, or even an XCloud, a VPN app is a must-have tool for any serious gamer.

Best VPNs for Xbox – our shortlist:

1. NordVPN – Best VPN for Xbox One for lag-free gaming
2. Surfshark – Flexible, fast, and sophisticated
3. AtlasVPN – For occasional gamers
4. PrivateVPN – Simple and affordable Xbox VPN
5. ExpressVPN – Fast and secure, but pricier than others
6. CyberGhost – Large server network
7. Private Internet Access – Good options for Xbox gamers

Why do you need a VPN for Xbox One?

Consider using a VPN for your Xbox for several reasons. Let’s go over some of them:

Protect Yourself from DDoS Attacks and Swatting

First and foremost, a VPN can help protect you from online threats like DDoSing and Swatting. These are scary and can happen to anyone who is playing online. Using a VPN, you can keep your device and router’s IP address hidden, making it much harder for someone to launch an attack on you.

Reduce Lag by Stopping Internet Service Provider (ISP) Throttling

Another reason to use a VPN for Xbox is to stop your Internet Service Provider (ISP) from throttling your Internet connection. Internet Service Providers are known to do this, especially if they detect that you’re streaming or gaming online. Using a VPN can encrypt your traffic and prevent your Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from seeing what you’re doing, which can reduce lag and improve packet loss in your overall gaming experience.

Bypass Geo Restricted IP bans

Sometimes, you might be banned from a game or other streaming services. This can happen if the game’s developer has banned your location or you’ve been caught cheating. You can bypass these IP address bans using a VPN and access the game server or streaming services again.

Unblock New Servers and Regions

An Xbox VPN can also help you unblock new regions and servers. If a game or server is unavailable in your region, you can use VPN servers to connect to a network in a different location and access the game server that way.

Stream Content that is Unavailable in Your Location

Lastly, a VPN can help you access content that might not be available in your region. Some game servers or video streaming services might be restricted to certain countries or web browsing regions. However, with virtual private networks, you can connect to servers from different locations and access that content.

Xbox VPN Comparison

	NordVPN	Surfshark	AtlasVPN	PrivateVPN	ExpressVPN
Website	NordVPN.com	Surfshark.com	AtlasVPN.com	PrivateVPN.com	ExpressVPN.com
Ranking for Gaming	5/5	4.8/5	4.6/5	4.6/5	4.8/5
Avg. Speed	46,4 Mbps	40,1 Mbps	35,9 Mbps	43,6 Mbps	42,2 Mbps
Server count	5400+	3200+	750+	200+	3000+
Logs	No-logs	No identifiable logs	No identifiable logs	No logs	No identifiable logs
Suitable for Games	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Devices supported	Windows MacOS Android iOS Gaming Consoles SmartTVs	Windows MacOS Android iOS Gaming Consoles	Windows MacOS Android iOS	Windows MacOS Android iOS	Windows MacOS Android iOS Gaming Consoles SmartTVs
P2P Traffic	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Best Deals	63% OFF + Gift	Save 81%	83% OFF	Save 85%	3 months FREE

Best VPNs for Xbox – Our Detailed List:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN stands out from its competitors as the best VPN for Xbox due to its exceptional features and speeds. NordVPN offers lag-free gaming with easy installation on Xbox One and fast speeds for smooth gameplay. It is one of the best gaming VPNs overall.

Its WireGuard protocol and anti-DDoS protection ensures that you experience no high ping or lag while gaming on Xbox or XCloud. With NordVPN, you can rely on full DDoS protection, so there’s no chance that anyone could swat you when gaming. It keeps your network safe from snoopers and malicious online players.

NordVPN’s extensive server network of over 5,200 servers in 60 countries supports the NordLynx protocol, providing you with the best and most secure experience. 

It also offers smart DNS leak protection and obfuscation capabilities, along with Double VPN, CyberSec, and Onion over VPN features. You can purchase dedicated IP addresses for different regions to ensure the fastest and most secure experience possible.

In addition, NordVPN provides the best customer support service in the business, with around-the-clock live chat support. Its apps are easy to use and available for every software platform and device. 

Despite its impressive features, NordVPN is fairly affordable and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee. Overall, NordVPN is the best choice for Xbox gamers looking for a secure, fast, and reliable VPN service.

NordVPN Speed Test for Gaming Results

Speed Test	NordVPN
Website	NordVPN.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	46,4 Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	45,2 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	35,3 Mbps
Best deal	63% OFF + Gift

NordVPN Pros for Xbox:

• Exceptional speeds and lag-free gaming.
• WireGuard protocol and anti-DDoS protection.
• Extensive server network of over 5,200 servers in 60 countries.
• Smart DNS leak protection and obfuscation capabilities.
• Double VPN, CyberSec, and Onion over VPN features.
• 24/7 live chat customer support.
• 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN Cons for Xbox:

• No free trial
• Average price compared to other VPN providers.

2. Surfshark

If you’re looking for the second-best VPN for your Xbox with unlimited simultaneous connections, then Surfshark VPN is worth considering. Like NordVPN, Surfshark offers a quick and easy installation process for Xbox One. Once you’ve installed the VPN, you can enjoy all its features immediately.

One of the standout features of Surfshark is its impressive speed. The service uses the WireGuard protocol, known for being fast and efficient. 

During our testing, we found that Surfshark provided lag-free gaming and no high ping or lag while gaming on Xbox. That’s a plus for anyone who wants to enjoy their games without interruptions.

Another important feature of Surfshark is its anti-DDoS VPN protection. This is a must-have feature for anyone who wants to protect themselves from online attacks while gaming.

While Surfshark has fewer servers than NordVPN, it still offers a respectable number of servers across the globe. And with a growing network, we expect that Surfshark will continue to expand its server network over time.

In terms of pricing, Surfshark VPN is competitive with other VPN providers. There may be better options, but it certainly offers good value for the money. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try out its VPN services risk-free.

Overall, Surfshark is a solid choice for anyone looking for a VPN for Xbox One or its higher versions. While it may not have as many features as NordVPN, it’s still a great option for anyone who wants fast speeds and reliable gaming protection.

Surfshark Speed Test for Gaming Results

Speed Test	Surfshark
Website	Surfshark.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	40,1 Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	39,2 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	35,8 Mbps
Best deal	Save 81%

Surfshark Pros for Xbox:

• Quick and easy installation process.
• Unlimited simultaneous connections.
• Impressive speed and efficiency with WireGuard protocol.
• Anti-DDoS VPN protection.
• Growing server network.
• Competitive pricing.
• 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark Cons for Xbox:

• Fewer servers than some competitors.
• Fewer features than NordVPN.

3. AtlasVPN

If you’re an occasional gamer who wants to protect their online privacy, AtlasVPN is a solid choice for your Xbox. With a large server network and great security features like IP and DNS leak protection and DDoS protection, you can enjoy a safe and secure gaming experience.

During our testing, we found that AtlasVPN provides fast speeds and reliable connections, making it suitable for gaming and streaming content from platforms like Twitch.

However, there may be better options for hardcore gamers who demand the fastest speeds and advanced features like double VPN or Onion over VPN.

While AtlasVPN lacks some of the advanced features that competitors like PrivateVPN or Surfshark offer, it’s a great choice for those who want a reliable, affordable VPN service that can be used on multiple devices. 

AtlasVPN supports all major platforms, so you can easily set it up on your Xbox through your Windows or macOS. 

Overall, if you’re an occasional player looking for a solid, budget-friendly Xbox VPN option, AtlasVPN could be your choice.

AtlasVPN Speed Test for Gaming Results

Speed Test	AtlasVPN
Website	AtlasVPN.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	35,9 Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	34,2 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	29,9 Mbps
Best deal	83% OFF

AtlasVPN Pros for Xbox:

• Free-version available
• Great security features like IP and DNS leak protection and DDoS protection.
• Fast speeds and reliable connections.
• Affordable pricing.
• Supports all major platforms.

AtlasVPN Cons for Xbox:

• Lacks advanced features
• May not be suitable for hardcore gamers who demand the fastest speeds.

4. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is not the fastest or most feature-rich Xbox VPN out there, but it gets the job done, especially for those who only require basic features. We’ve tested it on Xbox and found it offers above-average speeds, making it a good option for gamers.

PrivateVPN has a decent server network, with more than 200 locations worldwide. It uses strong encryption and provides protection against IP address and DNS leaks, which is essential for keeping your Xbox and network safe.

While PrivateVPN may not offer as many advanced features as competitors like NordVPN or Surfshark, it still checks all the essential boxes. You don’t have to worry about bandwidth limits or server switch restrictions.

It also boasts a 99.98% uptime, so you can expect a reliable and consistent connection.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple, no-frills VPN for your Xbox, PrivateVPN is a solid choice.

PrivateVPN Speed Test for Gaming Results

Speed Test	PrivateVPN
Website	PrivateVPN.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	43,6 Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	45.9 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	40,1 Mbps
Best deal	Save 85%

PrivateVPN Pros for Xbox:

• Above-average speeds.
• Decent server network with more than 200 locations worldwide.
• Strong encryption and protection against IP address and DNS leaks.
• No bandwidth limits or server switch restrictions.
• 99.98% uptime.
• Very secure

PrivateVPN Cons for Xbox:

• Fewer advanced features compared to competitors like NordVPN or Surfshark.

5. ExpressVPN

If you’re a serious Xbox gamer, ExpressVPN is a VPN to consider. With its impressive network of over 3,000 servers and RAM disks, gamers can expect fast speeds and reliable connections.

What sets ExpressVPN apart from the competition is its security features. It uses 256-bit AES encryption and has a strict no-logs policy, so you can ensure your online activity is safe and private. The app also has a kill switch that will protect you in case of network connection drops.

During our testing, we found that ExpressVPN offered lag-free gaming on Xbox, with no high ping or lag while gaming. Plus, with its split tunneling feature, you can route only a part of your network connection through the VPN tunnel while keeping the rest on your local network. 

This is especially convenient if you set up ExpressVPN for Xbox through your computer’s internet connection.

The only downside to ExpressVPN is that it’s generally more expensive than its competitors. 

However, if you’re willing to pay a premium for speed, reliability, and top-notch security, ExpressVPN is worth it. It may not be the most affordable option, but it is certainly one of the best VPNs for Xbox.

ExpressVPN Speed Test for Gaming Results

Speed Test	ExpressVPN
Website	ExpressVPN.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	42,2 Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	40,9 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	38,1 Mbps
Best deal	+3 months FREE

Pros:

• Large network of over 3,000 servers for fast and reliable connections
• Uses 256-bit AES encryption and has a strict no-logs policy for secure and private online activity
• Kill switch for protection in case of network connection drops
• Offers lag-free gaming on Xbox
• Split tunneling feature to route only a part of your network connection through the VPN tunnel
• Suitable for Xbox gaming through a computer’s internet connection

Cons:

• More expensive than competitors

6. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is one of the best VPNs for Xbox, and for a good reason. With over 6,700 servers spread across more than 90 countries, you’re sure to find a server close to your location. Its global network also makes it an excellent choice for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing international gaming content.

We’ve tested CyberGhost on Xbox and were impressed with its performance. The speeds were good, and we experienced no lag or ping issues during gameplay. CyberGhost also offers anti-DDoS protection, which is crucial for online gaming.

CyberGhost also offers robust security features, including military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. It’s also easy to use, with user-friendly apps available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.

When compared to competitors like Private Internet Access or ExpressVPN, CyberGhost holds its own. While it may be slower than some competitors, it offers reliable connections and excellent value for its price.

If you’re looking for a VPN for Xbox One that provides excellent performance and security, CyberGhost is an excellent choice. Its global network, anti-DDoS protection, and robust security features make it one of the best VPNs for online gaming.

CyberGhost Speed Test Results for Gaming

Speed Test	CyberGhost
Website	cyberghostvpn.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	38,5Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	39,6 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	37,5 Mbps
Best deal	84% OFF + 3 Months Free

Pros:

• Large network of over 6,700 servers spread across more than 90 countries
• Offers anti-DDoS protection for online gaming
• Military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection for robust security
• User-friendly apps available on multiple platforms
• Good performance with no lag or ping issues during gameplay
• Excellent value for its price

Cons:

• Slower than some competitors

7. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is an excellent choice for Xbox users who value privacy and security. It has a vast network of over 35,000 servers across 77 countries, so you can easily connect to a server close to your physical location for optimal speed and performance.

PIA is known for its strong encryption and privacy features, strict no-logs policy, and ability to protect against DNS and IPv6 leaks. It also offers a kill switch, essential for gamers to prevent accidental disconnections that could expose their IP address or cause lag during gameplay.

In terms of speed, this VPN provider offers native VPN support with fast and reliable connections that are ideal for gaming and streaming. During our testing, we found that PIA provided lag-free gaming and no high ping or lag while gaming on Xbox.

One drawback of Private Internet Access is that it needs some advanced features offered by competitors like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. 

But if you’re looking for a reliable and straightforward VPN that provides fast and secure connections for your Xbox gaming, Private Internet Access is a great choice. It is also an affordable option when compared to other VPN services.

Private Internet Access Speed Test Results for Gaming

Speed Test	PrivateInternetAccess
Website	PrivateInternetAccess.com
Average Speed – North America (United States)	49,5 Mbps
Average Speed – Europe (United Kingdom)	40.5 Mbps
Average Speed – Asia (Singapore)	39,4 Mbps
Best deal	83% OFF + 3 Months Free

Pros:

• Vast network of over 35,000 servers across 77 countries for optimal speed and performance
• Strong encryption and privacy features, strict no-logs policy, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks
• Kill switch to prevent accidental disconnections and lag during gameplay
• Fast and reliable connections ideal for gaming and streaming
• Affordable option compared to other VPN services

Cons:

• Lacks some advanced features offered by competitors such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN

Testing Methodology: How We Selected and Tested These VPNs

To select the best VPNs for Xbox, we researched and analyzed various VPN services based on various factors. These criteria included user reviews, expert opinions, pricing, server locations, security features, and unblocking capabilities.

Criteria used in selecting the best VPNs for Xbox:

• DDoS and swatting protection: The VPNs that made it to our list had to offer reliable DDoS attack and sweating protection to prevent malicious attacks on gamers.
• Low ping and lag-free gaming: The VPNs had to provide low ping and lag-free gaming experiences, allowing gamers to enjoy smooth and uninterrupted gameplay.
• Ease of use and installation for Xbox: We also considered how easy it was to set up and use the VPNs on Xbox.
• Speed: The VPNs had to provide fast internet speeds for smooth gameplay and streaming.
• Price: We evaluated the pricing plans of each VPN and considered the value for the money they offered.
• Security and protocols: We looked at the security features each VPN offered, such as encryption protocols, IP leak protection, and a kill switch.
• Privacy: We also considered the privacy policies of each VPN, including their logging policies and data retention practices.
• Unblocking capabilities: Finally, we assessed the ability of each VPN to bypass geo-blocks and access popular streaming platforms.

We tested each VPN on Xbox by setting up the VPN on our Xbox console and running a series of tests, including gaming sessions, speed tests, and streaming tests. We also tested the VPNs on other devices to compare their performance.

After thorough testing and evaluation, we found that NordVPN is the best VPN for Xbox.

How to Set Up a VPN on Xbox One and Xbox Series X

If you want to use a VPN with your Xbox console, there are several ways to set it up. In this section, we’ll go over four methods:

• Setting up a VPN on a router or computer’s internet connection box
• Creating a VPN-protected Wi-Fi or mobile hotspot on a laptop
• Sharing a Windows PC VPN connection
• Sharing a macOS VPN connection

Setting up a VPN on a router for Xbox One

One of the most straightforward ways to set up a VPN for your Xbox is to configure it on your router. This way, the VPN will protect all devices connected to your home network or mobile hotspot, including your Xbox. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Check if your router supports VPN manual configuration. Not all routers have this option, so checking the manufacturer’s website or the router’s manual is important.
2. Choose a VPN provider that supports router configuration. Many VPN providers offer step-by-step guides for different router models.
3. Type your router’s IP address in your browser’s address bar. Log in with the login credentials that came with the router.
4. Log in to your router’s control panel and navigate to the VPN settings.
5. Enter the VPN provider’s server information, including the server address, username, and password.
6. Save the settings and restart your router.
7. Connect your Xbox to the router; your gaming console should automatically use the VPN connection.

Setting up a VPN-protected Wi-Fi Hotspot on a Laptop

Another way to use a VPN with your Xbox is to create a VPN-protected Wi-Fi or mobile hotspot on your laptop. This method requires your laptop to have a Wi-Fi network adapter and a VPN client installed. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Connect your laptop to the internet via Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi routers.
2. Connect to a VPN server using the VPN client on your laptop.
3. Go to your laptop’s network settings and enable the “Mobile hotspot” feature.
4. Choose a name and password for the hotspot and click “Start.”
5. Connect your Xbox to the Wi-Fi network; your console should use the VPN connection.

Setting up a VPN on Xbox Series X and Xbox One using a Windows PC

If your Windows PC is connected to a VPN, you can share that connection with your Xbox console using an Ethernet cable. Here’s how:

1. Connect your Windows PC to the internet via a wired connection and connect to a VPN server.
2. Connect your Xbox to your PC using an Ethernet cable.
3. Go to your PC’s network settings and select the VPN and the Ethernet connection.
4. Right-click on the VPN connection and select “Properties.”
5. Go to the “Internet Sharing” tab and enable “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.”
6. Save the settings and restart both your PC and Xbox.

Setting up a VPN on Xbox Series X and Xbox One using a macOS

If your macOS is connected to a VPN, you can share that connection with your Xbox console using an Ethernet cable. Here’s how:

1. Connect your macOS to the internet via a wired connection and connect to a VPN server.
2. Connect your Xbox to your macOS using an Ethernet cable.
3. Go to your macOS’s network settings and select both the VPN and the ethernet connection.
4. On your macOS, open “System Preferences.” Click on “Sharing” and then choose “Internet Sharing” from the list of options on the left-hand side. 
5. Enable “Internet Sharing” and select the VPN as the source and the Ethernet connection as the destination.
6. Save the settings and restart both your macOS and Xbox.

Setting up a VPN for your Xbox may require technical knowledge, but it’s possible. Whether you configure it on your router, create a VPN hotspot on your laptop, or share your PC or macOS VPN, the process should be manageable if you follow the steps carefully.

VPNs to Avoid While Accessing Xbox One

When it comes to using a VPN with your Xbox One or any other gaming console like PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, there are some services you should avoid at all costs, which majorly include free VPNs. 

Here are three free VPNs that we recommend steering clear of:

Hola VPN

It is one of the free VPN services linked to several security and privacy concerns. It uses a peer-to-peer network architecture, meaning your internet traffic is routed through other users’ computers. 

This free VPN can lead to several security issues, including the possibility of your traffic being intercepted or your device being used as part of a botnet. Hola VPN is also known to sell users’ bandwidth to third parties, which is a significant privacy concern.

Hoxx VPN

Hoxx VPN is another free VPN service you should avoid when using your Xbox One. This free VPN service has been found to leak users’ IP addresses, which is a serious security and privacy issue. Hoxx VPN is also known to log users’ internet activity, another major privacy concern.

HideMyAss

HideMyAss is a free VPN service that has existed for some time, but there are better choices for Xbox One users. This service has been known to log users’ internet activity, a major privacy concern. 

Additionally, HideMyAss has been known to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, which may concern some users who value their privacy. Overall, there are better VPN options available that provide stronger security and privacy features.

Best VPN for Xbox FAQs

Will using a VPN for Xbox One boost gaming speeds?

Using a VPN for Xbox One may or may not boost game speeds, as it depends on various factors such as server location, internet connection speeds, and the quality of the VPN service itself.

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

It is highly unlikely that you will get banned for using a VPN on Xbox One. However, if you use the VPN to cheat or engage in illegal activities, Microsoft may ban your account.

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

Using a VPN with your Xbox One can help protect your identity by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your real IP address from prying eyes.

Does every VPN work with Xbox One?

Not all VPNs work with Xbox One. It would be best to choose a VPN that offers a router setup, or you can set up a VPN directly on a PC and share the connection with your Xbox One.

Can you use a VPN app directly on Xbox Series X?

Yes, you can use a VPN on Xbox Series X. The setup process is similar to that of Xbox One, and you can either set up the VPN on a router or share a VPN connection from your PC or laptop.

Is port forwarding safe for Xbox One? 

Yes, port forwarding your Xbox is entirely safe. Port forwarding allows you to boost your internet speed and avoid lags.

What Games Can You Play on Xbox?

Some of the most popular games you can play on Xbox are:

• Fortnite
• GTA Online
• COD: Warzone
• Destiny 2
• FIFA

Final Thoughts

The best VPN for Xbox One and Xbox Series X is NordVPN. This quality VPN offers excellent security features, fast speeds, and unblocking capabilities to enhance your gaming experience.

In conclusion, using a VPN for Xbox is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that may not be available in your region.

Secondly, it provides an additional layer of security to protect your online activity from hackers and cybercriminals.

Lastly, it can enhance your gaming experience by reducing lag and improving your connection speed. With the best VPNs for Xbox One and Xbox Series X, you can enjoy all the benefits of online gaming without compromising your privacy and security.