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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

How to Jailbreak a Firestick Safely With a VPN — 2024 Guide

James Everard Updated on 28th March 2024 Senior Writer

Although it may seem daunting, there’s a tried and true method for jailbreaking your Fire Stick — and it’s not too tricky. This gives you access to tons of third-party apps that aren’t available in the Amazon Appstore. That said, tampering with your device’s software is risky. And anytime you use a jailbroken Fire Stick, you’re vulnerable to cyberattacks and prying eyes.

An easy way to protect yourself is with a VPN. When you connect to one of the VPN’s private servers, your personal data is safeguarded. As an added bonus, it can also help you securely watch your favorite local shows and movies through your Fire Stick’s apps.

After testing 50+ VPNs, my top recommendation for Amazon Fire Stick is ExpressVPN. It has a native app for Fire devices for easy installation. Plus, Ultra HD-friendly speeds and top-notch security to keep you safe. If you don’t like it, claiming your money back is simple within the 30-day refund period.

Jailbreak Firestick With ExpressVPN >>

Quick Guide: How to Jailbreak a FireStick With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because it's easy to install, fast, and has strong security features to keep you safe.
  2. Connect to any server. This will hide your IP and browsing data from prying eyes while using your Fire Stick.
  3. Jailbreak your Amazon Fire Stick. Enable “allow apps from unknown sources” in your Fire Stick settings, and browse without limitations.
Important! My colleagues and I do not condone copyright infringement. The VPN services we recommend below have strict no-logging policies that prevent them from tracking (or seeing) what you do online. This means you're responsible for how you choose to use a VPN, so please be sure to follow all applicable rules and regulations.

Why You Need a VPN to Jailbreak an Amazon FireStick

While it opens up a world of possibilities, jailbreaking a Fire Stick exposes you to numerous cyber threats as well. Your location and personal data are visible when you use a jailbroken Fire Stick, which puts you at risk of trackers, hackers, and prying eyes. On top of this, third-party app downloads aren’t always safe and may expose your device to malicious attacks.

A VPN protects you by hiding your IP address and routing your traffic through a private server. That way, your data is safeguarded from anyone trying to intercept it. Some VPNs even come with malware prevention or blockers to help you avoid loading anything shady on your Fire Stick.

Best VPNs to Jailbreak a FireStick in 2024

1. ExpressVPN – Overall Best FireStick VPN with a Fast and Highly Secure Native App

Native Fire App Yes
Server Network 3,000 servers in 105 countries
Security/Privacy Independently audited no-logs policy, split tunneling
Compatible With Fire devices, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, and more

ExpressVPN is my top pick for several reasons. Not only is it highly secure, but it’s also fast and easy to install and use. Additionally, it has a native app for Fire Stick, which not all VPNs offer. You can even reach customer support by clicking “Help” in the app.

Screenshot showing the ExpressVPN home screen on the native Fire appThe Fire device app interface is sleek and user-friendly, so I had no trouble navigating it

With its high-speed connections, you can stream in Ultra HD with zero buffering. I tested 12 UK servers from my home in London and my download speeds hovered around 104 Mbps, just 4.7% below my starting speed. UHD only requires 25 Mbps, so I didn’t encounter lag during the 3 hours of streaming I did.

While, theoretically, you can use a VPN to watch streaming services from outside of their licensed locations, we do not condone this. Doing so would likely break the terms of use of your chosen platform and may constitute copyright infringement. Always use a VPN responsibly.

Strong security and privacy features protect you whenever you use a jailbroken Fire Stick. TrustedServer technology (RAM-based servers) automatically clears your personal data upon every reboot, so all your activity is kept private.

Although it doesn’t offer a malware blocker, Threat Manager is a “blocklist” that prevents malicious sites from communicating with your Fire Stick. This gave me peace of mind whenever I searched for third-party apps to download. Still, you should only download directly from the app’s official site to be safe.

While it isn’t the cheapest on my list, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it comes with a money-back guarantee that covers you for 30 days. I contacted 24/7 live chat to request my refund. It was approved after a short chat, and 4 days later, my money was returned in full.

Useful Features

  • Security essentials. It keeps your data safe with 256-bit encryption, DNS/IP leak protection, and a kill switch.
  • Shortcuts feature. I used this to configure settings for my favorite platforms and apps. Now, I can easily open my favorite local streaming services right from the ExpressVPN home screen.
  • Proprietary Lightway protocol. ExpressVPN has removed all the code that's not necessary for a commercial protocol. That gives your Fire devices lightweight, fast, but secure connections.
  • 8 simultaneous device connections. Connect up to 8 devices — useful in households with multiple devices.
ExpressVPN Offer April 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 49% off! Don't miss out!

2. CyberGhost – Specialty Amazon FireStick Servers for Reliable Connections

Native Fire App Yes
Server Network 11,690 servers in 100 countries, plus Fire Stick-optimized connections
Security/Privacy Automatic built-in kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection
Compatible With  Fire devices, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, and more

CyberGhost has 6 server locations optimized specifically for streaming on Fire devices. There are 5 for Netflix in the US, UK, Germany, France, and Italy, plus 1 for Hulu. It also has 100+ more specialized servers for different countries. Our global team tested these servers with platforms licensed in their respective regions, and they all worked seamlessly on Fire Stick.

Screenshot of the specialty Fire Stick servers on the native Fire appLike ExpressVPN, CyberGhost has a native Fire app that takes only a couple minutes to install

CyberGhost keeps your personal data safe while you use a jailbroken Fire Stick. With its zero logs policy, your online activity is never recorded. Its Content Blocker feature prevents trackers and malicious content at the DNS level. So harmful content never even reaches your Fire device.

The native Fire app is incredibly simple to use. Your “Best Location” is selected by default on the home screen, so if you need simple security while you jailbreak your Fire Stick, just hit “Connect”. If you get connection or speed issues, enabling Small packet sizes in Settings can help — and it only takes 1 click.

While testing local UK servers from London, I only experienced an average speed loss of 6%, so I was able to stream Top Boy on Netflix UK through my Fire Stick with no lag. That said, my US colleague said they had larger drops of up to 23% when connecting to Florida from New York.

CyberGhost gives you a generous 45 days to test it risk-free when you sign up with a long-term plan. That’s longer than the industry-standard 30 days. But be aware that the short-term subscription only offers 14 days.

Useful Features

  • WireGuard protocol. The Fire app has a choice of protocols, but for smooth and safe streaming, I recommend WireGuard since it’s open-source and speed-optimized.
  • Extensive customer support. You can access the FAQ and Article Database right from your Fire app, plus there’s a Report a Problem email form.
  • Split tunneling. You can opt to have select apps either bypass or go through the VPN. This lets you free up some bandwidth and get better speeds.
  • Simultaneous device connections. CyberGhost’s plans allow you to protect up to 7 connections at once, so I could cover my Fire devices and more.
April 2024 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 84% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Tons of Adjustable Settings to Customize Your FireStick Connections

Native Fire App No, but you can sideload it (see steps below)
Server Network 29,650 servers in 90 countries, plus some streaming-optimized servers
Security/Privacy WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, connection automation
Compatible With  Fire devices, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, and more

PIA stands out with its extensive range of customizable settings. You can adjust encryption levels to tailor your balance between security and speed on Fire Stick. The standard 256-bit encryption is more secure but slightly slower, whereas 128-bit is faster but less secure.

Screenshot showing how to switch encryption on PIA's native Fire appMost of PIA’s settings can be enabled with one click

You also get MACE, a powerful tool that blocks intrusive ads, trackers, and malware. This gives you a smoother and safer experience on your Fire Stick, free from annoying ads and potential security threats.

Speeds on nearby servers are fast and UHD-friendly. During my tests on several UK servers from London, I had a speed loss of 4 to 9%. However, speeds weren’t as consistent in other countries, and my US colleague reported speed losses of 30 to 64% when connecting to the other side of the country.

While it doesn't offer a native app for Fire Stick like CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, the installation isn't as immediate or straightforward. However, by sideloading it using the instructions in the guide below, you can successfully set it up on your device.

PIA also lets you try it out risk-free with a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

  • Specialty streaming servers. These are optimized for location (not for device or platform, like CyberGhost’s streaming servers). They’re available for the UK, France, Italy, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Japan, Australia, and the US (x2).
  • Use Small Packet Sizes. Slightly decreases the size of your data packets which can improve performance on some networks.
  • Strong leak protection. It has a kill switch, plus, a feature called Aggressive IPv6 Blocking that prevents IPv6 leaks. I recommend this feature if your Fire device uses Android < 5.0.
  • 1 Click Connect. Automatically connects you to the best server for your Fire Stick based on your setup, location, and server user load.
April 2024 Update: PIA doesn't usually have deals or discounts (it's already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 83% off!

How to Jailbreak an Amazon FireStick

Jailbreaking can be done in several ways, and some of them can be quite complicated. You should use a VPN like ExpressVPN to make this safer. The process I’m recommending is called sideloading — a quick and easy way to jailbreak your Fire Stick.

The techniques highlighted below leverage APKs (Android Packages). These are Android-specific applications that empower you to utilize your Fire Stick in manners typically unavailable.

To use any of these, you need to change your settings to allow apps from unknown sources. To get started, begin with these 3 steps:

  1. Go to your Fire Stick’s ‘settings’ page
  2. Navigate to ‘system’ > ‘developer options’
  3. Enable ‘allow apps from unknown sources’

Sideload Apps Directly on Your FireStick

For this method, you need a direct link to the APK of the app you want to install. You should only use APK links from the service’s official website. Never use links from forums or elsewhere online, as they can be fake and dangerous.

Note: You can also use these steps to sideload a VPN (starting at step 2) if your chosen VPN doesn’t have a native Fire Stick app.

  1. Connect to a VPN. For added safety, connect your VPN to a server location of your choice. If you don’t have a VPN or want to sideload one to your Fire Stick, skip this step and proceed to step 2.
  2. Download ES Explorer. On your Fire Stick’s main menu, type ES Explorer into the search bar — then, click to download and install it (this app helps compress and transfer files quickly).
  3. Go to the Download Manager. Once it’s downloaded, open ES Explorer. Navigate to ‘tools’ > ‘download manager’.
  4. Input the APK Link. Select + ‘New’, then input the (VPN or other) app’s APK link in the ‘Path’ field.
  5. Jailbreak your Amazon Fire Stick. Name the app and click ‘Download Now’.

Sideload Apps Using Your Android Phone or Tablet

Apps2Fire makes sideloading apps easy, but you need an Android device (aside from the Fire Stick) to use it. You just need to go to the Play Store and download Apps2Fire on your Android tablet or phone.

  1. Write down your IP address. On your Fire Stick, go to ‘Settings’, click ‘Device’ > ‘About’ > ‘Network’, and note the IP address.
  2. Connect your VPN. This will protect your data as you jailbreak and use your Fire Stick.
  3. Allow ADV debugging. Return to the ‘Settings’ page and click ‘Device’ > ‘Developer Options’ > ‘Allow ADV Debugging’.
  4. Check your WiFi connection. Ensure your Android device is connected to the same WiFi network as your Fire Stick and open Apps2Fire.
  5. Set up Apps2Fire. In Apps2Fire, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Setup’.
  6. Add your IP address. Enter your Fire Stick’s IP address in the field and click ‘Save’.
  7. Jailbreak your Amazon Fire Stick. Tap the menu button and select ‘Upload apps’, tap on the app you want to install, and it will transfer automatically.

Sideload Apps From Your Computer

AdbLink is a free application that enables you to directly install apps onto your Amazon Fire Stick from your computer.

  1. Connect to a VPN server. The VPN will encrypt your traffic and keep your activities on your Fire device private.
  2. Note the IP Address. On Fire Stick, navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘About’ > ‘Network’, and note the IP address.
  3. Add your Fire Stick. Open adbLink on your computer, click ‘New’, and follow the prompts to add your Fire Stick using the IP address.
  4. Download APK Files. Download the APK files for the apps you want on your computer. You should always do this from the app developer’s official website.
  5. Transfer the apps. In adbLink, click ‘Install APK’, select the app you want to transfer, and click ‘Okay’.
  6. Jailbreak your Amazon Fire Stick. adbLink will then install the app automatically on your Fire Stick.
Pro Tip: Some apps are too complex for the Fire Stick remote control. To get better functionality, I recommend downloading Mouse Toggle. This gives you a cursor that you can control with your Fire Stick remote. Keep in mind, Mouse Toggle is a third-party app that you can only get once your Fire Stick is jailbroken.

FAQs on How to Jailbreak a FireStick With a VPN

What apps can I install on a jailbroken FireStick?

A range of streaming apps are available, offering access to movies, TV shows, and live sports. Some popular examples include Kodi, IPTV, Cinema HD, BeeTV, Ola TV, HD Streamz, TeaTV, Cyberflix, TVTap, and Lepto Sports. You can also install utility apps that optimize your Fire Stick's performance or customize its interface. Keep in mind that some apps contain copyright-protected content, so be sure to use a jailbroken Fire Stick responsibly.

On top of this, using a jailbroken Fire Stick and installing third-party apps can expose you to a number of cyber threats. So it’s best to use a VPN to protect your privacy and ensure your personal data is hidden any time you use a jailbroken Fire Stick.

Can I buy a pre-jailbroken FireStick?

Yes, but I don’t recommend it. Jailbreaking your Fire Stick is a straightforward process you can do quickly and safely. It's always better to do it yourself rather than buy a pre-jailbroken device from an unofficial third-party seller. Not only is it safer, but it's also more satisfying to know that you did it yourself, saving time and money.

But if you find your Fire Stick has become institutionalized and misses the structure that jail provides, you can reverse the process. Alternatively, you can always sell a jailbroken Fire device when you’re done with it.

How do I use a jailbroken FireStick?

It’s not much different from using a regular Fire Stick — you can launch the apps directly from your Fire Stick's home screen, like Netflix or iPlayer. But before using a jailbroken Fire Stick, I recommend connecting to a VPN as a safety precaution.

In the end, using a jailbroken Fire Stick is not much different from using a regular one but with the bonus of access to more apps. It’s also possible to customize your Fire Stick's interface with skins or add-ons, giving you a more personalized streaming experience.

Is jailbreaking my FireStick illegal?

While it isn’t illegal to jailbreak and sideload your Fire Stick, it may be against the Fire Stick terms of service depending on what you do with it. You can access apps that you normally wouldn’t be able to, but it’s best to do so cautiously. For example, you should always be wary about the content you download. The vpnMentor team does not condone downloading or streaming unlicensed copyrighted content. Also, be careful that you aren’t installing software from untrustworthy sources, particularly if you aren’t protecting yourself with a VPN.

Fortunately, setting up a VPN with your Fire Stick is easy. It also takes just minutes and provides a lot more safety and privacy before you jailbreak your device.

How do I know if the VPN is working on my FireStick?

There’s a simple test to check if your VPN for Fire Stick is working. On your Fire device’s home screen, navigate to ‘Downloader’ (or find it using ‘Search’). Type in https://www.whatismyip.com/. It will display the IP address of your Fire device. If it’s different from your regular IP, you’ll know the VPN is working and has changed your location.

This is even easier if you have ExpressVPN. Go to ‘Options’ > ‘Privacy & Security Tools’ > ‘IP Address Checker’.

Can I jailbreak my FireStick without an Amazon account?

Yes. Jailbreaking a Fire Stick can be done easily without an Amazon account. You can do it by sideloading apps directly onto your device using the Downloader app. It’s even possible to use an alternative app store, like Aptoide TV, Filelinked, or even Google Play. These app stores offer a range of third-party apps you can install on your Fire Stick without needing an Amazon account.

Can I use a free VPN to jailbreak my FireStick?

It’s possible, but I don’t recommend it. Free VPNs often monitor user data and sell it to third parties, and even infect devices with malware. The VPNs I recommended have advanced security and privacy features that ensure they won’t leave you vulnerable when you use a jailbroken Fire Stick. Plus, they come with money-back guarantees, so it’s simply not work sacrificing the security.

Many free VPNs also don’t offer key features to keep you safe, like no-logs policies, industry-standard protocols, and leak protection. And they usually impose strict limitations on data, speeds, and server locations — which can make it nearly impossible to stream on a Fire Stick.

Jailbreak a Fire TV Stick in Minutes

A Fire Stick is a neat little piece of tech that can offer a world of possibility beyond what’s available on Amazon Apps. But to jailbreak a Fire Stick safely, it’s best to use a VPN. A VPN can hide your IP and scramble your personal data to make it unreadable. Some even help prevent malicious content, which is always beneficial for downloading third-party apps.

The best VPN for jailbreaking a Fire Stick is ExpressVPN. It took just seconds to install its native app — plus, it’s fast speeds and strong security make it ideal for safe and smooth streaming. You can also test it with your Fire Stick risk-free since it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy, claiming a full refund is simple.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to Jailbreak a Fire Stick

Rank
Provider
Our Score
Discount
Visit Website
1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
Save 49%!
2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
Save 84%!
3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
Save 83%!
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The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.

Visit ExpressVPN

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

James conducts rigorous hands-on research and testing to evaluate dozens of VPNs for his articles. He's an advocate for digital freedom.

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