kodi netflix

How To Watch Netflix With the Kodi Add-On

Last updated on May 11, 2021
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The best things in life are free and one of those things is Kodi, an open-source multimedia entertainment system that doesn’t cost a cent – the even better news is that it’s completely legal as well.

Kodi is versatile enough to function on almost every operating system but it doesn’t come with libraries of content which is why many people use it in conjunction with Netflix, or by using the Kodi Netflix addon.

There used to be a handy link to the essential Alelec repository that gave users access to Netflix’s extensive library but, after this stopped working last year sometime, Kodi users have been trying to find a workaround.

With the beta release of Kodi’s latest version, Kodi 18 Leia, comes the holy grail and Kodi users can once again enjoy the virtually unlimited content of Netflix… as long as they’re in the US or have a reliable VPN, that is.

How to Watch Kodi Netflix With the Kodi Netflix Addon

The first step to getting access to the latest TV series, documentaries, and movies is to download the latest version of Kodi and the necessary zip file that will give you access to Alelec repository that holds the key to the Netflix library. Kodi itself is surprisingly quick to install, despite its size, and is compatible with most main operating systems, including Windows and Mac, Android and iOS, as well as Linux and Raspberry Pi.

At this stage, the use of a VPN isn’t critical, but it will mean more protection against a range of potential cyber threats and could even boost your internet speed. Either way, once you’ve got the wheels turning, it’s time to turn your attention to the Alelec repository.

To install Netflix on Kodi, follow these simple steps:

  1. Download the Kodi Netflix add-on* zip file
  2. In Kodi, open the Settings menu using the cog icon on the top left
  3. Open system systems
  4. Select Add-ons from the menu and allow add-ons from unknown sources
  5. Return to the main menu and select Add-ons
  6. Open Add-on browser
  7. Click on the “install from zip file” option
  8. Select the Netflix add-on from your downloads folder and click OK
  9. Return to the main menu and select Netflix from your add-ons

Why You Need a VPN to Watch Netflix on Kodi

Once this process has been completed, you can log in to Netflix directly from Kodi and enjoy the fruits of your labor.  Of course, just how fruitful this is, depends on your IP address as much of the content on Netflix is restricted to US viewers so those trying to access it from overseas will be disappointed unless they can convince the site that they’re in the US.

A good VPN can do this by creating a fake IP address in the country of your choice but, with Netflix being so notorious for its geographical restrictions and cutting-edge content blocking, it takes a pretty mighty VPN sword to slash through these barriers and get you into the Pandora’s box of pleasures that is Netflix’s US library.

A VPN can guarantee you have free reign of Netflix’s extensive US library regardless of your geographical location, but only the very best are agile enough to get around the blocks and only the very fast enough can give you uninterrupted high-resolution streaming, so making the right choice could mean the difference between pixelated disruptions and pure viewing pleasure.

The best VPNs for Kodi, because they can negotiate geographical restrictions, will also give you access to more add-ons, hide your activity from your ISP to prevent bandwidth throttling, and prevent exposing you online by providing superior DNS leak protection.

Best VPNs for Watching Netflix on Kodi

#1. ExpressVPN – Koolest Kat for Kodi

One of the longest-standing VPS around, ExpressVPN is still running rings around its competitors, in terms of security, protection, access, and speed. Few VPNs have been able to guarantee consistent access to Netflix, but ExpressVPN has always been one of them. Not only that, but ExpressVPN has apps that make it compatible with everything from a Windows PC to an Amazon Firestick.

To find out exactly why we rate ExpressVPN so highly, check out our full review, or take advantage of three free months by signing up today.

#2. NordVPN – Most Secure VPN for Kodi

While most VPNs protect the device Kodi is installed on, NordVPN provides a specific app just for Kodi users. Installing this follows the same steps as installing Netflix on Kodi so it should be self-explanatory for those users who’ve achieved that goal.

Versatile and effective, NordVPN is great for streaming US television from abroad as its servers are so widely distributed. It’s also got a great user interface that makes traveling the world virtually as much fun as doing it physically.

If you’re looking for robust VPN protection while traveling, why not give NordVPN a whirl, or find out more about its perks and impressive customer support in our full review.

#3. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for Kodi

Surfshark VPN may be comparatively new to the scene but its capabilities believe. its lack of experience. Few cybersecurity experts set any store by this VPN when it first emerged from the dark waters of its developers’ minds. With less than 1000 servers, it looked like a very small fish in a very big pond, but it’s proved it has both the speed and dexterity of its namesake the shark and continues to go from strength to strength.

With something akin to an introductory special offer, Surfshark is currently one of the most affordable VPNs to use with Kodi and Netflix, although that may change as its popularity increases, so why not sign up today and get some serious protection at Monopoly-money prices?

#4. CyberGhost – Most User-Friendly VPN for Kodi

CyberGhost VPN is the friendly ghost of cybersecurity, cloaking its users in a carefully encrypted VPN tunnel so they can travel the digital world without restriction. CyberGhost has one of the most extensive server networks of any VPN, with over 4,500 servers worldwide and an incredible 1,029 in the US alone. With that many IP addresses available, the chances of Netflix blocking CyberGhost are limited, to say the least.

While most VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, CyberGhost goes one step further with a 45-day grace period and a 24-hour free trial. Check out our review for more reasons to sign up with CyberGhost today.

Conclusion to installing Kodi on Netflix

There are lots of benefits of using a VPN with Kodi, not least of which is the ability to install Netflix on Kodi and gain access to all its content regardless of your physical location. While it’s perfectly legal to use Kodi to watch Netflix, the geographical restrictions mean that users outside the US will have limited content to choose from. The best VPNs for Kodi solve this problem by hiding your real IP address behind a fake one.

Although Kodi itself is a legal app, not all its plugins are, especially those that give users access to copyrighted content without paying for it. This is where the risk comes in and where a VPN can help keep you protected and hidden from prying eyes and the potential dangers of P2P traffic. While we would never recommend using Kodi or a VPN to access illegal content, having a VPN means you’ll be much safer should you accidentally stray.

Not only can a VPN ensure that you get to watch whatever you want using the Kodi Netflix add-on, but it can also increase your streaming speeds by hiding your activity from your ISP and circumventing the annoying practice of bandwidth throttling. A VPN also offers some safeguards against the potential perils and malware that often haunt less reputable streaming sites.

While any of the VPNs listed here are capable of giving you both freedom and security while watching Netflix on Kodi, we recommend ExpressVPN as the best value for money but, at the end of the day, the choice is yours.

* SecureThoughts will not take any responsibility for damages occurring from the abovementioned link. 

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