Gaming has evolved so much in the past few decades. Since the release of the first home video game console, entertainment has never been the same. However, what if we want to use virtual private networks for privacy and unblocking restrictions on the internet?
Are these services available to be used on consoles? And if so, how does it work on them? Well, the quick answer to this question is yes, VPNs are compatible with the latest consoles. You can download one and try it yourself.
Let's take a closer look at the scene and see why you should use VPN with a console and why it should be a staple in your home.
(Photo: Surfshark)
Gaming Consoles and VPNs
Well, the short answer is yes. A lot of services are available for you to encrypt your connection or unblock certain websites while gaming online. These include Xbox One, PlayStation 4 (PS4), Nintendo Switch, and other gaming consoles. In fact, some solutions are already available for you to use right away.
For example, the PlayStation 4 offers a built-in browser that works with VPN services. You can also connect a VPN app from your phone or computer to encrypt your connection and log in to the virtual private network on your console as well.
In addition, a lot of companies make apps for your phone that you can log into and then connect to the VPN. Then, just connect it to the same account as your console and enjoy!
Why Should You Use VPN on Consoles?
A VPN service is an important thing to have if you intend on using your console outside of your home network. Let's take a look at some of the reasons why you should use one.
IP Address and Geo-Restrictions on Consoles
Even if you don't play online games, you're still subject to geo-restrictions. This means that certain content is only available from a specific location.
Unblocking geo-restricted content is easy on PC and especially on mobile devices. Most services offer dedicated apps for Android and iOS, which let you unblock the latest releases with ease.
However, consoles are not as lucky, despite the fact that they are PlayStation or Xbox variants. The problem here is that they are slightly harder to configure for VPN use.
If you want to unblock content, there are a few options available. Either connect your laptop or phone directly into the console through an ethernet cable and download the respective app or else use a third-party service.
Ensuring Privacy While You Play Online
Another thing you should know about console gaming is that your privacy may be at risk while you play online. Since consoles are usually used in the home, they have been known to share information directly with the manufacturer when data is collected from them.
In other words, if your console is sending data back and forth to a server, it's highly likely that your information will be seen by the manufacturer.
The good news is that you don't have to worry about it too much if you use a VPN on your console. Since they encrypt all data, no one can see what you're doing online unless they are actually hacking into the information stream itself.
What's more, most of these services do not keep any logs of you or your data at all so it's safe to use on consoles as well.
Last Minute Thoughts
In conclusion to the above discussion, you can use VPNs on console platforms. All you have to do is download them from your phone or PC and then use the same subscription on all of the devices you own, including Xbox One or PlayStation 4.
In addition, a VPN is also an excellent way to ensure you don't get hacked when playing online games as well as protect yourself from tracking attempts by third parties.
The best part is that it's extremely easy to use, so you don't have to worry about unnecessary roadblocks when using a VPN!
