5 Best VPNs for Plex in 2025

Plex lets you set up your own media server, use add-ons for streaming services, watch live TV, and access on-demand content. However, many of its live channels and library titles are geo-restricted due to regional licensing. If you’re in an unsupported area or traveling abroad, you’ll lose access to this content.

A VPN solves this by letting you change your virtual location and unlock Plex anywhere. With a Plex VPN, you can:

✅ Bypass geo-blocks – Access on-demand content, live TV channels, and streaming add-ons from regions like the US.
✅ Get full access – Unlock the larger Plex libraries and features available in certain countries.
✅ Stream while traveling – Connect to a server in your home country to keep watching your usual content abroad.
✅ Avoid ISP throttling – Hide your activity so your Internet provider can’t slow down your streaming speeds.
✅ Block ads – Use VPNs with ad-blockers to remove annoying ads on Plex’s free version.

In this article, we’ll review the 5 best VPNs for Plex, explain how to set them up, and show you how to use them for both streaming and remote access.

Does Plex Block VPNs? Is it Legal to Use Plex with a VPN?

Using Plex with a VPN is generally legal, provided that your usage complies with Plex’s Terms of Service and local laws. According to Plex’s TOS, users must not infringe on intellectual property rights or violate any applicable regulations. While Plex doesn’t explicitly ban VPNs, it reserves the right to suspend or permanently disable accounts that engage in prohibited activities. So, if you're using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions or share copyrighted content unlawfully, you could be putting your account at risk.

From a privacy standpoint, VPNs can complement Plex’s own security measures. Plex emphasizes the importance of encrypted connections to protect user data and ensure secure remote access to media.

Their support documentation highlights that secure traffic prevents third parties from seeing what you’re watching or listening to. A VPN adds another layer of encryption, shielding your device information, like location, advertising ID, and platform details, from potential exposure, especially when accessing Plex over public or unsecured networks.

However, not all VPNs are created equal. Free VPNs often come with limitations such as slower speeds, data caps, and questionable privacy practices. If you're considering using a VPN with Plex, it's wise to choose one that offers reliable performance and strong encryption standards. Ultimately, using a VPN with Plex is legal and can enhance your privacy, as long as you’re not violating Plex’s policies or the law.

The Best VPNs for Plex in 2025

Looking to unlock all of Plex’s content and stream without interruptions? A top VPN for Plex should reliably unblock geo-restricted content while delivering fast, buffer-free streaming. Beyond bypassing regional restrictions, the best Plex VPNs offer strong privacy, advanced security, and easy-to-use apps across multiple devices. Key features to look for include:

✅ Access anywhere – Servers in major regions, especially the US, for Plex and other streaming services
✅ High-speed performance – HD and 4K streaming without buffering, including remote server access
✅ Advanced security – Obfuscation, kill switch, strong encryption, and modern VPN protocols
✅ Privacy protection – Strict no-logs policies to keep your data safe
✅ Device support & connections – Multiple simultaneous connections across mobile, desktop, and smart TVs
✅ Reliable support & guarantees – 24/7 customer support and money-back options

With these standards in mind, the VPNs that combine streaming-optimized servers with reliable performance stand out for Plex users. Based on these criteria, here are the 5 best VPNs for Plex in 2025:

1. NordVPN – #1-Rated Plex VPN • 7,400+ servers worldwide, including numerous US locations for Plex access • NordLynx protocol & AES-256 encryption for secure, buffer-free streaming • Obfuscated servers and kill switch for uninterrupted access
2. Surfshark – Best for Unlimited Connections • Unlimited simultaneous connections across devices • 3,200+ streaming-optimized servers for Plex and other platforms • NoBorders mode & CleanWeb ad blocker for smooth playback
3. ExpressVPN – Premium Choice for Plex Streaming • Servers in 105+ countries for global Plex access • Proprietary Lightway protocol for speed and reliability • TrustedServer tech & Smart DNS for seamless, secure streaming
4. CyberGhost VPN – Ideal for Streaming Enthusiasts • Thousands of dedicated streaming servers worldwide • WireGuard & OpenVPN support for smooth HD and 4K Plex playback • Reliable performance optimized for media consumption
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for Power Users • Servers across 90+ countries, including all 50 US states • WireGuard & OpenVPN for strong streaming security • Unlimited device connections with advanced options like port forwarding and split tunneling

	NordVPN	Surfshark	ExpressVPN	CyberGhost	PIA (Private Internet Access)
Headquarters	Panama	Netherlands	British Virgin Islands	Romania	United States
Unlocks Plex	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Dedicated Streaming Servers	✅	✅	❌	✅	❌
Fast Speeds	✅	✅	✅	✅	❌
Suitable for Extended Streaming	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Router Support	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Strong Encryption & Protocols	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Audited No-Logs Policy	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Obfuscation	✅	✅	✅	❌	✅
Kill Switch & Split Tunneling	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Simultaneous Connections	10 simultaneous connections	unlimited simultaneous connections	8 simultaneous connections	7 simultaneous connections	unlimited simultaneous connections
Device Compatibility	✅ All including TV	✅ All including TV	✅ All including TV	✅ All including TV	✅ All including TV
Money-Back Guarantee	30 days	30 days	30 days	45 days	30 days
Price (cheapest plan, approx.)	$3.09 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$2.19 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$4.99 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$2.19 per month (for a 24 months plan)	$2.19 per month (for a 24 months plan)
Overall Rating	9.7/10	9.2/10	9.6/10	8.9/10	8.9/10

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is the best VPN for Plex, featuring a wide server network of 7,400+ servers in 118 countries. It has 1,970+ servers in 16 US locations, allowing you to easily access Plex’s live TV channels, on-demand TV shows and movies, and streaming add-ons. 

This VPN has the ability to unblock geo-restricted content on Plex and many other popular streamers. Moreover, if you’ve gotten your Plex IP address blocked recently, it’ll help you bypass that by giving you a new Plex IP address that hasn’t been blocked. 

NordVPN also comes with top-notch privacy and security features, such as obfuscated servers, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, and secure VPN protocols (NordLynx, NordWhisper, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN). Also, it has a Double VPN feature that will route your Internet traffic through 2 secure VPN servers, adding an extra layer of encryption to your connection.

With this VPN for Plex, you’ll get ultra-fast Internet connection speeds and reliable performance, suitable for uninterrupted streaming. You can umake 10 simultaneous connections, and it supports phones, laptops, PCs, tablets, routers, smart TVs, and more. 

NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that you can use as a free trial to see if you like its services. Also, it has 24/7 customer support via live chat, available to all users on the NordVPN website.

Why NordVPN Is a Must-Have for Plex

• Turn on Threat Protection → Block ads and trackers for an uninterrupted Plex streaming experience.
• Switch to NordLynx → Stream Plex live TV and on-demand shows in HD without buffering.
• Enable Smart DNS → Watch Plex on devices that don’t support VPN apps, like smart TVs and consoles.
• Connect to global servers → Access Plex libraries, live channels, and add-ons from anywhere in the world.
• Use SmartPlay → Unblock Plex content instantly, no extra setup needed.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a super-fast Plex VPN that covers 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. You can watch and access Plex remotely by using one of its 600+ US servers, which will give you access to live TV channels, streaming add-ons, and on-demand shows and films.

With this provider, you can easily unblock geo-restricted Plex content and many other streaming sites. It’s among the fastest VPNs on the market, offering fast connections and performance on all servers. So, you can stream in 4K with no buffering. 

Like all the other VPNs on our list, Surfshark can also protect you while you’re using the Internet and ensure that none of your personal information gets leaked. This is accomplished with the help of features like a no-logs policy, a kill switch, obfuscated servers, secure VPN protocols (WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN), military-grade encryption (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20), data leak protection, Multi-Hop, and more. 

One Surfshark subscription will get you unlimited simultaneous connections. You can use this VPN on many different devices, from phones and laptops to routers and smart TVs. 

If you have any issues, you can contact Surfshark’s 24/7 customer support via live chat, and you’ll get fast and knowledgeable answers in return. Also, you can try Surfshark risk-free via its 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Technologies That Make Surfshark Good for Plex

• Turn on NoBorders Mode → Unlock Plex live TV channels and on-demand content in regions where they’re restricted.
• Use FastTrack → Ensure smooth Plex streaming without lag, even in HD or 4K.
• Enable Smart DNS → Watch Plex on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other devices that don’t support VPN apps.
• Activate CleanWeb → Block intrusive ads and trackers while using Plex’s free version.
• Connect to streaming-optimized servers → Enjoy stable access to Plex add-ons and other platforms like Netflix or Disney+.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN offers excellent content-unblocking capabilities and a server network that covers undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries. It has tons of US servers, giving you access to all of Plex's on-demand content, streaming add-ons, and live TV channels. 

With ExpressVPN, you’ll get a brand-new IP address when you connect to any of its servers, allowing you to bypass any existing Plex IP address blocks. Not only can this VPN unblock Plex’s geo-restricted content, but it can also give you access to a plethora of other streaming services. 

And no matter which ExpressVPN server you use, you’ll get blazing-fast Internet connections and reliable performance from the provider. 

This VPN will also keep you safe online, as it comes with robust security and privacy features. Some of those include a no-logs policy, secure VPN protocols (OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2), and military-grade encryption (AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305). 

ExpressVPN also has obfuscated servers, which hide that you’re using a VPN to watch Plex. In addition, you’ll get a kill switch that’ll ensure you’re always using a VPN while surfing the Internet.

With one ExpressVPN subscription, you can connect up to 8 simultaneous connections, including phones, tablets, laptops, PCs, routers, smart TV devices, and more. Moreover, you’ll get a 30-day money-back guarantee and reliable 24/7 customer support.

Why ExpressVPN is ideal for Plex:

• Enable Split Tunneling → Stream Plex through the VPN while letting other apps use your regular Internet.
• Use MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) → Access Plex on devices without native VPN support, like smart TVs and consoles.
• Rely on TrustedServer Technology → Enjoy fast, private, and secure connections to Plex libraries worldwide.
• Switch to Lightway Turbo → Watch Plex live channels and on-demand content in HD/4K with minimal buffering.
• Count on Future-Ready Tech → Benefit from next-gen speed, privacy, and streaming performance.

4. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost is an excellent streaming-friendly VPN, offering undisclosed number of servers in 100 countries. It has 1,423 servers in the US, so you’ll be able to watch any live TV channels, on-demand content, and streaming add-ons that you’d like from Plex’s library.

This VPN also comes with streaming-optimized servers, which give you a slightly better Plex experience than regular ones, but they’re not available everywhere. Along with unblocking geo-restricted Plex content, CyberGhost can also unblock various other streaming platforms.

CyberGhost offers medium-fast connection speeds and stable performance. It’s not the fastest provider out there, but you can still use it for streaming Plex. It allows 7 simultaneous connections and is compatible with many different devices, such as laptops, PCs, tablets, phones, smart TVs, routers, and more.

In addition, this provider can protect you while you’re watching Plex, as it comes with features like a no-logs policy, secure VPN protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard), a kill switch, (AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20) encryption, and data leak protection. However, it doesn’t offer obfuscation, which means that you won’t be able to hide that you’re using a VPN to access Plex. 

You can try out CyberGhost risk-free via its 45-day money-back guarantee (on longer-term plans) or its 14-day money-back guarantee (on its monthly plan). Also, you’ll get round-the-clock customer support via CyberGhost’s live chat feature. 

CyberGhost Streaming Highlights (Tailored for Plex Users):

• Access streaming-ready servers → Unblock Plex live TV, on-demand content, and add-ons from multiple regions without buffering.
• Activate Smart DNS → Watch Plex on devices that don’t support VPN apps, such as Apple TV, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
• Use Smart Rules → Set CyberGhost to auto-connect to the best server whenever you launch Plex.
• Switch to NoSpy Servers → Stream privately on independently operated servers with extra speed and security.

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a great option for those who specifically want to access the Plex features that only US citizens have. That’s because it has servers in all 50 US states. Overall, PIA has the largest server network on the market - undisclosed number of servers in 91 countries.

PIA can easily unblock Plex geo-restricted media like on-demand shows and films, streaming add-ons, and live TV channels. It also provides access to other streaming platforms. 

Some of the privacy and security features that this VPN offers include military-grade encryption (AES-128-GCM, AES-256-GCM, AES-128-CBC, AES-256-CBC, and ChaCha20), secure VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec (IKEv2)), a no-logs policy, obfuscation, a kill switch mechanism, data leak protection, and a Multi-Hop feature.

This provider might be the slowest on our list, but it still offers average connection speeds and reliable performance—more than suitable for streaming. You can also tweak your protocols a bit, increasing your speed, but you'll need to deal with VPN terminology. 

PIA allows users to make an unlimited simultaneous connections with only one subscription. You can use it on a wide range of devices, including phones, routers, PCs, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and more. You’ll also get a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 customer support from this provider.

Standout PIA Features for Plex:

• Enable Port Forwarding → Improve server connections for a smoother Plex streaming and remote access experience.
• Connect to streaming servers → Access Plex live TV and on-demand content available in the US, UK, and other supported regions.
• Switch to WireGuard → Enjoy uninterrupted Ultra HD streaming with faster, more stable speeds.
• Set up Custom DNS → Ensure consistent access to Plex across all configured devices.

How to Use Plex with a VPN

To use Plex with a VPN, you must subscribe to a provider that offers strong content-unblocking capabilities and servers in countries with access to the most on-demand Plex content. Here’s what to do:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that works with Plex. Pick a provider with streaming-optimized servers, SmartDNS tools, unlimited bandwidth, and a money-back guarantee so you can test it risk-free (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device(s). Set it up on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, smart TVs, or routers. Use SmartDNS for devices that don’t support VPN apps, like Apple TV and gaming consoles.
3. Enable key security features. Turn on the Kill Switch, obfuscation, DNS/IP leak protection, and built-in ad/tracker blockers for secure, uninterrupted streaming.
4. Connect to a VPN server in your preferred region. Choose a server where the Plex content you want is available.
5. Open Plex and start streaming without limits! Whether you want live TV, on-demand content, or regional add-ons, a VPN lets you enjoy Plex with complete freedom.

How to Access Plex Remotely with a VPN?

Accessing Plex remotely with a VPN can be a bit complicated because most VPN providers offer built-in NAT firewalls that will block you if you try to access a Plex server remotely. That said, we’ll try to make it as easy as possible for you. 

First of all, if you have set up your own Plex media server and want to get Plex remote access, you’ll need to lower the security settings on your VPN app. 

You can do this via port forwarding, which allows you to use the NAT firewall to open a port for letting unsolicited requests in, which are otherwise blocked. When you open the correct port, you’ll be able to access Plex remotely from anywhere.

To use Plex remotely, you’ll also need a client and a server for streaming. A Plex server can be set up on Windows, macOS, Linux, or NAS devices that have Internet access. 

Once you set up your Plex server, you can use the Plex app to stream content on other devices, also known as clients. Plex client apps are available for iOS, Android, macOS, Fire TV, Windows, Xbox One, Roku, PS4, and more. 

Which Is the Most Affordable VPN for Plex Streaming?

If you're hunting for a wallet-friendly VPN that still delivers top-tier Plex performance, Surfshark stands out as the best value. While many budget VPNs falter when it comes to media servers, Surfshark reliably supports Plex streaming across regions like the US, UK, and Canada.

Its standout feature is unlimited simultaneous connections, which means you can run Plex on multiple devices, share access with family, or even stream from different locations without paying extra. And despite its low price, Surfshark doesn’t skimp on speed or privacy, ensuring smooth playback and secure connections.

With long-term plans starting at just $2.19 per month (24 months plan), Surfshark is a smart pick for Plex users who want dependable streaming without stretching their budget.

Plex Not Working with a VPN - How to Fix

If Plex refuses to work with your VPN, you can switch to another server or protocol, or you can restart your network equipment. These are the steps you need to take:

Here’s a refined version of the table, Rachita, with similar issues and solutions grouped together for clarity and efficiency:

Problem	Solutions
Connectivity Issues (Internet down, device glitches, VPN not initializing properly)	✔ Disconnect VPN and test internet via browser. ✔ Restart your Plex device, router, and VPN app to clear residual data and reinitialize connections.
VPN Configuration Problems (Overcrowded server, wrong protocol, outdated app)	✔ Switch to a different VPN server, preferably one optimized for streaming. ✔ Use OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols for better speed and unblocking. ✔ Update your VPN app to the latest version to fix bugs and improve performance.
Privacy & Location Leaks (Browser cache, DNS leaks, split tunneling misconfigurations)	✔ Clear browser cache and cookies before reconnecting to VPN. ✔ Enable DNS leak protection or manually configure secure DNS servers. ✔ Check split tunneling settings to ensure Plex is routed through the VPN.
System Conflicts (Firewall blocking VPN traffic)	✔ Temporarily disable your device’s firewall (especially on Windows) via system settings to prevent VPN interference.
VPN Limitations (Poor support, no streaming-optimized servers)	✔ Contact VPN support via live chat or ticket system. ✔ Consider switching to a VPN known for Plex compatibility and streaming support (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN).

Can You Use a Free VPN for Plex?

Technically, yes, but it’s not a smart move. Free VPNs might seem appealing, but they come with serious drawbacks that can ruin your streaming experience and compromise your privacy.

❌ They sell your data to third parties to make money, putting your privacy at risk.
❌ Small server networks mean they often fail to unblock geo-restricted Plex content.
❌ Slow speeds and limited bandwidth make streaming frustrating and unreliable.
❌ Weak security features leave you exposed to malware and other online threats.
❌ Missing advanced tools like kill switches or split tunneling that paid VPNs offer.

Thus, to access more Plex content and features and stream without buffering, we recommend you use a paid VPN that will protect you from online threats. Even better, you can go with a free VPN trial, giving you access to premium features for free for a limited time.

For example, the NordVPN free trial works on Android for 7 days. If you use some other platform, you can rely on NordVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you'll have a whole month to test-drive our #1 recommended VPN.

Final Thoughts

Certain Plex content and features are restricted due to regulations and content distribution rights. That's why some countries, like the US, have much wider access to Plex’s library compared to others. However, with a Plex VPN, you can fix both of these issues by making it seem like you’re located in the US or another supported region.

We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for Plex because it can unblock geo-restricted Plex content easily and give you access to all the features the multi-faceted streaming service offers. It will also keep you safe online and give you blazing-fast Internet connections for a better streaming experience. 

Surfshark is perfect for households with many devices, offering unlimited connections and smooth playback with its CleanWeb. ExpressVPN delivers premium performance with blazing-fast speeds and global reach, thanks to its Lightway protocol and TrustedServer tech. For those who stream nonstop, CyberGhost VPN provides thousands of dedicated servers and optimized protocols for flawless HD and 4K viewing. And if you're a power user who loves customization, Private Internet Access gives you advanced control with port forwarding, split tunneling, and coverage across all 50 U.S. states.

Some Additional Guides for Your Reference:

• Best VPN for Netflix – Learn how to access global Netflix libraries with top-performing VPNs.
• Best VPN for Amazon Prime Video – Discover VPNs that unblock regional Prime Video catalogs anywhere you are.
• Best VPN for Disney+ – Stream Disney+ originals and exclusive releases from any supported country.
• Best VPN for Hulu – Watch Hulu abroad by bypassing geo-restrictions with reliable VPN connections.
• Best VPN for Kodi – Unblock add-ons and stream Kodi content securely without ISP throttling.
• Best VPN for Streaming Overall – Compare leading VPNs to find the best option for streaming platforms.
• How to Improve VPN Speeds for Streaming – Practical tips to reduce buffering and maximize VPN performance.

That’s all for our guide on choosing a VPN for Plex. If you have any questions or remarks, feel free to share them via the comments section below. Thanks for reading!