How to use a VPN for gaming

A virtual private network, also known as a VPN, can elevate your gaming PC into a versatile device for both gaming and streaming, and is both easy to set up and use. Computers are often positioned as the easiest means of enjoying the gaming benefits of a VPN, as you can be up and running in just a couple of clicks. However, consoles and smart TVs require more technical know-how to navigate through one.

You've probably heard of how VPNs allow you to access content that's exclusive to other countries, from Netflix in each region to otherwise restricted streaming services like HBO Max. This is still very much the case, but a VPN can also enhance your gaming experience, particularly if you play peer-to-peer (P2P) some of the best PC games online, like GTA Online.

Before you search for the best games VPN, it's worth noting that not all VPNs are created equally. The best free VPNs can come with notable limitations, such as bandwidth caps or missing features. However, there are numerous premium options available, but you'll need to conduct your own research to figure out which VPN is right for you. Thankfully, the tips and tricks described below will work with whatever VPN you use, whether that's a lesser-known option or a reliable, well-known provider like NordVPN.

Whatever your level of experience with PCs, whether you're unsure of how to build a gaming PC or proudly rock the best graphics card and best gaming CPU available, a VPN provides a universal improvement to a system. Following our step-by-step guide, you'll come out the other side with a safer and (hopefully) improved internet connection.

Why you can trust our advice ✔ At PCGamesN, our experts spend hours testing hardware and reviewing games and VPNs. We share honest, unbiased opinions to help you buy the best. Find out how we test.

Which VPN should you use for gaming?

Our top choice for a gaming VPN is ExpressVPN, which has plenty of servers, many of which should be local to you, as well as impressive speeds and great privacy. All three of those things make it our favorite option, but there are plenty of providers available.

Alternatively, NordVPN remains a reliable choice for most people as the greatest VPN overall. It's well-known as a popular VPN, with over 6,000 servers, and it's very compatible, alongside offering an extension and a Windows app.

I'd recommend checking our best VPNs guide for an extended look at all of the potential services you can use. There are also plenty of VPN deals that pop up from time to time, so you can always get a bargain and jump over to another provider, should you find a great deal.

Once you've chosen which VPN to go for, you'll need to download the application onto your PC, as well as your handset (if the provider offers a mobile app). The process isn't anything different from your standard app installation, but pay attention - some providers may try to sneak in various third-party apps or other software that you may not need or want.

Following the installation, you may notice that a new network connection has been created on your computer. This is the route all your internet traffic will take when you use the VPN, masking your IP address from your ISP (internet service provider) and other parties.

For example, downloading the ExpressVPN app is as simple as signing up for a subscription and then heading to the website's download page. It features all of the provider's various software, including the app on the Play Store or the App Store, as well as the ExpressVPN app for Linux, as just a few examples.

How to use a VPN for games

After installing your preferred VPN provider, you'll need to choose a server and connect your VPN client to it. For most people, this is a simple button, like NordVPN's button to 'quick connect', pairing you with the closest server they own.

However, if you'd like to connect to a different country, it's as simple as searching it up, finding what you want, and clicking on it. Give the VPN a few moments to establish the connection, and you're ready to go. It should let you know once the VPN has connected to your chosen server.

Which server you want to choose depends entirely on what you want to get out of your VPN. If you're looking to save money by switching regions to buy games cheaper, or you're hoping to access region-exclusive content, then you'll have to make sure you're selecting the right server. However, if you're looking to simply keep safe when playing the best FPS games, your local server will be good enough.

How can a VPN keep you safe when gaming

While most of your experience playing online games will be a nice time, unfortunately, there are some bad players out there who are keen to ruin your day. VPNs for games aren't just there to help you get region-locked content or beat lag, but they're also there to protect you from anyone hoping to ruin that ace you're about to get in Valorant. 

For example, if a bad actor attempts to DDoS you, most players will see their internet drop and get kicked out of the game. However, you likely won't, as your VPN will become a shield, so to speak, against the DDoS attack, letting you continue playing without issue.

However, a VPN doesn't just keep you safe on online games - it also helps you when you're searching the internet. A great VPN will hide your IP address and keep your browsing private, even from your internet service provider (ISP). If you're someone who downloads games constantly (guilty as charged) or uses a lot of traffic, ISPs may throttle your bandwidth, but with a VPN, they won't be able to limit your bandwidth. Take that!

As for decreasing your ping, the amount that a VPN affects your ping will vary depending on the distance between you and the server you've selected, so one in your native region will have a much lower effect than another in a neighbouring or distant country.

It's possible that sending your data packets through a more direct route can decrease your ping, but this isn't guaranteed. If your latency is pretty bad, a VPN may not help, but we recommend reducing traffic on your network, investing in a new router, or considering higher speed packages from your ISP.

Setting a VPN up on PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch

Console users will have a tougher time than PC gamers because Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Nintendo Online don't allow you to download and run VPNs natively. Instead, you'll either have to invest in a VPN router to cover all devices in your home, or connect your console to your gaming PC first.

Here's how to connect your console to a VPN using your gaming PC:

1. Set up and run your VPN on your PC
2. Connect your console and PC together with an Ethernet cable
3. On your PC, navigate to your 'Network & Internet' settings
4. In your 'Network & Internet' settings, select the 'VPN' tab
5. Look for 'Related settings' and select 'Change adapter options'
6. Right-click your VPN and select 'Properties'
7. Navigate to the 'Sharing' tab
8. Check the 'Allow other network users to connect through this computer's internet connection' option
9. In the 'Select a private network connection' dropdown menu, select your console's Ethernet connection and select 'OK'

If you've followed all of these steps correctly, you should now be able to connect your console to the internet armed with the security of a VPN. However, you should bear in mind that you'll need to keep your gaming PC on if you want to maintain your connection to your VPN.

Are VPNs legal to use for gaming?

VPNs are legal in most countries, but you should always check your specific region's laws before using one. For instance, while VPNs are legal in China, they are heavily restricted, and using them is viewed as suspicious behaviour, so proceed with caution.

Otherwise, it isn't the VPN itself that is illegal, but what you use it for. Using one to access region-locked games or purchase titles at cheaper region-specific prices often violates a storefront's terms of service and can result in loss of your account, but you won't suffer legal repercussions. On the topic of using a VPN to torrent copyrighted material, it's safe to assume this is against the law, but different countries have different policies.

Here's a list of countries where VPN use is outright illegal or frowned upon:

• Belarus
• China
• Iraq
• North Korea
• Russia
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates

That's how to use a VPN for gaming, so now you're ready to conquer your favorite online games without worry. Give it a try by playing the best multiplayer games, but at least you're protected for when those upcoming PC games finally arrive.