In this article, we tell you how to install ExpressVPN on PS4 so you can break the barriers of geo-restrictions while gaming.
A VPN (Virtual private network) changes your online location which tricks your gaming console into thinking you’re accessing or buying a game from that region, hence internet freedom!
However, you cannot install a VPN directly on your gaming console as Sony’s PS4 is not compatible with VPNs. But still, we can make it work with other methods like creating a virtual router from your computer and sharing that connection to your PS4 or directly installing ExpressVPN on your router.
Don’t worry, it’s not that difficult. All you need is the right resources and some tech awareness. Plus, we’ll guide you through the overall process with step-by-step guidelines.
So without further ado, let’s jump onto the process.
Short on time? Here’s a Short Summary of How to Install ExpressVPN On PS4
ExpressVPN is the best choice for your PS4 console if you’re looking to bypass geo-restriction on games or beat dynamic prices. You cannot install it directly on your gaming console as Sony doesn’t support VPNs. However, you can install ExpressVPN in the following ways.
- Set up a VPN on your router and connect your PS4 to its Wi-Fi network.
- Install a VPN on your Windows or Mac and connect your PS4 to it via Ethernet cable.
- Take advantage of ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature.
For more information, check out our ExpressVPN review: How Does ExpressVPN Work
How to Install ExpressVPN On PS4?
You cannot install ExpressVPN on your Playstation console directly. However, there are other ways from which you can set up a VPN on PS4 and trick it into being in another region.
- Install ExpressVPN on your router and connect your PS4 to that router’s Wi-Fi network.
- Create a virtual router on your Windows or Mac PC and connect your PS4 console to it via Ethernet cable.
- Use ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer DNS proxy service to access region-restricted content.
How to Install ExpressVPN On PS4 Using a Router?
With ExpressVPN’s dedicated app for routers, you can easily set up a VPN and bypass geo-restrictions on your PS4 console.
Gaming consoles like PS4 cannot run native VPN apps so this method will likely work the best.
You’ll also be able to cover other devices like Firestick, Roku, or Chromecast. In short, you’ll cover all the devices that can connect to the internet, including your Smart Fridge and Security Cameras.
Check first if your router has the capability to host a VPN server. If it doesn’t, check if it has compatibility for DD-WRT, Tomato, or any other firmware that can enable the VPN feature for your router.
If everything is on track, flash your router’s firmware. Flashing is basically a process that changes your router’s operating system to enable the VPN feature.
However, it can be risky for your router if you’re not doing it properly. Because messing up mid-process can damage your router’s normal functionality. So you have to be hundred percent sure what you’re doing.
ExpressVPN works best if you have a Netgear, Asus, or Linksys router. But you can still install ExpressVPN using Manual Configuration if you have a router other than these three.
To know the step-by-step process, follow our dedicated guide: How to Install ExpressVPN On A Router
How to Install ExpressVPN On PS4 By Using Your Computer?
In this method, we will use our VPN-enabled Windows or Mac PC to create a virtual router and connect our PS4 console to it.
You will need an Ethernet cable and an active ExpressVPN subscription plan.
For Windows
Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to your Windows computer and the other end to your PS4 console. Then follow these steps.
Step 1: On your computer, go to the Settings and head to Network & Internet.
Step 2: Click on Change Adapter Settings.
Step 3: Find ExpressVPN TAP Adapter and right-click on it. Go to the Properties.
Step 4: Head to the Sharing tab and check the box that says “Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection“.
Step 5: Click on the drop-down menu that says Home Network Connection and select Ethernet.
Step 6: Launch ExpressVPN and connect to a VPN server.
Step 7: On your PS4 console, go to the Settings and head to Network Settings.
Step 8: Select Setup Internet Connection and then select Use a LAN Cable.
Step 9: Select the Easy Connection method and then select Do Not Use Proxy Server if prompted.
Step 10: Accept and save the settings. Test the connection. You’re all set.
For Mac
If you’re using a Mac, follow the same drill. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to your Mac and the other end to your PS4 console. Then follow the steps below.
Step 1: Go to the System Preferences and head to Sharing. Select Internet Sharing.
Step 2: Click on the drop-down menu that says “Share your connection from” and select Wi-Fi.
Step 3: Check the Ethernet box in the To computers using section.
Step 4: Now check the Internet Sharing box on the left panel. You will see a green signal against Internet Sharing which will indicate that it’s enabled now.
Step 5: Set up a VPN connection on Mac. (Interlink Mac VPN Page)
Step 6: On your PS4, go to the Settings and head to Network Settings.
Step 7: Select Set Up Internet Connection. Select Use a LAN Cable.
Step 8: Select the Easy Connection method and choose Do Not Use a Proxy Server.
Step 9: Test the PS4 connection and you’re done.
How to Install ExpressVPN On PS4 Via MediaStreamer?
MediaStreamer is one of ExpressVPN’s features that lets you access geo-blocked services without encrypting your traffic. It is a DNS service designed to make your streaming experience smoother.
But you can use it on your PS4 console to bypass geo-restrictions on games or apps. You can even use it for streaming by changing your Netflix region on PS4.
Here’s how you can set it up.
Step 1: Go to ExpressVPN’s DNS Settings page or just click here. If prompted, sign in with your ExpressVPN account.
Step 2: Under the IP Address Registration tab, click on Register My IP Address. Turn the toggle button on for Automatically Register My IP Address.
Step 3: Go to the ExpressVPN Setup Page for PS4. Or you can just click here.
Step 4: On the right panel, you’ll see the DNS Server IP Address for your PS4, keep this window open, we’ll need this information later.
Step 5: On your PS4, go to the Settings and head to Network. Select Set Up Internet Connection.
Step 6: Select Use a LAN Cable and then choose Custom.
Step 7: For IP Address Settings, select Automatic. For DHCP Hostname, select Do Not Specify.
Step 8: For DNS Settings, select Manual. Choose Primary DNS and enter the DNS Server IP Address from Step 4.
Step 9: Press Next.
Step 10: For MTU Settings, select Automatic. For Proxy Server, select Do Not Use.
Step 11: Choose Test Internet Connection.
Step 12: Reboot your PS4. You can easily bypass geo-restrictions on your PS4 with MediaStreamer.
Why You Should Use ExpressVPN On PS4?
If you know how to use a VPN, you should definitely know why you’re using it and what are benefits you could extract from it.
Almost all VPN providers claim to be the best in business. But can you be sure of it? How will you set a benchmark?
Easy. Just sign up for ExpressVPN or use a trial version of it. And if you’re satisfied, best! But if you’re not happy with the services, take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee offer and you’ll get a refund of your money.
With ExpressVPN, you’ll get to route your traffic through advanced protocols like OpenVPN or L2TP/IPsec. Your online identity will always be secure as the 256-bit encryption method will eliminate hackers or any attacks following your tail.
But that’s only the security POV. What about the other main purposes of using a VPN on PS4? The first and foremost is bypassing the geo-restrictions. With ExpressVPN, you’ll be able to play games that are not even released in your region yet.
You just have to change your region and download the gaming title as soon as it releases in any region.
But will you find a server that can connect you to that region? Well, ExpressVPN has a total count of more than 3000 servers covering 94 countries. So finding a server will not be an issue.
Also, you’ll be able to watch region-restricted movies and TV shows on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video.
You can beat dynamic pricing techniques. Before buying a game, connect to a region where you can get it at the cheapest price possible and you’ll save some bucks. Some of the regions you can connect to are Brazil and Turkey.
Lastly, ExpressVPN will make sure you have a magical gaming experience. Although it’s true that using a VPN takes up more of your internet which can cause jerks and lags. But with ExpressVPN’s fast servers, you’ll achieve a latency that’ll allow you to pull your sniper flick shots on enemies in the smoothest manner.
To set up ExpressVPN on other popular devices, also read:
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Can I directly install ExpressVPN on PS4?
Will a VPN affect my internet speed on PS4?
Why can I not use a VPN on PS4 directly?
How can ExpressVPN improve my gaming?
Can I use a free VPN on Xbox?
Conclusion
Now you know how to install ExpressVPN on PS4, so change your region, beat geo-restrictions and dynamic prices. What method you choose depends on your gaming activity. If you want a permanent solution, probably go for installing ExpressVPN on your router option. But you can also create a virtual router or use the MediaStreamer feature too if you prefer.