If ExpressVPN isn’t working on Firestick, don’t panic, your Firestick probably isn’t faulty.
The reason the VPN isn’t working is most likely because ExpressVPN has had all of its servers blocked by the streaming service you’re trying to watch.
The good news is this can be easily fixed.
If you want to know why this has happened and how you can prevent it from happening again, this article will explain how to fix ExpressVPN not working on Firestick.
To fix ExpressVPN not working on Firestick, try these fixes in order. If one doesn’t work, move onto the next one until you can use your Firestick with a VPN again.
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Clean your Firestick cache/data
Cleaning your cache is essentially the “turn it off and turn it on again” solution for your Firestick apps.
If ExpressVPN has stopped working with your Firestick, the app may have run into an error that can be resolved by restarting the app.
Cleaning your cache will restore ExpressVPN to its factory settings. This could fix the error that’s making ExpressVPN not work.
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Change to a different protocol
VPNs use different protocols. These are a set of rules that the VPN follows when providing you with an anonymous internet connection.
Some of these protocols prioritise security, while others prioritise speed.
ExpressVPN might not be working on Firestick because the protocol is no longer providing you with a secure connection.
Change to a different protocol and see if that resolves the issue. ExpressVPN supports multiple protocols and we think the best one is Lightway.
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Reinstall ExpressVPN
While this isn’t the most glamourous solution, if it works, it works.
Reinstalling ExpressVPN will give you a fresh installation of the app, and any errors your current installation may have, could potentially be resolved.
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Change to a different server
If ExpressVPN has suddenly stopped working on your Firestick, the service you’re trying to watch has probably blocked the IP address Express has given you.
Changing to a different server will give you a different IP address, and if that one hasn’t been blocked, ExpressVPN will work with your Firestick again.
Of course, make sure you select a server based in the country where the streaming service you’re trying to access is located.
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Upgrade to a better VPN
If you’ve made it this far on the list, unfortunately, the service you’re trying to access with ExpressVPN has identified and blocked all the IP addresses ExpressVPN can currently provide.
This has happened because Express is no longer staying one step ahead of the service’s VPN blocking techniques.
You can do one of two things from here: you can either wait for ExpressVPN to release IPs that haven’t been blocked. Or you can try a different VPN.
If you’re not able to wait for ExpressVPN to fix the issue, you can always upgrade to a comparable VPN. For watching streaming services on Firestick we recommend NordVPN ($3.79/month)
Why has ExpressVPN stopped working on Firestick?
ExpressVPN might stop working on a Firestick for several reasons, ranging from simple connectivity issues to more complex technical problems. Here are some common causes and potential solutions:
Outdated ExpressVPN App or Blocked IP Addresses: If the app is not updated to the latest version, it may not work properly on your Firestick. Ensure that you have the latest version of the ExpressVPN app installed. Additionally, if you’re encountering problems specifically when trying to use streaming services, it’s possible that the service has detected and blocked the IP addresses provided by ExpressVPN. Streaming platforms frequently update their VPN detection and blocking techniques to comply with licensing agreements. If this happens, try connecting to a different server location, as ExpressVPN regularly updates its server IPs to circumvent such blocks.
Network Connectivity Issues: Sometimes, the problem might be with your internet connection rather than ExpressVPN itself. Check your internet connection and try reconnecting to your Wi-Fi.
Server Overload or Unavailability: The VPN server you’re trying to connect to might be overloaded or down. Try connecting to a different server location.
Incorrect Login Credentials: Double-check if you’ve entered the correct login details for your ExpressVPN account.
VPN Blocking by ISP: Some ISPs might throttle or block VPN connections. If you suspect this is the case, try changing your VPN protocol settings within the ExpressVPN app.
Firestick’s Firmware is Outdated: Ensure your Firestick’s operating system is up to date. Outdated firmware can lead to compatibility issues with apps like ExpressVPN.
Conflict with Other Apps: Other apps or services running on your Firestick might conflict with ExpressVPN. Consider closing unnecessary apps or performing a device restart.
VPN Permissions: Make sure that ExpressVPN has all the necessary permissions to operate on your device.
Corrupted App Data: Sometimes, the app’s data can get corrupted. Uninstalling and then reinstalling the ExpressVPN app can help.
How do streaming services block ExpressVPN?
Streaming services use a variety of techniques to detect and block VPNs like ExpressVPN. These methods are designed to enforce geographical content restrictions and licensing agreements. Here are some of the main ways streaming services block VPNs:
- IP Address Blocking: Streaming services maintain databases of IP addresses known to belong to VPNs. Since VPN services often have multiple users accessing the service from the same IP address, it’s a telltale sign that an IP might belong to a VPN. Once identified, these IP addresses can be blocked from accessing the service.
- Port Blocking: VPNs use specific ports to route traffic. Streaming services can block these ports, preventing VPNs from connecting through them.
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): DPI can analyze the type and destination of internet traffic. By using DPI, streaming services can identify and block traffic that appears to be routed through a VPN.
- DNS Filtering: VPNs route DNS requests through their own servers. If a streaming service detects that a DNS request is coming from a DNS server known to be associated with a VPN, it can block the request.
- Geo-IP Verification: Streaming services compare the IP address’s geographical location with other location indicators, such as GPS data on mobile devices or inconsistency in time zone settings. If discrepancies are found, access through the VPN can be blocked.
Do VPNs still work on Firestick?
Yes, you can still use a VPN with your Firestick to access geo-restricted content and maintain privacy, but it’s crucial to have a VPN that can overcome the IP blocking techniques employed by streaming services.
Streaming platforms are constantly updating their methods to detect and block VPNs, making it essential to choose a VPN provider known for its ability to evade such blocks. This involves regularly updating server IPs, employing advanced obfuscation techniques to disguise VPN traffic, and offering a range of servers across different locations to ensure you can always find one that works with your desired streaming service.
While issues may arise, a robust VPN service will offer the flexibility and support needed to maintain access to your favorite content on Firestick.
The VPN services we recommend for Firestick when ExpressVPN isn’t working
1. NordVPN
An excellent, affordable, and fast VPN option for 2024
- ✔Affordable pricing
- ✔Effective streaming access
- ✔Diverse server types
- ✔Solid speeds
- ✔Useful add-ons
- ✔Strong security
- ❌Limited server locations
- ❌No virtual servers
Streaming: NordVPN features a vast network of servers and sophisticated obfuscation technology, allowing it to navigate around streaming service blocks effortlessly, providing Firestick users with reliable access to global content.
Servers: NordVPN’s server network spans 60 countries. While this is below the average of 71 countries for the top 20 VPNs, its commitment to physical servers ensures faster and more reliable connections.
Privacy: NordVPN’s secure connection and no-logs policy have been verified via three independent audits, including one by Deloitte. The audits have confirmed NordVPN’s adherence to its no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy.
Price: NordVPN offers three pricing plans: Complete, Plus, and Standard. The 2-year plan for the Standard package is priced at $3.19/month, the 1-year plan at $4.99/month, and the monthly plan at $12.99/month. It accepts major credit cards and various payment systems.
Speeds: Below is a table showing the speeds tested for NordVPN. From our tests in New Zealand, NordVPN displayed very good speeds, although slightly behind ExpressVPN, but significantly faster than many other VPNs on the market.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN (New Zealand) | 937.07 | 520.93 |
| NordVPN US server | 710.90 | 6.98 |
| NordVPN UK server | 531.12 | 3.73 |
Read our full NordVPN review.
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(30-day money-back guarantee)
2. PureVPN
A mid-range VPN that balances performance and price
- ✔Affordable
- ✔Unblocks major streaming services
- ✔Use on up to 10 devices simultaneously
- ✔Streamlined user interface
- ✔No log audit verified by KPMG
- ✔Several free add-ons
- ❌Buffering on BBC iPlayer at peak times
- ❌Past concerns with “no log” policy
Streaming: PureVPN stands out for its streaming-optimized servers and unique features like dedicated IP options, making it a strong candidate for Firestick users facing VPN blocks.
Servers: PureVPN offers a wide range of servers around the world. Although specific numbers are not provided, PureVPN’s server offerings are robust, allowing users to access various international content.
Privacy: PureVPN has faced criticism in the past for its privacy policies. However, it has recently undergone a no-log audit verified by KPMG in the past 12 months, aiming to reassure users about its commitment to privacy.
Price: PureVPN offers three payment options: a 1-month plan at $10.95/month, a 1-year plan at $3.74/month, and a 2-year plan at $1.96/month. PureVPN accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and a variety of other digital payment options.
Speeds: Below is a table that gives you an idea of the speed performance you can expect when using PureVPN. The VPN has shown variable download speeds across different streaming servers, with some experiencing significant drop-offs during peak times.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN | 189.44 | 139.82 |
| PureVPN UK Server | 24.31 | 98.99 |
| PureVPN US Server | 49.83 | 106.52 |
Read our full PureVPN review.
Special Offer for you!
(30-day money-back guarantee)
3. Private Internet Access
Affordable and secure VPN with wide device compatibility
- ✔Affordable pricing plans
- ✔Unlimited simultaneous devices
- ✔Extra features like ad blocker and email protection
- ✔Verified no-log policy
- ✔Compatible with streaming services like Netflix and Hulu
- ❌High use of virtual servers
- ❌Not as fast as top-tier VPNs
- ❌Lacks proprietary protocol options
Streaming: Private Internet Access offers a high level of customization and a strong commitment to privacy, along with the ability to circumvent content restrictions and VPN detections on Firestick.
Servers: PIA has over 35,000 servers in 84 countries, which is above the average of 71 countries. However, 50% of these servers are virtual, impacting reliability compared to VPNs with more physical servers.
Privacy: PIA’s app is open-source, inviting third-party scrutiny and verification. It has also passed an independent no-log policy audit conducted by Deloitte, affirming its commitment to privacy.
Price: PIA offers three subscription options: 1-month at $11.95/month, 1-year at $3.33/month (upfront cost $39.95), and 3-year at $2.03/month (upfront fee $79). Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, and Amazon payments.
Speeds: Speed tests for PIA showed significant drops in download speeds across various servers. While using WireGuard protocol, speeds were faster than OpenVPN but still slower compared to top-tier VPNs like ExpressVPN.
| OpenVPN Download Speeds (Mbps) | OpenVPN Upload Speeds (Mbps) | WireGuard Download Speeds (Mbps) | WireGuard Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| VPN off (New Zealand) | 930 | 516 | ||
| PIA US server | 238.52 | 7.17 | 300.65 | 8.65 |
| PIA UK server | 245 | 3.77 | 315.78 | 7.23 |
| PIA Vietnam server | 445 | 6.55 | 489 | 8.24 |
Read our full Private Internet Access review.
Special Offer for you!
(30-day money-back guarantee)
4. Surfshark
Affordable and secure VPN with unlimited device policy of 2024
- ✔Attractive pricing for long-term subscriptions
- ✔Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
- ✔Robust security and privacy
- ✔24/7 responsive chat support
- ✔Extensive server network in 100 countries
- ❌Has trouble with services like Hulu
- ❌Lacks a unique proprietary protocol
- ❌App can be overwhelming
- ❌Not the fastest among competitors
Streaming: Surfshark brings to the table unlimited simultaneous connections and innovative technology to overcome geo-blocks and restrictions, ideal for Firestick users looking to access a wide range of streaming content.
Servers: Surfshark boasts a server network in 100 countries, which is well above the average and includes both physical and virtual servers, providing extensive geographic coverage.
Privacy: Surfshark emphasizes its commitment to privacy with successful DNS leak tests and independent security audits by Cure53, ensuring robust online security and privacy. You can find more about their security audits here.
Price: Surfshark offers a 1-month option costing $12.95/month, a 12-month option at $3.99/month, and a 24-month option at $2.49/month. It accepts major credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and various cryptocurrencies.
Speeds: Below is a table that gives you an idea of the speed performance when using Surfshark. From our tests, we observed decent speeds, suitable for general use, but not the fastest compared to some rivals.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN (New Zealand) | 940.55 | 520.24 |
| Surfshark US server | 775.9 | 6.15 |
| Surfshark UK server | 587.79 | 3.79 |
Read our full Surfshark review.
Special Offer for you!
(30-day money-back guarantee)
5. CyberGhost
Affordable and secure VPN with extensive server coverage
- ✔Features NoSpy servers, a Killswitch, and split tunnelling
- ✔Attractive pricing for long-term subscriptions
- ✔Over 9,000 servers in 91 countries
- ✔Independent audit confirms no-logs policy
- ✔7-device coverage
- ❌Not optimal for streaming due to speed issues
- ❌Majority of servers are virtual
- ❌Lacks a proprietary protocol
Streaming: CyberGhost has streaming-dedicated servers designed to unlock major streaming platforms, coupled with strong encryption and privacy practices, making it a solid choice for Firestick streaming.
Servers: CyberGhost boasts over 9,000 servers in 91 countries, offering a robust server network. However, it’s notable that 54% of these servers are virtual, a factor that can affect performance and reliability.
Privacy: CyberGhost has a no-logs policy that has been independently audited by Deloitte, ensuring user privacy and security. This audit confirms that CyberGhost does not keep records of users’ online activities while using the VPN.
Price: CyberGhost offers three payment options: a 1-month subscription at $12.99/month, a 6-month subscription at $6.99/month, and a 2-year subscription at $2.19/month, which includes an extra two months for free.
Speeds: Speed tests conducted in New Zealand showed significant drops in both download and upload speeds across various servers when using CyberGhost, indicating a performance issue in terms of speed.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN (New Zealand) | 930 | 516 |
| CyberGhost US server | 192.29 | 2.63 |
| CyberGhost UK server | 139.19 | 1.90 |
| CyberGhost Vietnam server | 232.24 | 4.32 |
Read our full CyberGhost review.
Special Offer for you!
(30-day money-back guarantee)
ExpressVPN not working with Firestick: FAQs
Q: Why has ExpressVPN stopped working on my Firestick?
Answer: ExpressVPN might stop functioning on your Firestick due to outdated app versions, server issues, or new streaming service restrictions. Ensure your app is up-to-date and try connecting to different servers, as this can often resolve the issue.
Q: How can I update ExpressVPN on my Firestick?
Answer: To update ExpressVPN on your Firestick, navigate to the ‘Apps’ section on your home screen, find ExpressVPN, and select it. If an update is available, you’ll see an option to install it. Always keep your apps updated for the best performance and security.
Q: What should I do if ExpressVPN is slow on my Firestick?
Answer: If ExpressVPN is running slowly on your Firestick, try connecting to a server closer to your location for better speeds. Additionally, check your internet connection speed without the VPN to ensure the issue isn’t with your network.
Q: Can I use ExpressVPN to access geo-restricted content on my Firestick?
Answer: Yes, ExpressVPN can help you access geo-restricted content on your Firestick by allowing you to connect to servers in different countries. This feature is perfect for streaming services that offer different libraries in various regions.
Q: Why can’t I connect to any server on ExpressVPN with my Firestick?
Answer: If you’re unable to connect to any server with ExpressVPN on your Firestick, check your internet connection and ensure your subscription is active. Sometimes, restarting your Firestick and ExpressVPN app can also help resolve connection issues.