How to use VPN on Play Station (4 methods)

Using a VPN with your PS5 can offer several benefits. It can help you access games or content not available in your region, improve connection stability, and add an extra layer of privacy. In some cases, it may also help you find easier multiplayer lobbies, like in Warzone.

While the PlayStation 5 doesn’t support VPN apps directly, there are still ways to use one. You can install a VPN on your router, share a VPN connection from your PC, or use Smart DNS if your provider offers it.

This guide explains each method clearly, so you can set up a VPN on your PS5 and enjoy a safer, more open gaming experience.

Set up a VPN on PS5

Since you can’t install a VPN directly on your PS5, here are a few ways to get it connected:

Method 1. Set up VPN on PS4 or PS5 through Windows PC

Method 2. Set up VPN on PS4 or PS5 through Mac

Method 3. Using a VPN on a Hotspot from a smartphone or tablet

Method 4. Set up VPN on PS4 or PS5 through a router

Best VPNs to use on PS5

With the Cybernews research team, we reviewed over 41 VPNs specifically for PS5 to find the best options for gaming. Our tests focused on key factors like speed for lag-free gaming, the ability to bypass geo-restrictions for unlocking new game libraries, and the security features to protect your privacy while gaming. Based on our research, I’ve shortlisted the top 3 VPNs for PS5 below.

1. NordVPN – best VPN for PS5 and PS4
2. Surfshark – budget-friendly VPN for PlayStation
3. IPVanish – versatile PS5 VPN

Ways to get a VPN on PS5

Since the PS5 doesn’t support native VPN apps, there are a few different methods you can use to connect your console to a VPN. In this section, I’ll guide you through each approach, whether you’re using NordVPN or any other VPN service. These methods will help you unlock geo-restricted content, protect your privacy, and enhance your gaming experience.

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use a VPN on PS5.

Set up VPN on PS4 or PS5 through Windows PC

Here’s how you can set up a VPN on your PS4 or PS5 using a Windows PC. You can either connect via Wi-Fi or through an ethernet cable:

Via Wi-Fi

1. Connect to a VPN, like NordVPN, using the OpenVPN protocol on your Windows PC
2. Open your device settings (Windows + I) and navigate to Mobile Hotspot. Enable the hotspot and configure the SSID and password
3. Open the Network Connections window by pressing Windows + R and typing ncpa.cpl
4. Find the number for your hotspot network adapter. You can identify it by turning the hotspot on and off – it should disappear and reappear
5. Locate your VPN network adapter, right-click it, and go to Properties
6. Under Sharing, enable the Allow other network users to connect option. In the Home networking connection dropdown, select your hotspot’s network adapter
7. Now, you can connect your PS5 to the hotspot, and it will be covered by the VPN

Via an ethernet cable

1. Open the Network Connections window by pressing Windows + R and typing ncpa.cpl
2. Locate your VPN network adapter, right-click it, and go to Properties
3. Under Sharing, enable the Allow other network users to connect option. In the Home networking connection dropdown, select your Ethernet adapter
4. Use an Ethernet cable to connect your PC to your PS5
5. Finally, connect to a VPN using the OpenVPN protocol, and your PS5 will be protected

Set up VPN on PS4 or PS5 through Mac

Unfortunately, macOS only supports VPN connection sharing via the outdated PPTP and L2TP protocols, which have known security vulnerabilities. Because of these risks, most major VPN providers no longer support these protocols. As a result, using your Mac to share a VPN connection with your PS4 or PS5 isn’t recommended for secure gaming or browsing.

For a safer setup, consider using other methods, such as connecting via a router or Windows PC. These options allow you to use secure, modern VPN protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard.

Using a VPN on a hotspot from a smartphone or tablet

Unfortunately, iOS doesn’t allow sharing a VPN connection natively. If you enable the hotspot while connected to a VPN, the connection is routed outside of the VPN. Sharing a VPN connection is only possible with a jailbroken iPhone, using apps like TetherMe or similar tools.

Android doesn’t support native VPN sharing either. However, you can use the Every Proxy app to route your connection through the phone, allowing your PS5 to use the VPN.

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Ensure both your Android phone and PS5 are connected to the same router
2. Download the Every Proxy app on your phone
3. Open Every Proxy, go to Settings, and set the HTTP Proxy IP to your phone's default gateway and the Port to 8080
4. Return to the main window of Every Proxy and enable the HTTP Proxy option
5. On your PS5, go to Network Settings > Set up internet connection
6. Locate your active network, select Options > Advanced Settings
7. Enable theProxy Server option, then enter the IP address and Port from Every Proxy, and select OK
8. Go back to Network Settings -> Connection Status > Check internet connection
9. If the internet connection test is successful, connect to the VPN on your phone
10. Perform the internet connection test on your PS5 again. If the connection is successful, your PS5 is now connected to the VPN

This method allows your PS5 to route its traffic through your Android phone’s VPN connection using Every Proxy.

Set up VPN on PS4 or PS5 through a router

The exact steps depend on both your router brand and the VPN service you’re using, so it's difficult to provide one-size-fits-all instructions. Generally, the process involves logging into your router, navigating to the settings menu, and locating the VPN section. You’ll likely need to input the following details:

1. VPN service name
2. Server address
3. Your username/email
4. Your VPN account password
5. Pre-shared encryption key

For a more detailed guide, I recommend checking out our dedicated article on how to install a VPN on your router, which provides step-by-step instructions based on different router models and VPN services.

Final thoughts

Setting up a VPN on your PS5 might seem a bit tricky since the console doesn’t support native VPN apps, but there are several reliable workarounds. Whether you configure a VPN through your router, Windows PC, or smartphone hotspot, you can enjoy benefits like bypassing geo-restrictions, accessing different game libraries, and keeping your online activity private.

For the best performance, NordVPN is highly recommended. With its fast speeds, strong security features, and large server network, it’s a perfect fit for PS5 gaming. Plus, with the right setup method, you can enhance your gaming experience while ensuring your data stays secure.

FAQ