How to Use VPN on PS5?
🔍 Quick answer:
The PS5 doesn't support VPN apps directly. The three best workarounds are: (1) install the VPN on your router — best for permanent setup, (2) share a VPN-tethered connection from a Windows PC via Ethernet, or (3) configure Smart DNS from your VPN provider for streaming unblocking. Router method is the most reliable.
Method 1: Install VPN on your router (recommended)
This is the cleanest solution. The PS5 connects to your router like any other device and inherits the VPN tunnel automatically.
- Log into your router (typically
192.168.1.1) - Find the VPN Client section (Asus, GL.iNet, and flashed DD-WRT routers have this)
- Upload the
.ovpnor WireGuard config from your VPN provider - Connect — every device on your network (PS5 included) now uses the VPN
Best routers for the job: Asus RT-AX86U, GL.iNet Flint 2, or pre-flashed routers from FlashRouters.
Method 2: Share a VPN connection from a Windows PC
If you don't want to mess with router settings, this works without any extra hardware:
- Connect your Windows PC to the VPN (any provider)
- Plug an Ethernet cable from the PC into the PS5
- On the PC, go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile hotspot (or use Ethernet adapter sharing)
- Enable "Allow other network users to connect through this computer's internet connection" for the VPN adapter
- On the PS5, go to Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection → Use LAN Cable and choose Easy
⚠️ Caveat: The PC must stay on while you use the PS5. This method also adds a small amount of latency — fine for streaming, less ideal for competitive gaming.
Method 3: Smart DNS (streaming only)
Smart DNS doesn't encrypt your traffic or change your IP — it just changes which DNS server resolves geo-blocked domains. Useful for unblocking Netflix, Disney+, etc., on PS5.
- Get Smart DNS addresses from a provider that supports it (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark)
- On PS5: Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection
- Choose your Wi-Fi or LAN, then Custom setup
- When prompted for DNS, choose Manual and enter the Smart DNS addresses
- Restart your PS5 and open Netflix — the new region should be active
What can you unblock on PS5 with a VPN?
- 🎮 Earlier game access: Play region-locked titles hours before your local release
- 💰 Cheaper games: Switch region to Argentina, Turkey, or Brazil for massive discounts (use at your own risk — may violate ToS)
- 📺 Streaming unblocks: Watch Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max from any country
- 🛡️ DDoS protection: Hide your IP from swatters and griefers in competitive games
Best VPNs for PS5 in 2026
- ExpressVPN — dedicated router app (Aircove), 1-click setup, fastest streaming
- NordVPN — strong router support, Meshnet for LAN gaming over VPN
- Surfshark — cheapest, unlimited devices, good Smart DNS
💡 Pro tip: If you only need to unblock streaming on PS5 (not gaming privacy), Smart DNS is faster and easier than a full VPN tunnel — no extra hardware, no PC tether, no speed loss. Save the router VPN for when you actually need the IP mask.
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Terms you'll meet
- IP address
- Your device's public ID online.
- Encryption
- Scrambling data so only you can read it.
- No‑logs policy
- VPN doesn't store your activity.