How To Choose And Use A VPN For Gaming? [Guide & Tips]
VPNs are widely recognized for enabling users to unlock content exclusive to certain countries. This means you can stream top-rated Netflix shows from various regions and access geo-restricted platforms such as Hulu and HBO Max.
But there’s another perk to VPNs – they can significantly elevate your gaming sessions, particularly if you’re into peer-to-peer (P2P) online games like GTA Online.
Gaming has become a global phenomenon, captivating players worldwide. The emergence of multiplayer online games has brought people together in virtual realms, igniting thrilling battles. However, this surge in gaming’s popularity also demands a reliable and fast internet connection for a secure experience.
This is where Virtual private networks (VPNs) come into play. In this article, we will guide selecting and utilizing VPN for gaming to ensure an optimal gaming journey.
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Why Use a VPN for Gaming?
The gaming world has transitioned over the years, with online platforms becoming the norm and games becoming more interconnected than ever.
While this interconnectedness offers gamers a richer experience, it also comes with its set of challenges and hurdles. VPNs or Virtual Private Networks are becoming essential tools for gamers. Here’s why:
Safety & Security
Online games can sometimes expose players to attacks, such as DDoS attacks. A VPN masks your IP address, making it difficult for attackers to target your connection.
By masking your original IP address, a VPN ensures that your actual digital footprint is hidden, making it a challenge for potential attackers to pinpoint and target your connection.
Avoid Bandwidth Throttling
Some ISPs might slow down your connection when they detect heavy gaming data. With a VPN, your gaming traffic is encrypted, ensuring a consistent speed.
Online gaming, especially high-definition or real-time multiplayer games, requires a consistent and fast internet connection. However, due to the high volume of data exchanged during these sessions, ISPs might interpret this as excessive usage.
As a result, some ISPs may decide to limit the bandwidth available to these users to prevent the network from being overwhelmed.
Access to Geo-restricted Games
Some games might not be available in certain countries. VPNs allow you to bypass these restrictions by connecting to servers in other regions.
Additionally, if you happen to be expelled from your preferred gaming server, a gaming VPN can assist in overcoming bans. All that’s required is changing your virtual location.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN for Gaming
Choosing a VPN for gaming might seem confusing due to the numerous options available. To help simplify your choice, here are some key factors to consider:
Speed
The essence of online gaming is a fast and smooth connection. The VPN you choose should offer excellent speeds to avoid lag or latency.
Look for VPNs that have a reputation for high-speed connections, and preferably choose those with dedicated gaming servers.
Server Locations
Having a vast selection of server locations allows you to connect to servers closest to the gaming server or bypass geo-restrictions. The more server locations, the better.
Security & Privacy
Ensure your chosen VPN has robust encryption. While gaming, you don’t want any unauthorized entity accessing your data. Additionally, opt for VPNs with a strict no-log policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
A good VPN should be user-friendly and compatible with various devices. Whether you’re gaming on a PC, console, or mobile, the VPN should be easy to set up and use.
Steps to Use a VPN for Gaming
Using a VPN for gaming can enhance your online gaming experience by providing improved connectivity, bypassing geo-restrictions, and boosting security. Here’s how you can use a VPN for gaming:
Choosing the Right Plan
Once you’ve identified a suitable VPN by expert reviewers, decide on a plan. Many VPNs offer monthly, bi-annual, or annual subscriptions. Long-term plans often come at discounted rates.
Installation & Setup
After purchasing, download the VPN software on your gaming device. Most VPNs offer intuitive interfaces. Once installed, sign in using your credentials.
The software will guide you through the setup process, where you can adjust settings as per your preference.
Selecting a Server
The quality of your gaming experience can vary despite investing in the best VPN for gamers. Several factors come into play, including the specific game being played, the location of its servers, and your own physical location.
It’s crucial to consider these variables when determining the optimal VPN location for gaming.
Connect to a server closest to the game server to reduce latency. If accessing geo-restricted content, choose a server from a region where the game is available.
Most VPNs will provide information about the current load on each server, helping you pick the least crowded one.
Maintaining Your Connection
Periodically check the status of your VPN connection. If you experience any disruptions or slowdowns, consider switching to another server.
Some VPNs also offer a kill switch feature, which disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring continuous protection.
Regularly Update
Ensure your VPN software is regularly updated. Developers constantly optimize their products for better speeds, enhanced security, and compatibility with newer games.
Establishing a VPN Connection on Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox Series X
For those who game on consoles like PS5, Xbox Series X, or Nintendo Switch, establishing a VPN connection may be more challenging than it is for PC players.
This complexity arises because the platforms for these consoles, namely Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Nintendo Online, don’t support direct VPN installations.
However, don’t be discouraged. There are two feasible alternatives:
- Invest in a dedicated VPN router that covers every device in your house.
- Linking your console to your gaming PC and routing the VPN through there.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for the latter approach:
- Initialize the VPN on Your PC: First, make sure your chosen VPN software is installed and active on your computer or laptop.
- Ethernet Connection: Join your gaming PC and console using an Ethernet cable.
- Access Network Settings: On your PC, go to ‘Network & Internet’ settings.
- Enter the VPN Section: Within the ‘Network & Internet’ settings, you’ll find a ‘VPN’ option. Click on it.
- Head to Adapter Options: Under ‘Related settings,’ there’s an option labeled ‘Change adapter options.’ Opt for this.
- Modify VPN Properties: Within the list of connections, right-click on the VPN connection and hit ‘Properties.’
- Sharing Settings: In the new window, go to the ‘Sharing’ tab.
- Authorize Connection Sharing: Ensure you select the box that says, ‘Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.’
- Designate Console Connection: In the dropdown menu named ‘Select a private network connection,’ pick your console’s Ethernet connection. Then, click on ‘OK’ to save settings.
With these steps completed meticulously, your console should be able to connect to the internet, harnessing the protection of a VPN. But do remember: your gaming PC must remain powered on to keep this VPN connection active for your console.
Also Read: 10 Best Gaming Laptops Under $700 in [RTX 30 & 144Hz]
VPN for Gaming FAQs
Will using a VPN increase my ping?
Using a VPN can potentially increase your ping because it reroutes your internet traffic through an additional server, possibly further away from your location.
Is using a VPN for gaming legal?
Yes, using a VPN for gaming is generally legal unless it violates your country’s laws or you are using it unethically. Unfair advantages, cyberattacks, and tampering with game mechanics are not acceptable reasons to use a VPN.
What are the essential features of a gaming VPN?
Essential features of a gaming VPN include low latency, fast connection speeds, a wide selection of server locations, strong encryption, and a no-logging policy.
Conclusion
Online gaming is an exhilarating experience, made even better with a smooth and secure internet connection.
VPNs not only enhance the safety of your online gaming adventures but also provide the flexibility to play games from anywhere in the world.
When choosing a VPN, prioritize speed, server locations, security, and user-friendliness. Once set up, regularly monitor and update to ensure optimum performance.
Dive into the vast world of online gaming with a reliable VPN by your side and experience unhindered, secure gameplay.
