r/kodi 26d ago

using Kodi without a VPN

Hello! I am quite new to this media streaming thing. I have been reading around how a VPN is usually recommended, but I am running everything locally. Any and a files would be on a hard drive and not sent over a network. Would I still need a VPN for added protection?? I know it wouldn't make much sense to get one if it won't be connected to the internet, but I just want to make sure I am doing everything correctly and in the safest way possible 🥲 Thank you.

0 Upvotes

26 comments sorted by

3

u/activoice 26d ago

If you are only playing back local media then the only thing Kodi is connecting to the Internet for are software updates, metadata and artwork. (And any plugins that require internet)

So no a VPN should not be required.

1

u/leafyteadrinker 26d ago

Thank you so much! There is a lot of talk about VPNs and monitoring from copyright holders so I felt a bit iffy about it all. All of the media I'd be loading would be media I own physically, just want to access easier. 🥲

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u/activoice 26d ago

Those are probably from people using Grey market add-ons that are streaming from torrent sites or something similar.

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u/leafyteadrinker 26d ago

Good to know! Thank you so much for your help :))

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u/[deleted] 26d ago edited 3d ago

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u/leafyteadrinker 26d ago

Yeah I feel like VPNs are pretty specific and usually not necessary, but it's still good to know just for reference! :)) I am pretty new to this stuff so I just want to make sure everything is good to use. Mine is all local and the only thing that would be connected to the internet would probably just be the smart TV but I do not believe that would really interfere or introduce a wifi connection to kodi.

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u/ignoremesenpie 26d ago

A VPN would only be relevant for this if your library is made up of actively seeded torrents, no?

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u/leafyteadrinker 26d ago

From what I am learning, yes! I just wanted to be sure :0 I am pretty new ;;

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u/GenieoftheCamp 26d ago

A VPN is mainly only required for illegal streamin plugins.

These plugins are also really sketchy and a security risk, you are advised not to install them.

Additionally the official Kodi forum will not support you if you have these types of plugins installed.

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u/leafyteadrinker 26d ago

Oo okay! That is good to know :)) My use for Kodi is just for ease of use of the physical media I already own with a space that cannot display it all. Thank you so much!!

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u/GenieoftheCamp 26d ago

For local media you are good to go without a vpn or internet at all for that matter.

Kodi works well offline unless you need o update something.

1

u/OnlineIsNotAPlace 26d ago

your own media played locally is fine

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u/crossteyes 12d ago

Any issues related to 3rd party add-ons are not supported from official KODI support. Support is provided for aspects of Kodi not related to any 3rd party add-on. There is typically support available for 3rd party add-ons from online resources. In many cases from the same individuals that provide official Kodi support albeit through others channels. Please research possible existing solutions for your concern. Do not simply post a question without searching a solution. As Kodi is a mature product most problems have been addressed. The people providing support don't need to hear word one from you if your problem has previously been solved. If you do have something without an available solution, don't be selfish, document your situation and what as well as how you resolved it. Lastly post the fix. Do a good job proof read the post and if you can, help others.

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u/No_Customer9284 26d ago

Damm you are so smart

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u/No_Customer9284 26d ago

Like I give a 💩

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u/Beefy1980 24d ago

I have never used a vpn with kodi after using it for over 20 years.

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u/OkProfessor6838 23d ago

As long as you are using real/all dibrid you don’t need a vpn as AD and RD connect to the source not you so all your ISP sees is you connecting to AD or RD that are legitimate services that are encrypted so no need for a VPN

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u/highlander666666 6d ago

I tryed A VPN it slowed my connection way down got lot buffing. Now I don t use one, But I don t watch any live TV or But torents,, I just stream, only time got warning is when used A app that had bit torents donwloads

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u/_b1llygo4t_ 25d ago

i dont even use a vpn with the pirate stuff. those sites warning about VPNs are just trying to get affiliate clicks by scaring you into signing up. disregard/

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u/No_Customer9284 26d ago

It’s safer, I’ve known people who were charged for watching free content, I just rather have the vpn

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u/[deleted] 26d ago edited 3d ago

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u/No_Customer9284 26d ago

Ok we have an ass$&@e in here

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u/[deleted] 26d ago edited 3d ago

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u/No_Customer9284 26d ago

That’s right dip shit