ExpressVPN is one of the most popular Virtual Private Network (VPN) services available today. It’s well-known for its fast speeds, strong security features, and ease of use. A common question many people ask before subscribing is: How many devices can I use with ExpressVPN? In this article, we’ll answer that question in detail and provide all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re someone who wants to protect their online privacy, stream content safely, or access websites that are blocked in your region, ExpressVPN offers flexible solutions. But understanding how many devices you can use with one subscription is essential before committing to it.
Number of Devices Supported by ExpressVPN
With ExpressVPN, you can use one subscription on up to five devices at the same time. This means that for a single subscription, you can connect multiple devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and even routers. The ability to connect five devices simultaneously is a major advantage for people who want to protect all their devices with one VPN subscription.
While five devices might sound like a limitation compared to some other VPN services that allow unlimited connections, it’s important to note that five is more than enough for most users. Many people only use one or two devices at home, and even families or small businesses can find that five devices are plenty for their needs.
Device Types That Work with ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN supports a wide range of devices and platforms, so you can easily use the service on most of the devices you own. Here’s a list of compatible device types:
1. Windows PCs and Laptops
ExpressVPN works with both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Setting it up on a PC is straightforward, and the user interface is simple to navigate.
2. MacOS Devices (MacBooks, iMacs, etc.)
ExpressVPN also supports macOS, offering apps for both Intel-based and Apple Silicon Macs. The setup process is similar to the one for Windows.
3. Mobile Devices (Android and iOS)
You can install ExpressVPN on both Android smartphones and tablets, as well as iPhones and iPads. The mobile apps are just as easy to use as the desktop versions.
4. Smart TVs
ExpressVPN can be installed on select Smart TVs, including those running on Android TV OS. You can also set it up on certain devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick and Apple TV using router configurations.
5. Routers
ExpressVPN can be set up on routers, which is a great option if you have more than five devices that need to be connected. By installing ExpressVPN on your router, every device connected to that network will benefit from the VPN protection.
6. Browser Extensions
ExpressVPN offers browser extensions for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. These allow you to quickly connect to the VPN while browsing the web, providing additional security for your online activities.
Managing Device Connections
If you ever hit the five-device limit, ExpressVPN allows you to manage your connections easily. For example, if you want to disconnect one device and connect a new one, you can simply log into your ExpressVPN account and remove an active device. This gives you flexibility, as you can switch devices whenever you need to.
Additionally, ExpressVPN allows you to use split tunneling. This feature lets you route some apps or websites through the VPN, while others can bypass the VPN and access the internet directly. This feature is useful if you need to conserve your bandwidth or if you want to access local content while using the VPN for international websites.
Can You Use More Than Five Devices?
If you find that five devices aren’t enough for your needs, there are a few ways to work around this limitation:
- Install ExpressVPN on Your Router: By setting up ExpressVPN on your router, every device connected to your home network will be protected by the VPN. This is an excellent option for families or small businesses where more than five devices need protection.
- Purchase Additional Subscriptions: Some users opt to purchase more than one subscription if they need to cover more than five devices. However, this can get expensive, and it’s typically not necessary for most households or individuals.
- Use Browser Extensions: Browser extensions don’t count toward the five-device limit, so using them on multiple browsers could give you some extra connections.
Can You Share Your ExpressVPN Subscription?
ExpressVPN allows you to share your subscription with family or friends, as long as they are using different devices that fit within the allowed five-device limit. You can share your account information with others, but remember that only five devices can be connected at once.
However, keep in mind that sharing your account could compromise your security if someone you share it with does not follow good online security practices. It’s always best to use the VPN on devices that you personally control.
Other Features of ExpressVPN
Besides device compatibility, ExpressVPN offers several other features that make it stand out in the crowded VPN market. These features help you make the most of your subscription:
1. Strong Security Protocols
ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, one of the strongest encryption methods available today. It also supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway (its own protocol) for fast and secure connections.
2. No-Logs Policy
ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not store any data about your online activities. This makes it a great choice for users who prioritize privacy.
3. High-Speed Servers
With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN ensures fast and reliable connections for streaming, gaming, and general internet use. This global network helps you bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the world.
4. 24/7 Customer Support
ExpressVPN offers live chat support around the clock, so if you encounter any issues with your devices or settings, you can get help anytime.
5. Compatibility with Streaming Services
ExpressVPN works with major streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. By connecting to the right server, you can access geo-restricted content from these services, no matter where you are in the world.
6. Split Tunneling
As mentioned earlier, split tunneling allows you to control which apps or websites use the VPN and which ones don’t. This feature is useful for tasks that don’t require VPN protection, like accessing local news websites.
Conclusion
ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for those who want to secure their online activities on multiple devices. While the standard limit is five devices per subscription, there are several ways to work around this if you need to connect more devices, such as using a router or purchasing additional subscriptions.
The service offers excellent device compatibility, from desktop computers and smartphones to smart TVs and routers. With its fast speeds, strong security, and user-friendly interface, ExpressVPN is well-suited for individuals and families looking for a comprehensive VPN solution.
When considering whether ExpressVPN is the right VPN for you, it’s important to assess how many devices you need to protect and whether the five-device limit works for your needs. If it does, you’ll be getting access to one of the best VPN services available today.