Xbox is a video gaming console brand, which provides realistic graphics for games. It is owned and developed by Microsoft. You can connect the game console to a television or any other display media. Originally called the DirectX Box, the console was intended to be the first game system created like a PC, but with all the flexibility and power of a gaming rig.
The Xbox consolehelped Microsoft gain an early advantage in the online gaming market. Microsoftis currently a force to reckon with in the gaming industry. The Xbox brandincludes consoles like Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
The Xbox One is the latest game console in the brand. Its controller has a built-in battery and a slightly different design from its predecessors. It is more powerful and also faster, with increased memory and better graphics. However, it is not compatible with most of the applications and games that the last two had. One of such applications is a Virtual Private Network. However, in this article, we’ll show you a workaround for this.
Select My Games and Apps from the Xbox Home Screen. Navigate to Apps- Settings; Select System- Language & Location; From Location choose USA if you want to download your desired app exclusively available in the USA (or another region depending on app availability) Restart your Xbox console, connect to a VPN-enabled connection using the same server as the region your Xbox is configured to.
Even though there are not many VPN apps on most gaming consoles, it is still possible to use NordVPN on the Xbox. However, we must say that it is not as easy as with other devices. Here, we will focus on the Xbox One, as it is the most current one.
We must firstestablish that this process is a bit technical and is not so straightforward.However, we are here to put you through. There are four ways you can set upNordVPN on your Xbox. You could set it up via Mac. The second way is setting itup via PC. You could also set it up via a Wi-Fi router. Another way is to shareyour Computer’s VPN with your Xbox.
For this method,you will require an Ethernet cable, an Xbox One, a Mac, and an active NordVPNsubscription. The steps you need to follow are:
For this method,you will need an Ethernet cable, an Xbox One, a PC or laptop, and an activeNordVPN subscription. These are the steps to follow in setting up NordVPN onXbox One:
This method is one of the easiest ways to set up NordVPN on your XboxOne. There are two ways you could set up NordVPN on your Xbox One via a Wi-Firouter. The first approach is to purchase a Wi-Fi router that provides supportfor built-in VPN services. Although this might be a bit pricey, it’s theeasiest route to take. The second approach is to purchase your NordVPNsubscription and manually enter the details of the VPN into your Wi-Fi router.
This option is abit tricky as it is exceedingly difficult to give a step-by-step guide as tohow to go about it. The reason for its trickiness lies in the differences inthe brands of routers you may purchase. However, this is the general process:
Do not use yourXbox VPN to log into region-locked content daily. You do not want to becomeblacklisted. If you download anything that is region-restricted (hey, we knowyou will!), try not to use the multiplayer feature too frequently. However, youcan access region-locked Xbox Live Apps through your Xbox VPN. They arethird-party affiliates and won’t necessarily have Microsoft’s strict regionrestricting policies.
You cannotdownload some apps on your Xbox One unless your region is configured to thecorrect region. The first thing you would need to do is change your region.Changing it would help you gain access to those apps that are only availablewithin specific regions.
The process is asfollows:
First, whenplaying online games with a VPN, you may notice a lag. However, it depends onthe VPN server location and the quality of its provider. Using NordVPN wouldhelp reduce lag, as it typically makes use of servers that send your onlinedata through data centers.
Using NordVPN may also help you gain access to games that are not officially available in your location. Ordinarily, when a new game is released on the same day all over the world, it will appear first in Australia, because of the time zone differences. However, with NordVPN, you can make your console think that you are in Australia, and thus gain early access. Simply put, it can open your console to regional content that is otherwise unavailable. This content includes games, video services, apps, and more. NordVPN is especially helpful in accessing a variety of Netflix libraries, video streaming, tapping into international programming, or bypassing blocked YouTube videos.
Generally, gameprices vary from region to region. But, with NordVPN, you can connect to aregion where the game is available at the lowest price.
In this day and age, where cyber-insecurity is on the rise, using technology to protect your Internet activity from malware and hackers is quite smart. NordVPN would also shield you from public Wi-Fi networks, and block annoying ads. It does so with an Advanced Encryption System, which has 256-bit keys. This is the highest level of encryption in the tech world today. It is used by the military and even the government of countries like the United States to protect valuable information.
The way NordVPNworks is by creating an encrypted tunnel through which your private data, whichhas been split and encapsulated passes. Thus, the encrypted data appears likegibberish to any third-party who has gained access to it.
Once you areconnected to any NordVPN server of your choice, you can browse the Internetunder the cover of its IP address and location. With every new connection, youronline identity changes to a new IP address, which hides you under a newencryption shield. Therefore, it means that no government can get a hold ofyour browsing history, as you have none. Also, hackers and ISPs cannot readyour private data, should they manage to intercept it.
With NordVPN, youare not only guaranteed security, but also speed. Thus, you no longer have tochoose between these essential features, as you can now have them both. You canenjoy a speedy VPN experience, alongside being shielded by encryption thatmatches military standards. You can also enjoy a hitch-free streamingexperience without bandwidth throttling and buffering. Simply put, you can haveunlimited Internet access without fear of bandwidth limits or censorship withNordVPN.
Another greatfeature of NordVPN is that you can secure five other devices alongside yourXbox with only one account. Such devices that may be secured includesmartphones, routers, and computers.
NordVPN is alsohighly recommended because of its smart algorithm, which automatically selectsthe VPN server for you. It performs this function based on your location,special requirements, or loads.
Furthermore,NordVPN has implemented a Domain Name System (DNS) leak protection technology.It helps to protect your online privacy and activity where DNS servers sendunencrypted queries outside a secure VPN tunnel.
NordVPN softwarealso offers two versions of the Kill Switch feature, which is used to monitoryour connection to your NordVPN server. If the connection drops accidentally,the role of the Kill Switch is to block your device from gaining access to theInternet. It also prevents applications you have already specified fromaccessing the web. This feature comes in handy in areas with an unstableInternet connection.
In addition toall these, NordVPN guarantees that it would pay you back your money fullywithin the first thirty days of subscription if you are unsatisfied with theservices they render.
Now you know allabout how NordVPN works on Xbox. But if you’re looking to install a VPN serviceprovider on your Xbox, it’s because you want access to unlimited content.
Enter Kodi. Kodiis a fantastic open-source media player with an unlimited supply of content.There are add-ons on Kodi that are just like the apps on a smartphone. A uniquefeature of Kodi is that anyone can create an add-on related to anything andmake it available online. This is to say that Kodi is an Open Source platform,which explains why the content supply is limitless.
In a couple ofminutes, you can install Kodi on your Xbox One. All you need do is follow the steps enumerated below. Once you do so,you can gain access to endless video entertainment on your Xbox. Here are thesteps:
Now, you canstart using Kodi on your Xbox.
NordVPN has manyadvantages to offer, and you should consider getting one for your Xbox today.Note that even if you own an older Xbox, the setup process for Xbox 360 VPN andXbox One VPN is more or less the same.
Whether you’re trying to no-scope that enemy on COD or score a last-minute slam-dunk on NBA, the touchpad just doesn’t do it.
So, we thought we’d share the best tips on how to connect an Xbox 360 controller to your Mac, to make them tense gaming moments a little easier.
BUT, before we get into all the juicy techy stuff, let’s remind you of how beneficial cleaning up your Mac can be.
Before installing any new hardware, it’s important to have an un-cluttered file space so the new software can run efficiently, and you can keep an eye on what’s where.
With CleanMyMac X, it’s easy. It’s one-click cleaning approach and powerful scanning means you can swiftly dispose of useless documents and apps which may be slowing your Mac down.
So, to get optimal controller connectivity, you should download CleanMyMac and tidy up your digital space – prior to any installations. Now, onto how to use an Xbox 360 controller on a Mac.
Not many of us know it, but there could be a handy use for all those old Xbox 360 or Xbox One controllers lying around. But, before you get set up, you need to have the correct hardware installed on your Mac to enable connectivity.
Here’s how.
First of all, you will need either a wired or wireless Xbox controller. Both work fine, but for all those passionate gamers with a tendency to erupt, a wireless device would be best to save any damages to wires (or opponents). These wireless receivers can be bought for around $20 on Amazon, and can handle up to 4 Xbox 360 controllers.
Free Drivers
Obviously, Macs don’t have an in-built driver for Xbox controllers as Apple are in no way affiliated with Microsoft. Similarly, Microsoft doesn’t supply drivers for Mac users for their hardware, which leaves us wanting users having to find our own way.
So back in 2006, it was music to gamer’s ears to hear that Tattie Bogle had developed their own driver free of charge to users across the gaming globe. However, this driver hasn’t been updated since 2012, and is therefore sticky when it comes to compatibility with MacOS X.
For a more streamlined approach to this conundrum, download GitHub’s free driver – it’s maintained and updated frequently and is free to all Mac users.
1. Install the driver
After opening the GitHub link, double click on the DMG file visible under ‘Assets’. This will start the installing process, where you will have to follow the appropriate instructions.
Remember though, as with any new program installation, it will reboot your Mac, so don’t panic. After the restart, you should be able to find ‘Xbox 360 Controllers’ in the system preferences.
2. Connect the Xbox 360 Controller to your Mac
Now you’ve installed the driver, the next step is to connect the controller, which is simple and only needs to be done once.
Firstly, you need to plug the USB receiver into a free USB port on your Mac. Once plugged in, the USB receiver’s light should start blinking
Press the big Xbox logo button on the controller so it lights up green
Press the button on the USB receiver
Press the connect button on the controller, which can be found at the top - in-between the left and right toggles
The top left quarter of the circle around the Xbox button should now light up, indicating you are the first controller connected
Now the controller and Mac are linked - so in the future if you want to connect again, all you need do is press the big Xbox logo button to get going. Told you it was simple!
3. Test the Controller
As with all things techy, there’s always loopholes. So, it’s important to test the connections to ensure the controller works before we embark upon a mobile-gaming-gallivant.
Go to ‘System Preferences’, ‘Xbox 360 Controllers’ and you’ll see a screen like below.
This is a control pad, which indicates whether all the buttons on the controller are working properly. That’s about all you can do on this, as well as shutting the controller down by clicking ‘power off’.
4. Configuring for multiple games on your Mac
We all have different tastes in games - some of us like sports and some of us like military, there’s no right or wrong (asides from Half-Life, that’s just awesome and it’s not up for debate).
With these different games come different control configurations, which can get tedious when you only have one type of controller.
For full flexibility of use, there are many tools and apps available which allow you to play any game with any Mac compatible joystick or controller – even the ones that are not compatible with joysticks.
5. Use Joystick Mapper
Out of the many apps to choose from, Joystick Mapper is our pick. And at only $4.99 from the App Store, it’s real value for money – especially when considering the amount of effort it takes to develop such a complex tool.
Here’s how it works –
Once you download the Joystick Mapper app, you need to create a pre-set for your game preferences. To do this, open the app and click ‘Add new pre-set’.
Enter a name for future reference such as ‘My Game’, and for each joystick, click ‘Add a new joystick’.
Now that you’ve identified the joystick, you need to ‘bind’ joystick inputs to keyboard or mouse movements - which is easier than it sounds. /app-notepad-for-mac.html.
Click on ‘Add new bind’, and then ‘Scan’, and press the button of your game controller that you’d like to use. Next select a mouse or keyboard action, and that will ‘bind’ the chosen inputs.
Simply repeat this process until you’ve bound all the buttons you’d like to use.
If by chance you’re using a controller other than an Xbox 360 or Xbox One, you can replicate these actions and apply them to different controllers. To do this, simply click the ‘Clone’ icon in the top right corner. To put the pre-set into action, set a checkmark before the preferred pre-set/profile you’ve created for the game you’re about to play. Now, you’re good to go!
BUT – don’t close the Joystick Mapper app before starting the game, it needs to keep running to work. Simply select ‘cmd + H’ to hide the window.
Remember, all of these processes won’t work as effectively if you have a messy Mac.
On average, there is a whopping 62GB of junk found on Macs, with jam-packed caches and folders full of useless documents cluttering the hard drive.
This considerably slows down the performance of your Mac, preventing quick and easy installations, and can even hinder the controller connectivity.
CleanMyMac X is an app dedicated to cleaning your Mac head-to-toe. It scans everything on the computer - even old folders that have been evading your wrath for years - identifying what needs to be removed.
The Mac is inspected rigorously, and with its smart one-click clean-up, CleanMyMac sweeps away the unwanted rubbish to organize folders and speed up performance.
Furthermore, CleanMyMac X is free to download. So, what are you waiting for? Download it for free here.