We’ve Updated the IPVanish Kill Switch for Fire TV & Android TV

Key Takeaways

IPVanish has updated the Fire TV and Android TV apps to include Kill Switch feature controls directly in the main app UI
Users still need the companion Kill Switch app, but no longer have to toggle it separately
The change simplifies setup while maintaining strong privacy protections on streaming devices

When you’re streaming, a secure and stable connection is essential. A VPN helps protect your privacy, but one of the most important layers of protection is the kill switch — a feature that automatically blocks internet access if your VPN connection drops, preventing potential data leaks.

We’ve just made using this feature even easier on Fire TV, Fire Stick, or Android TV devices.

What’s New: Kill Switch Control, Now in the Main App

Until now, using the IPVanish Kill Switch feature on Fire OS and Android TV meant switching between two separate apps: the IPVanish app for connecting to VPN servers, and our companion VPN Kill Switch app to enable the feature.

With our latest update, you can now manage the kill switch feature directly from within the main IPVanish app.

_{The Kill Switch feature can be easily toggled on from the IPVanish app settings. Once enabled, it works with the companion app to block all internet traffic if the VPN disconnects, keeping your data secure at all times.}

While the companion Kill Switch app is still required to run in the background (this is due to system-level limitations on these platforms; more on that below), you no longer have to manually jump between apps to turn it on or off. Everything is now available in one place, making it more straightforward to secure your connection.

Why Two Apps?

You might be wondering: why not just bundle the kill switch into one app?

Great question. Due to restrictions in Fire OS and Android TV systems, the kill switch must operate as a background service with elevated permissions. This requires it to run as a separate app. Our companion app is purpose-built for this, while the main IPVanish app handles server connections and the user interface.

This two-app setup ensures your connection stays protected even if your VPN disconnects unexpectedly, while still complying with system requirements.

screenshot of confirmation within the ipvanish kill switch app screen — _{This screen appears as part of the initial Kill Switch setup process. It indicates your internet is temporarily blocked while you connect the IPVanish VPN app to complete the configuration between both apps.}

How to set up the IPVanish VPN Kill Switch on Fire TV or Android TV – Quick Guide

Install both apps: You’ll need both the IPVanish app and the IPVanish VPN Kill Switch companion app installed on your device. If you attempt to use the Kill Switch without the companion app, you’ll be directed to download it to your system
Enable the kill switch: Open the IPVanish app, go to Settings, and toggle the Kill Switch on.
Activate your VPN: With the Kill Switch setting enabled, activate your VPN

After setup, your device will automatically block internet traffic anytime the VPN is disconnected, keeping your data safe from exposure. For detailed instructions, read our support guide about the IPVanish Kill Switch app for Amazon Fire TV and Android TV devices in the Support Center.

Simple, Seamless Security

This release is part of our ongoing effort to make powerful privacy tools as easy to use as possible. By bringing kill switch controls into the main IPVanish app, we’ve streamlined your security setup without compromising on protection.

Update to the latest version of IPVanish on your Fire TV or Android TV device to start using the new, built-in Kill Switch controls.

Crysta Timmerman

Crysta is a longtime contributor to IPVanish and has spent more than a decade sharing cybersecurity best practice tips. She is an ADDY award-winning copywriter based in Orlando and an avid fan of the local sports teams.
Nadia Ferrigno

Nadia Ferrigno is a contributor to the IPVanish blog. She has been a cybersecurity writer for over 6 years. Based in Los Angeles, she is a Disneyland aficionado and visits the park at least twice a month.