Ready those peashooters.Electronic Arts has already released multiple titles for Switch and it looks like the next one could be a Plants vs Zombies game.According to a new rating in Brazil, a game titled Plants vs Zombies Reloaded is on the way to the Switch and multiple other platforms in the future. Here's a quick look at the listing, courtesy of Gematsu:Read the full article on nintendolife.com

It arrived on eShop last October.If you haven't already tried out the Donkey Kong Country-inspired platformer Nikoderiko: The Magical World on the Switch, you might want to hold out until next month.Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Nvidia is collaborating with Disney Research and Google DeepMind to develop Newton, a physics engine to simulate robotic movements in real-world settings, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced at GTC 2025 on Tuesday.Disney will be among the first to use Newton to power its next-generation entertainment robots, like the Star Wars-inspired BDX droids one of which waddled onstage next to Huang during his Tuesday keynote.Nvidia plans to release an early, open-source version of Newton later in 2025.SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA MARCH 18: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang delivers the keynote address with a robot during the Nvidia GTC 2025 at SAP Center on March 18, 2025 in San Jose, California. The annual Nvidia GTC conference runs through March 20th. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)Image Credits:Justin Sullivan / Getty ImagesFor years, Disney has pitched the idea of bringing these Star Wars-inspired robots to its parks around the world. There have been several controlled demos of the droids, most recently at SXSW 2025. Now thanks in part to Newton, presumably Disney feels the tech is ready, and plans to showcase the robots at several theme park locations starting next year. In a press release, Disney Imagineering SVP Kyle Laughlin said the collaboration with Nvidia and Google DeepMind will play a key role in powering future Disney entertainment robots, as well.Newton is supposed to help robots be more expressive and learn how to handle complex tasks with greater precision, Nvidia said. The physics engine is designed to help developers simulate how robots interact with the natural world, which can sometimes present a challenge for robotics developers.Nvidia claims that Newton is highly customizable. For example, developers can use it to program robotic interactions with food items, cloth, sand, and other deformable objects.Newton will be compatible with Google DeepMinds ecosystem of robotic development tools, including its physics engine, MuJoCo, which simulates multi-joint robot movements, Nvidia added.Newton was one of many announcements Nvidia made this week to kick off GTC 2025. The company also unveiled an AI foundation model for humanoid robots, Groot N1, which the company says lets robots better perceive and reason about their environments. In addition, the company shared a timeline for its next-gen AI chips, including Blackwell Ultra and Rubin, and unveiled a new line of personal AI computers.

On Tuesday, Vice President J. D. Vance said that the Trump administrations support of AI and tech innovations should benefit both populists and those investing and leading tech companies.I think theres too much fear that AI will simply replace jobs rather than augmenting so many of the things that we do now, said Vance at the Andreessen Horowitz American Dynamism Summit in Washington, D.C.While Vance acknowledged that new technologies could lead to a displacement of certain jobs, as was the case with bank tellers when the ATM was invented, he said that history shows that innovation ultimately helps create more engaging, higher-paying jobs.What I propose is that each group, our workers, the Populists on the one hand, the tech optimists on the other, have been failed by this government, not just the government of the last administration, but the government in some ways, of the last 40 years, Vance said.By not imposing significant regulations on AI, the Trump administration promises to give the tech sector the freedom to innovate.The vice president also argued that rearranging trade and tariff regime internationally as well as reduced immigration would act as a disincentive for offshoring.Cheap labor is fundamentally a crutch, and its a crutch that inhibits innovation, Vance said. We dont want people seeking cheap labor. We want them investing and building right here in the United States of America.

What is the best VPN for the Amazon Fire TV Stick right now?ExpressVPN is our pick for the best virtual private network (VPN) to use with the Amazon Fire TV Stick, given its consistently strong performance in speed, stability, and streaming service access.An Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN lets you transform older TV sets into hubs for your favorite streaming services. You can use an Amazon Fire TV Stick to access media at up to 4K, with free movies and television shows, as well as subscription-based content on offer. The Fire TV Stick supports platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. When combined with a VPN, you may also be able to use your Amazon Fire TV Stick to access streaming content libraries from other regions.Also:The best Apple TV VPNs: Expert testedWe've been testing VPNs for years, during which we've compared more than a dozen VPNs on their speed, security, mobile interface usability, and server networks offered. We rely on our extensive testing of different operating systems and devices, user feedback, and industry changes to provide our readers with quality VPN recommendations.Read on for the best VPNs for the Amazon Fire TV stick in 2025. Sort by All The best VPNs for Amazon Fire TV Stick in 2025 Show less View now at ExpressVPN ExpressVPN is a popular VPN service that consistently provides great speeds, stability, and performance.ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries and offers up to eight simultaneous connections. We detected no noticeable speed loss when testing it on a Fire TV Stick beyond the usual 5 - 15% drop expected from a VPN server network, and overall, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest options on the market.In addition to supporting all versions of Fire TV and the Fire TV Stick -- second-generation and above -- ExpressVPN works with a variety of platforms and browser extensions.Due to its speed and ease of use, it consistently ranks as one of our favorite VPNs. While this service should offer unlimited simultaneous connections at its price point, ExpressVPN is easy to use, beginner-friendly, and quick to connect.Review:ExpressVPNSubscriptions begin at $5 per month if you buy two years of service upfront. As a bonus, ExpressVPN will also give you four months for free, added to the end of the contract term. Other plans available include $6.67 per month on an annual contract with three months free, or one month of access for $12.95.You can also take advantage of ExpressVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee, and now, ExpressVPN also offers student deals.Customers say they have an overall positive experience with this VPN provider and customer support is excellent, but some report automatic billing issues.ExpressVPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: All versions, Fire TV Stick: Second-generation and above|Simultaneous connections:8|Kill switch:Yes |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers|Countries:105|Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs |Money-back guarantee:30 days|Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS|Trustpilot rating: 4.2 |Google Play rating: 4.4 |App Store rating: 4.7 Pros Easy to use Large server network One of the fastest VPNs available Native Fire TV app Cons Expensive No unlimited simultaneous connections ExpressVPN is a popular VPN service that consistently provides great speeds, stability, and performance.ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries and offers up to eight simultaneous connections. We detected no noticeable speed loss when testing it on a Fire TV Stick beyond the usual 5 - 15% drop expected from a VPN server network, and overall, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest options on the market.In addition to supporting all versions of Fire TV and the Fire TV Stick -- second-generation and above -- ExpressVPN works with a variety of platforms and browser extensions.Due to its speed and ease of use, it consistently ranks as one of our favorite VPNs. While this service should offer unlimited simultaneous connections at its price point, ExpressVPN is easy to use, beginner-friendly, and quick to connect.Review:ExpressVPNSubscriptions begin at $5 per month if you buy two years of service upfront. As a bonus, ExpressVPN will also give you four months for free, added to the end of the contract term. Other plans available include $6.67 per month on an annual contract with three months free, or one month of access for $12.95.You can also take advantage of ExpressVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee, and now, ExpressVPN also offers student deals.Customers say they have an overall positive experience with this VPN provider and customer support is excellent, but some report automatic billing issues.ExpressVPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: All versions, Fire TV Stick: Second-generation and above|Simultaneous connections:8|Kill switch:Yes |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, tvOS, and routers|Countries:105|Logging: No browsing logs, some connection logs |Money-back guarantee:30 days|Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS|Trustpilot rating: 4.2 |Google Play rating: 4.4 |App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Surfshark Surfshark is the best option if you want a cheap VPN to disguise your activities and protect your privacy when using an Amazon Fire TV Stick.Surfshark offers users 3,200 servers in 100 countries with unlimited connections. It's compatible with Fire TV products including the Stick, Cube, and tablets -- excluding first-generation products. In our speed testing, we found Surfshark's performance reasonable, especially considering the price point.In February, the company introduced Nexus, a technology that aims to speed up your VPN and allow your internet protocol (IP) address to change within the Surfshark network without disconnecting.Review:Surfshark VPNSurfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market. Two-year plans start at $2.19 per month, plus three months of free access. Yearly plans offer the same free period, beginning at $3.19 per month. Monthly signups are expensive, with pricing starting at $15.45. Surfshark also provides users with a 30-day money-back guarantee.Customers appreciate how cheap this VPN is and consider the service to be excellent value for money. As we found, initial connections are reported as sometimes slow, but the overall service is good.Furthermore, Surfshark is ZDNET's top pick for the best iPad VPN overall in 2025.Surfshark VPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: Second-generation and above, Fire TV Stick: Second generation and above, Fire TV Cube, most Amazon Fire tablets|Simultaneous connections:Unlimited| Ad blocker | Two-factor authentication |Kill switch: Yes |Countries: 100 |Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers |Money-back guarantee: 30 days |Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS|Trustpilot rating: 4.4 |Google Play rating: 4.6 |App Store rating: 4.7 Countries and servers 8 Usability 9 Speed and performance 6 Security 8 Price 9 Pros Unlimited simultaneous connections Large server network Affordable Attractive user interface Cons Average download speeds Can be slower than competitors Price $15.45 a month, $48 for the first 15 months (then $79 a year) or $60 for the first 27 months (then $79 a year)Latest tests No leaks detected, 21% speed loss in 2025 testsNetwork 3,200-plus servers in 100 countriesJurisdiction Netherlands Surfshark Best budget Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN 4 / 5 Score Surfshark is the best option if you want a cheap VPN to disguise your activities and protect your privacy when using an Amazon Fire TV Stick.Surfshark offers users 3,200 servers in 100 countries with unlimited connections. It's compatible with Fire TV products including the Stick, Cube, and tablets -- excluding first-generation products. In our speed testing, we found Surfshark's performance reasonable, especially considering the price point.In February, the company introduced Nexus, a technology that aims to speed up your VPN and allow your internet protocol (IP) address to change within the Surfshark network without disconnecting.Review:Surfshark VPNSurfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs on the market. Two-year plans start at $2.19 per month, plus three months of free access. Yearly plans offer the same free period, beginning at $3.19 per month. Monthly signups are expensive, with pricing starting at $15.45. Surfshark also provides users with a 30-day money-back guarantee.Customers appreciate how cheap this VPN is and consider the service to be excellent value for money. As we found, initial connections are reported as sometimes slow, but the overall service is good.Furthermore, Surfshark is ZDNET's top pick for the best iPad VPN overall in 2025.Surfshark VPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: Second-generation and above, Fire TV Stick: Second generation and above, Fire TV Cube, most Amazon Fire tablets|Simultaneous connections:Unlimited| Ad blocker | Two-factor authentication |Kill switch: Yes |Countries: 100 |Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, and routers |Money-back guarantee: 30 days |Trial: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS|Trustpilot rating: 4.4 |Google Play rating: 4.6 |App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at NordVPN NordVPN is one of the best Fire TV Stick VPN options that doesn't drastically reduce your streaming speed.In addition to being easy to set up and use, NordVPN offers 10 simultaneous connections under one account and has a server network comprised of 111 countries.In January, NordVPN introduced NordWhisper, a new protocol for managing network restriction challenges. NordVPN has been one of our favorite VPNs for years due to its multi-platform compatibility, security, and speed. These improvements are welcome, but we would like to see unlimited simultaneous connections in the future.Add-ons are available, including a dedicated IP address, password manager, and data breach scanner, but many advanced features are only available to premium subscribers. We particularly like this VPN's mobile app and found the Fire TV Stick app has an attractive user interface.This VPN is compatible with all second-generation versions and above Fire TV Stick products.Review:NordVPNPrices start at $3.39 per month if you purchase two years of access, $5 per month for a one-year plan, or a standard month-to-month subscription with basic protections for $13. The company also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.On premium plans, which start at $4.39 per month, NordVPN will award customers at least six months of free access via coupons.Customers like the VPN's speed, stability, and top-notch customer support. During testing, NordVPN consistently ranks as one of the best overall VPNs, with excellent speeds, server availability, and streaming capabilities. A recent independent audit and penetration test found that the VPN worked as intended and several high-level security vulnerabilities were resolved.NordVPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: All versions, Fire TV Stick: Second-generation and above |Simultaneous connections:10 |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers |Countries:111 |Kill switch:Yes |Logging:Email address and billing information only |Money-back guarantee: 30 days|Trial: Seven days on Android|Trustpilot rating: 4.1 |Google Play rating: 4.6 |App Store rating: 4.7 Countries and servers 10 Usability 9 Speed and performance 10 Security 8 Price 7 Pros Rapid speed and performance Extensive server network Easy-to-use native Fire TV app Attractive user interface Cons No unlimited simultaneous connections Price $14 per month, $60 for the first year or $81 total for the first two years (one- and two-year plans renew at $140 per year)Latest tests No leaks detected, 3% average internet download speed loss in 2025 testsNetwork 7,200-plus servers in 118 countriesJurisdiction Panama NordVPN Best Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN for speed 4.4 / 5 Score NordVPN is one of the best Fire TV Stick VPN options that doesn't drastically reduce your streaming speed.In addition to being easy to set up and use, NordVPN offers 10 simultaneous connections under one account and has a server network comprised of 111 countries.In January, NordVPN introduced NordWhisper, a new protocol for managing network restriction challenges. NordVPN has been one of our favorite VPNs for years due to its multi-platform compatibility, security, and speed. These improvements are welcome, but we would like to see unlimited simultaneous connections in the future.Add-ons are available, including a dedicated IP address, password manager, and data breach scanner, but many advanced features are only available to premium subscribers. We particularly like this VPN's mobile app and found the Fire TV Stick app has an attractive user interface.This VPN is compatible with all second-generation versions and above Fire TV Stick products.Review:NordVPNPrices start at $3.39 per month if you purchase two years of access, $5 per month for a one-year plan, or a standard month-to-month subscription with basic protections for $13. The company also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.On premium plans, which start at $4.39 per month, NordVPN will award customers at least six months of free access via coupons.Customers like the VPN's speed, stability, and top-notch customer support. During testing, NordVPN consistently ranks as one of the best overall VPNs, with excellent speeds, server availability, and streaming capabilities. A recent independent audit and penetration test found that the VPN worked as intended and several high-level security vulnerabilities were resolved.NordVPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: All versions, Fire TV Stick: Second-generation and above |Simultaneous connections:10 |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, and routers |Countries:111 |Kill switch:Yes |Logging:Email address and billing information only |Money-back guarantee: 30 days|Trial: Seven days on Android|Trustpilot rating: 4.1 |Google Play rating: 4.6 |App Store rating: 4.7 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at IPVanish IPVanish is a heavyweight contender in the VPN space. It excels at fast connection speeds and solid transfers. In our testing on the Amazon Fire TV Stick platform, we liked how the settings were clearly displayed and easy to understand.IPVanish features a variety of protocols and server options, and there are extensive options for configuring the app itself like switching between VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. It's compatible with second-generation or later Fire TV products. Threat protection features are also available for Amazon TV.In December, IPVanish expanded its server network to 108 countries making it more competitive with other top VPNs. Overall, IPVanish delivers a solid user experience and VPN service compared to many other options on the market, but we would like to see more login options added in future updates.Review:IPVanishIf you commit to two years, IPVanish offers a discounted plan for $2.19 per month. This increases to $3.33 per month for a yearly plan and $13for a month-to-month subscription. A 30-day money-back guarantee is offered.Users applaud IPVanish's reliable service and its customer support.Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET's parent company. For more, see ourEditorial Guidelines.IPVanish VPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: Second-generation and above, Fire TV Stick: Second-generation and above|Simultaneous connections: Unlimited |Kill switch: Yes |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, and routers |Logging: None, except billing data |Locations: 108 countries |Money-back guarantee: 30 days |Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS|Trustpilot rating: 4.3|Google Play rating: 4.4 |App Store rating: 4.5 Pros Unlimited connections Native Fire TV app Flexible with a wide range of protocols Cons Price increases after subscription ends No QR code or web link access functionality on Fire Stick IPVanish is a heavyweight contender in the VPN space. It excels at fast connection speeds and solid transfers. In our testing on the Amazon Fire TV Stick platform, we liked how the settings were clearly displayed and easy to understand.IPVanish features a variety of protocols and server options, and there are extensive options for configuring the app itself like switching between VPN protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. It's compatible with second-generation or later Fire TV products. Threat protection features are also available for Amazon TV.In December, IPVanish expanded its server network to 108 countries making it more competitive with other top VPNs. Overall, IPVanish delivers a solid user experience and VPN service compared to many other options on the market, but we would like to see more login options added in future updates.Review:IPVanishIf you commit to two years, IPVanish offers a discounted plan for $2.19 per month. This increases to $3.33 per month for a yearly plan and $13for a month-to-month subscription. A 30-day money-back guarantee is offered.Users applaud IPVanish's reliable service and its customer support.Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, ZDNET's parent company. For more, see ourEditorial Guidelines.IPVanish VPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility: Fire TV: Second-generation and above, Fire TV Stick: Second-generation and above|Simultaneous connections: Unlimited |Kill switch: Yes |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, tvOS, Kodi, and routers |Logging: None, except billing data |Locations: 108 countries |Money-back guarantee: 30 days |Trial: Seven days on Android and iOS|Trustpilot rating: 4.3|Google Play rating: 4.4 |App Store rating: 4.5 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Proton Proton VPN, developed by the minds behind the encrypted email service Proton Mail, is an open source VPN with a free option compatible with the Amazon Fire TV Stick.Proton VPN uses strong encryption protocols, and our recent tests revealed no domanin name service (DNS) leaks -- an error that limits the protection of VPN encryption and may expose your browsing activities. Other features include a kill switch to protect your connection, a server network offering up to 91 countries, and a no-logs policy. More streaming support is on Proton VPN's latest product roadmap.You can expect reasonable speeds from this VPN according to our frequent speed tests. However, depending on the server load on Proton VPN's free server selection, you might not enjoy the true speeds and reliability of Proton VPN's paid options.The free plan doesn't cap bandwidth, but you are limited to a server selection of five countries. There is also another caveat: You can only use the free plan to protect one device, and so you won't be able to use Proton VPN on more than your Amazon Fire TV Stick. Alternatively, paid options start at $4.49 per month.Proton VPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility:, Fire TV Stick: Fire OS 7.0 and above| Open-source |Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan |Countries: 117 |Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator |Money-back guarantee: 30 days |Trial: Free option|Trustpilot rating: 2.3 |Google Play rating: 4.5 |App Store rating: 4.6 Pros Open source Free plan Multi-platform Reasonable performance Cons Free plan restrictions Proton VPN, developed by the minds behind the encrypted email service Proton Mail, is an open source VPN with a free option compatible with the Amazon Fire TV Stick.Proton VPN uses strong encryption protocols, and our recent tests revealed no domanin name service (DNS) leaks -- an error that limits the protection of VPN encryption and may expose your browsing activities. Other features include a kill switch to protect your connection, a server network offering up to 91 countries, and a no-logs policy. More streaming support is on Proton VPN's latest product roadmap.You can expect reasonable speeds from this VPN according to our frequent speed tests. However, depending on the server load on Proton VPN's free server selection, you might not enjoy the true speeds and reliability of Proton VPN's paid options.The free plan doesn't cap bandwidth, but you are limited to a server selection of five countries. There is also another caveat: You can only use the free plan to protect one device, and so you won't be able to use Proton VPN on more than your Amazon Fire TV Stick. Alternatively, paid options start at $4.49 per month.Proton VPN features:Fire TV Stick compatibility:, Fire TV Stick: Fire OS 7.0 and above| Open-source |Simultaneous connections: One to 10, depending on the plan |Countries: 117 |Logging: No-logs policy | Security audits |Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Android TV, Fire TV, Kodi, and routers | VPN accelerator |Money-back guarantee: 30 days |Trial: Free option|Trustpilot rating: 2.3 |Google Play rating: 4.5 |App Store rating: 4.6 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Amazon Fire TV Stick VPNs, compared VPNPrice (starts at)Simultaneous connectionsCountries, serversExpress VPN$5 per month8105Surfshark$2.19 per monthUnlimited100NordVPN$3.39 per month10111IPVanish$2.19 per monthUnlimited108Proton VPNFree or $4.49 per monthOne (free), 10 (paid)117 Show more What is an Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN service and why should you use one? A VPN service is a virtual private network service that encrypts your internet traffic, hides your IP address, and provides an anonymous and secure connection while using your TV. You can use many of these services with an Amazon Fire TV Stick.With the right VPN, you can browse the internet anonymously, access geo-restricted content, and avoid being tracked by advertisers, hackers, and government surveillance. Bolt this VPN onto your Fire TV Stick and enjoy the same privileges with a focus on disguising your activities from your internet service provider (ISP). This can be especially important if your internet plan throttles your traffic when it detects streaming.See also: What is a VPN and why do you need one? Show more How to set up an Amazon Fire Stick VPNOnce you've chosen the VPN you want to install, head to the native app store in your Fire Stick's dashboard or use the search function to find your VPN app. For this example, I will download and install ExpressVPN on a Samsung TV. Charlie Osborne/ZDNET Charlie Osborne/ZDNETAfter the app is downloaded, you can install it, but you may have to provide the VPN with specific device permissions. Open it and log in to the service with your username, email, and password you createdwhen you subscribed. Alternatively, some VPNs will allow you to log in through a QR code or access code on another device. Charlie Osborne/ZDNETOnce your VPN has been installed, select a country or choose quick connect, and you're done. Charlie Osborne/ZDNET Charlie Osborne/ZDNETIf there is no native Amazon Fire TV Stick app available, you may have to set up a VPN service on your router instead. Most VPN providers have extensive FAQ sections on their sites detailing how to complete a manual setup. It's best to reference those instructions for the specific VPN you're using, and to contact support if you have any issues.If you're looking for a router with a VPN preinstalled, consider the Privacy Hero 2 or Aircove.How we test VPNs Many providers recommended in this list have been subject to in-depth testing and reviews by members of the ZDNET team. We've been talking about VPNs for years, spoken with their management and their users, and developed a generally favorable impression.ZDNET tests VPN services from multiple locations, but we can't test from all locations. Every home, community, local ISP, and nation has a different infrastructure.We analyzed the best VPNs for Amazon Fire TV stick below using the following criteria that were most important in helping you make an informed decision:Performance:Our top VPNs must have a minimum level of performance. After all, there's no point in using a VPN while streaming if your connection continually drops or lags.Simultaneous connections: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service at the same time. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or smart TV you want to connect to a VPN, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.Security: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cares about making security improvements and patching reported bugs.Kill switch: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.Geo-blocks and streaming: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well given these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.Platforms: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our Amazon Fire TV VPN recommendations naturally have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for this hardware.Countries and servers: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.Trial length & price: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee.For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive VPN testing methodology page. Show more Choosing the right Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN Choose this Amazon Fire Stick VPN...If you want...ExpressVPNThe best choice overall. ExpressVPN provides a user-friendly app and interface, alongside stable connectivity, speeds, and an expansive server network. The price might be a problem for some.SurfsharkTo pay less. Surfshark is an affordable VPN option that provides a range of useful features, including unlimited simultaneous connections and reasonable speeds that won't impact your streaming too much. The company is working on improving its speeds and connections with Nexus.NordVPNA do-it-all secure VPN. NordVPN is a versatile and reliable VPN service that offers high-speed connections and advanced security features. If you have network restriction issues, its new protocol, NordWhisper, will help.IPVanishA configurable VPN service. IPVanish is designed to be easy to set up and use, with unlimited and fast connection speeds for streaming and downloading. and It's incredibly easy to tweak settings such as the VPN protocol. IPVanish has also recently bolstered its server network with more country options.Proton VPNA free VPN for use with your Amazon Fire TV Stick. While paid options do provide a vast server network of 117 countries, you can still access five countries through a free plan, which gives you some flexibility while streaming. However, you are limited to support for one device. Show more What are the factors to consider when choosing an Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN? When you are selecting your new Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN, you need to consider the following factors:Price: Assess the overall price of your new VPN plan. Try to take advantage of promotions but ignore countdown timers -- they typically are just marketing tools. While top-notch VPNs can cost upwards of $10 per month, many are available for only a few dollars. Many VPN providers will also offer free, limited mobile app trials.Simultaneous connections: If you're paying for a VPN suitable for your Amazon Fire TV Stick, you might still want to use it across multiple devices, such as a desktop, laptop, or mobile app. The number of devices connected to your VPN can add up quickly, so we recommend signing up for a plan supporting at least six to eight devices. Thankfully, many paid VPN plans now offer unlimited connections.Contract length: You must also decide how long you want to use a VPN. If you opt for a two-year term, you tend to secure the best prices, but other options are available. After you've chosen, you typically have a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows you to bow out of a contract with a VPN you are not happy with. Ensure you cancel within the 30-day period, or you may be charged for the entire contract length.Free services: We recommend that you avoid free VPNs -- with a few exceptions -- as they may sell your data or bombard you with ads. There are some trustworthy options out there, such as Proton VPN and Windscribe, but they're probably too restrictive to use well with streaming devices.Apps: When selecting a VPN, try it first to ensure you like its accompanying Amazon Fire TV Stick app. Some VPNs, for example, have great desktop software but are less intuitive in the smart TV app department. Show more Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN FAQs Does Amazon ban VPN use? While VPN usage is legal, not every VPN provider offers a dedicated Amazon Fire TV Stick app. Amazon doesn't outright ban VPNs, but if you're using these services to bypass geo-blocked content, your VPN's IP address might be blocked. It's also possible that in the same way that Netflix handles VPN usage, you may be limited to film and TV libraries that only show content available under universal licenses.Your best bet is a reputable VPN that can handle the demands of streaming services. Show more Why does my VPN keep disconnecting on my Amazon Fire TV Stick? If you're having connectivity issues with your VPN and your Amazon Fire TV Stick, there are several possible solutions you can try. One of the most common problems is that your TV stick might be too old, as many VPNs won't be fully compatible with earlier models. It may also be possible that your internet connection is not stable or quick enough to handle the demands of a VPN.Sometimes, a simple setting change can be enough to improve your connection. Try switching protocols, such as opting for WireGuard, picking a transmission control protocol (TCP) or a user datagram protocol (UDP), or selecting a different country server.Also, do not forget to keep the firmware of your Amazon TV Stick and VPN up-to-date. Try resetting them after an update and see if that resolves the problem. Show more Is it worth getting a VPN just for my Amazon Fire TV Stick? Probably not. Unless you're playing a cat-and-mouse game and want a VPN to access geo-blocked content libraries, paying for a VPN service just for your Amazon Fire TV Stick might not be worth your money. Although, there's nothing stopping you opting for a free VPN if you don't mind potential speed restrictions.If you're going to use a VPN across other devices -- such as a laptop or smartphone -- alongside your TV, it's well worth it. Show more Do I have to pay for an Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN? While there are free VPNs and free VPN plans, the majority will come with heavy restrictions on speed and server choice, and some providers might display ads or sell your information. Considering that you will likely want to access TV shows or films, you will need a VPN without speed limits. These tend to only be available with paid subscriptions, although Proton VPN is an exception. Show more How do I tell if my VPN is safe? When it comes to VPN safety, it's crucial to choose a reputable vendor known to have a strong security background.Next, check that your VPN is working properly by comparing your IP address before and after enabling a VPN connection. You can find this under your device's settings -- typically under Wi-Fi -- or by visiting whatismyipaddress.com. If they both display the same IP, your VPN may not be working properly.You can also visit dnsleaktest.com to see if any domain name system (DNS) leaks have been detected while you are using a VPN. If so, it could be a sign that your information isn't secure.Finally, be careful with free VPNs offered by unknown or shady companies, especially if they are outside of official app repositories. This could open your device to surveillance or malware. Show more What's the difference between antivirus software and VPN software? While both technologies are intended to protect you and your device, they provide different layers of protection. VPNs protect data in motion, sent to and from the internet. VPN protection is generally provided by encryption, so hackers can't spy on the data while it moves. Some VPN providers will also bolt on malware scanners, data breach monitors, and more.Antivirus software protects against malicious software executing on your device. These apps scan data, monitor running software processes and downloads, and may intercept suspicious activities or downloads. They may also include checking permissions and ensuring apps don't have more control over your device than they need.A VPN is not a one-size-fits-all security solution, but it's an important part of overall security hygiene and data protection.Also: Best free antivirus software Show more Are Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN services legal? Yes, Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN services are legal in the U.S., but the legality of using VPNs varies by country.It is important to check the laws of your location before using a VPN. Some countries ban their use outright such as North Korea, Belarus, and Iraq. Other countries including Russia and China, frown upon using any non-state-controlled VPN.For a list of countries where VPN usage is illegal, check out NordVPN's guide. Show more Will an Amazon Fire TV Stick VPN slow down my connection? As VPNs encrypt and route your traffic through their own networks, there will be some speed loss. The best VPNs shouldn't noticeably slow down your connection or result in buffering and lag. This might also depend on the server you have chosen. For example, if you are located in England and have chosen an Australian server, the distance will likely result in a more noticeable speed loss. If you are relying on a free VPN, even if it doesn't restrict the speed or bandwidth of users, you may experience lag as free servers could be experiencing heavy loads. Show more Which routers support VPNs? Many router brands now support VPN usage, or they include a VPN as an additional feature. Brands include Asus and TP-Link. Alternatively, some VPN providers have partnered with manufacturers to offer routers with their VPNs preinstalled, resulting in models including the ExpressVPN Aircove, and the NordVPN-enabled Privacy Hero 2. Show more Other VPNs we've tested Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Mini CrosswordNYTIn case you missed Tuesdays NYT Mini, you can find the answers here:The NYT Mini is a quick and dirty version of the newspaper's larger and long-running crossword. Most days, there are between three and five clues in each direction on a five by five grid, but the puzzles are sometimes larger, especially on Saturdays.Unlike its larger sibling, the NYT Mini crossword is free to play on the New York Times website or NYT Games app. However, youll need an NYT Games subscription to access previous puzzles in the archives.The NYT Mini is a fun daily distraction that usually takes no time at all. I try to beat the standard weekday grid in less than a minute. But sometimes I can't quite figure out one or two clues and need to reveal the answer.To help you avoid doing that, here are the NYT Mini Crossword answers (spoilers lie ahead, of course):Play Puzzles & Games on ForbesNYT Mini Crossword Clues And AnswersACROSS1) Practical joke - GAG 4) Halloween costume that often includes suspenders and a fake mustache - MARIO 6) Best Picture winner at the 2025 Oscars - ANORA 7) Ingredient in beer and bread - YEAST 8) Have in ones possession - OWNDOWN1) Reaction to an awful pun - GROAN 2) Puts on TV - AIRS 3) Total legend, informally - GOAT 4) B.L.T. condiment - MAYO 5) All over again - ANEWMiniNYTWhoa, whoa, whoa. I have spotted a clue error in the Mini today, which I cannot say has ever happened before. Mario does not wear supsenders, hes not Stever Urkel. He wears denim overalls which are an entirely different kind of clothes, which made getting this clue annoying as a result. I will in fact be writing a letter to the editor about this.Follow me , and .Pick up my sci-fi novels the and

How to solve today's Wordle.SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesLooking for Tuesdays Wordle hints, clues and answer? You can find them here:Wordle Wednesday is back, ladies and gentlemen, and that means we have an extra riddle or puzzle to solve before we dig our teeth into todays Wordle. Heres the puzzle:You have a bucket containing one gallon of water and a bucket containing one gallon of wine. You fill a one-cup measuring cup with wine and pour it into the water bucket. You then fill the measuring cup with one cup of the water-wine mixture and pour it back into the wine bucket. At that point, is there more water in the wine, or more wine in the water?If you have the answer, shoot me a message on Twitter, Instagram, Bluesky or Facebook. Ill post it tomorrow in our Thors Day Wordle guide! Okay, onto the Wordle . . . .Play Puzzles & Games on ForbesHow To Solve Todays WordleThe Hint: Come on baby, light my fire.The Clue: This Wordle has far more consonants than vowels.Okay, spoilers below!...The Answer:Today's WordleScreenshot: Erik KainWordle AnalysisEvery day I check Wordle Bot to help analyze my guessing game. You can check your Wordles with Wordle Bot right here. I tried to use my BRAIN today but it didnt help much. Only 47 words remained but it still took me 4 tries to snag todays Wordle. SHORE slashed that number to 9 (not great) and then TACKY cut out all the rest, leaving me with just one possible answer: SPARK for the win!Competitive Wordle ScoreToday's Wordle BotScreenshot: Erik KainTotal wash for the Bot and I today. We each get 0 points for guessing in four and 0 for tying.My March Running Total: 16 points.Wordle Bots Running Total: 5 points.How To Play Competitive WordleGuessing in 1 is worth 3 points; guessing in 2 is worth 2 points; guessing in 3 is worth 1 point; guessing in 4 is worth 0 points; guessing in 5 is -1 points; guessing in 6 is -2 points and missing the Wordle is -3 points.If you beat your opponent you get 1 point. If you tie, you get 0 points. And if you lose to your opponent, you get -1 point. Add it up to get your score. Keep a daily running score or just play for a new score each day.Fridays are 2XP, meaning you double your pointspositive or negative.You can keep a running tally or just play day-by-day. Enjoy!Todays Wordle EtymologyThe word "spark" comes from Old English spearca, meaning a small glowing particle or fiery particle. It is related to Middle Low German sparke and Middle Dutch sparke, all referring to a small flash or fiery bit. The root likely traces further back to a Proto-Germanic *sparkn/, though its ultimate origin is uncertain. The word has carried both literal and metaphorical meanings (like inspiration or a small beginning of something) since early usage.Let me know how you fared with your Wordle today on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook. Also be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me here on this blog where I write about games, TV shows and movies when Im not writing puzzle guides. Sign up for my newsletter for more reviews and commentary on entertainment and culture.

A pod of curious dolphins showed up to greet the returning SpaceX Crew-9 astronauts shortly after they splashed down off the coast of Florida at about 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, March 18.The four-person crew included NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, who ended up staying in orbit for way longer than originally planned.Recommended VideosAs the main recovery vessel approached SpaceXs Crew Dragon capsule, overhead cameras caught the pod of inquisitive dolphins swimming close to the spacecraft.Please enable Javascript to view this contentHere on the screen we can see dolphins, actually, who want to come and play with Dragon, the livestream commentator, SpaceX engineering manager Kate Tice, said with some surprise.The dolphins stuck around for quite a while, too, as the recovery team worked on lifting the Crew Dragon capsule onto the main boat before returning to land.Wow, weve got a cute little pod of dolphins, it wasnt just one or two, Tice noted as the creatures bobbed about in the water.NASAs SpaceX Crew-9 Re-Entry and SplashdownA short while later, the overhead camera tried to capture a clearer shot of the sea creatures. Ah, dolphin cam back again, Tice quipped.NASAs SpaceX Crew-9 Re-Entry and SplashdownStill, you can understand the dolphins curiosity. After all, its not every day that a space capsule lands in your neighborhood.Its even possible that Williams and Wilmore along with fellow NASA astronaut Nick Hague and cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov may have caught a glimpse of the dolphins through the windows of the Crew Dragon in what would surely have been a fitting finale to a most unusual space mission.Editors Recommendations

You should be ready to spend a serious amount of cash if you want a powerful gaming laptop, but you should still be on the lookout for opportunities at savings. We highly recommend checking out the Alienware deals of Dell, as you may find interesting offers like this $500 discount on the Alienware x16 R2 with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card. From its original price of $3,100, its down to $2,600, which still isnt affordable, but at least youll be able to use the savings towards more video games and accessories. You better hurry though, as the gaming laptop may be back to its regular price as soon as tomorrow.For a gaming laptop that wont have trouble running the best PC games at their highest settings, go for the Alienware x16 R2. The machine combines the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card with the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor and 32GB of RAM thats the sweet spot for high-end gamers, according to our guide on how much RAM do you need. Youll also be ready for the upcoming PC games of the next few years with this gaming laptop there will be no need to spend on upgrades any time soon.With the Dell G16s 16-inch screen featuring Full HD+ resolution and a 480Hz refresh rate that shatters the recommend range by our gaming laptop buying guide, youll be able to fully enjoy the graphics of the modern video games that youre playing. Youll also have plenty of them installed at the same time on the machines 1TB SSD, and with Windows 11 Home pre-loaded, you can start filling it up with your favorite titles right after unboxing the gaming laptop.RelatedIf youre willing to make an investment in gaming laptop deals for a powerful machine, you cant go wrong with the Alienware x16 R2. This configuration with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card is available from Dell for $2,600, for savings of $500 on its sticker price of $3,100. The offer may expire at any moment though, so you shouldnt be wasting any more time. Push through with your purchase of the Alienware x16 R2 gaming laptop immediately, while the discount is still active.Editors Recommendations

Last year, he took on Donald Trump. This year, he is backing Jonathan Majors. Tom Ortenberg isnt afraid of a challenge.