How to Fix Elementum Not Working With VPN


Elementum (the Kodi torrent-streaming add-on) often stops working when a VPN blocks or slows torrent traffic. If you connect a VPN and Elementum shows no streams or keeps buffering, it usually means the VPN isn’t configured properly or doesn’t support peer-to-peer (P2P) connections.

This guide explains why that happens and shows you step-by-step how to fix it.

Why Elementum Breaks When Using a VPN

  • VPN blocks torrents – Some providers disallow P2P traffic, which Elementum needs.
  • Slow servers – If the VPN server is overloaded or far away, torrent connections time out.
  • Wrong protocol – TCP is slower; UDP or WireGuard works better for streaming.
  • DNS or port conflicts – VPN DNS or closed ports can block peers.
  • Tracker bans – Some torrent trackers block known VPN IP ranges.

Step-by-Step Fixes for Elementum + VPN

1. Test Without VPN

Disconnect your VPN and open Kodi → try Elementum. If it works now, the VPN is the cause. If you’re unsure what role a VPN plays with streaming add-ons, here’s a guide on why you need a VPN for Kodi.

2. Connect to a P2P Server

Open your VPN app and pick a server labeled P2P or Torrenting. If unavailable, connect to the closest country to you. A reliable VPN for Kodi ensures you have optimized servers for streaming and torrenting.

3. Change VPN Protocol

In your VPN settings, find Protocol. Switch from TCP → UDP, or select WireGuard. Save changes and reconnect.

4. Bind Elementum to VPN

In Kodi: Add-ons → My Add-ons → Elementum → Settings → Network. Turn on Bind to VPN interface → OK. This ensures Elementum always routes traffic through the VPN.

5. Fix DNS if Streams Fail

In your VPN app, open DNS settings. Add: 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8. Reconnect VPN.

6. Restart Everything

Close Kodi fully, disconnect and reconnect VPN, then open Kodi again. If you’re streaming sports content, remember that add-ons like Elementum sometimes work better when paired with specialized builds, such as those used for watching Sky Sports on Kodi.

Extra Fixes if It Still Doesn’t Work

  • Switch VPN server – Sometimes one location works better.
  • Clear cache in Kodi – Use a tool like OpenWizard.
  • Update Elementum – Go to Add-on → Information → Update.
  • Reinstall Elementum – If corrupted, reinstall from the repo.
  • Check firewall or antivirus – Temporarily disable if blocking torrent traffic.

Best VPNs for Elementum

Not all VPNs work well with torrents. Stick with providers that allow P2P traffic and offer fast protocols.

  • NordVPN – Balanced speed and reliability, P2P servers, WireGuard support.
  • ExpressVPN – Very stable and consistent for streaming and torrenting.
  • Surfshark – Budget friendly, unlimited devices, good performance for Kodi.

👉 For the least hassle, use NordVPN. Connect to a P2P server near your location and set the protocol to WireGuard or UDP.

FAQs

Does Elementum block VPNs?

No. Elementum doesn’t restrict VPNs. Issues usually come from the VPN’s torrent policy or configuration.

Why does Elementum show no sources with VPN?

Often the VPN server is slow or blocks P2P. Switching server or protocol typically fixes it.

Can I use any VPN with Elementum?

No. You need a torrent-friendly VPN with P2P support and fast protocols like WireGuard.

Quick checklist: Disconnect VPN → Test → Reconnect to P2P server → Change to UDP or WireGuard → Bind Elementum → Change DNS → If still broken, switch VPN.

Readers help support VPNCentral. We may get a commission if you buy through our links. Tooltip Icon

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help VPNCentral sustain the editorial team Read more

User forum

0 messages