If you are interested in how to get easy lobbies in Modern Warfare 3, it’s most likely you are dissatisfied with the game’s skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) system. Players point to extremely competitive lobbies filled with high-skill players, demanding a MW3 VPN to connect to the server with a less intense experience.
A reliable Modern Warfare 3 VPN is the easiest way to avoid SBMM in the game. By connecting to a country where Call of Duty is less popular, you increase your chances of entering MW3 bot lobbies. Currently, the best VPN locations for MW3 bot lobbies are Middle Eastern countries, such as Turkey or Egypt.
However, not all VPNs are optimized for gaming. A good VPN for MW3 must have an extensive and fast worldwide server network, an easy-to-use app, and router compatibility. Below, you will find a guide on how to get easier bot lobbies in MW3, along with a list of the 5 best VPNs for MW3 to achieve this easily. Let’s take a look.
How to get MW3 bot lobbies with a VPN
- Subscribe to a reliable gaming VPN. My top pick is NordVPN, now 74% OFF
- If you’re playing on a console, install the VPN on your router; otherwise, install it on your PC
- Connect to a server in a country with lower competition, e.g., Turkey, between 3 a.m. and 12 a.m.
- Launch MW3 and enjoy easier bot lobbies
Best CoD: MW3 VPNs in 2024
- NordVPN – overall best VPN for MW3 bot lobbies
- Surfshark – fast MW3 VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections
- Norton Secure VPN – gaming VPN with advanced security
- ExpressVPN – CoD VPN with easy router setup
- CyberGhost – cheap VPN for MW3 with a vast server fleet
📢 LIMITED OFFER: Get NordVPN, now up to 74% OFF + 3 months FREE!
Why do you need a VPN for MW3?
When you connect to a VPN server in a region where MW3 is not as popular as in the US, like Turkey or Eastern Europe, you have better chances of avoiding SBMM and connecting to MW3 bot lobbies instead of being ranked with the best-of-the-best players on the most competitive servers.
While modern VPNs have very fast servers that guarantee optimal performance, there are ways to increase it further. For example, you can connect to servers in locations with small populations, where MW3 isn’t as popular, or where it’s nighttime.
A solid VPN can improve your MW3 experience wherever you might play – school, workplace, or a local coffee shop
– by providing the following:
- Better performance. You can lower your ping and improve gaming latency if you connect to a VPN server closer to MW3 servers. Simultaneously, a good gaming VPN avoids ISP speed throttling so that you can play the game lag-free.
- DDoS protection. Grievous players use opponents’ original IP addresses to flood them with fake requests and disconnect the player from the match. A VPN masks your original IP address to prevent this and safeguards your gaming sessions from uncompetitive cyberattacks.
- Access to preferred regions. If you prefer playing CoD: MW3 in a specific region, connect to a server there and enjoy the local matchmaking.
Modern Warware3 doesn’t appear to ban VPNs. On the other hand, the developer’s Terms of Use statement indicates that using software to cheat, mod, and hack is against the rules. All in all, you are unlikely to get banned for using a VPN to get MW3 lobbies.
Modern Warfare 3 bot lobbies are game rooms filled with computer-controlled players, rather than real people. These bot lobbies make the game easier to play. Read more about bot lobbies below.
Best VPNs for MW3 – detailed list
We’ve reviewed over 42 VPNs regarding their speed, server fleet size, feature availability, and pricing to get the five best VPNs for MW3. Below is a list of providers that offer a top-notch Modern Warfare 3 gaming experience without shaking your wallet.
1. NordVPN – best MW3 VPN to get easy bot lobbies
| Servers/countries: | 6400+ servers in 111 countries |
| Speed retention: | 90% |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Current deal: | Get NordVPN, now up to 74% OFF + 3 months FREE! |
NordVPN is the best MW3 VPN to get bot lobbies easier because it has a vast server fleet, guarantees top-notch security against cyberthreats, and ensures optimal performance with its ultra fast servers. NordVPN is fast and easy to use, with a quick router setup to enhance gaming on PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
Servers. NordVPN offers over 6400+ servers in 111 countries, so you won’t have any problem finding servers in locations where MW3 isn’t as popular, including Eastern Europe or the Middle East, like Turkey. You can choose these locations to reach an easier MW3 bot lobby.
Performance. I particularly enjoyed nearly perfect NordVPN connection speed results that consistently maintain over 90% of the original baseline. In-house tests on NordVPN showed its kill switch successfully prevents IP address leaks while switching servers, protecting your gaming session at all times.
Security and privacy. NordVPN is heavily focused on security and privacy, and so it’s no wonder the provider employs AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, which is considered the strongest on the market. The VPN also comes with such essential security features as a kill switch, leak protection, ad blocker, Threat Protection, and Dark Web Monitor. Moreover, NordVPN is located in a privacy-friendly country (Panama) and has been audited numerous times by PwC and Deloitte independent auditors. For gamers, NordVPN offers DDoS protection and guarantees that you can game safely even when connected to public Wi-Fi.
Compatibility. Although NordVPN supports only 10 simultaneous connections, it shouldn’t be a problem if you’re exclusively a PC or a console player. You can easily configure the VPN on a router to get bot lobbies on PS5 and other popular consoles. That said, if you use multiple devices for gaming, I recommend checking Surfshark, which does not limit concurrent connections.
NordVPN prices start at $3.09/month, and it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to test it before committing long-term.
Pros
Cons
2. Surfshark – best VPN to play MW3 on any device
| Servers/countries: | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Speed retention: | 86% |
| Simultaneous connections: | Unlimited |
| Current deal: | Get 83% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for MW3 because it doesn’t limit concurrent connections, retains around 86% of the original connection speed, and has servers in 100 countries. I effortlessly joined the Modern Warfare 3 server in the desired region with minimal ping increase on the furthest ones.
Servers. Currently, Surfshark has over 3200 servers in 100 countries, so you can reach any CoD: MW3 bot lobby you want. While Surfshark doesn’t have as many servers as NordVPN or CyberGhost, it outrivals Norton Secure VPN and ExpressVPN. Ultimately, with Surfshark, you can easily get MW3 lobbies from any country and enjoy a global MW3 experience.
Performance. I was pleasantly surprised that Surfshark allows account sharing, which rarely occurs in the VPN market. You can share the account with family or friends if you don’t resell it or abuse the sharing policy in other ways. It’s a great feature, as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is best when played with friends. Beyond the generous unlimited device support, Surfshark is also a very speedy VPN. During in-house tests, it retained 86% of the original internet speed.
Security and privacy. Just like NordVPN, Surfshark has been audited by independent parties, which means you can trust the provider’s no-logs claims. It also employs AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, performed well during Surfshark testing for DNS leaks, and operates RAM-only servers to guarantee that data is frequently purged. The VPN also has a reliable kill switch that automatically disconnects you from the internet if VPN connection drops – this ensures that your ISP doesn’t know what you’re doing and cannot throttle bandwidth. And just like NordVPN, Surfshark also provides protection against DDoS attacks while gaming.
Compatibility. Since you can connect Surfshark to an unlimited number of devices, you can pretty much play MW3 anywhere, anytime. Besides setting up the VPN on your computers and phones, you can also configure your routers and play MW3 on Xbox and PlayStation.
Surfshark subscriptions start at $2.19/month. Besides, it also has a 30-day refund policy should you change your mind.
Pros
3. Norton Secure VPN – reliable MW3 VPN with gaming optimization
| Servers/countries: | 1000+ servers in 29 countries |
| Speed retention: | 74% |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Current deal: | Get up to 58% OFF Norton VPN! |
Norton Secure VPN is a solid MW3 VPN with numerous cybersecurity benefits and a Norton GO (Game Optimizer) feature. However, this feature is only available on Windows devices, so console players should consider setting up NordVPN on a router to enhance the MW3 experience. In addition, Norton GO comes with a Norton 360 subscription, so you won’t get it if you buy the VPN only.
Servers. Norton Secure VPN has 1000+ servers in 29 countries, which, unfortunately, cannot compete with NordVPN, Surfshark, or CyberGhost. Nonetheless, if you can find a server in the preferred location, you should have no trouble with the performance of this VPN.
Performance. Norton maintained 74% of the original internet speed on average during tests, so it’s best used on nearby servers. Overall, I’d say the VPN’s performance is sufficient to join nearby MW3 lobbies, especially when combined with Norton GO. This valuable gaming feature automatically detects games from the most popular launchers like Battle.net and allocates more device resources to the video game, improving performance. Gaming quality will significantly improve by combining Game Optimizer with a VPN to bypass ISP speed throttling.
Security and privacy. Although Norton’s servers aren’t all RAM-only, it’s still a great choice for security-conscious users. It has a reliable kill switch, an ad blocker to contain those pesky ads that show up and may, potentially, lead you to unreliable sites, and Wi-Fi Security. Norton VPN also ensures DDoS protection to guarantee that your gameplay isn’t disrupted by malicious attacks.
Compatibility. You can install Norton VPN on a router and play MW3. If you want to access bot lobbies in MW3 using this VPN, you can also opt for the Norton 360 for Gamers bundle. It’s a bit pricier than other VPNs on the list, but it offers dark web monitoring, game optimization, real-time threat protection, and other perks. So, whether you want to get bot lobbies on PS4, PS5, Xbox, or another gaming console, Norton VPN might offer the right solution. The provider supports 10 simultaneous connections.
If you decide to go for the Norton Secure VPN subscription only, the prices start at only $2.49/month. Besides, there’s a lengthy 60-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
Cons
4. ExpressVPN – top VPN for MW3 with easy router setup
| Servers/countries: | 3000+ servers in 105 countries |
| Speed retention: | 77% |
| Simultaneous connections: | Up to 8 |
| Current deal: | Get ExpressVPN, now 49% OFF + 3 months FREE! |
ExpressVPN is another VPN that deserves a spot on this list because it also guarantees reliable, secure, and anonymous internet connection. By connecting to one of the VPN’s servers, you can effectively change your IP address to spoof your geolocation and get bot lobbies for MW3 easier. Its excellent server spread, gaming-friendly features, and speedy connections ensure you get a no-lag VPN for MW3 that efficiently avoids its frustrating SBMM.
Servers. ExpressVPN has an undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries. According to the last available data, the provider offered around 3000, which means it potentially has fewer servers than NordVPN or CyberGhost. Nonetheless, the provider offers servers across the globe, which means users should have no problem finding a server to unblock any bot lobby for MW3.
Performance. During in-house tests, ExpressVPN demonstrated worse results than most providers, except for Norton Secure VPN – it maintained around 77% of the initial internet speed. Even so, this VPN should offer a relatively speedy and lag-free experience for you to enjoy MW3.
Security and privacy. ExpressVPN offers RAM-only servers, which means all data stored on these servers is wiped when they are rebooted. This guarantees privacy. For gamers, the VPN masks original IP addresses, ensuring that DDoS attacks can be prevented. And by connecting to one of ExpressVPN’s servers, it’s easy to hide from ISPs and avoid bandwidth throttling. The provider also employs AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption to make sure all traffic is encrypted, and Threat Manager effectively blocks all traffic for added security.
Compatibility. Console users will get the most value out of ExpressVPN as it has a neat applet for routers. Once you’ve configured this VPN on a router, you can control it using proprietary ExpressVPN software, similar to its mobile app. Straightforward device management got my vote, as I could route a PS5 through its servers while leaving other devices unaffected. Another perk to consider is the Aircove router, which comes with ExpressVPN already built-in and enables you to connect PlayStation and Xbox directly to it. Although it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, the pricing is quite steep (from $169.00). The router is available internationally via Amazon.
I must warn you that ExpressVPN is the most expensive on the list, but it provides unique benefits worth the extra buck. Prices start at $6.67/month, and you can always take advantage of its 30-day money refund policy. ExpressVPN supports 8 simultaneous connections.
Pros
Cons
5. CyberGhost – MW3 VPN with specialty gaming servers
| Servers/countries: | 11500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Speed retention: | 86% |
| Simultaneous connections: | 7 |
| Current deal: | Get CyberGhost VPN, now 83% + 2 months FREE! |
CyberGhost is a MW3 VPN with an outstanding server selection, including specialty gaming-optimized servers. Once you connect to a server in its Windows app’s For gaming section, it will automatically connect you to the one with the lowest possible latency. However, the router setup is not as straightforward, so I recommend checking ExpressVPN for console players.
Servers. CyberGhost offers an impressive 11500+ server network in 100 countries. In Europe alone, you can find around 6200 servers, which almost matches what NordVPN can offer with its 6400+ global servers. Overall, CyberGhost can definitely offer servers nearby or in locations where WM3 isn’t as popular and enables you to access bot lobbies easier.
Performance. Some CyberGhost servers cannot compete with the fastest VPNs in the market, like NordVPN; however, this provider still managed to demonstrate around 86% of speed retention, during extensive CyberGhost tests. Moreover, I found that when connecting to a server for gaming, I experienced low ping and could enjoy a seamless MW3 performance. Moreover, CyberGhost offers specialized servers for gaming, and they guarantee low latency.
Security and privacy. As for security and privacy, just like all other providers on this list, CyberGhost has a kill switch – it will make sure your ISP never finds out what you’re doing while connected to VPN servers. This should prevent bandwidth throttling that could, potentially, decrease the performance of MW3. Moreover, CyberGhost has a decent ad blocker to keep annoying and potentially unreliable ads away. Overall, you shouldn’t face DDoS attacks or other security threats while playing COD: Modern Warfare 3.
Compatibility. I thoroughly enjoyed CyberGhost’s Windows app and neat server selection, allowing me to pick a good gaming server faster than any other app. Although it’s sometimes a hit-and-miss chance regarding stability, an extraordinarily vast serve network compensates for minor shortcomings. You can play MW3 on PlayStation and Xbox by setting up CyberGhost on your physical router or a virtual router. You can cover up to 7 devices with this VPN.
CyberGhost’s prices start at $2.19/month, and it offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
Cons
Comparison of the best CoD: MW3 VPNs
| NordVPN |
|
6400+ servers in 111 countries | 90% | $3.09/month | ✅ Yes, 7-day (Android) | Manual configuration | ✅ Yes |
| Surfshark |
|
3200+ servers in 100 countries | 86% | $2.19/month | ✅ Yes, 7-day (macOS, Android, iOS) | Manual configuration | ✅ Yes |
| Norton Secure VPN |
|
1000+ servers in 29 countries | 74% | $2.49/month | ✅ Yes, 7-day | Manual configuration | ✅ Yes |
| ExpressVPN |
|
Servers in 105 countries | 77% | $6.67/month | ✅ Yes, 7-day for mobile devices | Dedicated applet; Aircove router with built-in VPN | ✅ Yes |
| CyberGhost |
|
11500+ servers in 100countries | 86% | $2.19/month | ✅ Yes, 1-day on a desktop, 3-day on Android, and 7-day on iOS | Manual configuration | ✅ Yes |
How we tested Modern Warfare 3 VPNs
Our team of experts tested over 42 VPN services to pick the top 5 MW3 VPNs that will not leave you wanting more. Here are the key criteria I considered:
- Connection speed. What good is a VPN for MW3 if you can’t land a shot due to lag? I included only VPNs with high-speed retention and low latency to ensure the game runs smoothly and you have an uninterrupted experience.
- Large server fleet. Worldwide server spread is mandatory to avoid CoD: MW3 SBMM and join easier game lobbies. I verified the recommended VPNs have servers all across the globe, including in regions with light MW3 competition, like Turkey.
- Cross-device compatibility. MW3 is available on PCs and consoles, including older ones like PS4 and Xbox One. I double-checked that selected VPNs work just as well installed on a router to enhance the game experience on consoles that do not support native VPN apps.
- Cybersecurity benefits. I looked for security and privacy features like a kill switch and advanced encryption to protect you from IP-based cyberattacks like DDoS and Doxing. An independently audited VPN no-logs policy is a significant advantage.
- Competitive prices. There’s no need to overpay for a gaming VPN, especially when there are many excellent and affordable VPNs for Modern Warfare 3. This list includes only those services that offer outstanding features for a reasonable price.
To learn more about how we test VPNs, check out this guide.
How to use a VPN to get bot lobbies in MW3: detailed guide
Using a VPN is the easiest way to get MW3 bot lobbies. If you want to play the game on consoles, all you have to do is pick a reliable MW3 VPN and configure it on your router. Once that’s done, you can connect to a server located in a country where it’s nighttime to get the best experience.
How you configure your VPN on a router will depend on the brand and model of the router, but the general steps are the same. Here’s how to set up a MW3 VPN on Xbox or PS5:
- Subscribe to a gaming-friendly VPN. My top pick is NordVPN, now 74% OFF
- Type your router’s IP address into the browser to open your router’s configuration interface (10.0.0.1 and 192.168.0.1 are common options)
- Enter your admin password, and if you haven’t set one up, you can check out the list of default admin passwords on routerpasswords.com
- Find the VPN option in the settings and select VPN client
- Enter the correct settings, which you can find out from your chosen VPN provider, and follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup
- Open your VPN and connect to a server with lighter MW3 competition during calmer hours, like Turkey, between 3 a.m. and midday
- Launch the game and enjoy an easier MW3 bot lobby
While it’s not possible to turn off SBMM on COD: Modern Warfare 3, you can lower it using a trusted VPN, like NordVPN. Follow the steps above to enjoy a disruption-free MW3 experience.
What is Modern Warfare 3 bot lobby?
In the world of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, a bot lobby refers to a custom or manipulated game session where the majority of participants are not human players, but rather AI-controlled bots. Also known as MW3 easy lobbies, bot lobbies are like private matches populated with robotic opponents instead of fellow soldiers.
While bot lobbies in MW3 offer a different experience compared to regular MP matches, they can be a double-edged sword. Players complain about lack of competition, negative impact on skills, and potentially unfair advantages like manipulating the settings.
Nonetheless, there are some specific reasons why players seek to get into MW3 bot lobbies:
- Easy victories. Bots generally behave predictably and with less skill than human players, making them easier to dominate and rack up impressive killstreaks.
- Challenge-free zone. If you’re looking for a more relaxed gameplay experience, bots provide less pressure and a chance to experiment with weapons and strategies without the usual competitive intensity.
- Completion playground. Bot lobbies can be ideal for completing specific challenges or grinding for achievements, as the predictable AI allows you to focus on specific tasks without worrying about skilled opponents disrupting your progress.
Of course, there are some downsides of bot lobbies: lack of competition, negative impact on skills (you won’t be exposed to real human strategies and tactics), and potentially unfair advantages like manipulating the settings.
Best VPN locations for MW3 bot lobbies
Turkey, Egypt, and countries in Eastern Europe are best for easier MW3 lobbies. When choosing the best VPN locations for MW3 bot lobbies, pick a server that’s nearby, has low ping, is stable and reliable, and is compatible with your gaming platform. Of course, regions with a more active MW3 player base may make it easier to find bot lobbies.
During in-house tests, I discovered some locations with easier lobbies. Connecting to servers in Turkey or Egypt, particularly during off-peak hours like early mornings (between 3 a.m. and 12 a.m. local time), seems to offer access to easier matches thanks to potential SBMM bypassing. Israel, Kenya, Nigeria, and Cambodia regions also have lower player populations and less stringent SBMM algorithms, leading to easier lobbies.
Here are a few recommendation for choosing the best VPN location for MW3 bot lobbies:
- Choose the right time. Since you are less likely to face overcrowded servers during nighttime, I recommend connecting to servers in locations during off-peak hours (between 3 a.m. and 12 a.m. local time).
- Connect to the right location. If you’re located, for example, in the US – where MW3 is very popular – during peak hours, you might not be able to lower SMBB. However, if you connect to a server in a location where the game isn’t as popular (e.g., Turkey, Egypt, or Eastern Europe), you should have luck.
- Pick a VPN with a global server network. I recommend choosing a VPN that has many servers across the globe, like NordVPN. This will ensure that you can always find a server in a country where MW3 isn’t as popular or is located in a timezone that allows you to play the game while others are sleeping.
MW3 VPN not working – troubleshooting
You may sometimes encounter CoD: MW3 VPN errors that interfere with gaming quality and prevent you from joining an easier bot lobby.
Firstly, your VPN might leak your original IP address, exposing your actual location. The video game client will then use it for SBMM, potentially placing you with players of higher skill levels, which is common in the Call of Duty series.
You may also land on an overloaded VPN server that causes lag. Whatever the problems are, here are a few tricks to fix MW3 VPN errors:
- Use websites like Whatismyip to verify that you successfully connected to a chosen VPN server. It should show the server’s IP address instead of your original.
- If your game lags, reconnect to a different VPN server in the same region.
- Simultaneously, double-check whether the VPN uses WireGuard protocol or its variation, like NordVPN’s NordLynx.
- Update your VPN, game launcher, and MW3 to the latest version, as older ones may have compatibility issues.
Can you get banned for using a VPN on MW3?
No, it’s unlikely you will get banned for using a VPN to play MW3. That’s because Activision, the game’s publisher, hasn’t officially banned VPNs. That said, the Terms of Use indicates that cheating and hacking can lead to bans, so while highly unlikely, I cannot offer a 100% guarantee that you won’t get banned.
Activision’s anti-spoofing policy states that “any attempt to hide, disguise, or obfuscate your identity or the identity of your hardware devices may result in a permanent suspension.” Because a VPN will only change your original IP address without altering any account-related settings (like username, email, etc.), you should be safe using it to fix latency issues or join less-competitive lobbies.
I strongly recommend staying within these lines, as using a VPN to get an unfair advantage or lower prices could, potentially, get you banned. For example, suppose you use a VPN to connect to a region with cheaper in-game purchases. In that case, Activision will most likely notice the violation and may even permanently ban your account.
Other tips to bypass MW3 SBMM and get easier bot lobbies
Here are a few other ways in which you can avoid CoD: MW3 SBMM and access easy bot lobbies:
- Play split screen. You can use split screen to play with other players locally and change the bot settings to simulate a bot experience.
- Customize private matches. You can also simulate a bot lobby experience by customizing settings for private matches.
- Organize LAN parties. If your friends play MW3 as well, you can plan a LAN (local area network) party to simulate a bot lobby experience.
- Join unofficial lobbies. Unofficial modded lobbies can offer a bot experience with unique rules and game modes.
- Use custom modes. Custom game modes can also offer a multiplayer experience that’s similar to bot lobbies.
- Play offline. You can play MW3 without an internet connection. Keep in mind that the offline version comes with limitations.
Final thoughts
Activision still has some polishing to do, as the CoD: MW3 single-player campaign is disappointing, and the multi-player suffers from SBMM issues. Players report frustrating lobbies with fierce competition too hard for those seeking a casual experience. That’s why many look for the best VPN for MW3 to join calmer servers and enjoy the game more.
I’ve concluded that NordVPN is the best MW3 VPN. Its vast worldwide server network allows joining easier bot lobbies, and its speeds are sufficient to maintain a lag-free MW3 experience. Lastly, advanced encryption and additional cybersecurity benefits provide much-needed online safety.
More VPN guides from CyberNews:
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Best VPN for World of Warcraft: prevent from DDoS attacks
Best VPN for Warzone: easily access bot lobbies
Best VPNs for Valorant: play with a top-tier VPN protection
FAQs
Does a VPN give you easier lobbies in Modern Warfare 3?
Yes, you can use a gaming-friendly VPN to switch MW3 lobbies if yours is too competitive. You can connect to a VPN server in a region where MW3 matches aren’t as competitive and enjoy the game more.
How to get rid of SBMM in MW3?
You can bypass SBMM in MW3 using a reliable VPN, like NordVPN, for example. Install the app on your device, sign in/up, connect to a server in a region where the game isn’t as popular, and relaunch the game. While you cannot get rid of skill-based matchmaking, a VPN can help bypass it.
What is the best country for bot lobbies in MW3?
Countries in Eastern Europe, Turkey, and Egypt are the best for bot lobbies in MW3 because players aren’t as competitive as in other regions. I recommend avoiding the UK, the US, and Germany CoD game rooms as this game is extremely popular there, resulting in fast-paced matches.
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