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How to Install Ares Wizard on Kodi and Optimize Your Experience

Kaida Rylan

Kaida Rylan Updated on Apr 17, 2025

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Installing Ares Wizard on Kodi has become trickier due to the closure of its official sources. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process, discuss potential security risks, and provide troubleshooting tips. Ares Wizard only works with older Kodi versions, such as 17 (Krypton) or 18 (Leia), so you may need to downgrade your current software for it to function properly.

Important: At the time of writing, the official sources for Ares Wizard remain inaccessible. While unofficial sources exist, they may pose security risks, including malware or viruses. Always use trusted URLs and scan files with antivirus software before installation.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Back Up Your Kodi Setup

Before making any changes, it’s important to back up your existing Kodi settings. To back up:

  1. Open Kodi and navigate to Add-ons > Install from repository > Program add-ons.

  2. Install the Backup add-on.

  3. Run the add-on, select Backup, and save the generated ZIP file. This ensures you won’t lose your settings if something goes wrong during the installation process.

Screenshot of the Backup addon on Kodi

Step 2: Uninstall the Current Kodi Version

To downgrade Kodi, first uninstall the current version:

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps on your device.

  2. Locate Kodi, select it, and click Uninstall.

Screenshot of uninstalling Kodi on Windows

Step 3: Download an Older Kodi Version

Next, download Kodi 17 (Krypton) or Kodi 18 (Leia) from the official Kodi mirror site.

  1. Select your device type, locate the version, and download the executable file.

  2. For devices like Firestick or Raspberry Pi, Kodi Leia (18) tends to be more stable.

Screenshot of the Kodi mirror website

Step 4: Restore Your Backup

After installing the older version of Kodi:

  1. Open Kodi and reinstall the Backup add-on.

  2. Run the add-on, select Restore, and reload your saved configuration.

Screenshot of Kodi 18 system info settings

Step 5: Use a VPN for Security

When using Kodi, your online activities could be monitored by your ISP or third parties. This is especially true when installing third-party add-ons like Ares Wizard.

Pro Tip: ExpressVPN is a great choice for Kodi users, offering simple apps and robust encryption.

Best Alternative

Step 6: Enable Unknown Sources

To install third-party add-ons, Kodi needs to allow installations from unknown sources:

  1. Go to Settings and open the Add-ons section.

  2. Toggle on Unknown Sources to allow installations from non-official repositories.

Screenshot of Kodi Unknown sources option

Step 7: Download the Ares Wizard Zip File

Ares Wizard is no longer officially supported, but you can still find the Ares Wizard zip file on GitHub:

  1. Visit the repository containing script.areswizard.

  2. Click Download to obtain the ZIP file.

Note: Always scan downloaded files for malware to ensure your system stays safe.

Screenshot of Ares Wizard ZIP file download

Step 8: Install Ares Wizard via Kodi

To install Ares Wizard:

  1. Open Kodi and go to the Add-ons installer (Package icon).

  2. Select Install from zip file and choose the Ares Wizard ZIP file you downloaded.

  3. Wait for the installation notification to appear.

Screenshot of Kodi Add-ons

Screenshot of Install from zip file modal on KodiStep 9: Explore Ares Wizard Features

Once installed, Ares Wizard is accessible under the Add-ons section. Popular features include:

  • Maintenance: Clean up your Kodi’s cache and thumbnails to reduce buffering issues.

  • Backup: Easily back up and restore your Kodi setup.

However, as the add-on is no longer actively maintained, some features may not work as expected.

Screenshot of Ares Wizard on Kodi

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If Ares Wizard isn’t functioning, here are common problems and their fixes:

Repository Down

  • Solution: Use alternative mirrors or download the ZIP file directly from trusted sources.

Compatibility Issues

  • Solution: Ares Wizard requires Kodi 17 or 18 due to its reliance on Python 2. If needed, downgrade your Kodi version.

Dependency Errors

  • Solution: Ensure all necessary dependencies for Ares Wizard are installed. Reinstalling both Ares Wizard and Kodi may help resolve issues.

Corrupted Files

  • Solution: If the download is incomplete or corrupted, re-download the ZIP file and reinstall.

Why Use Ares Wizard for Kodi?

Maintenance Tools

Ares Wizard can help optimize Kodi’s performance and streamline your experience. Here’s what makes it useful:

  • Clear Cache: Clear the cache, thumbnails, and packages to reduce buffering issues.

  • Backup Options: Easily back up and restore your Kodi setup.

Streaming Enhancements

Ares Wizard also helps you tweak advanced settings like Video Cache Size to improve playback quality.

Troubleshooting Tools

Access logs and speed tests to quickly resolve issues affecting performance.

How to Install Ares Wizard on Kodi 

If you're exploring options for Kodi maintenance, Ares Wizard continues to be a popular choice among users despite its rollercoaster history. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install Ares Wizard on Kodi safely and efficiently. Remember, downloading third-party add-ons always involves risks, so proceed cautiously. 

Step 1: Enable Unknown Sources 

To install third-party add-ons like Ares Wizard, you'll need to allow Kodi to accept installations from unknown sources. 

  • Open Kodi and go to Settings (gear icon).
  • Head to System Settings, then click on Add-ons.
  • Toggle on Unknown Sources and confirm when prompted. 

Step 2: Install the Downloader App 

Next, you need the "Downloader" app to access and retrieve the Ares Wizard files. 

  • Go to the Kodi homepage, click Add-ons, then select Install from Repository.
  • Install the "Downloader" add-on to enable file downloads directly to Kodi. 

Step 3: Download Ares Wizard 

You'll need the correct URL to safely access Ares Wizard files. 

  • Open the Downloader tool, then type in the GitHub URL or another trusted source for the Ares Wizard zip file. 
  • Click Download, and wait for the zip file to finish downloading. 

Step 4: Install Ares Wizard 

After downloading the file, you'll need to install it on Kodi.

  • From Kodi's home screen, go to Add-ons, then Install from Zip File.
  • Locate the downloaded Ares Wizard.zip file and select it to start the installation.

Step 5: Access Ares Wizard 

Once installed, Ares Wizard can be found in My Add-ons > Program Add-ons. Open it to experience features like cache clearing, buffering fixes, and system optimizations. 

Pro Tip: For more advanced functionality, explore alternatives such as Diggz Xenon 5.1, Chef Wizard, or the Chef Omega Wizard, which offer various customization options. 

How to Uninstall Ares Wizard from Kodi

If you’re done using Ares Wizard or encountering issues, here’s how to uninstall it:

  1. Navigate to Add-ons > My Add-ons > All Add-ons.

  2. Locate Ares Wizard in the list and click on it.

  3. Select Uninstall, confirm the prompt, and wait for the process to complete.

If needed, also remove the Ares Project Repository under Add-on Repository.
To clean up further, go to File Manager, locate the source URL you added, and select Remove Source.

FAQs on Installing Ares Wizard on Kodi

Yes, Ares Wizard itself is legal when used for system maintenance and optimization. However, using it to access third-party add-ons for unauthorized streaming of copyrighted content may not comply with copyright laws.

2. How to install Ares Wizard on Kodi for tweaking cache settings?

To adjust Kodi cache settings with Ares Wizard:

  1. Open Ares Wizard from Program Add-ons.

  2. Navigate to Tweaks and select Advanced Settings Wizard.

  3. Generate and customize cache settings, such as increasing Video Cache Size or modifying Buffer Mode.

Pro Tip: Always use a trusted VPN when installing third-party add-ons to protect your privacy and security.

3. Can I use a free VPN for Kodi?

While free VPNs may seem tempting, they often lack speed, reliability, and strong encryption, which can result in buffering issues and privacy risks. For a seamless Kodi experience, it’s better to invest in a reputable premium VPN like ExpressVPN.

Final Thoughts

How to Install Ares Wizard on Kodi remains a popular question for Kodi enthusiasts seeking a reliable maintenance solution. While Ares Wizard has a storied history, following clear installation steps and understanding alternatives like Chef Wizard, OpenWizard, or Diggz Xenon 5.1 will make managing Kodi easier than ever.

To enhance your Kodi experience, always ensure that you’re downloading from trusted sources and prioritize the stability of your Kodi setup. Whether you are installing Ares Wizard or exploring other tools, the key is to keep your system clean, secure, and optimized for the best possible performance.

Kaida Rylan

Kaida Rylan Author

Kaida Rylan is a Junior Writer specializing in VPN reviews and online security. Passionate about technology and digital privacy, Kaida has been researching and testing VPNs to provide readers with honest, in-depth insights. Kaida holds a Master’s Degree in Communications and a Bachelor’s in Media Studies. Additionally, they completed a cybersecurity certification program and gained experience working at a tech startup. Before joining the VPN industry, Kaida worked as a content creator, tech writer, and digital marketing specialist. In their free time, they enjoy exploring new cybersecurity tools and staying up to date with the latest tech trends.