Staying home was never so entertaining in the past as people had no Netflix back then. But today, when Netflix is available and offering easy access to your favorite media anytime, there is another problem. Users cannot unblock the Netflix version they want at all times.
Why? We hear you ask.
That’s because Netflix is not the same everywhere. It means either you cannot watch your desired show at all if Netflix doesn’t permit your area for that. Or, if you can watch your favorite show now, then the day you go out of your country, you lose access to it.
Isn’t it a rude behavior from the streaming giant?
We think, it is! But I believe there’s always a key for every lock. So perhaps, I could get pass through this Netflix lock too. Hence, I started looking for ways to evade Netflix geoblocking, and, I succeeded. So why can’t you?
If you are wondering how to stream Netflix anywhere without content restrictions, then read along.
In this article, I share with you the best ways to watch Netflix’s version of your choice anytime and anywhere.
How to unblock Netflix anywhere – The quick guide
While multiple methods can let you stream the Netflix version you like (as covered later in this guide), using a VPN is the most straightforward and reliable way to do it. By following the steps below, you can get Netflix unblocked on any of your devices quickly:
- Select a VPN provider that’s tested to work with Netflix worldwide and choose your subscription plan. While NordVPN works great for, courtesy of its high speeds, a massive network of services, and advanced encryption, you can download any other VPN of your choice.
- Download the VPN app for your operating system. Most providers send links and instructions for that immediately after your subscription in an easy-to-digest short email.
- Install and open your VPN application.
- Connect to a VPN server in your preferred location. For example, if you want to watch Netflix España, you’d need to connect to a Spain server – the same goes for Netflix UK, USA, you name it.
- Once connected to the selected VPN server, head over to the Netflix website or app and start enjoying your favorite series or movie.
That is basically it. With the above 5-step method, you can stream any version of Netflix from anywhere (school, office, house, while abroad, you name it) without hassle. Continue reading if you wish to read more about the topic in detail.
Why Netflix blocks content
Many of you, after being locked out by Netflix, question why Netflix has to implement these restrictions.
Sadly, it isn’t about Netflix only. Instead, other streaming platforms, like Hulu and Amazon Prime, also implement similar ‘region-locking or ‘geo-restriction.’ These services offer a certain type of content to limited regions, barring users in other locations.
But why do they do so? We hear you ask.
The prime reason for such blocking is the requirement from media studios. Although Netflix also produces its own content, it largely depends on these media studios to source movies and shows. It purchases licenses from these providers to show popular programs.
However, such licensing agreements also bind Netflix to present the programs to the users specified by the media providers. This can be because either the content is not suitable or not in line with the content policies of a particular region. Or simply because the media providers want to bar local users from such free access to make money via advertising on cable or satellite.
Sometimes, Netflix follows such region-locking for content because a fellow streaming service bears an exclusive license to its airing in a specific location. In such cases, Netflix cannot bring that media to its library for the users in that area. Doing so might give rise to conflicts (possibly legal ones) between Netflix and the media studios.
Besides such geo-restrictions, users may also see Netflix blocked at localized facilities. For example, many schools and offices often block Netflix on their networks to prevent distraction.
Nonetheless, this isn’t the end of the story. You can still use Netflix abroad in the same way as you did. All it takes is just a change in your IP address country via a robust VPN. (I’ll explain how to do that in later sections.)
How VPNs bypass Netflix geo-block
Many of you already know about VPNs due to their robust privacy and online security.
Perhaps, you might still be using a VPN while reading this article because you wanted to change your online location to stay safe online.
However, there is one more advantage that VPNs offer to you – you can bypass Netflix geo-block.
Wondering how?
As you connect to a VPN, your VPN client shields you in front of the entire internet. All the data generated through your device first goes to the VPN server, which then forwards it.
That way, the entire online world sees you as your VPN client. This even includes Netflix too, which eventually gives you access to your desired media.
For example, as you connect to a USA server via your VPN and then connect to Netflix, it will detect you as a user from the United States instead of your actual location.
That’s how you can unblock Netflix US, UK, or any other library anywhere.
Since VPNs work by first encrypting your data before it leaves the VPN servers, it prevents all prying eyes from tracking you online. Thus, whether it is Netflix or any other website, no one can find your actual location.
Is unblocking Netflix illegal?
Not really.
Although Netflix discourages the use of proxies, unblockers, and alike to evade content restrictions. The platform itself also blocks these tools frequently. But, you won’t likely face any legal troubles for using a VPN to stream Netflix. However, make sure that the use of VPNs isn’t illegal in your region; otherwise, you’ll be in trouble.
Netflix proxy error and VPNs
If you knew about using a proxy or a VPN for Netflix unblocking, you might have tried and failed already (probably, that’s the reason you are reading this article and have reached it until here).
So, did you get that annoying Netflix proxy error while accessing the streaming service, “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”?
If so, then you have probably chosen a moderately working proxy or the wrong VPN. That’s why Netflix caught your proxy and restricted you from accessing it.
Although, almost every VPN service claims to change the Netflix region successfully. However, keeping in view the route of evading its content restrictions, Netflix has adopted a proactive approach to detect and block VPNs.
You’ve read it right – Netflix blocks most VPNs! (Though, exceptions are there. You will find about them in the following section).
Briefly, Netflix monitors the IP addresses of the users connecting to its servers.
Since there can be many users of a VPN who are probably trying to connect to the same VPN server, say, a Los Angeles server, all of them would have the same IP address. This is what Netflix tracks.
When it detects multiple users bearing the same IP address trying to connect to its servers, it blocks them all.
As a result, an entire VPN server gets blocked on Netflix. The same can happen with the other servers too. Consequently, you keep getting that annoying proxy error as Netflix detects and blocks your VPN.
And, if you’re using a proxy, you are more prone to getting this error.
Of course, a proxy does nothing but hiding your IP address. It simply lets you surf online after connecting to its servers. However, it offers no data encryption. So, any robust service like Netflix can easily detect that you are trying to fake your online location.
Best VPNs to get Netflix unblocked anywhere
While it is difficult to watch Netflix as you want in an unspecified region, it’s not entirely impossible, though. Despite Netflix’s serious crackdown, some robust VPN service providers still manage to serve the customers.
Top Netflix VPNs have implemented various proactive measures to keep fighting against Netflix blocking so that users can enjoy uninterrupted streaming.
Getting straight to the point, here I list the best VPNs for you to get Netflix unblocked anywhere, anytime.
1. NordVPN
A smart option to unblock your desired Netflix library anywhere. With a huge network server, optimized servers, and stealth technology, it ensures uninterrupted streaming.
Pros
- Seamlessly unblocks major streaming sites including Netflix
- Fast connection speed
- Robust encryption
- Zero data retention
- In-budget pricing
Cons
- Free trial is not available
Wondering why I call it ‘smart’? Because like ExpressVPN, NordVPN is also a smart Netflix unblocker.
Plus, even in a limited country list, the VPN has managed to set up thousands of servers. Hence, whatever country you select, you can continue to browse in the same location.
It’s especially useful to watch the Netflix version of your choice.
For example, you can unblock Netflix USA easily via NordVPN, as it has roughly 2000 US servers. So, if you face any blocking while using one US server, you can switch to another and continue streaming.
Besides streaming features, NordVPN also comes with other worthy options, such as military-grade encryption. It also bears a no-logging policy that you can trust, considering its presence in Panama – another privacy-focused jurisdiction.
Besides, it offers robust security against trackers and malware. Hence, this VPN will alert you if you ever visit a harmful or malicious website.
Above all, NordVPN isn’t as expensive as ExpressVPN. It means if you cannot afford to pay a higher price, you can choose this VPN to stream Netflix.
However, this price drop also comes with a drop in browsing speed. So, you should not expect it to perform as swiftly as ExpressVPN. But if speed is not an issue for you, then NordVPN is a smart choice.
Read our comprehensive NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
Fast and cheap Netflix VPN offering servers from 65 locations globally. Plus, its fast-speed connectivity and huge server choice lets you evade Netflix blocks and watch your favorite media.
Pros
- Unblocks many streaming platforms
- Affordable long-term plans
- Boasts noBorder mode
- Reliable customer support via live chat
- Adblocker and whitelister
Cons
- Speed is not that good as other VPNs have
- Does not work well with slow speed internet
- Free trial is absent here
For all those who do not wish to pay a hefty amount for subscribing to a VPN yet want to unblock Netflix movies anywhere, Surfshark is the ultimate choice.
The VPN provider presently boasts over 3200 servers in 65 countries; you can see the country list is even bigger than NordVPN.
It means you have got more online locations to choose from when you wish to change the IP country.
The VPN offers considerable speed. Hence, unless your internet connection is really slow, you won’t face any trouble while streaming Netflix with Surfshark.
Besides, like ExpressVPN, Surfshark also has a reliable no-logging policy, which it strengthens with a RAM-based server network.
It also comes with advanced encryption protocols to keep your data safe from prying eyes.
Plus, like the above two premium VPNs, Surfshark also offers ad blocking, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and other notable features, including NoBorder mode that allows you to use the VPN even in restricted locations such as China.
What makes it desirable among all VPNs is its very affordable subscription rate, backed with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Also, it offers unlimited device connections on a single account.
3. ExpressVPN
The deluxe choice that successfully resists Netflix’s crackdown with its huge network. With over 3000 servers in 94 countries globally, it offers a huge list of countries to change your online location.
Pros
- Fluently unblocks several Netflix libraries
- Top-notch speed
- There is no limit for bandwidth
- Robust encryption
- No data retention found
- Apps for all almost all the operating systems available today (including both widely-used and less known ones)
- Supportive customer support
Cons
- Little expensive
- There is no free trial
No matter where on earth you live, when it’s about the best way to unblock Netflix, ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs on our list.
Hence, it manages to bypass Netflix’s blocking. The moment Netflix attempts to block it, users can quickly connect to the other server and continue streaming.
Apart from this evasive strategy, ExpressVPN also offers fast speed with unlimited bandwidth. Now that makes it a reliable solution to enjoy the best streaming experience.
Moreover, ExpressVPN supports almost all major operating systems and devices. And every app has an intuitive user interface.
So, whenever you want to watch your favorite show on your smartphone, PC, or TV, you can easily do so after connecting to this VPN.
Besides, if you face any trouble using their services at any time, you can contact the ExpressVPN support team. They are available 24/7 for you via live chat. They have also provided a range of troubleshooting guides and tips and tricks to access Netflix abroad on their website. So, you may likely find the solution to your problem in these guides without having to chat with them.
Aside from its awesome features suitable for streaming, it also offers numerous other benefits to the users. One of these is its no-logging and data retention policy.
It means they are not really interested in tracking or storing your online activities. Whatever you do online remains private to you only.
Plus, they reside in the British Virgin Islands, which is an autonomous privacy-focused jurisdiction. Hence, you can trust the ExpressVPN providers’ privacy policies.
The only problem (for some of you) with ExpressVPN is its cost. However, their tremendous services certainly make them worth the money.
Also, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. Hence, you can try their services with the trust to have your money back if you aren’t satisfied (which is unlikely).
To know more about this VPN, check out our detailed ExpressVPN review.
Unblock Netflix at school
As I said earlier, a vast majority of schools globally have blocked Netflix, alongside social media apps, on their networks.
They all justify this blocking as a means to reduce distractions for the students.
However, Netflix isn’t about entertainment shows or movies only. You can also watch different informative media on this platform. In fact, students can take help from Netflix for school assignments.
Alas, you cannot convince schools of that. But you can certainly wish for these school authorities to realize the importance of Netflix for students.
Nevertheless, you have got a workaround on your part!
If you want Netflix unblocked at school, you can simply use a VPN (like the ones I just mentioned).
All of these VPNs offer support for iOS and Android devices too. It means you can install the VPN apps on your smartphones or tablets/iPads, and unblock your favorite Netflix content.
So, whether you wish to pass your school recess time while watching Netflix or you want to get immediate access to any information available on the streaming platform, simply connect to your VPN and enjoy unrestricted Netflix even on your school network.
Netflix-banned or blocked VPNs
Notably, Netflix’s aggressive crackdown against VPNs has made many service providers to give up.
So, despite the overwhelming presence of VPN services in the market, you won’t find many of these claiming Netflix support.
And even if any VPN brags about Netflix access, it’s often a false claim.
However, some VPN providers have been brutally honest about their defeat from Netflix. Consequently, they no longer mention this streaming platform on their websites.
Here is a list of some of the VPNs that no more work with Netflix.
Hola VPN
Hola, a popular, rather an infamous VPN service online, can no more support Netflix unblocking.
Besides, you shouldn’t even think of using this VPN because it’s not really worth a try.
The service has been known for its abusive attitude towards users. This includes everything from barraging users with pirated content to conducting DDoS attacks on sites.
TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a nice VPN service, however, they too have failed from Netflix. Yet, they have been honest about their defeat.
In fact, they do not really make any such claim regarding Netflix unblocking on their website. Rather, here is what they state in their Help section.
Typically, the restrictions upheld by content providers are in compliance with laws governing the geographical-restriction of copyright material. TunnelBear is unable to provide a way around those restrictions.
Unblock-Us
Another relatively unpopular VPN is Unblock-Us which has failed to serve its users with Netflix.
Although, they claim to support numerous operating systems. But their entire knowledge base has no mention of Netflix – a pretty good hint of their incompatibility with Netflix.
Buffered VPN
This one is a small VPN service with only 28 server locations.
Although, they offer fast speeds, unlimited bandwidth, no logging, and support for all devices. However, they do not work with Netflix anymore.
Unlocator
This one is just another VPN defeated by Netflix.
As of mid-2016, Unlocator has stopped working with Netflix.
Even today, it boasts support for Hulu, iflix, HBO GO, and a lot more channels, but no Netflix.
I even tried searching their knowledge base. But clicking on the only article, which probably explained changing locations to use Netflix, now shows “page not found.”
Unotelly
It’s a service that made a great start with happy users who could access Netflix with this VPN. However, it eventually bowed down to the streaming giant.
And, today, their website isn’t working anymore.
Unotelly looks like just another venture that failed to grow after achieving a sharp rise in growth. Now, it merely exists as #unotelly in some old users’ tweets.
HideIPVPN
HideIPVPN makes great claims on its website. Their features (as mentioned) include fast speeds, DNS leak protection, no logging, 24/7 customer support, and even a 30-day money-back guarantee without question. However, their Refund Policy in the ToS states,
Important! The service is provided “as-is”. We cannot guarantee that our service unblocks certain sites. The fact that you are not able to access a site using HideIPVPN cannot be a reason for a refund request.
Wondering why did I mention this point? It’s because HideIPVPN has previously faced Netflix blocking.
Although, their website, as of today, does mention Netflix USA as an unblocked website. However, it is certainly a matter of trial.
And, because they offer no free trial and no refund if you fail to unblock any website with their VPN, there is no other option but to risk money to see if they can really work as a Netflix unblocker.
Plus, after going through their expensive pricing plans, it seems better to spend money on a tested and trusted service like ExpressVPN instead of this one.
GetFlix
GetFlix is another modest VPN supporting about 200 different channels across the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and more. But, it does not support Netflix.
Opera VPN
Perhaps, a disappointment for Opera users. While you can do a lot more things with your Opera browser’s built-in VPN. Sadly, you cannot unblock Netflix with it.
Overplay
In their supported channels list, Overplay does mention various Netflix libraries, including Netflix US. However, they only offer in-browser support.
Also, considering their costly subscription rates and their history of failure with Netflix, it isn’t wise to test this one for Netflix streaming when you already have other great options.
Blockless
Another unsuccessful VPN venture that terribly failed against Netflix.
Today, they are more prominently available as a browser add-on.
However, this add-on also looks inoperative for unblocking Netflix since mid of 2019, according to customer reviews.
A quick recap to get US Netflix unblocked regardless of your current location
Now that you know which VPNs work for Netflix, it’s time to watch Netflix on your device.
So, here comes a quick guide to unblocking Netflix.
Since I like NordVPN the most, so I recommend using this VPN to watch your favorite show. But if you want to try any other VPN for changing the Netflix region, you can still follow these steps to proceed.
Step 1: Sign up for the VPN
To unblock your desired Netflix library on your device, you first have to have the VPN ready with you. So, go to the website of NordVPN or any other VPN, and create your account.
For this, you need to enter your details and choose a subscription plan.
All three VPNs that I mentioned above work seamlessly well with Netflix. Plus, they all offer a money-back guarantee. So, you can choose any of the subscription plans with confidence.
Step 2: Download and install the VPN software
After signing up successfully, set up the VPN on your device.
Simply download the right VPN client according to your operating system. Follow the instructions on the installation wizard to set up the tool.
Since most good services require no specific configurations, you won’t face any trouble during installation. Plus, they also provide detailed installation guides on their site for help.
Step 3: Choose the right VPN Server
After successful installation, proceed to connect to the appropriate VPN server to access Netflix.
Choose the server of the country whose Netflix library you want to access.
For example, to stream American Netflix, connect to a USA server on your VPN.
Step 4: Log in to your Netflix account
Now that you have changed your online location, it’s now time to start streaming.
Simply log in to your Netflix account and enjoy access to your desired Netflix content. That is it.
Does a smart DNS proxy work for unblocking Netflix?
Have you seen VPNs claiming to offer Netflix support through their Smart DNS? Then you might be wondering what this feature is all about.
Let me explain.
A Smart DNS works on top of most VPNs or proxies to let the users connect to the right DNS server.
These proxies coupled with Smart DNS read the users’ incoming domain (or DNS) requests. This empowers them to automatically connect the user to the relevant server.
Hence, these services save users from the hassle of searching for the right server. This is particularly helpful for users looking for servers that support Netflix streaming.
For instance, when a user attempts to connect to Netflix, the Smart DNS proxy will read the user’s request for “netflix.com.” In turn, it will automatically connect the user to a US Netflix server.
It means that not only the proxy (or the VPN) changed your location but also provided you with the right DNS server.
Many web proxies, and even some VPNs, feature their Smart DNS as a means to bypass the Netflix VPN ban. They also promote this feature more as a marketing tactic for their service. However, users often face trouble accessing Netflix after subscribing to such providers.
It happens because the rise in the use of Smart DNS for accessing Netflix caused the streaming giant to detect this approach. Eventually, just like VPNs, they started a crackdown against Smart DNS proxies too.
Therefore, today, having a Smart DNS proxy does not warrant that you can unblock Netflix with it.
However, the ones powered by robust services, such as the MediaStreamer by ExpressVPN, still manage to bypass Netflix blocking. This service is available with every ExpressVPN connection. So, when you sign up for this VPN, you automatically get the Smart DNS too.
Netflix in a browser VS. Netflix app
Another issue that most users face with a VPN is that they can connect to Netflix via a web browser. But, despite using the same VPN, they fail to connect to the streaming platform via the Netflix app.
Now, what is this mess all about? Netflix should remain Netflix, isn’t so?
As a matter of fact, the Netflix app and the Netflix website that you connect to via your browser are different.
And that’s why they both respond differently to your VPN client.
Your device browser actually works over the DNS servers specified by your device operating system. It can also leak this information to the websites you visit. Hence, they reveal your actual location to the websites despite an IP change.
However, if you use a robust VPN or proxy that routes all DNS requests to its own servers, then your identity remains veiled.
That’s why most proxies and VPNs work for you when you connect to the Netflix website via your web browser.
However, when you connect to the Netflix app installed on your device, the app can override your device’s DNS settings. It then forcefully sends all DNS requests generated from your device to a public DNS nameserver or the ISP’s server.
In turn, this creates a conflict in your online location. While your VPN changes your IP address, your DNS requests show something else.
Hence, Netflix catches this conflict and detects that you are using a proxy or a VPN. And so, you cannot watch your favorite show via Netflix app as it blocks you.
Nonetheless, if you use a genuinely proactive VPN, like ExpressVPN, you won’t face this trouble. This VPN is resilient enough to evade Netflix’s app detection. Thus, you can enjoy streaming with both the Netflix web version as well as the app.
Why I recommend a VPN with Netflix over other tools
The only problem with using a VPN, precisely, a paid one like ExpressVPN, is its cost.
Many users who simply want a change in their location for temporary reasons, like streaming, do not want to pay.
Besides, considering Netflix’s proactive advocacy for copyrights, users even get confused about whether they should use a VPN or not. Hence, they keep looking for ways on how to unblock Netflix without VPN.
However, as a free and independent internet user, as well as a paying subscriber to Netflix, rest assured that you reserve the right to watch Netflix anywhere just the way you like.
So, it’s certainly not an issue if you use a proxy or a VPN to access Netflix.
Yet, if you wish to avoid a VPN merely because of payments, then I strongly urge using one.
This is because a web proxy, Smart DNS proxy, or any other method to change IP location is not a long-term solution to evade Netflix blocking.
I’ve already explained above how Netflix tracks and blocks proxies and VPNs. Therefore, while you might succeed in accessing Netflix with the proxy at one time, sooner or later, you will get blocked. The same applies to Smart DNS and all other methods too.
However, with a reputable VPN, you can enjoy uninterrupted Netflix streaming regardless of your location.
Plus, these services offer lots of useful features. And, of course, they also respect your privacy and ensure online security – something you reserve the right to enjoy.
In short, here are two reasons why you should use a VPN for Netflix.
- At first, online security is your right, and you should not compromise for a mere streaming service.
- Secondly, you can enjoy unblocked access to Netflix, whether traveling abroad, in school, or at work.
Some essential notes
While now that you know how to bypass Netflix restrictions, here is a quick reminder that you actually need a Netflix account for these methods to work.
If you think, or anyone has told you, that you can use Netflix via these methods without an account, then this isn’t the case. Nor would I advise anyone to try to use Netflix without creating a user account.
However, once you register yourself, you can access your desired Netflix content regardless of your sign-up location.
For example, if you registered an account on Netflix UK, you can access the Netflix USA library if you move to the United States, or you use a VPN.
Netflix does not care about your sign-up address. It simply detects your location via your IP address. Then, based on your online location, it presents the corresponding media library to you.
It means all you need to access Netflix is a user account.
If you don’t have one yet, here’s how to create one:
- Go to the Netflix website, enter your email address, and click on “SIGN UP NOW.”
- Choose your default location. If you wish to access the biggest content library, then select the United States.
- Enter a US address. (Netflix isn’t really concerned with your physical address, so you can enter just anything.)
- Enter the state zip code (it should be a valid zip code that must correspond with your online US State).
- Enter your payment card (credit/debit) details for your subscription. If you don’t want to share your card details, you can use Netflix Gift Cards that are easily available for purchase.
And this is it.
Once you create an account, just remember your login details and have your VPN activated. You can enjoy Netflix streaming regardless of your location and device.
Wrapping up
Whether you want access to your desired program or wish to watch an informative documentary, Netflix is the ultimate choice.
However, the way these guys have implemented geo-restrictions on their content doesn’t seem right. Neither it suits a streaming giant like Netflix, nor is this something a paid user should deserve.
Fortunately, with VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark, you can enjoy your due right to access your preferred media anywhere.
Despite Netflix’s hostile blocking of proxies and VPNs, these services have managed to fight for your rights. Not only do they provide you with your due right to online privacy, but also with the entertainment you deserve.
So, if you have been frustrated by Netflix blocking, after reading this guide, you can now unblock Netflix anywhere finally.
Yet, if you face any troubles while doing so, feel free to share your issue in the comments section. Team PrivacySavvy is all there to assist you.
FAQs
Unfortunately, there isn’t. While you can find many free VPNs online that claim to unblock Netflix, they actually can’t. Sooner or later, you will be blocked by Netflix again.
Netflix proxy error shows up when the service detects your web proxy or VPN and blocks your IP. To fix this error, try switching your server and see if it works with Netflix. Besides, you can fix this error permanently by abandoning your current strategy and using a robust VPN.
Since Netflix has implemented regional blocking on its content, anything that attempts to evade this restriction is an ‘Unblocker’ for Netflix. In other words, anything that Netflix detects to reroute the internet traffic to show a fake IP address is an ‘Unblocker.’ Since you use a web proxy or a VPN to unblock the content, Netflix asks you to turn off your ‘Proxy’ or ‘Unblocker.’
Yes, you can. Go to the menu of your proxy or VPN and turn it off. But remember, doing so will make you compromise your online privacy. You can instead choose and keep a robust VPN activated that remains undetected by Netflix.