Like most online streaming platforms, Netflix does not possess distribution rights for most of its content for streaming. Because of this, you may sometimes see ads on Netflix Facebook for movies that don’t show up in your account when you search for them.
This is because you’re probably trying to access the movie from a country or a region that the company doesn’t yet have a license for. This difference in viewing leads to many Netflix users to buy VPN or virtual private networks to access shows and movies that are currently unavailable in their regions.
Using a VPN is against Netflix’s terms and conditions
So, here’s the thing. Yes, some VPNs do work with Netflix and will let you unblock content on it. But Netflix itself doesn’t allow VPN usage in a way that if they detect VPN usage on your account, you could end up getting blocked. That being said, several Netflix VPNs are specifically created to help you unblock Netflix content libraries without getting detected.
Before trying to access Netflix content using a VPN, it is important to go through your local jurisprudence to ensure that you’re aware of any legal issues regarding VPN usage. It is legal to use a VPN in most places unless it is for engaging in illegal activities, but again, it’s best to be sure.
If you live in one of the areas where VPN usage is legal, you shouldn’t get into trouble with the law even if you use a Netflix VPN for unblocking region-specific content.
If you use a VPN trying to unblock content on Netflix and it ends up getting detected, it is probably because Netflix already knows that the IP address you’re using is associated with a VPN. If you see a warning saying something like, “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again” you can connect using a different server and try again.
In most cases, this should solve the problem; however, if you keep getting the same message, it is advised to avoid going ahead with too many attempts, as Netflix could end up blocking your account. Since Netflix’s VPN-detection technology is super advanced, it is also best to make sure that you’re using a VPN, especially a Netflix VPN, to avoid mishaps with your account.
Does Netflix work with a free VPN?
Free VPNs are an attractive deal when you think about them. You’re already paying for a Netflix subscription; why pay extra for a VPN? Unfortunately, most times, free VPNs aren’t great at competing with Netflix’s advanced VPN-detecting tech.
Furthermore, free VPNs sometimes do more harm than good. Often, these tools are built on insecure infrastructure fueled by third-party websites and companies interested in user data.
Of course, there are also good free VPNs that will not compromise your security, however, as discussed before, there’s a very slim chance of them working with Netflix. With that said, if you can afford a VPN subscription, it’s best to use that and stay clear of free VPNs altogether to protect your online privacy and security. If you’re looking for an affordable VPN subscription, have a look at Ivacy’s download VPN page. They are offering flat 90% off on their 5-year plan.
Other streaming services you can unblock with streaming VPNs
Like Netflix, several other streaming platforms comprise different libraries for different regions and are even unavailable in certain regions. The good news is that you can also unblock these with the help of a streaming VPN like a Netflix VPN. These services include Hulu, Spotify, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video and even HBO Max.
How to use a VPN with Netflix
Using a VPN with Netflix is easy; there are only four simple steps that you need to follow. Here’s the walk-through.
- Sign up for a Netflix VPN
- Download the application that is built for your device. It is important to ensure this because many good VPNs offer different variants for different devices.
- Once you have the VPN downloaded and configured, go ahead and connect to a USA server.
- Try loading up Netflix, and you should see the USA content library start showing in your main feed.
One important thing to know before you start to follow this method is that even though it says the USA here, you can use this for any country you want to access Netflix through. For example, if you want to watch a show that is only available in Canada, connect using a Canadian server, and if you want to watch a TV show specific to the UK, try a UK server.
Now that you know everything there is to know about using a VPN with Netflix, follow the steps and let us know how it all went!
