Easiest Ways to Unblock Netflix and Access Restricted Content
Mar 10, 2023 • Filed to: Latest News & Tactics • Proven solutions
Netflix is one of the most famous video streaming services with a wide range of shows and movies. It has a limitation that its content isn't available everywhere in the world. Most of its content is geo-restricted, meaning it can only be accessed in specific locations. Netflix geo-blocking can be a great letdown if you have found your favorite show but cannot access it.
However, this Netflix-blocked issue can easily be resolved using a VPN or proxy service. You can learn more about how to unblock Netflix through VPN and its pros and cons by reading this article to the end.
Part 1: Why Netflix is Blocked?
The reasons why Netflix says blocked are many depending on the situation. If it is a movie or TV show you want to watch and can't access, it is likely not available in your region. Not all the content on Netflix can be watched everywhere, as much of it has geo-restrictions. VPNs or proxy servers are great ways to bypass such restrictions.
Using VPN or proxy can lead to another type of blocking known as a VPN ban. If Netflix detects you are using a VPN to access the content, it will block that server. In extreme cases, your account can also get terminated. Continue reading the article to learn how to avoid the VPN and get around it.
Part 2: How to Unblock Netflix With a VPN?
A VPN is a great way to unblock Netflix and access geo-restricted movies and shows. However, it can result in a VPN ban, but by implementing certain precautions, it can be avoided. Below we have explained in detail how to unblock Netflix and how to get around Netflix VPN block.
1. Understand Netflix VPN Ban First
Before learning how to resolve blocked Netflix, we must understand the Netflix VPN ban. Netflix can block VPNs because it can detect when a user is connected to a VPN server. VPNs allow users to access content that may not be available in their location. They use them to watch Netflix shows and movies only available in certain countries.
To prevent users from using VPNs to access this content, Netflix has implemented aggressive measures to detect and block VPN connections. It likely has a list of servers that are associated with VPNs. The VPN can also be detected if it is used by multiple people simultaneously. Other methods, like cookies, DNS leaks, etc., can also help Netflix detect a VPN user.
2. How to Choose the Best VPN?
If you want to use a VPN for Netflix bypass to watch the restricted content, you need to ensure you choose a secure VPN. As we have established above, Netflix is very aggressive with VPNs, so choosing a great VPN that can work around Netflix restrictions is a must. Below are a few of the qualities that can help you select a great VPN:
- Security: Look for a VPN that uses strong encryption for internet traffic. Ensure that it has a proven track record of protecting user privacy.
- Speed: Choose a VPN with a large network of servers, as it minimizes the risk of getting blocked from Netflix. The VPN should be able to provide fast connection speeds for smooth streaming.
- Location: Consider the location of the VPN's servers and whether the VPN can access the content you want to watch. It is also important that VPNs should have multiple locations in the targeted region.
- Cost: Compare the costs of different VPNs to find one that fits your budget. However, ensure that the VPN you buy doesn't compromise security to reduce its price.
- No-Log policy: The VPN you select must have a strict no-log policy. It means that the VPN does not track or record your online activity.
3. Best VPNs for Bypassing VPN Blocks
As stated above, buying the best VPN is necessary to bypass Netflix blocks without worrying about the Netflix VPN ban. In this article, we have chosen and compared the current top 4 VPNs in the market. Below is the detailed comparison table and their pros and cons to help you:
Specs | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.0/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
Price | 1 Month: $12.95 12 Months: $8.32/month 6 Months: $9.99 |
1 Month: $12.99 2 Year + 4 Months: $2.03/month 6 Months: $6.99/month |
Monthly Plans Standard: $11.99/month Plus: $12.99/month Complete: $14.99/month 1-Year Plans: Standard: $4.49/month Plus: $5.49/month Complete: $6.79/month 2-Year Plans: Standard: $3.69/month Plus: $4.69/month Complete: $5.99/month |
1 Month: $12.95/month 12 Months: $3.99/month 24 Months: $2.49/month |
Ease of Use | 4.6/5 | 4.2/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
Torrenting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Download Speed | 475 Mbps | 548 Mbps | 369 Mbps | 324 Mbps |
Support | 24/7 | 24/7 | 24/7 | 24/7 |
Netflix Availability | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Privacy & Security | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
Logging Policies | No logs policy. | No logs policy. | No logs policy. | No logs policy. |
1. ExpressVPN
One of the top VPNs, ExpressVPN, is used by many to access websites that may be blocked in their location, such as streaming services or social media platforms. It allows users to access the internet freely, without censorship or restrictions. The VPN also provides strong protection against DNS leaks and has a strict no-logs policy to ensure user privacy.
Pros
- ExpressVPN is comparatively much faster and doesn't affect your internet speed.
- It has a wide range of locations for users to choose from, as it offers services in 148 cities across 94 countries.
Con
- ExpressVPN is among the most expensive VPNs in the market.
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a VPN service that helps you maintain privacy and security while using the internet with strong encryption, ad-blocker, and no-logs policy. It provides comprehensive online protection using 256-bit AES encryption and strong protection when using public Wi-Fi. When using this VPN to resolve Netflix geo-blocking, you can choose from over 117 locations across 91 countries.
Pros
- It allows you to force HTTPS connection to a website that lacks strong protections to protect your privacy.
- Aside from changing your IP location, it also helps block location tracking through other methods like cookies, etc.
Con
- The servers used by CyberGhost are comparatively slower than the servers used by its competitors.
3. NordVPN
NordVPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address to protect your online activities from being tracked or monitored. It has a large network of servers worldwide, allowing you to choose a virtual location and bypass Netflix restrictions. This VPN does not keep any logs of your online activities. The "Double VPN" feature can route your traffic through two servers for more security.
Pros
- Its CyberSec feature blocks ads and protects against malicious websites and other online threats.
- NordVPN is available on all major platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Con
- It doesn't offer as many configuration options as some other VPNs, which can be problematic for users who want more control over their VPN connection.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a virtual private network (VPN) service that encrypts internet traffic and routes it through a secure server to a destination website or service. It offers a range of features, including military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and a built-in ad blocker. The service is available for various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Pros
- Surfshark has a low cost and is one of the more affordable VPN options on the market.
- It allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices with one license.
Con
- Users have reported inconsistent performance with Surfshark, including slow speeds and unstable connections.
Part 3: How to Unblock Netflix Without a VPN
If you do not want to resolve the Netflix blocked issue through VPN, there are other ways. VPNs are not the only way that can help you access geo-restricted content. You can also unblock Netflix with the help of proxy services. Two common ways to unblock Netflix without a VPN are given below.
Method 1. Watch Netflix with a Proxy Service
A proxy service is a server that acts as an intermediary between a client and another server. It facilitates connections between clients and servers and can be used for various purposes. You can use it to improve security and performance or to access blocked content in your location. The steps to use HideMyAss, a proxy service, to watch Netflix are these:
Step 1: Open the HideMyAss web proxy on your computer browser. On the web page, you will see three options: "Site you want to access," "Connect through server," and "More options."
Step 2: First, select the server location depending on the content you want to access on Netflix. Now navigate to "More options" and choose the ones you want to use. You can encrypt the URL, disable cookies and remove scripts.
Step 3: Once you have selected a server location and other options, open Netflix using the "Site you want to access" option. Next, hit the "Agree & Continue" button and watch your desired content.
Pros
- The proxy services can improve performance by reducing the load on servers.
- They can work as parental control as you can configure them to control internet access.
Con
- Third parties may use proxy services to track and monitor internet activity, which can compromise user privacy.
Method 2. Watch Netflix with Tor
Tor, or The Onion Router, is a free, open-source software that enables anonymous communication. It works by encrypting internet traffic and routing it through a network of volunteer-run servers worldwide. This helps to conceal the user's IP address and location, making it difficult to track their online activity. You can also use it to access Netflix content that is blocked in their region. Follow these steps to unblock Netflix:
Step 1: Download and install Tor Browser on your computer from the official Tor project website and open it. You will see a "Connect to Tor" tab with two options "Configure Connection" and "Connect."
Step 2: In the "Configure Connection," you can set up the connection according to your needs. Next, press the "Connect" button to connect to Tor Services.
Step 3: Once the connection is established, access the web version of Netflix and start watching your desired content. To disconnect from Tor services, simply close the browser.
Pros
- It encrypts your internet traffic, which can help to protect you from hacking and surveillance.
- Tor protects your privacy by concealing your IP address and location.
Con
- There is a chance that the exits nodes used by Tor contain malware that can infect your device.
Part 4: FAQs about Netflix Geo-Blocking
- How Does Netflix Detect You're Using a VPN?
The most likely method used by Netflix to detect VPNs is that it keeps a list of IP addresses and is aware of the IP address associated with VPNs. Another way to detect VPN use is if multiple people use a certain IP address to access Netflix.
- Why Does Netflix Block VPNs and Proxies?
Netflix blocks VPNs and proxies for several reasons. One reason is to comply with licensing agreements. It has licensing agreements with content providers that allow it to stream certain movies and TV shows in certain countries. Other reasons include preventing abuse, fraud, and unauthorized access to its content.
- Is Unblocking Netflix Illegal?
It is not illegal to use a VPN or proxy to access Netflix content. However, using a VPN or proxy to access content that is not licensed for your region is a violation of Netflix's terms of service. It can result in the termination of your account by Netflix.
Conclusion
Knowing how to bypass the Netflix VPN block is important as it allows you to watch your favorite content on Netflix without any worries. It is not realistic for you to change your location and buy multiple services to watch your favorite shows also doesn't make sense. That's why you should choose a great VPN or proxy service to enjoy all the content Netflix offers.
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James Davis
staff Editor