Watching TV shows and movies through a VPN (2024)

VPNs (virtual private networks) can make your device or network look like it's connecting to Netflix from somewhere other than your actual location. While using Netflix through a VPN, we will only show you TV shows and movies we have worldwide rights for, like Squid Game or Stranger Things.

If you don't see TV shows and movies that are available for your country, you may need to turn your VPN off.

Note:

Watching Netflix while using a VPN isn't allowed on an ad-supported plan. Live events on Netflix can't be watched while using a VPN.

How to check if a VPN is turned on

To check if a VPN is turned on:

  1. Using a computer or mobile device, open a web browser.

  2. Go to fast.com. Netflix will start a connection test.

  3. When the test stops, click Show more info.

  4. Next to Client, note the country.

If the country doesn't match your current location, it usually means your device or network has a VPN turned on.

How to turn a VPN off

To get the steps to turn a VPN off, contact the VPN provider, your internet service provider, or your network's administrator.

Netflix Customer Service can't help with turning a VPN off because the steps are different for each VPN or service.

Watching TV shows and movies through a VPN (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to watch movies with VPN? ›

VPNs give you an extra layer of security for all your online activities. While it's not a replacement for antivirus software, it can help protect your data and personal information when you're online. So, whether you're watching Disney+ or Go Latino TV, you'll have peace of mind knowing you are safe and secure.

Can you watch TV through VPN? ›

If you're itching for more, or if the programming you want to watch isn't available in your country, you can use a VPN on your smart TV to spoof your location to access virtually any of the content you may want.

Do VPNs really work for streaming? ›

All VPNs aren't equally as good at streaming either. Some work flawlessly while others can't support the speed you need to watch your favorite movie on your 4K TV or most streaming services block their servers altogether. The key is choosing your VPN wisely.

Is it illegal to use a VPN to watch TV? ›

It isn't illegal to use a VPN to change your location or circumvent geo-restrictions. However, by accessing geo-restricted content, you may be breaking the terms and service agreement of the streaming platform. This could result in restrictions from the streaming provider.

What should you not use a VPN for? ›

One reason why you may not want to use a VPN is because it could slow down your internet connection speed significantly. There are several factors that affect your internet speeds when using a VPN, including the fact that a VPN encrypts your data and routes it through different servers, which slows down the process.

Will Netflix ban me for using a VPN? ›

Will Netflix Ban Me If I Use a VPN? While Netflix has a ban against VPNs and proxy servers, it's perfectly legal to use VPNs on Netflix; it just may not work. Netflix has specific licensing agreements with TV shows and movies, meaning that they're only allowed to offer them to certain audiences, divided by country.

What is the best VPN for watching TV? ›

ExpressVPN is CNET's Editor's Choice for best VPN overall and our pick as the best VPN for streaming because of its exceptional content-unblocking capabilities with minimal speed loss. During our testing, we could access foreign libraries in the UK and Canada with Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix.

Where is the best place to put a VPN for movies? ›

5Which countries are best for VPN server locations? Switzerland, Iceland, Estonia, Canada, Singapore, Spain, the UK, Panama, Romania, and Germany are considered the best countries for VPN server locations due to strong privacy laws, advanced internet infrastructure, and minimal content restrictions.

Can I watch Netflix through a VPN? ›

VPNs (virtual private networks) can make your device or network look like it's connecting to Netflix from somewhere other than your actual location. While using Netflix through a VPN, we will only show you TV shows and movies we have worldwide rights for, like Squid Game or Stranger Things.

Will I get banned for using a VPN? ›

Are VPNs legal to use? Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries around the world, including the US, Canada, and most of Europe. However, you might risk heavy fines or even imprisonment for using a VPN in a country that bans it, for example, North Korea or Iraq.

Does VPN get around TV license? ›

Do I need a TV Licence if I am using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)? Yes, you need a TV Licence to watch live on any channel, pay TV service or streaming service, and to use BBC iPlayer*. On any device, even if you are using a VPN.

How to use VPN to watch movies? ›

How to use a streaming VPN
  1. Make sure you're signed in to your streaming site of choice. ...
  2. Launch your VPN, and connect to your chosen server.
  3. Open the streaming site in your browser.
  4. Search for your chosen TV show or movie.
  5. Enjoy!
Jun 17, 2022

Are there any dangers in using a VPN? ›

Free VPN tools compromise user security: Many free VPN tools contain malware that could be used by cyber criminals to steal users' data, gain unauthorized access to their data or machine, or launch a cyberattack.

Can a VPN track what you watch? ›

Final thoughts. Any VPN service can monitor your browsing history, but reputable ones won't and will ensure they have no logs of your browsing history that could be handed over to third parties. That way, if they receive a court order to share information, it's impossible for them to comply.

Can Netflix detect VPN? ›

The short answer is, it can, but it doesn't have to. The impact of a VPN on your Netflix streaming experience depends on several factors, including the quality of the VPN service, your internet connection speed, and the distance to the VPN server you're connected to.

Can you get caught downloading movies with VPN? ›

A VPN can help prevent your ISP from seeing your download activities through the use of encryption. Encryption in VPNs is standard, and while it doesn't prevent your ISP from seeing that you're using their services, it stops them from peeking into your traffic to see what you're downloading.

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