Gaining access to a restricted streaming platform like Netflix can be daunting. But here’s a list of the best VPN services to access the US Netflix and other libraries.
Before we move on here’s a quick look at the best VPN for Netflix:
- Surfshark – Innumerable Netflix servers for streaming on unlimited devices
- NordVPN – A huge variety of US servers created for Netflix
- ExpressVPN – Access to Netflix, even in China
- IPVanish – 846 US servers dedicated towards streaming, including Netflix
- CyberGhost – Offers labeled and dedicated servers towards Netflix
- FastestVPN – Dedicated US server for Netflix
Netflix is one of the biggest and best streaming platforms for entertainment; for viewers worldwide, but sadly not everyone around the world (outside the US) is able to access it. This could be due to the many geo-restrictions in certain countries.
For this very reason, you have to depend on not just any VPN, but a reliable one to help you gain access to restricted websites like Netflix.
What do we know about Netflix?
Ever heard the term “Netflix and Chill” over and over? So much that it constantly strikes a chord whenever you think of planning a movie night with the family, friends, or loved ones?
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Netflix, it’s by far the most famous streaming platform in the US. You’ll find innumerable movies, TV shows, Game Shows, Documentaries… and much more!
You get the gist, right?
Ever since Netflix hit the market, stretching its fame, it has provided endless streaming possibilities to users all over the globe; 190 countries to be exact. But even though it has reached a whole ship of countries, sadly, not all are able to access every library within Netflix.
A streaming service like Netflix may be in the big leagues, but due to some license issues or regional restrictions, many users in most countries can’t seem to gain access.
Netflix US – Breaking geo-restrictions with the best VPNs
On Netflix, its users are usually provided with multiple libraries containing all sorts of movies, etc. But, you’ll find the best entertainment in much variety only in the US one. To be able to gain access to popular streaming services like Netflix, you need to be located in the States.
Moving away from the bad, let’s dive into the good.
Yes, Netflix isn’t available to any and every country but of course, there’s a fix for that. Did you know that by using a reliable or good VPN, you can access geo-restricted platforms from anywhere and everywhere, including the US Netflix library?
Yes, it could get a little risky, since Netflix only allows a few registered countries to access its overall libraries.
However, since it’s accessible to only a few, Netflix seemingly cracks down and blocks off every other user from other countries, who try to gain access to it through a VPN.
For this very reason, the list of VPNs for accessing restricted services like Netflix, are getting shorter and shorter. But, not all hope is lost.
The enlisted top VPNs above, have been tried, tested, and approved for being able to give you full access rights to Netflix, including its US library from wherever you may be, along with securing your connection throughout the process.
The Best VPN for Netflix
The following list of VPNs has been tested out according to P2P Netflix optimized servers, fast connection speeds, bullet-proof encryption, a good range of protocols, dedicated IPs, unlimited bandwidth, and having access to multiple restricted services. They are:
1. Surfshark
| Price | $2.49/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | Surfshark |
The first choice on my list is Surfshark. Hailing from the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly region, it really does work well with Netflix, unblocking the US as well as 16 other libraries. To put that to the test, you could always go for the limited free trial for Android and iOS, or sought after its 30-Day refund policy.
In addition, just to double-check my results, I contacted the 24/7 chat support, which by the way, exceeded my expectations. They were more than helpful in answering my queries.
I asked them if someone needed to access the US Netflix library or any other library for that matter while being located in another country, is there any specific server would they need to connect to.
The chat support mentioned that it doesn’t matter where you are originally located, if you need to access the US library, just connect to any US server on the list.
The same goes for other libraries, you’d just have to connect to the same server location of the library you are trying to get into. For example: use a UK server to get into a UK Netflix library.
What makes it great, besides being one of the most economically friendly VPNs around, is its ability to smack down geo-restricted websites like Netflix. It has around 1700+ servers in 64 countries, dedicated towards streaming; mainly its US servers; rendering impeccable speeds, and bullet-proof AES 256-bit encryption.
It also splits into two protocols (IKEv2 and OpenVPN) and a recently added one called Shadowsocks; giving you limitless access to streaming. What also makes Surfshark a unique choice for Netflix, is its compatibility with all the major platforms like Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Firestick, and so much more, which you can read all about in an extensive Surfshark review.
There are times when the whole family subscribes to one Netflix account, and to use many devices for one subscription doesn’t mean that you would need multiple VPN subscriptions. That’s one of Surfshark’s highlights; to provide unlimited device logins per VPN subscription; protecting all your devices in one shot, all at $2.49/mo.
2. NordVPN
| Price | $3.71/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | NordVPN |
Another smooth VPN to make it on the top 6 list, is NordVPN. Packing a powerful punch in rich features like Military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, CyberSec feature, an Adblocker, DNS leak protection, an automatic Kill Switch, and much more!
You can read all about it in an in-depth NordVPN review but first, let’s talk about how great it is with Netflix.
Enfolding around 5000+ servers in 59 countries, it makes the list for the best VPNs because just like the rest mentioned above, it works wonders with Netflix.
This Panama based VPN is known for having a huge variety of US servers dedicated to accessing Netflix US libraries and others like Canada, the UK, France, and the Netherlands.
So I went ahead and contacted the 24/7 chat support, which will lead you to the services of a Chatbot. If ever your queries aren’t satisfied, just type out “live chat assistance” and you’ll be re-visited by a live chat correspondent.
I asked if there were any servers dedicated to Netflix US and other libraries from the list of P2P servers for people living outside the US jurisdiction. They replied that Netflix is indeed supported, but applicable towards regions like the US (United States), CA (Canada), DE (Germany), GB (Great Britain), and JP (Japan). To access it, however, you’ll have to connect to the servers in these very locations or connect to US servers.
Besides this, I did ask about its compatibility with TV devices. You could establish connections with any Smart TV supporting Android operating systems including Tizen OS.
It does not, however, have any native apps for Apple TV, but if you need to use NordVPN for it, you could always follow these steps for connectivity.
There’s also a whole tutorial on how to access Netflix, from geo-restricted regions like China. For more information, check out a NordVPN connectivity tutorial.
NordVPN sports reasonably good speeds, and supports apps on multiple platforms like Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Firestick, Android TV, Linux, and more. Adding to its list of perks, it supports simultaneous logins on 6 devices all in one subscription. So the whole family can now binge on Netflix while having all their devices secured.
Seem a little on edge about using NordVPN for Netflix? There’s a free trial for Android and iOS smartphones, but that just lasts up to 7 days. Or, just go for a regular subscription, and if not satisfied, you can ask for a full refund, which goes up to 30-days.
3. ExpressVPN
| Price | $6.67/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | ExpressVPN |
Also on the list of exceptional VPNs, we have ExpressVPN, based in the Virgin Islands. It is ranked as one of the best for cracking down restricted barriers on Netflix and other streaming services like Hulu, HBO, BBC Player, and Amazon Prime.
Almost all of its 3000+ servers in 94 countries, produce exceptional speeds with unlimited bandwidth as a plus.
With superlative features that you can read all about in an extensive ExpressVPN review; it provides every user with the best experiences ever, with whatever their online tasks maybe, never falling short in support.
Another thing that I absolutely love about ExpressVPN, is there 24/7 customer support. They were more than helpful with any and every question I had. I also inquired and double-checked whether they have any servers dedicated to US Netflix or other libraries.
Their reply to that can be summed up in their comment below:
It also works great not only for the US library but others like the Japan library too.
What makes this VPN equally special is its compatibility with every important platform you can think of. These include Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Firestick, Chromebook, a wide range of gaming consoles, and smart TVs; including Nvidia Shield.
Did you know that most Smart TVs don’t work well with VPNs but ExpressVPN doesn’t fall short in that department; extending a smart DNS feature called MediaStreamer; allowing you to access a large platform of streaming possibilities, globally; including places like India.
It’s quite clear that accessing a major streaming platform like Netflix, is something that the whole family would want to invest into. But sometimes it almost impossible for everyone to be present in one go.
For this reason, ExpressVPN has extended its simultaneous multi-login feature up-to 5 devices; making it easier for you to watch all your Netflix favorites from wherever you are while having ExpressVPN secure your device.
Even the Reddit community prefers ExpressVPN:
You can try unblocking Netflix on your Android or iOS smartphones using the ExpressVPN limited free trial, or directly head on to a subscription package. If, however, ExpressVPN isn’t quite in your budget, you could always ask for a full refund.
4. IPVanish
| Price | $6.49/mo. |
| Refund | 30-Days |
| Website | IPVanish |
To clear things, IPVanish may be put last on the list of great VPNs for Netflix, but what makes it unique is its location.
Being a US-based VPN, it makes it a little easier to gain access to the entire US library. With casing up to 1300+ servers in 75+ countries, it has around 731 US servers dedicated to unblocking restricted streaming platforms like Netflix.
The only downside to this, however, is that it doesn’t work in China or other countries that tend to put a block on the domain.
It doesn’t stop there. IPVanish packs in heavy security features. You’ll find the best 256-bit AES encryption, and a SOCKS5 unencrypted web proxy to help you mask your IP while connecting to P2P servers. There’s also the unlimited bandwidth, a no-log policy, and a 24/7 helpline that bursts transparency.
If you feel like investing your time into something a little more detailed, how about an IPVanish review?
Besides the above, it also branches out into IKEv2, OpenVPN, and L2TP/IPsec protocols; enabling the fastest speeds for streaming. One of the best parts about IPVanish is that it now allows unlimited simultaneous multi-device logins per subscription.
So you now not only have access to Netflix but are able to access it from whichever device you like that fits within its compatibility range; all while keeping your devices secure.
IPVanish doesn’t really offer a free trial in the traditional sense, but it does allow you to ask for a full refund within the 30-day timeframe.
5. CyberGhost
| Price | $2.75/mo. |
| Refund | 45-Days |
| Website | CyberGhost |
Encouraging complete freedom for streaming, we have CyberGhost VPN. Listed and in fact known to be one of the best in terms of providing all-round features that make up a reliable VPN.
This Romanian based VPN is most importantly popular for being able to unblock one of the greatest streaming services ever, Netflix, along with many others like Hulu, HBO GO, and BBC iPlayer, all for the price of $2.75/mo.
It has an immaculate range of 6000+ servers in 90 countries, and a whole list of servers dedicated towards streaming; supporting all the major protocols (L2TP/IKEv2 and OpenVPN) and plenty of other high-end features that you could look into extensively in a CyberGhost review.
When you open the VPN, you’ll be able to check this list out; noticing that some servers have a little Netflix sign right next to it, showing its ability to unblock it.
Just in case you haven’t already subscribed to the VPN, let’s just give you a clear image of what to expect. I spoke to the 24/7 live chat and asked them if there were any specific server locations dedicated to US Netflix and other libraries for people who are living outside the States.
They mentioned that even though they have a wide list dedicated to all-round streaming from different platforms, only one US server is dedicated to Netflix.
I even asked if that stopped working or didn’t support it, what other server was available towards it. They said that in order for it to work effectively, you first have to clear your cookies and cache before connecting to Netflix. If it somehow drops connection in between, the server will automatically change the IP address for you, allowing you to re-connect.
Besides this, it is known for having great speeds that are perfect for streaming all your favourite movies or series on Netflix in HD! Moreover, CyberGhost offers the strongest AES 256-bit encryption; you never have to worry about everyone or anyone stealing all your personal data.
All-in-all CyberGhost sure does hit the mark of being one of the best VPNs around, for Netflix! Need to try it out first? Well, go straight for the CyberGhost limited free trial and refund policy!
6. FastestVPN
| Price | $1.11/mo. |
| Refund | 15-Days |
| Website | FastestVPN |
Also on the list of exceptional VPNs, we have FastestVPN.
Based in the Cayman Islands where there are no retention laws, one thing stands out for certain in this VPN. You’ll find that it is known to have the highest range of protocols (PPTP, L2TP, OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), OpenConnect, IKEv2, and IPsec).
On the other hand, for the purpose of streaming onto restricted land, it is preferred that you switch to OpenVPN.
Security has never been a problem for FastestVPN, enveloping some of the best security features to help you carry out almost any online activity.
Some of FastestVPN’s unique features include Malware protection, NAT Firewall, Unix Based P2P optimized servers boding high speeds and unlimited bandwidth. For more in-depth details, you could always check out a FastestVPN review to get a front-row seat to everything you’re looking for.
It has a comfortable range of 350+servers in 39+ locations, with dedicated servers specifically entailed towards Netflix. And yes, I mean accessing US libraries as well. These server locations include: (US Florida, India, Romania and Russia). Furthermore, there is a dedicated Netflix-US server.
To learn how to successfully unblock Netflix from your device, you could look up this tutorial provided to me by the 24/7 FastestVPN customer support.
Apart from this and having fast speeds, one of the notably good things about FastestVPN, is its compatibility with 20+ devices including routers. To add to its awesomeness, it also allows simultaneous multi-logins up to 10 devices.
Understanding why Netflix is master of all restrictions
Netflix is the top dog of the streaming platforms in the market. You need to understand that they’re not entirely to blame for putting all sorts of regional restrictions in the way of your streaming.
If you’ve noticed, Netflix not only harbors originals made in the US but includes movies, TV shows, and documentaries from around the world. Hence, separation through libraries.
It’s like if you make a movie in the UK, and the studio that produces it has all the copyrights, there are chances that it may only be available by contract to screen on Netflix, to parts of the UK and/or a few other countries.
If Netflix starts showing each and every movie to the world, without having rights or a signed contract, they’d be in for a major lawsuit for breaching.
For this same reason, since Netflix was created in the United States, with most of its original content broadcasted in the US, it is clear that most shows would be restricted to mainly viewers in the same location.
How to stream the best VPN for Netflix
In this wide world of online streaming, it gets very annoying when the best shows are only enclosed to a few websites. It gets even worse when you can’t access these websites due to many regional restrictions. For this very purpose, picking the best VPN is the wisest choice; helping you break through these barriers. But of course, not all VPNs can help you do that, leaving you questioning yourself regarding how to pick the best one.
But look no further. All the VPNs mentioned above have been scaled out for a reason, after being tried and tested; entering into big leagues of being able to tackle down geo-restrictions. Even though marked as 5 of the best VPNs, you still need to be aware while choosing one, or rather, learn how to identify a good VPN for Netflix.
What you need to look for in the best Netflix VPN is
- Look for VPNs that provide a large server range. The more they are, the better the options for connection speed.
- VPNs that provide a no-log policy keeping your privacy retained.
- Heavy security measures with good encryption and protocols.
- Support all major platforms/devices.
- A supportive 24/7 helpline.
- Unlimited bandwidth.
- And a VPN that provides a refund policy; in case you get ripped off or if suddenly the servers that were assigned to work for Netflix stop responding.
Using a VPN with Netflix
The most difficult task in all of this is choosing a VPN that works with Netflix. Once that is out of the way, the easier part arrives, and that is running a VPN with Netflix. All you have to do is:
- Download the VPN you pick from the website and Install it.
- When you’ve installed it, open the servers tab and choose a US server that unblocks Netflix. If that doesn’t work then tweak around until you find the best one.
- After you’ve chosen the server, establish a connection to the VPN, and open up Netflix on a browser or your phone app.
- Please note that there are some cases where you may experience some problems. Either change the settings (IPv6 or DNS) accordingly or contact your service provider asking for help.
Streaming Error: How to overcome it
Trying out a VPN for gaining access to Netflix is a pretty exciting feeling, in-fact it feels a little like Christmas morning.
But picture this; you subscribe to a VPN, download Netflix, get the VPN started and attempt to log into your Netflix account, only to be gifted with a big fat sign that says: “Streaming Error – You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy…..for more help, visit Netflix.com/proxy”. Disappointing right?
So, in cases like these, it’s usually because the people who are trying to gain access to Netflix through a VPN, are located outside the States. But don’t worry, it’s not unusual. Netflix has been trying to track down VPNs and putting a full stop to them.
For this reason, reliable VPNs like the ones mentioned above (Surfshark, CyberGhost, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, FastestVPN, and IPVanish), are now developing particular server locations that allow you to gain access to the US Netflix library and more.
These providers and others like them have been working endlessly, trying to create new IP addresses and provide them to their users, once Netflix subsequently shoots down the addresses that were already dedicated to it.
Smart DNS Proxy – Is it safe to unblock Netflix?
I think not!
Ever since Netflix issued “the blocking games” of VPNs, most Netflix fans have sought out other ways to gain access to the most famous streaming platform in America. Most users switched to using smart DNS proxies which also allocate browser traffic for Netflix to its users, who request for it; changing the address and server of its IP and DNS.
However, this may not be the safest option and I’d suggest you don’t look into it. A VPN is supposed to encrypt your data, creating private connections. Plus when a VPN is detected by a restricted platform like Netflix, new IP addresses are generated for it.
Let’s just say, if Netflix can track down something as secure as a VPN; having much greater means of privacy and security, what good would a smart DNS proxy do? Yes, there are a few that may have worked for you in the past, but only some would be able to make it out for a longer period.
There is, however, one smart DNS proxy that did stand out from the crowd, and that is ExpressVPNs featured smart DNS proxy service, called MediaStreamer that comes by default.
Netflix – Are there any specific VPN servers that allow access?
For anyone who’s in need to gain access to Netflix through a VPN, you should always choose VPNs that provide the wider list of server locations. Fortunately, the list of VPNs that I provided above, have a base rich in server locations; all of which can give you plenty of Netflix streaming access. If you look below, you’ll see a list of servers that provide the best chances to gain access. Just try connecting to any of the IP addresses of the countries. They are:
- US
- UK
- Canada
- Russia
- Germany
- Switzerland
- France
- Belgium
- Australia
- New Zealand and more!
Can I use a “Free VPN” to access Netflix?
Yes, you can, but I wouldn’t recommend it!
Ever wondered why the best things in life are always expensive? From a technical point of view, we buy the best VPN to access restricted platforms but also secure connections. This isn’t what a free VPN would provide.
Yes, maybe it would provide some pretty basic security measures, but there’s a reason for it being free. Unlike a good VPN, a free one would limit the kind of activities you wish to carry out. It delivers limited server locations, slow speeds, low-quality content, and limited bandwidth.
But if a free VPN is really what you want, here’s a list of the top free and premium VPNs for Netflix that I think you should go for:
To conclude
It can be pretty frustrating to know that there exists an amazing streaming platform like Netflix, but harbors so many restrictions; especially if you’re from any region outside the States.
So, for this very reason, I have rounded off the top VPNs for all your streaming desires; which are Surfshark, CyberGhost, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, FastestVPN, and IPVanish. They’re all capable to smack down geo-restricted platforms like Netflix and so much more!
And besides that, they pretty much protect your identity and location from where ever you may be, with multiple device logins per subscription, with the best security measures!
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