Do VPNs Really Work for Netflix Streaming?

VPNs (virtual private networks) can be used to make your device or network appear as if it is connecting to Netflix from a different location than your actual one. All three of Netflix's plans - Basic, Standard, and Premium - support the use of a VPN. However, using a VPN with the Basic plan with ads is not supported. NordVPN is currently the best VPN for Netflix due to its consistent reliability and fast speeds.

NordVPN has a vast global server network, allowing it to easily unblock numerous Netflix regions (see the list below). Most VPNs strive to provide fast and consistent speeds for HD streaming, and NordVPN does just that. In our tests with NordVPN using the WireGuard protocol (NordLynx), we achieved 445 Mbps download speeds in our NordVPN review. So yes, it is definitely possible to stream Netflix using a VPN.

It can be frustrating for customers who use VPNs to improve their privacy to have to choose between security and their favorite programs. The past few years have been an ongoing battle between VPNs and Netflix restrictions, but now VPNs are configuring specific server locations for use with Netflix. Higher-quality VPNs such as NordVPN or Hotspot Shield will experience less speed loss than lower-quality, free-to-use services. The best VPNs for streaming will offer optimal speeds and have specific tools for streaming, such as NordVPN's SmartPlay feature.

If you're looking for a streaming device that works with a VPN, the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Cube are good choices. As with all Netflix VPNs, there may be occasional problems, so you may need to open an ExpressVPN chat box to ask support which servers to use in a given area. Some VPNs have even been reported for installing tracking libraries in their free VPN applications, such as Hotspot Shield VPN. Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, game consoles, and most smart TVs do not support VPNs either through an app or manual configuration. NordVPN is considered one of the best VPNs for streaming on Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and other services.

Netflix sees VPNs as a way of circumventing geographical licensing restrictions, which means that even those who use a VPN for other reasons can get caught in the crossfire. Some VPNs include smart DNS proxies with their subscriptions, and some of those DNS proxies work with Netflix.

Coral Robertson
Coral Robertson

Unapologetic entrepreneur. Lifelong pop culture maven. Incurable coffee expert. Infuriatingly humble tv evangelist. General beer guru. Certified music practitioner.

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