Netflix not working with VPN? This has happened because the streaming service has managed to block the IP address your VPN has given you.
To fix this, you need to use a reliable VPN that works with Netflix. Alternatively, you can try changing to a different server that might not have been blocked, and see if that fixes Netflix not working with VPN.
This article will explain why your VPN is no longer working with Netflix and how you can fix it. We’ve also included a number of additional fixes you can try to resolve the problem if changing to a better VPN doesn’t work.
Which VPNs work with Netflix?
| ExpressVPN | NordVPN | PIA | Ivacy | CyberGhost | |
| Netflix | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Download Speed | 79 Mbps | 71 Mbps | 27 Mbps | 31 Mbps | 41 Mbps |
| Throttling | 79% | 71% | 27% | 31% | 41% |
| Stream quality | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Price per month | $6.66 | $3.79 | $2.03 | $1.00 | $2.19 |
Netflix not working with VPN: Checklist
- Check if Netflix works with your VPN on another device
- Connect to a server with a low user count (if possible)
- Clear Cookies and Cache:Remove old location data from your browser/device
- Verify VPN IP Address:Use whatismyip.com to check you have an IP address provided by your VPN
- Disable GPS and/or location services on mobile devices
- VPN Software Update:Make sure your VPN software is the latest version. Try uninstalling and reinstalling
- Switch VPN protocols
- Reach out to your VPN’s customer service for Netflix-specific recommendations
- Upgrade VPN:If all else fails, consider switching to a known Netflix-friendly VPN
- I recommend ExpressVPN ($6.66/month) or NordVPN ($3.79/month) for Netflix
Tip: Sometimes, simply restarting your VPN or changing the server can resolve access issues. If consistent problems arise, it may be time to consider a more reliable VPN service.
Remember, this checklist will only work if Netflix hasn’t blacklisted your VPN’s IP addresses. And if you’re not using ExpressVPN or NordVPN, there’s a good chance that Netflix is not working with your VPN because its IP addresses have been blacklisted.
Netflix not working with VPN: Guide
Total Time: 5 minutes
Check if your VPN works on another device
This is the easiest thing you can do to figure out what you need to do next. If you VPN works with Netflix on your smartphone, but not your computer, then you know your VPN isn’t the problem. If your VPN does work on one device, jump to Step 3 below.
Contact your VPNs live chat service
This is another easy one. Cycle through your VPN’s available servers. If you only have a few options available to you, go to your VPN’s website and find the Live Chat feature (if they have one) and ask for a specific server number that works with Netflix. This is the single most effective way to diagnose if your VPN is the problem or not. If they can’t point you towards a server that works with Netflix then you know, without doubt, that the VPN is the problem.
Delete your cookies
Deleting your cookies can potentially fix VPN issues. Accumulated or corrupted cookies in a browser might interfere with the way websites and online services function, especially when using a VPN. Clearing these cookies removes any old or problematic data, thereby ensuring a cleaner slate for your VPN connection to operate. This can help in establishing a more stable connection and resolving conflicts between the VPN and certain web services like Netflix.
Connect to a different server
If your VPN has suddenly stopped working with Netflix, it might be because the IP address your VPN has given you has been identified and blocked by the streaming service. Changing to a different VPN server will give you a different IP address, and if that one hasn’t been blocked, your VPN will work with Netflix again.
Reinstall or update your VPN
Think of this as the classic “turn it on and off again” tactic. Removing your VPN, and its settings, from your device and starting again is a good way to get the most up-to-date settings configured on your devices without much effort. If you don’t want to reinstall the software, you can always check to see if there’s an update available to download any fixes your service may have introduced.
Switch VPN protocols
VPN protocols are the beating heart of a VPN. They determine how the VPN works. When you use a VPN the protocol is responsible for hiding your data and rerouting it via VPN servers. If Netflix isn’t working with your VPN, it might be because the protocol you’re using is no longer working with the service. If your VPN allows it, try changing to a different protocol to see if that fixes the issue. Take a look at our VPNprotocolsarticle to discover more about which technology might be best for you.
Upgrade your VPN
If all of the above fails, you should consider upgrading to a high-end VPN. I recommendExpressVPN ($6.66/month)orNordVPN ($3.79/month)for Netflix. For more information, check out our VPN list below to see which VPN suits your needs and budget.
How to fix Netflix not working with VPN: Video Guide
The best VPNs for Netflix: Quicklist
ExpressVPN ($6.66/month) is the gold standard of VPNs. With servers in 94 countries and top-tier encryption protocols, it provides users the fastest and most reliable way to unblock streaming services from anywhere in the world.
NordVPN ($2.99/month) has an expansive network of 5,800+ high-speed servers in 60 countries – making it a great option for anyone looking to unblock popular streaming services, at a more mid-range price point. An excellent choice.
Private Internet Access ($2.03/month) is the “best of the rest” VPN. It stands out as a solid streaming VPN with a budget price tag. It’s not as reliable, or fast, as ExpressVPN or NordVPN. Making it a more suitable choice for a casual VPN user.
Ivacy ($1.00/month) the price is the selling point here. If you want a VPN that works with major streaming services “most of the time” and don’t mind a bit of buffering during peak periods, Ivacy is fine. But it’s nowhere near as good as ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
CyberGhost ($2.19/month) is a decent VPN option that offers user-friendly apps and a range of servers worldwide. While it may not lead the pack in all features, it provides a satisfactory balance of privacy, speed, and ease of use.
Why is Netflix not working with VPN?
The reason you’re coming across the issue, Netflix not working with VPN, is because Netflix has managed to block the IP addresses your VPN can currently provide. This means your VPN is no longer capable of unblocking Netflix.
Netflix doesn’t have the rights to broadcast its content anywhere in the world. Just because a TV show or film is available on Netflix in one country, it doesn’t mean it will be available in every country Netflix. A good example of this is trying to watch Band of Brothers on Netflix, it’s available on the US Netflix library but nowhere else.
Content is only available on Netflix in locations where the streaming service has purchased the rights to broadcast that content. If you’re trying to watch a TV show in a location where Netflix hasn’t purchased those rights, the show won’t be on your Netflix library.
To get around this you need to use methods that unblock Netflix. The good news is VPNs are a good way to get around this and watch any Netflix library anywhere in the world. However, someone using a VPN to watch Netflix outside their home location breaches the copyright and licensing agreements Netflix has with its partners. And these sorts of breaches can result in the streaming service getting heavily fined.
Netflix doesn’t want this to happen, so it has started adopting measures to block VPNs from accessing its service. These blocks are what is causing VPN not working issues.
Does Netflix work with a VPN?
Yes, Netflix stills works with a VPN however you need to use a VPN that can get around Netflix’s VPN blocking techniques. This means not just any VPN will work with Netflix. You need to use a Netflix VPN.
This means you need a VPN with fast, dedicated servers all over the world, you need a safe VPN that offers a 100% secure connection, a VPN that uses a fast and secure protocol and most importantly has measures in place to prevent all of its IP addresses getting blocked by Netflix.
A good VPN for Netflix meets all these criteria.
We test VPNs and we’ve found the very best ones for watching Netflix anywhere in the world areExpressVPN ($6.67/month)andNordVPN ($3.19/month).
We consider these the best Netflix VPNs for a number of reasons but the main one is they both play a game of cat and mouse with Netflix. If Netflix manages to identify an IP address provided by either of these VPNs, bothExpressVPN andNordVPN will close that IP address and open a new unblocked one for you to use.
This will ensure you can watch Netflix with a VPN reliably anywhere in the world. And you won’t come across issues with Netflix not working with VPN again.
Netflix not working with VPN: FAQs
Q: Why isn’t my VPN working with Netflix?
Answer: Netflix employs sophisticated technology to detect and block VPNs, so if your VPN isn’t working, it’s likely that Netflix has identified and blocked the IP address provided by your VPN service.
Q: Can Netflix ban my account for using a VPN?
Answer: While Netflix’s terms of use discourage the use of VPNs to access content outside of your region, there have been no widespread reports of the service banning users for VPN use. However, they may restrict access to content until you disconnect from the VPN.
Q: What can I do if Netflix blocks my VPN?
Answer: If Netflix blocks your VPN, you can try disconnecting and reconnecting to get a new IP address, or contact your VPN’s customer support for assistance. Some VPNs offer specific servers that can bypass Netflix’s restrictions.
Q: Are there any VPNs that consistently work with Netflix?
Answer: Yes, some VPNs are known to work more consistently with Netflix, often because they regularly update their server IPs to avoid detection. It’s best to check the latest reviews or forums for up-to-date information on which VPNs are currently effective. We recommend ExpressVPN ($6.67/month)andNordVPN ($3.19/month).
Q: How can I improve streaming quality when using a VPN with Netflix?
Answer: To improve streaming quality, ensure you’re using a VPN server that’s geographically close to you, and that your VPN service offers unlimited bandwidth and high-speed connections. Additionally, try to stream during off-peak hours when there’s less traffic.
Can I use a free VPN to watch Netflix?
Free VPNs are attractive choices when trying to secure your online connection or watch Netflix libraries in a different location. However, there are a number of reasons why we don’t recommend using a free VPN.
- Limited Security: Free VPNs often aren’t as secure as other VPNs. They don’t usually have strong encryption protocols, and some free VPNs have even been found logging user data. This means the VPN is collecting your online data and, in some cases, selling it to third parties. This compromises your online privacy and goes against the main reason for using a VPN in the first place.
- Feature restrictions: If you’re using a free VPN, you’ll probably come across limitations in regard to the features. There may be a limit on the number of servers you can access, there are often limits on the amount of data you can use with the VPN, and there have even been examples of reductions in speed. This can hamper the online experience and make streaming content or downloading files with the VPN difficult.
- Lack of customer support: VPNs can sometimes be tricky to navigate, and the best VPNs often have customer support to assist you when you’re having trouble. Free VPNs very rarely have customer support options.
- Limited server locations: If you’re using a VPN to watch a streaming service, it’s better to have more servers worldwide. Free VPNs often have severe limitations in regard to how many servers they have available. This can make it more difficult to access specific content it also means free VPNs are often slow VPNs that won’t work well with Netflix.
The VPN services we recommend for Netflix (2023)
1. ExpressVPN 🥇 $6.66/month
The fastest and most reliable streaming VPN of 2023
- ✔160+ IP addresses in 94+ countries
- ✔5 simultaneous devices
- ✔Live chat support
- ✔Over 3,000 servers
- ✔>80% connection speed
- ✔Unlimited bandwidth
ExpressVPN is highly regarded for its fast connection speeds, which is crucial for streaming Netflix content without buffering.
It offers a vast selection of servers across the globe, ensuring that users can access geo-restricted content from various regions. Additionally, ExpressVPN’s strong encryption protocols maintain user privacy, making it a secure option for streaming.
Its user-friendly interface across devices and platforms also makes it easy for viewers to switch between Netflix libraries with ease.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
2. NordVPN $3.19/month
An incredibly fast and trustworthy VPN
- ✔Over 5,000 servers worldwide
- ✔6 simultaneous devices
- ✔Reliable customer service
- ✔Fast NordLynx protocol
- ✔Cybersec ad and tracker blocker
- ✔Easy to use interface
NordVPN is another top choice for Netflix viewers due to its extensive network of servers, which includes over 5,000 options worldwide. This allows for reliable access to different Netflix regions.
NordVPN also prioritizes security with its Double VPN feature, which routes your connection through two separate VPN servers.
Moreover, its SmartPlay technology is designed to bypass geo-restrictions and VPN blocks, ensuring consistent access to Netflix content.
Read our full NordVPN review.
3. Private Internet Access $2.03/month
An affordable, reliable VPN
- ✔35,000 servers worldwide
- ✔Unlimited simultaneous devices
- ✔24/7 chat support
- ✔Servers in over 80 countries
- ✔MACE ad blocker included
- ✔Supports multiple protocols
Private Internet Access offers a robust VPN service with a large network of servers that can help in unblocking Netflix content.
PIA is known for its strong commitment to privacy, with a strict no-logs policy and open-source software for transparency.
While it may not be as fast as some other options, its reliability and security features make it a solid choice for streaming Netflix securely.
Read our full Private Internet Access review.
4. Ivacy $1.00/month
A trustworthy and affordable VPN
- ✔5700+ servers worldwide
- ✔10 simultaneous devices
- ✔24/7 customer support
- ✔Dedicated IP address option
- ✔Available on all major platforms
- ✔Great price
Ivacy VPN is recognized for its affordability and dedicated streaming servers, which are optimized for a service like Netflix.
It provides features like split tunneling, allowing users to route only their streaming traffic through the VPN, preserving speeds for other online activities.
Ivacy also offers a malware protection feature, adding an extra layer of security for users while they enjoy diverse Netflix libraries.
Read our full Ivacy review.
5. CyberGhost $2.19/month
A solid VPN package
- ✔Deloitte verified no logs policy
- ✔Servers in 91 countries
- ✔7 simulatenous devices
- ✔Proprietary NoSpy servers
- ✔Multiple protocol options
- ✔Split tunneling support
CyberGhost stands out with its user-friendly apps and the ability to connect up to seven devices simultaneously, making it a great option for households with multiple Netflix viewers.
It boasts dedicated streaming servers that are regularly optimized for Netflix, ensuring a smoother viewing experience.
CyberGhost also offers strong privacy protections, including an automatic kill switch and no-logs policy, to keep your streaming habits secure.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
Is watching Netflix with a VPN legal?
In most countries, using a VPN is legal. There are only a handful of countries (spot the authoritarianism link) where using a VPN is illegal; these are: China, Russia, Iran, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, North Korea, Iraq, Belarus, Turkmenistan, Egypt, Eritrea, Seychelles, Suriname, Namibia, Slovenia, Nicaragua and Tajikistan.
If you’re outside these countries and are using a VPN, you’re legally allowed to do so. However, it’s important to know that using a VPN with some streaming services may breach that service’s terms of use.
If you subscribe to a streaming service, you automatically accept its terms of use. If we look at Netflix’s terms of use, it states, “You may access the Netflix content primarily within the country in which you have established your account and only in geographic locations where we offer our service and have licensed such content.”And “You also agree not to circumvent, remove, alter, deactivate, degrade or thwart any of the content protections in the
Netflix service; use any robot, spider, scraper or other automated means to access the Netflix service… We may terminate or restrict your use of our service if you violate these Terms of Use or are engaged in illegal or fraudulent use of the service.”
This means, Netflix can stop your subscription and ban you from the streaming service if you try to access its content with a VPN turned on.
However, given the wide-spread use of VPNs, plus the many legitimate and legal use cases for VPNs, it’s fair to suggest that banning customers for using a VPN would be a heavy-handed and financially costly policy for Netflix (and other streaming services) to enforce.
If you’re trying to watch Netflix in a region where it does not traditionally operate or you’re trying to change the location of the Netflix library, you risk having your account banned. In theory. However, as the best VPNs for Netflix use military-grade encryption it is impossible for Netflix to trace where you’re physically accessing its content from.
There’s one final thing to note on the subject: Netflix has never banned anyone for using a VPN to access its service and using a VPN with Netflix is legal.
