How To Bypass Netflix VPN Blocks in 2024: Easy Fixes

Only a few VPNs still work with Netflix. The platform blocks VPNs because they can theoretically allow you to watch geo-restricted content. Still, Netflix blocks you even when you are only using a VPN to protect your data and stream locally available content.

After testing various methods for bypassing these unfair VPN blocks, I’ve compiled a list of possible workarounds for using a VPN with Netflix. The solution might be as simple as switching servers or trying a different browser. However, if my troubleshooting tips don't work, you need a premium VPN with advanced security features that can stop Netflix from detecting the VPN.

ExpressVPN is my go-to for bypassing Netflix VPN blocks, as it requires no configuration. Your VPN use is automatically hidden with obfuscation on all servers, plus it’s one of the fastest VPNs I've tested. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you’re not 100% happy. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN for Netflix >>

Why Do VPNs Get Blocked?

VPN blocks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. The most common causes of ISPs, broadcasters, and governments blocking VPNs are:

• Government censorship. Some countries block or limit access to certain websites and platforms. VPNs can theoretically help users bypass these restrictions, which leads some governments to block VPN traffic altogether.
• Licensing and regional agreements. Streaming platforms, like Netflix, have contracts with content providers that specify where certain content can be shown. To respect these agreements, Netflix blocks you from accessing libraries outside your designated region. You may see a variation of the following error codes (M7037-1111, M7111-5059, or M7111-1331-5059) and be temporarily blocked from accessing the service.
  Netflix immediately detected a free VPN I used for testing
• Network restrictions. Institutions, like schools and workplaces, often have policies to filter or monitor web content. For example, schools might block access to gaming sites, social media platforms, and VPNs.
• Copyright infringement. Authorities may also implement VPN blocks to prevent unlicensed downloading and copyright infringement.

Types of VPN Blocks

1. IP blocking

This is the most straightforward method. Here, a service or website will block traffic that originates from known VPN IP addresses. Sites and services often have an updated blocklist of IP addresses; if they detect that you're using one, you won't get access.

You can overcome this by using a VPN that frequently rotates IP addresses, like ExpressVPN. Another solution is getting a dedicated IP that only belongs to you; this helps you avoid blocklisting due to someone else’s activities.

2. Port blocking

VPN traffic often uses specific ports. By blocking or throttling these ports, VPNs can be rendered useless. For example, a website might block port 1194 for OpenVPN or port 1723 for PPTP. Premium VPNs often offer multiple security protocols and configuration options, so you can bypass port blocking by simply switching to a different port from your VPN’s protocol settings.

3. Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)

Network administrators can identify VPN traffic by looking at data packets passing through the network. If they detect VPN protocols or encryption signatures, they can block your connection. To prevent this, you can activate obfuscation to mask your VPN connection as regular internet traffic.

4. GPS-based blocking

Some websites and services use your device's GPS data to determine your location. If your GPS location and IP address don’t match, they block you. To prevent your location from being tracked, you can clear your GPS cache and block GPS on your device.

5. QoS filtering

To ensure quality of service (QoS), administrators can control how much bandwidth different applications or users can use. This can indirectly lead to VPN blocks by deprioritizing or limiting the bandwidth available to VPN traffic, resulting in slower connections or disrupting the VPN service altogether. To avoid this, you need a VPN with strong encryption and obfuscation.

14 Easy Fixes To Bypass VPN Blocks: The Ultimate Guide

1. Use a premium VPN

Premium VPN services, like ExpressVPN, often have advanced features designed to bypass VPN blocks. They frequently rotate IP addresses, use obfuscation techniques, and have thousands of servers, so you can always find a connection that works.

2. Switch to a different server

Netflix may have blocklisted the IP address of the server you’re connected to. In that case, you can try switching to a different server within your country. As long as the new server isn’t blocklisted as well, you should be able to watch your local Netflix library without issues.

3. Try a different browser

Certain browsers may have different security settings or plugins that interact uniquely with VPN traffic. For instance, a browser with more robust privacy features might mask your VPN use more effectively than a less secure one. I’ve had the best results with Google Chrome in Incognito mode.

4. Run OpenVPN on Port 443

Port 443 is the standard port for HTTPS traffic, which is commonly used for secure communication over the internet. Connecting to a VPN server that runs OpenVPN on port 443 masks your VPN activity. This is because most network administrators allow traffic on port 443, as blocking it would interfere with regular HTTPS traffic.

5. Use obfuscation

Obfuscation disguises your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making websites and services unaware you’re using one. In some VPN apps, this feature is labeled as Stealth VPN, and you can find it in the VPN’s protocol settings. However, ExpressVPN automatically obfuscates your traffic if you go with its default protocol settings.

6. Clear your cookies and cache

Many websites use tracking cookies to gather user information. If you’re browsing with a different IP within a short time frame, that might trigger security protocols on a website and get you blocked. However, you can easily prevent this by connecting to servers in your country or city. You need to do this anyway for watching Netflix, to avoid violating copyright laws and the platform’s T&C.

Below are the steps to clearing cookies and cache in Google Chrome:

• Open Privacy and security settings. Click the 3 dots next to your profile, select Settings, and choose Privacy and Security.
• Open Browsing data options. Click on Clear browsing data, then in the popup, set the time range to All time. Then, tick Browsing history, cookies and other site data, and Cached images and files.
• Click Clear Data. Chrome now doesn’t have any of your past browsing data stored.
• Reload the page. Try to load the page again to see if this did the trick.

In Safari, go to Preferences > Privacy > Manage website data and type Netflix in the search bar. Click Remove and restart Safari.

7. Disable IPv6 on your device

Netflix can detect your VPN use by reading your IPv6 data if your VPN only secures IPv4 traffic and neglects IPv6 traffic. If your device sends IPv6 requests outside the VPN tunnel, Netflix can detect a mismatch between the IPv6 and the IPv4 addresses. This is known as an IPv6 leak.

To avoid this, you need a VPN that supports IPv6 or can disable IPv6 traffic. All my recommended VPNs offer automatic IPv6 leak protection.

If your VPN can only tunnel IPv4 traffic over the IPv6 network stack, it is advisable to disable IPv6 temporarily. To do that on a Windows device, follow the steps below:

• Open Network and Internet settings. Open the search function on your Windows device and type Control Panel. Select Network and Internet settings.
• Go to Network and Sharing Center.
• Choose Change Adapter Settings. You can find this option in the left column.
• Open your network properties. Right-click on the network you’re using and click Properties.
• Disable IPv6. Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and click OK.
• Reload the page. Connect your VPN to a server in your country and load the page, e.g., Netflix, in your browser.

On Mac, simply go to System Preference > Network, and click Advanced. Click the TCP/IP tab, then next to IPv6, choose Off in the dropdown menu. Apply the changes.

8. Change VPN protocol

Certain VPN protocols are more difficult to detect and block than others. You can experiment with all available protocols until you find something that works. However, I do not recommend PPTP because it’s not as secure and may put your privacy at risk.

I found OpenVPN on port 443, WireGuard, and ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol to be the most effective at getting past VPN blocks.

9. Use a Smart DNS service

Many VPNs offer Smart DNS, which replaces the DNS address provided by your ISP with one for a different server. Smart DNS is usually designed with streaming in mind, plus it’s a bit faster than a standard VPN connection as it doesn't encrypt your traffic.

All the VPNs on my list offer Smart DNS (ExpressVPN calls it MediaStreamer). However, these services are usually limited to just a few countries, like the US and the UK. If you’re outside of those countries, you’ll have to use a regular local server to avoid breaking copyright laws while streaming Netflix.

10. Try using your computer

If the site or streaming service doesn’t work on your mobile device, game console, or smart TV, try switching to your computer. That’s because services like Netflix may force your device to use the DNS provided by your ISP, especially if you’re using Android or iOS. This can expose your VPN use. Alternatively, you can set up the VPN on your router instead of your streaming device or phone.

11. Use mobile data

If you’re on a WiFi network that blocks VPNs, like schools and workplaces, switching to mobile data is usually a simple and effective solution. Mobile data uses the infrastructure of the cellular provider, which usually doesn't have the same specific restrictions as a local WiFi network.

12. Get a dedicated IP address

A dedicated IP address is exclusively yours, reducing the likelihood of being flagged by automatic blocklists used by streaming services. By having a unique IP, you sidestep the common pitfalls of shared IPs, like CAPTCHAs and access denials, making your online experience smoother and more private.

13. Check if your network admin is blocking Netflix

Sometimes the issue isn't with Netflix but with your local network, particularly in workplaces or schools where access to streaming services may be restricted. If you suspect this is the case, try using mobile data or changing the network settings if you’re the admin.

14. Contact customer support

If none of the above works, contact your VPN's customer support. Premium VPNs offer 24/7 live chat support and email. The customer service representatives should have an up-to-date list of working solutions, like the best server in your country that reliably works with Netflix.

Best VPNs for Bypassing VPN Blocks — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Automatically Disguises VPN Traffic to Easily Get Around Netflix Blocks

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

All ExpressVPN's servers are obfuscated, making your VPN traffic appear as a regular HTTPS connection. I simply used its default settings and didn’t run into any errors. While testing ExpressVPN from the US, I was able to stream US Netflix with all the local servers I tried. My colleagues in the UK, Canada, and Australia reported a similar experience with their local Netflix libraries.

We had no trouble watching Netflix using ExpressVPN’s US servers

ExpressVPN’s compatibility with Netflix can also be attributed to its regular server maintenance and IP updates. If a streaming platform detects an ExpressVPN IP and blocks it, the VPN already has many more working IPs waiting for you. The VPN also uses robust leak protection and Private DNS, so I was never blocked due to data leaks.

You can watch Netflix safely on devices like FireStick, Apple TV, and Android TV, for which ExpressVPN has native apps. Also, by installing ExpressVPN on your router using its custom firmware, you can stream Netflix on any device connected to your home network, even those incompatible with VPNs, like gaming consoles and older smart TV models.

The only minor con is that the VPN is slightly more expensive than others on this list. However, ExpressVPN offers generous discounts throughout the year — I saved 82% on my long-term subscription and got 3 months of service for free. All plans are supported by a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can easily get a full refund when canceling via 24/7 live chat. I got my money paid back into my bank account after 3 days.

Useful Features

• Lightway protocol. ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway is faster than most other VPN protocols. I tested a nearby server and my speed dropped from 118.1Mbps to 114.03Mbps. This let me watch Grey's Anatomy on Netflix in HD without interruption.
• Unlimited bandwidth. You can browse, stream, and download as much as you want without data restrictions.
• 8 simultaneous connections. You can use ExpressVPN on all your devices under one account. I streamed Crunchyroll from the US on several devices at once and experienced no performance issues.

2. CyberGhost — Dedicated Streaming Servers To Reliably Watch Netflix With a VPN

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost offers dedicated Netflix streaming servers in many countries. If you’re in one of those locations, this makes it easy to find a reliable connection for streaming your local Netflix in HD. When I tested its Netflix US-optimized server from the US, I had no problem watching US-exclusive titles.

Streaming servers are slightly faster than the regular servers

Similarly to ExpressVPN, its intuitive interface makes CyberGhost straightforward to use, even if you’re new to VPNs. When you expand the menu, you’ll see the list of all available servers. You can choose your country from there or click For Streaming to see all its optimized servers. I connected to its Netflix US server with just 2 clicks.

One drawback is that the monthly plan is expensive and only has a 14-day money-back guarantee. However, when choosing a long-term plan, you can get CyberGhost for only $2.03/month. Additionally, you can use the VPN on up to 7 devices simultaneously.

Its extended subscriptions are also backed by a generous money-back guarantee, so you can use CyberGhost free for 45 days. If you don’t like it, you can get a full refund. I requested a refund over 24/7 live chat. The agent asked for brief feedback about the app and then approved my request. I had my money back in my PayPal wallet within 5 days.

Useful Features

• Dedicated IP addresses. To minimize the risk of getting flagged and blocked, you can get a dedicated IP address for a small extra fee. The dedicated IPs are available in countries like the US, Germany, France, and the UK.
• Excellent speeds. During my tests on CyberGhost’s nearby servers, I experienced an average speed of 116.77Mbps — only slightly slower than my baseline connection of 123.31Mbps.
• DNS and IP leak protection. CyberGhost protects against accidental data leaks, keeping your sensitive data (like your real IP) hidden from third-party exposure.

3. NordVPN — Specialized Technology To Stop Netflix from Detecting Your VPN

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's Meshnet lets you turn a device into a VPN server. For example, I set it up so that the traffic from all my devices gets routed through my PC’s IP address. This can help avoid blocks by Netflix and other streaming services like Amazon Prime Video by always using the same known IP address.

It also offers unlimited data and fast servers to watch local Netflix for hours without buffering. From the US, I tested one of NordVPN’s New York servers and got a speed of 105Mbps — my baseline was 122.89Mbps. This let me binge-watch Twin Peaks in 4K. Episodes loaded within 2 to 3 seconds. For the best performance, I recommend using the NordLynx protocol, as it was the fastest NordVPN security protocol I tested.

Each local server tested from the US worked with Netflix

One downside is that the VPN admits it might share data with foreign governments if requested. However, NordVPN follows a strict no-logs policy, so what you do online remains private.

Long-term plans are affordable at $2.99/month, and you can try NordVPN before committing by using its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're unsatisfied with the service, getting a refund using 24/7 live chat or email is simple. I got my money reimbursed to my credit card within a week.

Useful Features

• Dedicated IP addresses. For a small extra fee, you can get a dedicated IP address, just like with CyberGhost. I got one in my country, and it worked well with Netflix during my tests, plus I encountered no CAPTCHAs.
• Easy to use apps. The VPN has very intuitive apps for different operating systems and devices. To connect to a server, just drop a pin on its interactive map or use the search bar.
• SmartPlay Technology. This is a secure proxy service that works with over 400 streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and others.

5 Advanced Ways To Fix a Blocked VPN

1. Set up a manual VPN connection

Certain networks or platforms obstruct VPNs by focusing on recognized VPN applications. By establishing a manual VPN connection, you're not dependent on an app that can be quickly identified and blocked. The following is a straightforward, step-by-step guide to assist you in setting up a manual VPN connection:

1. Go to your settings. Open your device's network settings or network preferences. Look for the option to add a new VPN connection or configure a VPN.
2. Select the VPN protocol you want to use. Manual setups allow you to choose specific ports and protocols. If a network is blocking common VPN ports (e.g., 1194 for OpenVPN), you can manually configure your connection to use a different, less commonly blocked port, like 443.
3. Enter the necessary VPN server details. These typically include the server address or hostname, authentication information (such as username and password), and any additional settings required by your VPN provider.
4. Click save. Save the settings and exit the network settings or preferences menu.
5. Connect. Click on the VPN connection to establish a connection to the VPN server.
6. The VPN now protects your device. You'll see this indicated by an icon, notification, or status message. To disconnect, simply go back to the VPN settings, click the disconnect button, or toggle the connection off.

However, manual configuration requires considerable effort and time investment. The easiest and quickest way is to use a reliable VPN, like ExpressVPN. A good VPN comes with advanced security and encryption, making it extremely difficult for sites to detect and block.

2. Tor Browser

Tor is a free browser that redirects your traffic through random servers so you can access websites anonymously. However, it’s not intended for streaming, plus it’s mostly slow and doesn’t guarantee 100% anonymity. For maximum privacy and security, consider combining the Tor Browser with a VPN that supports the Tor Network.

3. Shadowsocks (SOCKS5 Proxy)

Shadowsocks is a secure proxy protocol designed to facilitate encrypted communication over a network. It transfers data packets between your device and a server using a technique called "SOCKS5 proxy" to camouflage the nature of the traffic. This can help you evade detection by networks that implement VPN blocks based on traffic patterns or data signatures.

While a VPN encrypts all your internet traffic, Shadowsocks only covers the data exchanged between your device and its designated proxy server. Once the data reaches the proxy server and is forwarded to its final destination on the internet, the encryption is no longer applied. Luckily, some VPN providers, such as Private Internet Access (PIA), offer the option to use a SOCKS5 proxy within their software.

4. SSL Tunneling

You can use an SSL connection to encrypt your VPN traffic, making it harder for websites to detect and block your VPN usage. This method works by encapsulating your VPN data within an SSL protocol, making it appear as regular HTTPS traffic to network filters. Contact your VPN provider for help setting it up, as it can get complicated.

5. SSH Tunnel

An SSH tunnel is a method of securing internet traffic by encapsulating it within an SSH (Secure Shell) connection. Essentially, it forwards network traffic from your device to a server through an encrypted SSH protocol, commonly used for secure file transfers and remote server logins. An SSH connection is less likely to be blocked since it’s a standard networking protocol used for secure administration and communication.

To set up an SSH tunnel, you need to:

1. Establish an SSH connection with a server in your region.
2. Configure your device or browser to use the SSH Tunnel as a proxy.
3. Redirect your traffic through the remote server.

However, using SSH tunnels may cause a slowdown in browsing speed, so it's not ideal for streaming or torrenting. If you want to try this method, contact your VPN provider for help with the setup process. They can guide you through the necessary steps to configure SSH tunnels properly.

FAQs on How To Bypass VPN Blocks

What is a VPN blocker?

A VPN blocker is a technology used by websites to detect and block traffic coming from VPN services. If a website is blocking you, it’s helpful to determine which type of VPN block you’re dealing with first to implement the best solution. Websites usually use this technology to enforce geo-restrictions or comply with licensing agreements. Before trying to bypass VPN blocks, consult your local regulations to avoid legal issues.

How do I know a website has detected my VPN?

When a website detects your VPN, you may see error messages or warnings mentioning the use of a proxy or VPN service. You probably won't be able to use the site. If a website detects your VPN use, try these tips for bypassing VPN blocks. This includes simple adjustments like using a different protocol or switching servers.

Why does Netflix block VPNs?

Netflix blocks VPNs to prevent viewers from streaming content unavailable in their country. For many shows and films, Netflix only holds distribution rights for a few select countries. However, you might be unfairly blocked trying to watch your local Netflix library simply because the platform detected the VPN.

Netflix works so hard to fight VPN use due to pressure from copyright holders. Copyright holders don’t receive any revenue when their content is streamed from an unlicensed location. So, Netflix uses geoblocks and anti-VPN mechanisms to uphold licensing deals.

Instead of blocking you, Netflix sometimes shows you Original content when it detects VPN use. Netflix Original content are titles to which the company usually owns global distribution rights, so they can be viewed in every Netflix library.

Is using a VPN with Netflix legal, or will I get banned for using one?

Using a VPN with Netflix is legal in most countries and Netflix usually doesn’t ban users for using one. However, the company’s Terms of Service state that you should only stream Netflix content within the country you have established your account. To safely watch your local Netflix, find a VPN with servers in your country.

Theoretically, you can use a VPN to access any Netflix library, like Netflix US, but this is copyright infringement. While unlikely, Netflix reserves the right to terminate accounts that use technology to access content outside of the intended region. Still, the common repercussion is simply being blocked from viewing the content rather than account termination. Instead, it goes after the VPN providers and blocks their IP addresses.

The only exceptions are restrictive countries (like China and Saudi Arabia) where VPN use is heavily regulated or banned altogether. It can be illegal to use one in such countries. We don’t condone illegal activities, so please check your country’s local laws regarding VPN/site use to avoid facing consequences.

Can I bypass Netflix VPN blocks with a free VPN?

It’s very unlikely since most free VPNs have small server networks and don't have obfuscation. In addition, they usually have slow speeds and data restrictions (usually only 1 or 2 GB per month), making it impossible to stream Netflix for long. A premium VPN with a money-back guarantee is a more reliable option.

On top of this, many free VPNs can be dangerous — some have untrustworthy privacy policies, while others have weak security because they don't have the means to upgrade their software often enough. Some free VPNs also come packaged with malware that can harm your device.

Will a VPN help me bypass Netflix password-sharing restrictions?

NordVPN offers a feature called Meshnet that could theoretically get around Netflix's Password-sharing ban. You can use Meshnet to connect two devices so that both have the same IP address, so it appears they’re in the same location. However, vpnMentor is against this. Still, NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for streaming Netflix without interruptions.

Can a VPN bypass blocked ports?

Yes, many VPNs can bypass blocked ports. However, this depends on the flexibility of your VPN and the configuration of the blocking firewalls. For example, if a network blocks the standard HTTP port (80), a VPN can encapsulate your traffic in HTTPS (443), commonly left open for secure web browsing.

Does every streaming service block VPNs?

No, but many of the major ones do, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. However, there are still a few VPNs that can bypass VPN blocks, so you can keep your data safe while streaming.

Bypass Netflix VPN Blocks in Minutes

There are ways to stop Netflix from detecting your VPN. This includes simple fixes like activating obfuscation, and complex solutions like creating an SSL tunnel. However, the easiest and most reliable option is to use a VPN tested to work with Netflix in 2024.

I recommend ExpressVPN, as it consistently works with Netflix without issues. It offers impressive speeds for streaming in 4K and secures your traffic with military-grade encryption. Plus, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN without risk. If you don’t like it, you can get a full refund.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for bypassing VPN blocks...

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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