How to Watch BBC iPlayer with ExpressVPN (EASY 2024)

BBC iPlayer offers tons of great content, but like many streaming platforms, it can be finicky when you try to watch it while using a VPN. So, you may find that BBC iPlayer won’t load when you have ExpressVPN connected.

The good news is it is possible to stream BBC iPlayer safely from anywhere with ExpressVPN — my team and I can verify this. We have been testing it with the platform for years. In most cases, it works automatically with the platform. However, in the rare case that it doesn’t, this guide will provide a few tips and tricks to help you get a fast, reliable connection so you can enjoy your favorite content without issues.

If you’re still considering getting a VPN, I can say that of all the VPNs we’ve tested with BBC iPlayer, ExpressVPN is my top pick. Not only does it provide reliable HD streaming connections in the UK, but it’s also very easy to use. So, even if you do run into any issues, it isn’t difficult to overcome them. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it with BBC iPlayer risk-free. 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.

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Already Have ExpressVPN but Can’t Stream on BBC iPlayer?

Platforms like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Amazon Prime restrict VPN servers. They regularly update their technology to blocklist IP addresses associated with VPNs.

Some VPNs, like ExpressVPN, do work with streaming sites. That said, no VPN is completely foolproof, so you can run into minor issues. Fortunately, it’s easy to solve most of the possible problems with ExpressVPN:

• Disconnect and reconnect the VPN. VPNs are like any other software in that regard — turning them off and on again solves most issues.
• Switch to a different VPN server. Servers can experience downtime and maintenance. Or, their IP addresses can be blocked by BBC iPlayer. Simply select another server.
• Clear your cache and cookies. Clearing your browser history can make sure that iPlayer doesn’t detect you’re using a VPN.
• Use an Incognito browser window. Another way to stop BBC iPlayer from peeking into your browser’s data is to use an incognito or private window. This is one area that even the best VPNs don’t cover, but a good browser’s incognito mode can complement ExpressVPN.
• Change the VPN protocol. ExpressVPN's high-speed Lightway protocol is perfect for buffer-free 4K streaming, but sometimes you need to switch. If encountering problems, try another protocol (like OpenVPN or WireGuard).
• Update the VPN. Keeping your VPN updated is crucial if you want to safely watch BBC iPlayer, as it frequently improves its methods to counter VPNs.
• Run a leak test. Data leaks can occur from various sources, not just browsers. Another frequent culprit is the WiFi extender. Run an online leak test to identify the root of the problem.
• Contact customer service. If none of the above seems to work, don’t hesitate to contact ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat for troubleshooting. They are very professional and experienced, meaning they’re likely to fix your issue.
• Switch to a different VPN. ExpressVPN is my top pick for BBC iPlayer. So, I suggest going through the above steps and contacting customer support if you have persistent issues. Still, alternatives like IPVanish and CyberGhost are also effective, offering fast UK networks and robust security tools.

Why Use ExpressVPN to Watch BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN’s server network can access BBC iPlayer (and other popular platforms) from anywhere in HD. All the servers are maintained to ensure uptime and to regularly update their IP addresses. Besides, ExpressVPN has 5 UK server locations. So, if you come across a server that isn’t working, you can always switch to a different one.

Our speeds were excellent while testing ExpressVPN’s servers in London. With the Lightway protocol, we averaged 97.54Mbps — only an 8% reduction of the base speeds. So, you can watch your favorite content on BBC iPlayer in UHD without buffering or playback issues. Besides, the VPN doesn’t impose any bandwidth limits, meaning there are no restrictions on how much you can stream.

Additionally, you can protect your streaming activities with ExpressVPN’s military-grade encryption. It’s possible to watch BBC iPlayer safely on public WiFi networks. Meanwhile, your ISP can’t see your traffic and reduce speeds for high-bandwidth activities, like streaming (ISP speed throttling).

The MediaStreamer functionality provided by ExpressVPN enables you to stream BBC iPlayer on virtually any device, even those not usually compatible with VPNs, such as an LG TV or Apple TV. For instance, we were able to stream BBC iPlayer on a smart TV just by entering a series of numbers on the device. It also provides a native app for Apple TV and custom router firmware for easy installation.

ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. When I tested the refund policy, the money was back in my account two days later.

The Best ExpressVPN Servers to Watch BBC iPlayer

When it comes to streaming, not all servers are created equal and some offer faster speeds than others. Thanks to the Lightway protocol you should always get great video quality but if you want to optimize your BBC iPlayer experience even further I’d suggest trying the East London, London, or Wembley servers first.

Your experience may vary, of course, so don’t forget to use ExpressVPN’s built-in speed tests to find the best server for you. If this is your first time doing something like that, here’s a basic framework for what speeds you need for your preferred video quality:

• 500 kbps to 1 Mbps speeds for 240p to 360p video quality.
• 1.5 Mbps to 3 Mbps for ~480p video quality.
• 5 Mbps for 720p HD video quality or better.
• 25 Mbps for Ultra HD 1080p or better quality.

FAQs on How to Watch BBC iPlayer with ExpressVPN

What’s the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service that reliably works with the BBC iPlayer. Your security is protected with AES 256-bit encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Additionally, ExpressVPN offers many fast UK servers for smooth UHD streaming from anywhere. Thanks to its straightforward apps and MediaStreamer feature, this VPN is convenient even for first-time VPN users.

Can I use a free VPN to watch BBC iPlayer?

There are many free VPNs out there but I’m yet to find one that’s good for watching BBC iPlayer or other streaming platforms. It’s much more reliable to use a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee. Free VPNs usually don’t have the necessary security features or reliable UK server networks to safely access BBC iPlayer while maintaining HD-friendly speeds.

Which VPN is the fastest?

A couple of VPNs usually switch places at the top in terms of speed but right now ExpressVPN is definitely the fastest VPN for streaming. The new Lightway protocol puts this service ahead of the competition. We watched a few shows and movies on BBC iPlayer buffer-free while using ExpressVPN, and the video quality never dropped.

How can I get a UK IP address?

You can get a British IP address with ExpressVPN in seconds. When you connect to any UK server, it routes your traffic and assigns you an IP address there. At the same time, your actual IP address is hidden and your connection is encrypted, allowing you to browse and stream privately.

Watch BBC iPlayer With ExpressVPN Today

Few VPNs can provide safe, HD access to BBC iPlayer from anywhere, but ExpressVPN is the best of the ones we’ve tested. With all other services, we always find at least a couple of issues or sub-par features, but everything we’ve seen from ExpressVPN is top-notch for streaming.

From the blazing-fast speeds and reliable UK servers to the military-grade security and user-friendly apps, ExpressVPN is my favorite choice to watch BBC iPlayer. Besides, you don’t have to put your money on the line. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, knowing it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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.