Netflix VPN Ban: This guide explains how to bypass Netflix’s VPN block on all devices, including FireStick, Android TV, smartphones, and desktops. Netflix offers different content libraries depending on the country you’re in. For example, the US library has one of the largest selections, while other countries may have much smaller catalogs. These restrictions are due to Netflix’s geo-blocking policies. To access content from other regions, you typically need a VPN. However, Netflix actively detects and blocks many VPN servers, making it challenging to bypass these restrictions. Most VPN providers have been impacted by Netflix’s anti-VPN measures.
Only a few premium VPNs can reliably bypass Netflix’s VPN blocks. Even then, you might encounter error messages like “Pardon the interruption error D7037-1111” or “M7111-5059” when using a VPN. Thankfully, by using a trusted premium VPN, you can avoid these blocks and enjoy uninterrupted Netflix streaming. This guide will walk you through why Netflix blocks VPNs and how you can successfully bypass these restrictions.
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Quick Steps to Bypass Netflix VPN Block
If you want a fast solution, follow these steps:
- Subscribe to and install a reliable premium VPN—ExpressVPN is highly recommended.
- Connect to a VPN server located in a country with a large Netflix library, such as the United States.
- Open Netflix and start streaming your desired content from that region’s library.
Want me to rephrase more or add some tips on the best VPNs for Netflix?
Why Does Netflix Ban VPNs?
Netflix enforces VPN bans primarily because of licensing agreements, distribution rights, and various regulations. Apart from its own original content, Netflix acquires streaming rights from many third-party media companies. These licenses often restrict content availability to specific regions. To comply with these agreements, Netflix applies geo-blocks that limit what content viewers in each region can access. However, VPNs can bypass these geo-restrictions, making region-locked content accessible from anywhere. Content owners may view this as a violation of their licensing agreements with Netflix. To prevent such breaches, Netflix has launched efforts to detect and block VPN IP addresses.
How Does Netflix Detect VPN Usage?
Netflix uses several methods to identify VPN connections:
Shared VPN IP Addresses
Every device or service on the internet is assigned a unique IP address, which Netflix uses to identify users and their locations. Many VPN providers assign the same IP address to multiple users for privacy reasons. When Netflix notices unusually high traffic coming from a single IP address, it flags and blocks that IP as a likely VPN.
DNS Analysis
IP addresses are closely tied to DNS (Domain Name System) addresses, which help translate domain names into IPs. Your ISP provides both IP and DNS from the same server location. If your VPN changes your IP but your DNS requests still resolve through your original ISP (a DNS leak), Netflix detects this inconsistency and blocks the connection. This issue is common with free or unreliable VPNs.
Location Data
Your browser stores location data in its cache. If Netflix finds that your browser’s cached location doesn’t match the location indicated by your VPN’s IP address, it suspects VPN use. Similarly, if GPS is enabled and contradicts your VPN’s location, Netflix may block your access.
Best VPNS For Streaming Safely
1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN With the Fastest Speeds for Smooth Streaming
Best Feature
The fastest speeds we tested, ensuring you can stream, browse, game, and torrent without interruptions
Server Network
3,000 servers in 105 countries give you fast worldwide connections
Simultaneous Device Connections
Up to 8, so you can protect your compatible devices under one subscription
Works With
Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, DAZN, and more
2. NordVPN — Best VPN With the Fastest Speeds for Smooth Streaming
Best Feature
High security features and fast speeds for a reliable connection
Server Network
5,400 servers in 60 countries for improved accessibility and connection speeds
Simultaneous Device Connections
Up to 6 devices, suitable for protecting multiple devices simultaneously
Works With
Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, DAZN, and more
Best VPNs to Bypass Netflix’s VPN Block
To successfully bypass Netflix’s VPN restrictions, you need a dependable, premium VPN. Only a few providers consistently avoid Netflix’s detection and let you stream without triggering the “Pardon the interruption” error. Choosing the right VPN for Netflix can be tricky, which is why I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 VPNs that reliably unblock Netflix libraries worldwide.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is our top choice for bypassing Netflix’s VPN restrictions. It consistently stays ahead of Netflix’s efforts to block VPN traffic, making it highly reliable for streaming.
Beyond its excellent ability to unblock Netflix, ExpressVPN covers all your online privacy and security needs. It comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, offering great value.
Optimized Server Network
ExpressVPN boasts a global network of servers in 105 countries, optimized for high-speed streaming with unlimited bandwidth. Using its proprietary Lightway VPN protocol, it minimizes buffering and ensures smooth Netflix playback. Whether you want to access Netflix libraries in the UK, Japan, or anywhere else, ExpressVPN has you covered.
This VPN also bypasses geo-blocks on other popular streaming platforms like HBO, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, and sports channels. Plus, it supports torrenting and gaming.
Frequent IP Updates
If you encounter Netflix’s “VPN detected” or proxy errors, simply switch to another server. ExpressVPN regularly refreshes and expands its pool of IP addresses, helping you avoid blocks. It also features private DNS servers on every connection, providing solid DNS leak protection.
Wide Compatibility
ExpressVPN works seamlessly across nearly all devices—including smartphones, computers, routers, and web browsers. For devices without native VPN support, it offers MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) as an alternative. A single subscription lets you connect up to 8 devices simultaneously. Their customer support team is available 24/7 through live chat and email ticketing. Additionally, there’s an extensive FAQ and knowledge base for self-help.
2. IPVanish
IPVanish ranks as one of the most dependable VPNs for bypassing Netflix, coming in just behind ExpressVPN. So, what makes IPVanish a great choice for Netflix streaming?
Fast Streaming Servers
Netflix demands high-speed internet for smooth HD playback and minimal buffering. IPVanish delivers with its fast servers worldwide, boasting average speeds of around 277 Mbps.
Extensive Server Network
Since Netflix is available globally, a VPN with a wide server network is essential. IPVanish offers over 2,000 servers across 75 locations, including the US, Europe, India, Australia, and Africa—ensuring you can always find a server to match your streaming needs.
Unlimited Device Connections
For households with multiple Netflix users, IPVanish supports unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can stream on as many devices as you want without restrictions.
Strong DNS Leak Protection
Netflix often detects VPNs due to DNS leaks or IP-DNS mismatches. IPVanish’s robust DNS leak protection keeps your DNS requests secure, maintaining your internet traffic and IP address privacy on a private network.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA is a US-based VPN service and a top contender for bypassing Netflix’s US content restrictions.
Wide Server Coverage & Trial
With hundreds of servers in at least 91 countries, PIA offers broad access to global Netflix libraries. Plus, you can test it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Device Compatibility & Unlimited Connections
PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections across all supported devices—including FireStick, Android TV, PC, Mac, and smartphones—letting your entire household stream Netflix without limits.
Dedicated IP Addresses
PIA provides dedicated static IP addresses exclusively for you. This is ideal if you want to stream Netflix content from specific regions. For example, to access UK shows, you can select a dedicated IP from London servers tailored for that purpose.
Reliable Speeds & Unlimited Bandwidth
While not the fastest VPN, PIA offers steady download and upload speeds suitable for HD streaming. It also provides unlimited bandwidth, ensuring secure, uninterrupted streaming across all your devices.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a widely used VPN known for reliably unblocking Netflix without detection issues. It’s ideal for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and safeguarding your online privacy. Unlike many premium VPNs that offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, CyberGhost extends this to 45 days on its long-term plans.
Streaming-Optimized Servers
CyberGhost provides dedicated servers designed specifically for streaming Netflix libraries in countries like the US, France, Germany, and more. Besides Netflix, CyberGhost supports streaming on platforms such as BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and Disney Plus. With over 9,000 servers spread across more than 100 countries, CyberGhost offers an extensive IP pool that reduces the risk of IP blocks. Its network delivers fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth, and it also has servers optimized for safe torrenting.
Dedicated IP Options
If you encounter issues with streaming profiles, CyberGhost offers dedicated IP addresses (at an additional cost) in countries like the US, UK, Germany, Canada, and France, helping to avoid IP bans.
Device Compatibility
CyberGhost has intuitive apps compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and game consoles. It also includes Smart DNS and DNS leak protection features. You can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously on one subscription.
5. Surfshark
Surfshark is a premium VPN based in the Netherlands, known for its advanced encryption and strong privacy features. It’s one of the few VPNs capable of bypassing Netflix’s VPN restrictions across multiple regions.
Effective Geo-Unblocking
Netflix uses one of the toughest firewalls, blocking most VPNs. While some VPNs can only unblock select regions, Surfshark’s sophisticated technology lets you access Netflix libraries in the US, UK, Netherlands, Germany, France, and Japan seamlessly.
High Speeds for Buffer-Free Streaming
Streaming geo-blocked content requires fast connections to avoid buffering or quality loss. Surfshark consistently delivers speeds averaging over 250 Mbps, ensuring smooth streaming.
Unlimited Device Connections
Surfshark stands out by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can use one subscription to unblock Netflix on all your compatible devices—whether smartphones, FireStick, smart TVs, or others. Additionally, Surfshark is budget-friendly compared to other premium VPNs and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Alternative Method to Bypass Netflix VPN Blocks: Smart DNS
Smart DNS is a popular alternative to bypass Netflix’s VPN restrictions. Instead of changing your IP address, a Smart DNS reroutes your DNS requests through a proxy server located in a supported region. Unlike VPNs, Smart DNS does not provide the security, privacy, or anonymity features that come with VPN subscriptions. If you want full protection, a trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN is the way to go. Most Smart DNS providers require you to register and link your IP address to their DNS servers, which prevents IP and DNS mismatches — a common cause of Netflix blocking VPNs. Since Smart DNS doesn’t change your IP or encrypt your traffic, it’s not meant for privacy or security purposes. However, because there’s no encryption overhead, it often delivers faster streaming speeds than VPNs.
Premium Smart DNS services are rarely blocked by Netflix because they typically use residential IP addresses on their proxy servers. You can often get Smart DNS included free with a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN. The trade-off is that these DNS services usually allow access to only one region. Dedicated Smart DNS providers offer multiple regions but usually charge extra. Smart DNS works on almost any internet-connected device without the need for app installation, making it very user-friendly. Still, if privacy and security are priorities, using a premium VPN is strongly recommended.
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How to Fix When Your VPN Can’t Bypass Netflix VPN Block
Even the best VPNs sometimes fail to bypass Netflix’s VPN restrictions. If you see an error message like “Looks like you’re using a VPN, proxy, or unblocker,” it means Netflix has detected and blocked your VPN connection. Here are some tips to fix this issue and get your VPN working with Netflix again: Your VPN masks your IP address with the server’s location, allowing you to access region-locked content. However, if your device’s location services (like GPS) are enabled, they may reveal your true location. By default, your GPS location overrides the VPN’s IP-based location, so Netflix detects a mismatch and blocks access. To prevent this, disable your device’s location services before streaming Netflix with a VPN.
Clear Netflix Browser Cookies for Better VPN Performance
Cookies save various data like your preferences and geolocation. If you frequently switch VPN locations, accumulated cookies can prevent your VPN from bypassing Netflix’s blocks effectively.
To ensure smooth streaming, clear your Netflix cookies before changing your VPN server. Here’s how to do it on popular browsers:
- Microsoft Edge: Click the Menu icon > Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Manage and delete cookies and site data > See all cookies and site data > Search for “Netflix” and select Remove all shown.
- Google Chrome: Click the Menu icon > Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > View permissions and data stored across sites > Search “Netflix” and click Clear all data.
- Mozilla Firefox: Click the Menu icon > Settings > Privacy & Security > Manage Data under Cookies and Site Data > Search “Netflix,” click Remove All Shown, then click Save Changes.
Use a Desktop Browser Instead of the Netflix App
The Netflix app often uses your ISP’s DNS servers instead of your VPN’s, making it easier for Netflix to detect and block your VPN. For the best results when streaming with a VPN, use a desktop browser. Using incognito or private browsing mode can help avoid the need to clear cookies every time you switch VPN servers.
Try a Different VPN Server or Protocol
If Netflix has blocked all IP addresses linked to your current VPN server, you’ll get blocked as well. This is common with VPNs that have smaller server networks. To fix this, switch to a different server within your VPN provider’s network. Premium VPNs usually have large, regularly updated server networks to avoid these blocks. Also, try changing the VPN protocol you’re using. Protocols like WireGuard, Lightway, and NordLynx are known for their speed and ability to bypass Netflix VPN restrictions, making them great choices for streaming in HD or 4K.
Check for VPN Leaks
Your VPN won’t successfully bypass Netflix blocks if it leaks your real IP or DNS information. Leaks expose your actual location, causing Netflix to restrict access to your region’s content.
Always use a premium VPN that provides leak protection and private DNS features. To test if your VPN is leaking:
- Disconnect your VPN and visit an IP leak test site. Note your IP address and DNS location.
- Connect to a VPN server and check again.
- If your IP address is the same in both steps, your VPN is leaking.
- If your IP changes but the DNS doesn’t, your VPN is leaking DNS.
- If both IP and DNS change, your VPN connection is secure.
Contact Your VPN’s Customer Support
If none of the above solutions work, reach out to your VPN provider’s customer support. Most premium VPN services offer specialized help for Netflix unblocking issues. They can recommend the best servers or settings to help you bypass Netflix’s VPN restrictions effectively.
Why Free VPNs Are Not Recommended for Netflix
Free VPNs rarely bypass Netflix’s VPN blocks successfully due to limited server networks and shared IPs that Netflix often blocks. They tend to have slow speeds and bandwidth caps, which cause buffering and poor streaming quality. From a security standpoint, free VPNs generally offer weak encryption, lack essential features like leak protection or kill switches, and often display intrusive ads that could carry malware.
Moreover, free VPN providers commonly log your data and sell it to third parties to stay operational, compromising your privacy. They can also be more easily forced to share your data with authorities. For reliable Netflix streaming and online privacy, investing in a premium VPN is the safest and most effective choice.
FAQs
Does Netflix block VPNs?
Yes, Netflix actively blocks VPNs due to licensing and copyright agreements. These agreements often restrict where certain shows and movies can be streamed, prompting Netflix to prevent users from accessing content outside their designated region.
Does Netflix care if I use a VPN?
Absolutely. Netflix attempts to block VPN use because it allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access different regional libraries. This can violate the licensing terms Netflix has agreed to with content providers in different countries.
Why am I only seeing Netflix Originals?
If you’re only seeing Netflix Originals, it likely means Netflix has detected your VPN or proxy. Since Netflix owns global streaming rights to its original content, that’s all it will show when a VPN is detected. In some cases, you may even receive an error message like “Pardon the interruption” related to proxy use.
Can Netflix ban me for using a VPN?
No, Netflix will not ban or suspend your account for using a VPN. However, it may limit your access to only Netflix Originals or prompt you to disable the VPN before continuing. I’ve used VPNs with Netflix often and have never faced a ban.
Do any VPNs still work with Netflix?
Yes, several premium VPNs still work reliably with Netflix. Services like ExpressVPN, IPVanish, CyberGhost, PIA, and Surfshark continue to bypass Netflix’s VPN detection thanks to their large server networks, regular IP updates, and streaming-optimized features.
Final Thoughts
Netflix’s efforts to block VPN usage stem from content licensing obligations and aren’t likely to stop anytime soon. However, using a reputable VPN like ExpressVPN can help you bypass these restrictions and access global Netflix libraries. These VPNs are specifically designed to work around Netflix blocks, offer strong privacy features, and often come with a money-back guarantee. If you’re having trouble accessing content, the troubleshooting tips in this guide can help get you streaming again quickly.
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