Have you ever noticed a specific TV show or movie being advertised by Netflix on another platform, but you fail to find it when you log into your Netflix account? What happens is that Netflix always has a different library of movies and TV shows for every country. If it is available and active in your country, it will have a customized library that is accessible by visitors from your country.
This restriction is actually in all the video on demand providers. But since Netflix is the number one streaming service in the world, it raised concerns when you need to access specific content. But some people use VPN to get through the blocked Netflix walls so that they can enjoy all the available movies and TV shows. So, is it illegal to use a VPN with Netflix? That is what we will be discussing in this article.
The Ban
First off, Netflix had started prohibiting proxy use on its website. This was in early 2016. Whenever anyone would use access the website with a proxy, the website would prompt “You seem to be using an adblocker or proxy.” This was a frustrating experience for many people using VPNs. Netflix used to block people using proxies and VPNs on their website. However, things have changed over time.
During this period, Netflix officially offended VPN users from all around the world. They didn’t allow proxy or VPN users to get through the geo-restrictions. But since Netflix is a world leading service, it needs clients from every corner of the globe. It has licensing deals in different countries around the world.
If most people are experiencing the geo-restrictions whenever they try to access Netflix, things won’t turn out good for the streaming company. Even some countries like Canada and Australia have restricted Netflix libraries. It is only the US that has the best Netflix version and a full library. The only way you can get through this and enjoy the best Netflix version is to use a VPN.
Why am I ‘Restricted?
Why is it that whenever you log in to Netflix official website, you will always have access to the limited library? What happens when you log in to the official Netflix website is that you will automatically be redirected to the site of the country you are accessing from.
This will happen even if you created your account in a different country. In most cases, Asian subscribers tend to pay less compared to American and European subscribers. The reason for this is that most Asian subscribers will have limited library access. The IP address that you are accessing Netflix from will determine whether or not you can watch everything on Netflix or not.
But is it Legal to Use VPN with Netflix?
Yes, you can only get past the geo-restrictions and enjoy your Netflix streaming when you use a VPN. But the main question and point of concern are if it is legal to do so. A quick answer to that is yes. It is legal to use VPN with Netflix. You will not be doing any illegal activity when you use a VPN to access Netflix.
Nonetheless, some counties tend to ban VPNs too many times. In this case, it might be considered illegal to use a VPN. Not with Netflix, but in that country specifically.
So, it is not illegal to watch Netflix through the VPNS. Nevertheless, the streaming company doesn’t always encourage people to use VPN. It doesn’t restrict the use of proxies and VPN either. But it encourages people to use the service based on their location. If you want to use a VPN, it is in your own will to do so.
So Which is the Best VPN for Netflix?
There are a few best VPN services for Netflix that can help you watch all the media content without worrying about the common restrictions. The best providers available are those that assure you of enough security as you access Netflix. Plus, the provider must put in place protocols that avoid being detected by Netflix though these will not always work all the time.
Once in a while, the VPN you are using might fail to offer total protection when accessing Netflix. Here, you might get caught by Netflix. The streaming company will detect that you are using a VPN, and there you will receive a proxy error. The best way to be safe and prevent being detected by Netflix is to switch the servers occasionally whenever you are accessing Netflix from a restricted area.
For that, a good VPN provider must have more than one server to let you access Netflix. You simply have to access the VPN’s main menu and select the server of your choice. Since Netflix doesn’t offer full library to most countries, ensure that the VPN has servers in the US and Europe. This way, you can be sure of getting the best by accessing the online library.
Don’t just focus on security. Instead, ensure that the provider has fast connections with their servers. You will be streaming HD content on Netflix, so you need to have a server that will be fast enough with its connections.
If the provider of your choice is too expensive, then you can opt for a more affordable VPN that doesn’t compromise on the service delivery. However, it is better to pay a little more money but be sure of getting the best services from a VPN provider.
Don’t forget that the VPN provider you choose must have a good track record with its clients. Also, they must be available whenever you need their help. Avoid working with unknown brands whenever you are looking for a VPN provider. If you have never heard of a specific provider, make sure that you do in-depth research and only choose it if people are talking positively about them. Other than that, stick to the renowned and reputable providers.
Remember that watching Netflix content from anywhere needs you to unblock it with a good VPN. Netflix easily blocks some VPNs, so ensure that you go for the right VPN for Netflix.
