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Bypass Netflix Geo-Blocking with a VPN

Here's how you can unlock all your favorite shows on Netflix using a VPN

Bypass Netflix Geo-Blocking with a VPN
Mireia Fernández

Mireia Fernández

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Friday night has finally arrived and you’re ready to settle on your cozy couch, popcorn in hand, to enjoy a night of laughter with “Friends” or diving deep into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. However, things aren’t that easy. When you access Netflix, these titles are glaringly absent from the streaming services’ library. This is the world of geo-restrictions – invisible digital borders that dictate what you can and cannot watch based on where you are in the world. And we’re not just talking out about missing out on Central Perk’s latest gossip or Hogwarts’ enchanting escapades; it’s about being left in the lurch while everyone else raves about the mind-bending adventures in “Rick and Morty”, the noir vibes of “Cowboy Bebop“, the eerie charm of “Twin Peaks”, or the time-traveling intrigue of “Steins;Gate.”

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Complex license agreements and copyrights laws are the usual suspects that prevent us from enjoying the streaming services’ full library. But don’t despair, we have a solution to dodge these online inconveniences. VPN services such as PIA (Private Internet Access) and CyberGhost are here to save the day (and the night!). These aren’t ordinary tools but secret passageways to reach the unlimited content kingdom of Netflix. Using PIA or CyberGhost you can virtually relocate your Internet presence to a country where that show or movie you want to watch is available. Would you like to know how? Whether you’re aching for the nostalgic warmth of “Friends” or the magic adventures of “Harry Potter”, here’s how you can unlock Netflix with a VPN.

Why Shows and Movies Are Often Geo-Blocked

In the digital world, not all borders are geographical; some are virtual and ruled by licensing agreements and copyright laws. This is where the concept of geo-restrictions, or as it’s often termed, “geo-blocking”, comes into play. Imagine the Internet as a vast library of content, where every book (or in this case, show and movie) is locked behind doors that only open for certain keyholders, those being users from specific geographic locations. Does it sound familiar?

To give an easy example, a show like “Friends” might be readily available on Netflix in one country but completely absent in another. This discrepancy isn’t because Netflix prefers one audience over another but because the rights to stream a certain show in the geo-blocked country belong to another company or haven’t been secured at all. As a result, Netflix enforces geo-blocking to comply with these licensing terms, leading to the diverse and often frustrating landscape of content availability that users face.

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How to Remove Geo-Blocking and Watch Geo-Blocked Content

At its core, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool that creates a private, secure tunnel for your internet connection. Think of it as a protective cloak that hides your real location and makes your online activities invisible to any unwanted third party. When you connect to the internet through a VPN, your data travels through this secure tunnel before reaching the wider Internet, which offers two main benefits: enhanced security and privacy, and the ability to appear as if you’re accessing the Net from a different location.

When it comes to bypassing geo-restrictions, the latter benefit is what users find most valuable. A VPN allows you to choose a server located in a different country, effectively making your real location. For example, if you’re in Country A but the server you choose is in Country B, any website you visit will think you’re accessing it from Country B. This ability to change your IP address is how a VPN will help you bypass geo-blocking, granting you access to Netflix’s library of choice.

Introducing PIA and CyberGhost

In the quest to navigate the maze of geo-restrictions and unlock the treasure trove of global Netflix content, two champions emerge: PIA (Private Internet Access) and CyberGhost. These VPN services are not just gateways; they’re your personal guides through the digital landscape, each offering unique advantages to enhance your streaming journey.

PIA stands as one of the best VPN options if you’re looking for privacy and accessibility, offering an expansive network of servers worldwide. It’s a tool that not only grants you access to geo-blocked content like “Friends” and “Harry Potter” but also guards your digital footsteps with robust security measures. Think of PIA as your stealthy companion, navigating the shadows to bring you into the light of unrestricted entertainment.

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CyberGhost, on the other hand, is your easy-to-use VPN of choice, making the complex simple with its intuitive interface and optimized servers for streaming. It specializes in bypassing the barriers to your favorite shows and movies, ensuring a smooth, buffer-free experience. CyberGhost is like having a magical key that unlocks doors to hidden content realms, all while keeping you invisible to prying eyes.

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Why Choose PIA for Netflix Streaming

PIA (Private Internet Access) is a VPN service that not only opens the door to a world of content but does so with an unwavering commitment to your online privacy and a premium streaming experience. Here’s why PIA might just be the streaming companion you’ve been looking for.

  • Privacy and Security: If you’re worried about Privacy and Security, you can’t go wrong with PIA. With a strict no-logs policy, PIA ensures that your streaming habits and online activities are your business alone. Nothing you do online is recorded, much less stored, offering peace of mind that your digital footprint is invisible.
  • Speed and Performance: There’s nothing more frustrating than being in the climax of a thriller, only for buffering to kill the suspense. PIA addresses this with high-speed servers that are optimized for streaming, significantly reducing buffering and lag. 
  • Global Server Network: PIA offers an extensive network of servers spanning numerous countries around the globe. This global reach not only increases your chances of finding a fast and reliable connection but also means you can access a wider array of Netflix libraries.
  • Simultaneous Connections: In today’s connected world, it’s not uncommon to juggle multiple devices or to share streaming duties with family and friends. PIA understands this dynamic, allowing multiple simultaneous connections with a single account. 
  • Customization and Support: PIA allows you to tailor your VPN experience to your needs. Alongside this flexibility, PIA’s 24/7 customer support ensures that help is always on hand, whether you’re setting up for the first time or need assistance with advanced features.

Choosing PIA for Netflix streaming means opting for a service that values your privacy, elevates your viewing experience, and connects you to a world of content. With its blend of security, speed, global access, flexibility, and support, PIA stands out as a premier choice for users looking to enhance their Netflix streaming experience.

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The Netflix menu is shown on a screen in Pittsburgh, on Monday, Oct. 17, 2022. Netflix posted its third quarter results a few weeks before the company launches a cheaper version of its video streaming service that will include ads for the first time, a shift that the company is hoping will accelerate its growth again. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Why Choose CyberGhost for Netflix Streaming

CyberGhost emerges as a beacon for those seeking an uncomplicated yet powerful solution to bypass geo-restrictions and dive deep into the riches of Netflix’s content library. Here’s a closer look at why CyberGhost might be the key to unlocking an unparalleled streaming experience.

  • User-Friendly Interface: CyberGhost understands that not everyone is a tech wizard, offering a straightforward and intuitive interface that makes connecting to a VPN a breeze, even for beginners. With just a few clicks, you can find yourself immersed in the Netflix library of your choice, free from the hassle of complex setups or confusing options.
  • Optimized Servers for Streaming: CyberGhost boasts a large number of servers optimized specifically for various streaming services, including Netflix. These are engineered to ensure smooth playback, minimal buffering, and high-quality streaming performance. 
  • Dedicated IPs: One of the unique features CyberGhost offers is the option for a dedicated IP. This means you get a unique IP address that’s yours alone, reducing the likelihood of being flagged or blacklisted by streaming platforms. With it you’ll be sure not to face the dreaded “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” message.
  • Security Features: Beyond just unlocking content, CyberGhost places a high emphasis on safeguarding your online activities. It employs robust encryption and a suite of security features to protect your data and maintain your anonymity online. 
  • Customer Support and Trial Period: CyberGhost stands behind its service with responsive customer support and a generous trial period. This commitment allows you to explore all its features risk-free and ensures you have the support you need when you need it. 

Choosing CyberGhost for Netflix streaming is opting for a user-friendly, performance-optimized, and secure VPN solution. Its blend of easy navigation, streaming-focused servers, unique dedicated IP option, robust security, and supportive customer service makes it a top contender for those looking to elevate their Netflix viewing experience without the technical headaches.

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Is it Legal to Use a VPN to Avoid Geo-Blocking?

Yes, in most parts of the world, including countries like the UK, the US, and Japan, using a VPN is perfectly legal. These tools are widely used for various legitimate purposes, ranging from enhancing online privacy and security to accessing work networks remotely. However, it’s important to note that in countries where Internet usage is heavily regulated, such as North Korea or Turkmenistan, the use of VPNs may be restricted or outright illegal. These are exceptions rather than the norm, but they highlight the importance of being aware of and adhering to your local laws regarding VPN usage.

Will Netflix Ban my Account for Avoiding Geo-Restrictions?

No. According to Netflix’s terms of use, the company does reserve the right to restrict service or terminate accounts for violations of the service agreement, which includes using technology to access content outside of your country. However, in practice, Netflix primarily focuses on detecting and blocking VPN IP addresses rather than banning individuals.

However, it’s worth noting that Netflix uses all kinds of sophisticated technology to detect and block VPNs, which is why some VPN services are more reliable than others for accessing geo-restricted content. High-quality VPN providers, like PIA (Private Internet Access) and CyberGhost, continuously work to offer new IP addresses and improve their technology to stay ahead of Netflix’s detection efforts, providing more consistent access to geo-restricted content.

Beyond Geo-Restrictions: All of Netflix with PIA or CyberGhost

Geo-restrictions often stand as unwelcome gatekeepers, limiting access to a wealth of entertainment on platforms like Netflix. PIA (Private Internet Access) and CyberGhost emerge as powerful allies in this scenario, offering users the keys to unlock these gates and freely explore global content libraries, being two excellent choices to access all kinds of  series and movies without having to deal with licensing inconveniences.

With PIA‘s robust privacy protections, high-speed servers, and extensive global network, users gain not just access to restricted content but also the assurance of a secure and private streaming experience. CyberGhost complements this with its user-friendly interface, streaming-optimized servers, and unique features like dedicated IPs, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted access to your favorite shows and movies. Both services stand out for their commitment to user privacy, security, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions effectively, making them ideal choices for anyone looking to enhance their streaming experience.

Mireia Fernández

Mireia Fernández

Mireia Fernández es una apasionada del mundo de los videojuegos y las nuevas tecnologías cuya afición se remonta al MSX HB 501p de su niñez. Nacida y residente en Barcelona, Mireia lleva más de 10 años ejerciendo como editora y está especializada en la redacción de análisis, tutoriales y guías de software así como también en darlo todo para tratar de publicar noticias antes que nadie. Entre sus aficiones está pasar horas y horas jugando con la consola, pasear a su golden retriever y mantenerse al día de las novedades del mundo SEO.

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