How to stream your favourite tv shows with a VPN

The glut of streaming services these days have us simultaneously swamped for choice and lost when it comes to finding the right content. Part of the problem is an excess of streaming services – which we can’t do anything about – but the other issue is region-locked content that limits the streaming libraries that you do have access to. The latter we can do something about, thanks to VPN services. Here’s how.

What is a VPN?

When you’re connecting to the internet, say to access a service like Netflix or Prime Video, these services learn your approximate location by tracing the route your connection request came from. Using this data, a service like Netflix will figure out that you’re located in India and give you access to a limited library.

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A VPN or virtual private network obfuscates your location by routing your data through its own servers. Streaming services will only get to see the location of the VPN and not the location of your PC or phone. As long as you choose a VPN server that’s located in the region from which you want to view content, you’re set.

How to use a VPN to stream your favourite shows

First, you’ll need to pick a VPN service provider: we’d recommend going with one from this list we’d compiled earlier this year. Do note that you will have to pay a monthly or yearly fee to access these VPN services. This fee, on average, usually amounts to about USD 10, or approximately Rs 840 per month. In addition, you will need to check if the VPN service you intend to use supports the streaming service and content you want to access. Some streaming services providers have learned to blacklist certain VPNs. You’ll usually find this information online in the FAQ pages of the VPN service you intend to use.

Once you’ve subscribed, install the VPN service on your PC or phone. After that, activate it and choose a server based on the location you want to stream content from. If all goes well, you’ll now be able to log in to a streaming service of your choice and stream content from that region.

Warnings and disclaimers

VPNs are routinely blocked by streaming service providers and you might face issues where the VPN service you’ve subscribed to can no longer get you access to the content you want. Your streaming account might get blocked or blacklisted if you use a VPN. We’d recommend not using your primary account for streaming over a VPN.

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Some VPN services have bandwidth restrictions so do keep an eye on that. You might not get the full speed you were expecting.

Streaming content from other regions can be illegal in some areas, especially when it comes to content that has been censored or banned in your country. If you are attempting to bypass region restrictions, please note that you’re doing so at your own risk and that it’s best to understand local laws before attempting this.