Ever tried to watch American Netflix outside the US? How about BBC iPlayer from a country that isn’t within the queen’s jurisdiction? Well then you’ve probably received a message saying that you cannot access the service because of your geographical location. Bummer right? But don’t panic just yet.
How to Bypass Geo-blocking
In this article, we will show you how to get past pesky geo-restrictions using a VPN, so that you don’t have to miss out on your favorite shows.
What is Geo-blocking
Geo-blocking is a technology that restricts access to Internet content depending on the user’s geographical location. Streaming services often impose such bans, much to the disappointment of TV lovers all over the world. Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and many others use this technology to limit or even block content. So you’ll often end up reading a location error message if you try to watch a show on any of these platforms outside their respective regions.
At the same time, certain online content may be unaccessible due to the country’s tough restriction policies. Internet users in China for example, don’t have access to Facebook, Youtube, or WhatsApp. In the UAE, VoIP services like Skype are blocked as well.
Location Error Samples that You Might Encounter
Below are some of the most common location error messages that you might read when trying to watch a channel that isn’t in your region. i’m sure you already stumbled upon a couple of those before:
- Youtube: “The uploader has not made this video available in your country”
- BeIN Sports: “Sorry. A problem occurred with the view rights in your location. Please visit FAQ page or contact our customer services. (Error 3222)”
- Amazon Instant Video: “This video isn’t available due to geographical licensing restrictions. Please refer to Amazon Instant Video Terms of Use.”
- Netflix: “Not available to watch in this country”
- Showtime: “The video you are trying to watch cannot be viewed from your current country or location.”
- CBC Television: ” OOps. We’re sorry, this content is not available in your location.”
How VPNs Bypass Geo-blocking
How to Bypass Geo-Blocks and Location errors with a VPN
If you’re sick of seeing these annoying messages anytime you want to watch a show that isn’t available in your country, then the solution is quite simple. Get a VPN.
VPNs redirect your internet traffic through a secure remote server. They also hide hide your IP address and allow you to connect to another one from the country of your choice. Therefore, you’ll appear as if you’re browsing the internet from a different region. So if you’re in the mood for some Stranger Things, which is only available on American Netflix, all you have to do is use a VPN to switch to an IP address from the US.
Still sounds complicated? Worry not. Just follow the below steps to get past geo-restrictions:
- Sign up with a VPN provider. See the list below for suggestions.
- Download and install the VPN app.
- Sign in
- Connect to a server in the country of your choice
- Double check your new IP address on WhatIsMyIP.network.
- Enjoy your favorite shows and programs without restrictions
Best VPNs to Avoid Geo-restrictions
In terms of best VPN providers, ExpressVPN comes highly recommended. It is one of the most reliable VPNs due to its large number of servers all over the world, as well as its top services. It also offers a 30-day refund policy, so if you don’t like the service, you can have your money back. There are, however, other VPN providers that are quite as adequate. you can check them out in the list below:
- 30-Day Money-back Guarantee
- Unlimited Bandwidth
- Apps For All Your Devices
- 24/7 Live Support
List of Channels that Have Geo-restrictions
There are a lot of channels that are geo-restricted that it’s hard to keep track. We have compiled a list of these channels so that it’s less confusing for you:
- ABC
- Amazon Instant Video,
- BBC iPlayer
- BeIN Sports
- CBC Television
- HBO Now
- Showtime
- Fox Sports
- NBC Sports
- Netflix US
- Hulu
- Syfy
- Hotstar
- NFL GamePass
- Sky Go
- ITV
- USA Network
- WWE Network
How to Bypass Geo-blocking, Location Errors – Final Thoughts
Why miss out on your favorite TV shows simply because of geo-blocking? While some people get to enjoy the best TV experience out there, the rest of us have to pay the price of silly and unfair restriction laws. Well like the famous Twisted Sister song goes, “we’re not gonna take it anymore.” And with a VPN, we certainly don’t have to.
