VPN service and streaming services overseas (game, server, wifi, work)

[k374]

Which VPN consistently works with streaming services Netflix and Hulu while traveling out of the United States? From what I have read Netflix bans certain IP blocks belonging to VPN services, not sure how accurate that is.

[Paul_G]

From Netflix ( https://help.netflix.com/en/node/114701 ):
Watching TV shows and movies through a VPN
"VPNs (virtual private networks) can make your device or network look like it's connecting to Netflix from somewhere other than your actual location. While using Netflix through a VPN, we will only show you TV shows and movies we have worldwide rights for, like Squid Game or Stranger Things.
If you don't see TV shows and movies that are available for your country, you may need to turn your VPN off.
Note: Watching Netflix while using a VPN isn't allowed on an ad-supported plan. Live events on Netflix can't be watched while using a VPN."


From Hulu ( https://help.hulu.com/article/hulu-a...us-proxy-error ):
"I’m getting an anonymous proxy error.
Are you getting the error message “Error playing this video. You appear to be using an anonymous proxy tool”?
Since anonymous proxy servers prevent us from accurately verifying geographical location, you will need to disable them before accessing videos on Hulu. If you’re unsure as to why you’re getting this error, below are a few common scenarios that can lead to you being identified as using an anonymous proxy."(...more info follows...)

[recycled]

When I lived in Germany for about 3 years, I took my US-purchased Roku device with me. I simply logged in my Roku to my WiFi router (in Germany) and then watched Netflix. It gave me the Netflix menu for programming in Germany, which was somewhat different from the Netflix USA menu. I did not use my VPN. It turned out to be an advantage, because Netflix released season 6 of Better Call Saul outside of the USA in April 2022, the same time that AMC released it exclusively in the USA (due to priority programming rights).

[Yelling_at_Birds]

If you want to watch your shows and films unimpeded, it is best to acquire them as digital files which can be stored on a device that you own.

Before anyone misconstrues this as some endorsement for illegal file sharing, it should be known that there are digital storefronts which sell downloadable DRM-free films. Also recommended is the extraction of files from media you have physically purchased.

Not only does this free you from artificial geographic constraints, but also enables you to view films or shows in a private manner wherein no external server can catalogue what you watch, when you watch it, how much or where you've paused, viewing habits etc etc.

Additionally, no remote party can cut you off from your collection at a later time, for arbitrary reasons. Playback cannot be bandwidth constrained. It is just an overall superior experience to streaming which has been normalized among the general population.