Netflix And Proxy
Netflix says ‘You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy.’
If you see an error that says
You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy
It means that our systems have detected that you are connecting via a VPN, proxy, or “unblocker” service.
TV shows and movies available on Netflix are different by region. VPNs and proxies block Netflix from knowing the region you’re in, so some titles aren’t available when you use these services.
If you receive this error while trying to play TV shows and movies that you believe are available in your region, follow the troubleshooting steps below.
Turn off VPNs and proxies
Disable any proxies, VPNs, or other software that might route your internet traffic outside of your current region.
Set your device’s network settings to Automatic.
If you need help disconnecting from one of these services or restoring your connection’s default settings, contact your device manufacturer or internet service provider.
If you use a VPN or proxy for work or for privacy
A VPN or proxy may prevent you from playing TV shows and movies that aren’t available globally. Disable any VPNs or proxies and try Netflix again.
If you use an IPv6 proxy tunnel
Netflix doesn’t support IPv6 proxy tunnel services over an IPv4 network. If you don’t know if you’re using one of these services, contact your internet service provider for help.
Note:
Netflix does support IPv6 connections provided by your ISP.
What to do next
If you disabled proxies, VPNs, or other routing software but still see this message, contact your internet service provider. They’ll be able to determine why your IP address is associated with proxy or VPN use.
Fix Netflix Proxy Error (You seem to be using an Unblocker or …
We’ll explain how to fix the Netflix “unblocker or proxy” error so you can stream your favorite Netflix shows from anywhere using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
UPDATED: September 12, 2021
Netflix changes its content from one country to another, meaning some shows are only available in some countries. International travelers have previously been able to continue watching shows from back home with the help of a VPN or proxy service, but these days, there’s a good chance they’ll see the following error when connected:
“You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again. ”
The best way to fix this Netflix “unblocker or proxy” error is by using a quality VPN. If you’re already using a VPN, seeing the error means that it’s unable to securely access Netflix or, at the very least, the IP address you’re using has been blacklisted by Netflix. Below, we’ve listed the best VPNs for regaining access to your usual Netflix library during your travels abroad.
How to fix Netflix “unblocker or proxy” error
This common Netflix streaming error is due to Netflix detecting the use of a VPN or proxy service. The good news is that there’s a quick and easy to fix. Our step-by-step guide explains what you need to do if you are getting the message “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy”.
Here’s how to fix the Netflix proxy error:
Sign up with a VPN that works with Netflix – we recommend NordVPN.
Download and install the appropriate VPN app or browser extension for your device.
Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in your home country.
Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. This ensures Netflix forgets your actual IP address and location. It will then accept the new IP address provided by the VPN.
Go to Netflix and select your preferred content which should now be accessible as normal! If not, try another server. Alternatively, contact your VPN’s customer support for further assistance.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE? NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Netflix with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to keep watching content from back home as you travel.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Don’t have time to read the full article? Here’s a short summary of the best VPNs to fix the Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error:
Best VPNs for fixing Netflix proxy error
NordVPN: Our top choice for fixing the Netflix proxy error. 5, 000+ fast servers. Excellent security and privacy credentials. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark: Budget-friendly provider with no connection limits. Works great with Netflix and similar services. Good speeds and great security.
ExpressVPN: A well-establish VPN known for its high speeds, powerful security features, and exceptional versatility.
CyberGhost: High-speed servers for streaming Netflix. Secure VPN with encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Connect up to seven devices. Includes 24/7 live support.
PrivateVPN: Fix the Netflix proxy error. Also works with BBC iPlayer and Hulu. Very fast servers for buffer and lag-free streaming. User-friendly apps and a no-logs policy.
HideMyAss: IP addresses in most countries. Securely access Netflix abroad. Desktop and mobile apps and 24/7 support. Security features include encryption.
Which VPNs still work with Netflix?
In an effort to save you some time, we’ve come up with a list of the best VPNs for Netflix. VPNs were selected based on their meeting the following criteria:
Servers that work reliably with Netflix
Fast and consistent connections for streaming
Secures your data with encryption and no-logs policy
Offers live chat and email support, preferably 24/7
Beginner-friendly apps for desktop and mobile
Money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free
Best VPNs to fix Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error
Here’s our list of the best VPNs to fix the Netflix unblocker or proxy error:
1. NordVPN
Oct 2021
works with netflixTested Oct 2021
Apps Available:
PC
Mac
IOS
Android
Linux
NordVPN is our top choice and is well placed to fix the Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error. It has a vast network of more than 5, 200 exceptionally fast servers, located in 60+ countries. Additionally, this service works with some of the most popular sites including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN even offers servers which are optimized for P2P sharing or increased privacy (via Double VPN or Onion over VPN).
With NordVPN, you can protect all of your most commonly used devices as up to six simultaneous connections are permitted. Further, there’s a wide range of apps and browser extensions which make getting connected quick and easy. This VPN is based in Panama and operates a strict no-logs policy. You’re also protected through NordVPN’s use of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and kill switch. If you have any questions about these features, you can contact support over live chat 24/7.
NordVPN apps are offered for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox. Routers require manual configuration.
Pros:
Huge network of over 5, 200 makes it ideal for safe streaming
Works with Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more
Fastest VPN on the market
Provides 24/7 customer support via live chat and email
Includes a strict no-logs policy to protect your online privacy
Cons:
Desktop app can take slightly longer to connect
BEST VPN TO FIX NETFLIX PROXY ERROR:NordVPN is our top choice for Netflix. Has over 5, 200 very fast servers. Works great with many popular services. Offers 24/7 support, intuitive apps, and a strict no-logs policy. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
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2. Surfshark
Surfshark is our top budget pick. It works well with Netflix and has quickly grown to become a strong choice for anyone who streams regularly. Surfshark has around 3, 200 servers across 65 countries. What’s more, this VPN works with BBC iPlayer and Hulu and is torrenting-friendly. It’s perfect for families because it lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.
Another area in which Surfshark excels is its ease of use. The apps and browser extensions are very well designed and shouldn’t cause any confusion, even for VPN novices. Features include an ad-blocker and a whitelister for choosing which apps can bypass the VPN. Surfshark is highly secure and had its browser extensions independently audited to back this up. Your personal data is protected with 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch. There’s also a strict no-logs policy and DNS and IPv6 leak protection.
Signing up to Surfshark allows you access to its apps for Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. You can also download Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Routers require manual setup.
Makes it easy to stream Netflix
Connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously
Very user-friendly
Secure service with encryption, kill switch, and a no-logs policy
Settings menu is a little unorganized
BEST FOR THE MONEY:Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously – perfect for families! Works with Netflix, Hulu, and more. No-logs VPN with 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Surfshark review.
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3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has servers in 94 countries, allowing you to securely access your home Netflix library as you travel. This VPN’s server network consists of more than 3, 000 servers in countries including the US, UK, Australia, and Japan. Aside from being able to resolve the Netflix proxy error, ExpressVPN also works with Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. Further, it lets you connect up to five devices simultaneously via a single account.
ExpressVPN is also known to be very beginner-friendly. There’s 24/7 live chat and email support, plus the apps and browser extensions make it simple to connect to a server. Security is another of ExpressVPN’s strengths. It secures your data using 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS and IPv6 leak protection. This VPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands and doesn’t keep any identifying logs of its users.
You can use ExpressVPN via the apps for desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux), mobile (Android and iOS), and routers. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available.
Servers in 94 countries
Fast, consistent servers for lag and buffer-free streaming
Uses encryption and a kill switch to keep your data secure
Includes 24/7 via live chat and email
Slightly more expensive than most VPNs
STREAM SECURELY:ExpressVPN is fast and security-conscious, making it ideal for watching Netflix abroad. Provides 24/7 support, user-friendly apps, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
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4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost offers thousands of high-speed servers spread across 91 countries including the US. This means it’s easy to stream Netflix from abroad without any noticeable buffering or lag. Aside from fixing the Netflix proxy error, it works well with services like the BBC iPlayer. Another advantage of this Romania-based VPN is that it lets you connect up to seven devices simultaneously (more than most VPNs allow).
A CyberGhost account includes access to 24/7 support via live chat and email. Better still, this VPN comes with a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee (most VPNs offer 30 days at most). Connect to a CyberGhost server and you’ll be protected from DNS and IPv6 leaks. It also safeguards your privacy with a strict no-logs policy, 256-bit encryption, automatic ad-blocking and malware-scanning, as well as a kill switch.
Fix the Netflix proxy error via CyberGhost’s apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire Stick, and Android TV. You can also use Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Manual installation is required for use with Linux and routers.
Works well with Netflix
Allows up to seven simultaneous connections
Provides live chat and email support, 24/7
Strong security with encryption and a strict no-logs policy
Lack of configuration options will frustrate power users
45-DAY MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE:CyberGhost has very fast speeds for streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more. Use on up to seven devices simultaneously. Thousands of servers in 90 countries and 24/7 live chat support. Strict no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
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5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a Swedish VPN service that places an emphasis on quality over quantity. While it has a relatively small network of servers, those they have are fast and reliable, making them ideal for streaming and torrenting. You can use this VPN to fix the Netflix unblocker or proxy error and watch the likes of Netflix US and Netflix Japan. Further, it works with Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max. Overall, PrivateVPN has servers in 60+ countries around the world.
You can use PrivateVPN to secure up to six of your desktop and mobile devices simultaneously. This VPN offers excellent customer service and its live chat feature allows you to speak to the developers directly. When you use PrivateVPN, your data is secured with 256-bit AES encryption. There’s also DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch and a no-logs policy. What’s more, you can even pay semi-anonymously with Bitcoin.
PrivateVPN offers apps for desktop (Windows and Mac) as well as mobile (Android and iOS). However, you’ll need to follow manual setup instructions for using PrivateVPN with Linux and routers.
Very fast servers for streaming Netflix
Watch Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more
Beginner-friendly apps for desktop and mobile platforms
Protects your privacy with encryption and no-logs policy
Only offers around 200 servers
Limited selection of apps and no browser extensions
HIGH SPEED SERVERS:PrivateVPN is a very fast VPN for streaming and torrenting. Use it to watch Netflix abroad. Lets you connect up to six devices. Live chat support, beginner-friendly apps, and strong security with encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
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6. HideMyAss
HideMyAss has a network of approximately 1, 100 servers. What’s particularly impressive is that it offers IP addresses for almost every country in the world. For this reason, you’ll be able to use HideMyAss to securely access several Netflix libraries, including Netflix USA and Netflix UK. You can also use it to watch BBC iPlayer or Hulu, among other popular streaming services. HideMyAss offers 24/7 live chat support, helping you quickly resolve any issues you might encounter.
This VPN allows P2P file-sharing and lets you connect up to five devices simultaneously via a single account. The HideMyAss apps are user-friendly and even let you automatically connect to the best available server. HideMyAss offers plenty of security features to protect your online privacy and anonymity. This includes 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. You can even choose to shuffle your IP address, making it harder to track your location.
HideMyAss apps are available to download for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. This VPN can also be configured manually with Linux and select routers.
Works with several Netflix libraries
Steady speeds
24/7 live chat and email support
Uses high level of encryption to keep your data safe
Logs IP addresses of users
Quite expensive compared to most VPNs on this list
BROWSE FROM ANYWHERE:HideMyAss has IP addresses for most countries. Use it to securely stream Netflixas you travel. Offers 24/7 live chat support and is torrenting-friendly. Secures your data with encryption but keep logs of IP addresses. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full HideMyAss review.
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Why does Netflix ban VPN IP addresses?
In 2016, Netflix implemented a VPN detection system to know when you access the service when using a VPN. This was mainly due to licensing rights; contracts may dictate that a particular TV series or movie can be shown in one country (for example the US) but not in another. As many people were accessing Netflix via VPNs, the company was under pressure from major studios to prevent their use.
When Netflix detects an IP address belongs to a VPN, the IP address is blacklisted. This leads to the appearance of the Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” streaming error or sometimes Netflix error m7111-5059.
Can I use a free VPN to fix the Netflix proxy error?
No, the vast majority of free VPNs wont work with Netflix. That’s because Netflix has implemented anti-VPN measures in recent years. The problem for free providers is that they have a limited number of IP addresses and far too many users on each server. These IP addresses are quickly flagged by Netflix, essentially rendering the server useless for using the platform. Furthermore, the servers of free VPNs are often very slow, which isn’t ideal for streaming anyway.
Aside from Netflix, free VPNs struggle with many other websites and services including Amazon Prime Video and DAZN. Free VPNs also lack vital security features. In particular, they may not secure your data with encryption or use a kill switch to prevent data leaks. As with most free services, free VPNs often use an ad-supported model to make money, although some providers have been known to log your browsing activity and sell it to third parties.
What can I watch on Netflix?
Netflix has a vast amount of content, much of which is its own original programming. However, here’s a list of some of the most popular original content you can watch on Netflix:
Orange Is the New Black
Stranger Things
The Umbrella Academy
Our Planet
Bird Box
Triple Frontier
Money Heist
I Am Mother
The Great Hack
Last Chance U
What is the Netflix Proxy Error & which VPNs still work in 2021?
If you are frustrated by the Netflix proxy error you are not alone. We explain what it is, how to fix it with a VPN and which VPNs currently work.
@pabischoff UPDATED: September 20, 2021
The Netflix proxy error occurs whenever Netflix detects that a user is trying to stream a video through a proxy server or VPN. A proxy error message displays in the video player and is often accompanied by the error code m7111-5059:
“Whoops, something went wrong. Streaming error. You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again. ”
In this article, we’ll discuss what the Netflix proxy error is, why it’s there, how it works, and how to continue using a VPN and still enjoy Netflix.
We get into detail on each of the providers below, but if you only have time for a summary, here is our list of the best VPNs for the Netflix proxy error:
NordVPN Our first choice for Netflix! Offers very high speeds, works well with Netflix, and has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark A budget-friendly VPN that works great with Netflix. No speed, bandwidth, or VPN connection limits.
ExpressVPN Superfast servers in every corner of the globe are great for accessing Netflix at HD quality.
CyberGhost A great VPN for beginners as apps are easy to install and get working. Streaming speeds are surprisingly good for a low-cost provider.
PrivateVPN Newish provider with good capabilities at accessing most streaming sites, including Netflix.
Ivacy Lesser-known provider that works well with Netflix.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE? NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Netflix with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to binge-watch your favorite shows and movies or are going on a trip abroad.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Why does Netflix ban VPNs and proxies?
When Netflix went global a couple years back, it didn’t have all the licensing rights necessary to stream all of the same TV series and movies to every country. Even before the worldwide rollout, users connected to Virtual Private Networks and other types of proxies to access other countries’ Netflix libraries. The US Netflix library is particularly popular due to its larger and generally newer catalog of TV shows.
A proxy service acts as a middleman between your device and Netflix. Instead of communicating directly with Netflix, internet data is first routed through the proxy server. To Netflix and other websites and apps, it appears as though the user is connecting from the proxy server’s location instead of their own. If the user is in Canada and wants access to US Netflix, for example, they can connect to a proxy server in the USA. In simplest terms, VPNs work the same way but usually encrypt data in transit.
Netflix started blocking connections from all proxies and VPNs in early 2016 to enforce its copyright obligations. Even users who connect to a proxy service or VPN server in their own country get hit with the proxy error, despite the fact they aren’t accessing content from another country.
How to fix the Netflix proxy error
Once you have a suitable VPN it’s easy to avoid the dreaded proxy error.
Here’s how to avoid the Netflix proxy error:
Sign up for a VPN the works with Netflix, we recommend NordVPN
Run your VPN app
Select the server location for the Netflix library you want to acess. To watch American Netflix, for example, choose a server located in the United States.
Hit the Connect button and give it a few seconds to establish a VPN connection.
Open the Netflix app or go to Netflix in your web browser.
If your VPN is working, you should now be able to stream without the proxy error.
If you’re still getting the proxy error, try using a different server or location, clearing your cookies, and/or clearing your web browser cache.
Your VPN provider’s customer support might be able to help choose the correct settings and servers for Netflix.
Best VPNs for Netflix proxy error
The most reliable method to allow access to Netflix from abroad is still a VPN. Below are the best VPNs for Netflix to resolve the proxy error.
1. NordVPN
Oct 2021
works with NetflixTested Oct 2021
Apps Available:
PC
Mac
IOS
Android
Linux
NordVPN works with at least six countries’ Netflix catalogs, and any server you connect to will allow you to avccess Netflix. Most of them redirect to Netflix US, the most popular library. NordVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections on Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV.
NordVPN speed test data
NordVPNAverage Connection Speed – North America (USA)111. 7 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Europe (UK)122. 3 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Asia (Hong Kong)112. 0 Mbps
Pros:
Works with Netflix on any server
Fast speeds
6 simultaneous connections
Strong security
Zero logs policy
Cons:
Desktop apps are a little sluggish
BEST FOR NETFLIX:NordVPN is our top recommendation. It’s extremely fast and works with Netflix no matter which server you’re connected to, which makes it a breeze to get up and running. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
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2. Surfshark
Surfshark is extremely affordable and works with several Netflix libraries including Netflix US, UK, and Japan. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Surfshark speed test data
SurfsharkAverage Connection Speed – North America (USA)170 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Europe (UK)230 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Asia (Hong Kong)220 Mbps
Reliable connections, reasonable speeds
Works with numerous Netflix libraries
Connect as many devices as you like
Strong on security and privacy
Doesn’t have as many servers as some of its rivals
Server speed can vary somewhat
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is highly affordable and works out of the box with Netflix. It’s secure and reliable, and doesn’t impose a connection limit.
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3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN works with Netflix in several countries including the US, the UK, and Canada. You can connect up to three devices on Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Linux, and certain wifi routers, all of which work with Netflix. If you’re not sure which server to use, just use the provider’s 24/7 live chat support to get an answer in seconds. If your device doesn’t support VPNs, for example, if you’re using a game console or Apple TV, you can use the MediaStreamer smart DNS proxy included in every ExpressVPN subscription.
ExpressVPN speed test data
ExpressVPNAverage Connection Speed – North America (USA)135. 7 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Europe (UK)134 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Asia (Hong Kong)136 Mbps
Reliably works with Netflix
Servers in 94 countries
Includes standalone smart DNS
24/7 live chat support
A bit expensive
Only 5 devices can connect at one time
STREAM WITH EASE:ExpressVPN is fast and security-conscious. It’s been reliably working with Netflix since the proxy error first appeared. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
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4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost provides access to US Netflix and is a great budget option. You can easily browse through any of the streaming services shown in the app, and there are many of them. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
CyberGhost speed test data
CyberGhostAverage Connection Speed – North America (USA)78. 7 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Europe (UK)54. 7 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Asia (Hong Kong)39. 3 Mbps
Netflix servers labeled in the app
Easy to set up and use
Strong security and a no-logs policy
Limited configurations
Won’t work in China, Iran, UAE or Saudia Arabia
EASY-TO-USE apps:CyberGhost specifically lists Netflix servers in its apps, so you don’t have to guess at which locations work. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
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5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a smaller provider, but it works with Netflix in 20+ countries. If you’re trying to access a show or subtitles only available in a specific country, try this one. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV.
PrivateVPN speed test data
PrivateVPNAverage Connection Speed – North America (USA)94 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Europe (UK)56. 7 MbpsAverage Connection Speed – Asia (Hong Kong)61. 7 Mbps
Works with Netflix in 20+ countries
Strong no logs policy
Smaller server network
Live chat support not 24/7
ONE SIZE FITS ALL:PrivateVPN works with Netflix in more countries than any other provider we’ve tested, so it’s great if you want to access international libraries. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
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6. Ivacy
Background
FireTV
Ivacy allows access to US Netflix for a lower price than most of the competition. Users get 24/7 customer support and can install the app on Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire.
Works with Netflix US
Budget-friendly
24/7 live support
A few unreliable servers
Only US Netflix
UP AND COMER:Ivacy reliably allows access to US Netflix from anywhere globally on both mobile and desktop devices. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Ivacy review.
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How does the Netflix proxy error work?
Netflix doesn’t publicly disclose how the VPN ban and proxy error work, but through our extensive testing, we can surmise a few things.
Blacklisting IPs
An IP address is a unique string of numbers and decimals assigned to every internet-connected device. Public IP addresses are visible on the web and correspond to specific countries. Whenever you connect to a VPN or proxy service, your device’s public IP address is masked by that of the proxy server.
Netflix blacklists most proxy and VPN server IP addresses. Rather than weeding out individual servers, we believe Netflix simply blocks entire ranges of non-residential IP addresses. Netflix knows most proxy servers are hosted in data centers, which use different ranges of IP addresses than residential networks.
DNS filtering
Netflix can also detect when some VPNs and proxies are being used through DNS. Short for Domain Name System, DNS works like a phone book for the internet that associates IP addresses with domain names.
Whenever you go to the Netflix website, for instance, your web browser sends a DNS request to a DNS server. The DNS server looks up the IP address for Netflix and returns it to your device, which then fetches the video from the Netflix server. Netflix can determine which DNS server was used in this transaction.
By default, your DNS server probably belongs to your local Internet Service Provider and corresponds to a specific country or region. Many proxies and VPNs only route web traffic and not DNS traffic. If Netflix spots a mismatch between your DNS server location and your IP address location, it knows a proxy service is in use and throws the error.
Most good VPN providers route DNS traffic along with everything else through their servers, but the Netflix apps for iOS and Android compound the issue by overriding these DNS settings. The website version that you access in a web browser doesn’t do this, though, so accessing Netflix in a browser is typically easier than on the mobile apps.
Why Netflix bans VPNs
Netflix cracked down hard on VPN and smart DNS proxy providers after its global rollout. Despite its efforts, a handful of VPN providers persevered and still provide access Netflix today.
The ban on VPNs does not take into account the fact that these tools are used widely as a means of protecting privacy and allow those traveling aborad to securely access services from home.
Despite the ban, VPNs and smart DNS proxies remain the easiest and most popular means to access Netflix abroad. We’ll explain how each can resolve the proxy error.
How do VPNs work with Netflix
As mentioned above, a VPN encrypts a device’s internet traffic and routes it through a middleman server in a location of the user’s choosing. By connecting to a VPN in the US, you can access the internet as if you were physically located in the US.
For the average Netflix user, a VPN comes in the form of a desktop or mobile app and usually requires a small monthly fee.
Most VPNs that can reliably access Netflix don’t share how they do so. Again, however, we can surmise how they manage to do it.
Because Netflix blacklists most data center IP addresses, VPN providers set up a handful of servers that use residential IP addresses. These IPs are off Netflix’s radar, and blocking them could result in some non-proxy users being unable to access videos. If Netflix happens to block a residential IP anyway, the VPN provider simply swaps it out with the next one in line.
A few VPNs have also managed to force the Netflix app to use the VPN provider’s DNS servers instead of local ones. All of this ensures Netflix cannot determine whether the user is accessing videos through a VPN.
Smart DNS proxy
A smart DNS proxy is a clever way to only use a proxy on an as-needed basis for certain websites, apps, and services. It is usually configured in the DNS settings of your device’s network settings menu. Like VPNs, DNS proxies often require a monthly subscription.
We mentioned before that DNS works like a phone book for the internet. Smart DNS alters entries in the phone book for specific domains like “” Instead of Netflix’s IP address, a request for on a smart DNS proxy sends your traffic to a proxy server in the US (or the location you want to access).
These proxy servers likely use residential IP addresses in lieu of commercial data center IP addresses so as to avoid Netflix’s firewall, similar to some VPNs. Unlike VPNs, however, your internet traffic is not necessarily encrypted, so you don’t get the same level of privacy or security. They are useful, however, on Smart TVs when no VPN app is available.
Combining smart DNS and VPNs
Most VPN providers that can access Netflix only operate a small handful of servers that can do so. This means users have to look up or ask customer service which server or location to connect to. To get around this, some providers combine a VPN with smart DNS to let users use Netflix regardless of which server they’re connected to.
For example, when you connect to any NordVPN server through a VPN, you use NordVPN’s DNS servers. Those are smart DNS servers that, in most cases, will route requests to Netflix back to the US version, regardless of actual server location. This allows NordVPN users to access Netflix USA from any server location, although they might not get the localized version they’re expecting. In this case, even though you’re connected to a server in, say, Mexico, your connections to Netflix still run through US servers.
Some VPN providers like ExpressVPN allow you to use smart DNS either with the VPN or as a standalone service.
Netflix VPN testing methodology
Comparitech routinely tests various VPN’s access to Netflix, as well as several other streaming services. Our army of testers from around the world regularly test VPNs to see if they are able to access content only available in their region.
Comparitech has run more than 3, 000 real-world tests this year alone. We’ve tested each VPN’s access to Netflix from 20 different countries, including the official Netflix mobile app and the Netflix website in a desktop web browser.
Note that some VPNs redirect users to the US version of Netflix regardless of which country their VPN is connected to. To account for this, we ask testers with US accounts to search for a US-exclusive shows when traveling abroad. If a US-only show appears when connecting to a non-US server, we record a negative result.
You can find out more about how we analyse VPNs on our VPN testing methodology page.
Netflix Proxy Error FAQ
Does Netflix work with split tunneling on my router? It may be that you’d prefer to use a direct connection with Netflix in order to enjoy the best possible speed. In order to do this, you’ll need to choose a VPN that allows split tunneling and is also compatible with routers. ExpressVPN offers custom router firmware while you can even purchase a router with the firmware pre-installed. Take a look at our guide on how to split tunnel VPN traffic on your DD-WRT or Tomato I keep using a VPN, will Netflix ban me? Don’t worry, Netflix won’t ban you for using a VPN. It’s worth knowing that using a VPN to access region-locked content is against the streaming platform’s terms of service and that Netflix has the right to restrict access. However, there is no evidence that Netflix is banning users for using VPNs. The worst case scenario is that an IP address becomes blocked. In this case, you’ll need to connect to another VPN server for a different IP I connect to a VPN and still watch my local Netflix? There are two ways in which you can connect to a VPN while still being able to watch your local version of Netflix. The first is to simply connect to a server in your location. This allows you to still be able to enjoy the various security benefits offered by the VPN. The second option is to use split tunneling. With it, you can stay connected to a server in another country while the Netflix app bypasses the VPN and uses a direct a VPN an unblocker? Yes, a VPN can function as an unblocker. If the content you want to access is restricted by location, you can use a VPN to connect to that location and unblock it. All of the VPNs we recommend can unblock does Netflix say “unblocker” and “proxy” but not VPN? A VPN is a type of proxy and unblocker. Although VPNs are the most reliable and effective way to unblock Netflix, other types of proxies and unblockers have been used, such as smart DNS I use a free VPN to get around the Netflix Proxy error? Probably not. Although a handful of free VPNs might be able to unblock Netflix, those that do usually cap your data or restrict bandwidth. That means you’ll get through one or two episodes before getting cut off, or you’ll encounter constant buffering.
Free VPNs are not to be trusted, anyway. Many of them spy on user activity and sell that data off to third parties. Some carry malware. A lot of them don’t have very good security and could put your data at risk.
In short, stick with paid VPNs. You can always take advantage of the money-back guarantee if you decide it’s not for you.
See also: How to fix Netflix m7111-5059 error code
Frequently Asked Questions about netflix and proxy
How do I fix Netflix proxy or Unblocker?
How to fix Netflix “unblocker or proxy” errorSign up with a VPN that works with Netflix – we recommend NordVPN.Download and install the appropriate VPN app or browser extension for your device.Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in your home country.Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.More items…•Sep 12, 2021
Does proxy work on Netflix?
Netflix started blocking connections from all proxies and VPNs in early 2016 to enforce its copyright obligations. Even users who connect to a proxy service or VPN server in their own country get hit with the proxy error, despite the fact they aren’t accessing content from another country.Sep 20, 2021
What is Unblocker or proxy in Netflix?
‘ If you see an error that says You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. It means that our systems have detected that you are connecting via a VPN, proxy, or “unblocker” service. TV shows and movies available on Netflix are different by region.
