Netflix With 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.
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.
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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.
Surfshark CouponSAVE 81% on a 2-year planGet Deal >Discount applied automatically
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.
PrivateVPN CouponSave 77% on the two year planGet Deal >Discount applied automatically
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
How to Get Around A Netflix Proxy Error in 2021 – Cloudwards
Table of ContentsWhy Am I Getting a Proxy Error? How Do I Bypass the Proxy Error on Netflix? What Proxy Works With Netflix? Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever used a VPN and tried to watch Netflix at the same time, you’ve probably come across that annoying error message m7111-5059 and the accompanying text: “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again. ” This article is all about getting around this frustrating Netflix proxy error.
If you’re not in the mood to read too much and just want to get back to watching Archer already, the best way to circumvent the proxy error is by signing up for either of the best VPNs for Netflix, ExpressVPN or NordVPN, and using their servers to access Netflix.
ExpressVPN is currently running a deal where you get three extra months for free when you sign up for a year, while NordVPN has its almost unbeatable three-year plan to check out. Both VPNs come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you’ve nothing to lose (and it’s easy to cancel ExpressVPN).
If you want a bit more detail, stick around as we talk a little about how the proxy error works and the different ways you can fix it when it comes up.
There are a few ways, but you’re best off signing up for a VPN that works with Netflix and then cycling through servers till you find one that lets you access the Netflix of the country you’re interested in. Our recommendations will all work, go into the menu of your VPN or proxy and switch it off. Of course, you will lose your secure browsing that way, so instead we recommend using a good VPN service that will protect you and let you watch the case of Netflix, this means basically any service that reroutes your internet traffic to an IP address that Netflix doesn’t like. Think browser proxies like the one HideMyAss offers, or VPNs like CyberGhost and of them. While there are a few decent free VPNs out there, none of them have the capacity to break through the Netflix block. We recommend that you stay away from any free VPN claiming it gets you into Netflix. It probably just wants to hoover up your data.
Why Am I Getting a Proxy Error?
Generally speaking, you’ll only get a proxy error when using a virtual private network or a proxy (duh) while getting into Netflix. There are some isolated cases where people using neither have been hit with everybody’s favorite Netflix site error, but that’s usually because their internet service provider is using one of the same IP addresses that’s also used by a VPN.
For the full explanation why Netflix won’t let you use a proxy, unblocker or VPN, we’ll refer you to our article on the Netflix VPN ban, but, in short, it’s due to the streaming giant making deals with content distributors to only show certain series and movies in certain places.
To get around this, many people started using VPNs to appear as if they were in, say, the United States so they could watch shows that were region-locked there (see our guide on how to change Netflix region). This didn’t sit too well with Netflix’s partners, so Netflix was forced to implement the toughest VPN blocker out there, rivaled only by the one used by Hulu (check out our best VPN for Hulu guide, or find out how to watch Hulu with ExpressVPN).
How Do I Bypass the Proxy Error on Netflix?
Of course, the digital block that can’t be hacked has yet to be invented, and Netflix’s is no different. All you need to do when confronted with the streaming error is to simply switch servers within the VPN that you’re using. So if you’re routing your traffic through Los Angeles, switch to a server in San Francisco. Same goes for Europe: Amsterdam not working? Switch to Paris.
There are, however, two things that make this less simple than it should be. The first is that Netflix is always on the hunt for IP addresses that it thinks belong to VPNs or proxies, so you can’t expect your new favorite server to be working for too long. Every once in a while you’re going to be met with the Netflix proxy error again and have to find a new server.
The second fly in the ointment is that many of the services touting themselves as a great VPN for Netflix are anything but. The fact is, breaking into streaming services is one of the main reasons people sign up for VPNs, so claiming you can do this for customers is an important part of making money.
In our testing for VPNs that can beat Netflix, though, we’ve quickly found there’s only a minority of services that can avoid the Netflix proxy error, and then not even all of the time. ExpressVPN and NordVPN might be the very best VPNs out there, but even with them you’ll have to do the Netflix server dance from time to time. Less often than with others, though.
Other options we really like are CyberGhost, VyprVPN and Windscribe, though please note that the last one’s free plan does not offer Netflix access. We don’t blame the service, either: why offer something for free when people are so very clearly willing to pay for it?
What Proxy Works With Netflix?
On a side note, no proxy out there works with Netflix. Proxies are far behind the curve compared to VPNs, and we’ve yet to find one these past few years that will do the job. If you want to appear to be in a country other than your own to access Netflix, VPNs are the way to go. We have a dedicated article if you’d like to know more about what is a proxy vs a VPN.
Final Thoughts
We hope the above helps you get the Netflix proxy error fix you need. Using a VPN is really the only thing that will work, and even then not every service out there is a silver bullet. We really like ExpressVPN and NordVPN to get the job done, but there are plenty of other services out there, too, that will do the trick.
Check out our guide for how to watch Netflix with ExpressVPN.
What are your experiences with the Netflix proxy error? Insurmountable obstacle or momentary annoyance? Let us know in the comments below and, as always, thank you for reading.
Frequently Asked Questions about netflix with proxy
Does Netflix allow proxies?
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.Sep 20, 2021
How can I break Netflix proxy?
How Do I Turn Off a Proxy or Unblocker? You go into the menu of your VPN or proxy and switch it off. Of course, you will lose your secure browsing that way, so instead we recommend using a good VPN service that will protect you and let you watch Netflix.Aug 30, 2021
Can Netflix ban you for using VPN?
The simple answer to the Netflix VPN ban question is — no, they don’t. So take a nice deep breath, relax, and read on if you want to know more about the whys and what-ifs.
