Here’s How To Bypass the Max Password-Sharing Ban [Tested 2025]

Max, formerly HBO Max, is cracking down on password sharing, joining the growing list of streaming services enforcing stricter access to their respective platforms. The Max password-sharing ban began in April 2025 and will be rolled out in phases over the next few months, aiming to limit the number of locations and devices that can access a single account. Long-time subscribers, however, are fighting back against the ban using proven hacks.

Max’s ban works by logging your IP addresses. Software like virtual private networks (VPNs) can help you change your IP address and bypass the password bans. You can access your Max account from anywhere with a masked IP address.

If this sounds complicated, we promise it isn’t. Below, we outline the different ways to use a VPN to access your Max account with step-by-step instructions. Keep reading for all the ways to circumvent the ban.

How does the Max password-sharing ban work?

Like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, Max has jumped on the password-sharing ban bandwagon by allowing access only to members in the same household. But how can they tell?

The streaming service creates a “household” ID by looking at your IP address and the IP addresses of the devices, including modems and routers, you may use. Once it establishes a pattern of familiar IP addresses, it recognizes them as devices within your household.

If you’re one of the many households that split access to streaming services, this will likely impact your membership. Parents often share with college-age students or young adult children on their own. Many adults will also grant access to their elderly parents who may not be able to afford streaming on their own. Max aims to prevent this type of sharing to increase revenue.

How to use NordVPN Meshnet to bypass Max’s password-sharing ban

NordVPN features a proprietary technology called Meshnet, which enables you to bypass password bans on services like Netflix, Disney+, and Max. Meshnet establishes a LAN (local area network) connection for up to 60 devices. Essentially, everyone on the Meshnet connection you establish looks like they’re in the same location.

How to use NordVPN Meshnet

1. Go to NordVPN.com/Meshnet to download the software to your device. 

2. The NordVPN agent will appear; click the third icon down for Meshnet. 

3. If you have a NordVPN account, log in. Otherwise, sign up for a free account for Meshnet. 

4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Once you return to the NordVPN app on your screen, toggle the Meshnet setting on.

6. Follow the on-screen instructions. 

7. Use the button to add more users until everyone is added.

How to use a dedicated IP to bypass Max’s password-sharing ban

As we’ve noted, a VPN can change your IP address and allow you to establish a “household” IP that you can use for traveling or to bypass password bans. Many quality VPNs offer the ability to purchase a dedicated IP address. If you establish a dedicated IP address as your “household,” you can use it in various ways, either while traveling or sharing your Max account. Since Max tracks only IP addresses and not GPS locations, using a dedicated IP address is an effective way to bypass the ban.

How to use a dedicated IP address

1. Purchase and download your new VPN if you don’t currently have a VPN subscription.
2. Open your VPN software on the device where you’ll be watching Max.
3. Purchase the dedicated IP add-on or activate it through your VPN software.
4. Choose your dedicated IP address as your server.
5. Make sure it’s on and connected.
6. Open your Max app on that same device.
7. Always use the dedicated IP when streaming Max so it becomes the home IP that Max registers.
8. Share the VPN login with family members so they can connect to the dedicated IP address and stream Max too.

How to access your Max account using a VPN

VPNs change your IP address, which can help you unblock geo-restricted streaming content, hide your real identity online, or simply change your location. To use a VPN to access your Max account, take the following steps:

1. Purchase and download your new VPN (if you don’t currently have a VPN subscription).
2. Open your VPN software on the device where you’ll be watching Max.
3. Choose a location for your server where you want to watch Max.
4. Make sure it’s on and connected.
5. Open your Max app on that same device.
6. Find what you want to watch and enjoy!

The best VPNs for streaming Max

We think the best VPNs for streaming Max are NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost. All offer a dedicated IP, include extensive streaming support and servers optimized for streaming, and feature large server networks, allowing you to choose from a variety of locations.

How many people can use your Max password?

The number of simultaneous devices on which Max can be streamed depends on your chosen plan. While you can have up to 5 individual profiles, those may be restricted to 2 to 4 devices.

For example, let's say you, your spouse, and your three kids have your own profiles, and you all live in the same household. You and your spouse may be in your room watching something on Max before bed. If you have a 2-device plan, it means only one of your children will be able to stream on their device in their room, while the other two will not have access.

Max plans and password sharing

Most Max plans allow for two devices to be used at a time, and some plans also include the ability to download content. We find this helpful for long flights or train rides where streaming quality Wi-Fi isn’t available.

If you want to include an additional person, like a college student or a parent who doesn’t live with you, Max offers an extra member add-on to your subscription.

Max plan	Subscription price	Max number of devices
Max bundle with Disney+ and Hulu (with ads)	$16.99/mo	2 devices
Max bundle with Disney+ and Hulu (no ads)	$29.99/mo	2 devices + 30 on-the-go downloads
Max Basic with Ads	$9.99/mo	2 devices
Max Standard (includes live sports and CNN Max)	$16.99/mo	2 devices + 30 on-the-go downloads
Max Premium (includes live sports and CNN Max)	$20.99/mo	4 devices (limited 2 for sports) + 100 on-the-go downloads
Extra Member Add-On	$7.99/mo	1 device

FAQs

Bottom line

Password bans don’t seem to consider how we access content in our mobile world. Even if you don’t travel often, saving money in this economy by sharing streaming services has become a way for people to enjoy content that may otherwise be financially out of reach. Luckily, there are ways you can bypass password bans with technology that’s accessible to even the most novice of users, like NordVPN Meshnet.

Using one of the best VPNs available will allow you to bypass geo-restricted content and even password bans. They allow you to share your account outside your location or access it yourself when you’re on the go. Regardless of your reason for wanting to bypass the password bans, you have the tools to do so.