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Netflix’s library can change significantly from one country to another, meaning some content is available only in specific countries. A virtual private network (VPN) is an important tool to bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions and enjoy the content you love from different regions of the world.
VPNs make it appear as if you’re browsing from a different location by masking your IP address and routing your internet connection through a server somewhere else. Surfshark VPN is one of the best VPNs for Netflix, thanks to its ability to unblock content and maintain high-speed connections.
If you’re traveling abroad, Surfshark VPN is an excellent way to stay connected to your favorite TV shows and movies from your home country.
Here, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to use Surfshark VPN to watch Netflix, and we’ll cover all the questions you may have. Don’t sweat it — the process is straightforward and legal in most countries.
Do you need a VPN to watch Netflix?
What to do if Surfshark VPN isn’t working
Is it legal to watch Netflix with a VPN?
How to use Surfshark VPN to watch Netflix FAQs
Bottom line
How to watch Netflix with Surfshark VPN
To watch Netflix with Surfshark VPN, follow the steps below. Note that you will need both a Netflix and a Surfshark subscription.
- Download and install Surfshark VPN from their website, or download the Surfshark VPN mobile app.
- Open Surfshark VPN and log in.
- Connect to a server in the country whose Netflix library you want to unblock. For example, if you want to watch Italian Netflix, choose a server in Italy.
- Open Netflix and enjoy!
What devices work with Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark VPN is a highly versatile service and one of the best VPN services out there. It supports a large number of devices and operating systems, from Windows and Mac to Android, iOS, and Linux.
Surfshark VPN is even compatible with smart TVs and streaming devices like FireTV, allowing you to watch your favorite Netflix content on pretty much any device you own.
Learn more about Surfshark in our full review.
Do you need a VPN to watch Netflix?
When you create a Netflix account, it automatically ties you to your country of residence. This then determines the specific content library you can access. For example, if you live in the United States, your Netflix account can access only the U.S. library.
Due to enforced geo-restrictions, Netflix doesn’t allow you to change your Netflix region through your account settings. The only authorized way to change your Netflix region is by literally going to another country. Netflix automatically updates your content library depending on your location.
However, you can bypass this restriction by using a VPN to watch Netflix content from any country of your choosing. While there are other methods to change your Netflix region, using a trustworthy VPN service like Surfshark is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to enjoy access to your favorite Netflix content.
What to do if Surfshark VPN isn’t working
If Surfshark VPN isn’t working with Netflix, there are plenty of easy fixes to try. The solutions to the most common issues are outlined here:
Update your software
An important step to avoid bugs and glitches that may interfere with your Netflix streaming is to keep your Surfshark software up to date. Developers regularly release updates to improve the performance of their app, enhance its security, and address any known issues.
Keeping your software up to date allows you to benefit from any adjustments and reduces the possibility of encountering problems while using Netflix.
Clear cache and cookies
Stored cache and cookies in your browser may be causing issues between Netflix and Surfshark VPN. To fix this, go to your browser settings and find the privacy or history section, then select the option for clearing browsing data.
This easy process often fixes issues with connectivity and instantly improves your streaming experience.
Connect to a different server
Try switching to a different server to see if that resolves your issue. Surfshark offers a large number of servers spread across different countries. Sometimes, certain servers are overloaded, or Netflix has already blocked them.
All you need to do is connect to another server within the same country or a different location, and you should be able to bypass the block and regain access to Netflix.
Change VPN protocols
Switching to a different VPN protocol may resolve your connectivity issues. Given that Surfshark offers multiple protocols, you could change the protocol and potentially improve your connection's stability and speed. To change protocols, follow these steps:
- Go to VPN Settings
- Click Protocol
- Select a new protocol
Experimenting with different protocols can help you find the most compatible option for streaming Netflix smoothly.
Contact customer support
If you’ve tried all of these steps and still can’t get Surfshark VPN to work with Netflix, we think it’s time to contact customer support. Fortunately, Surfshark offers 24/7 support to help resolve any issues you encounter.
Visit their customer support page to find FAQs, submit a request, or start a conversation with the support team.
Is it legal to watch Netflix with a VPN?
Using a VPN to gain access to Netflix libraries isn’t inherently illegal. However, some countries have strict regulations on VPN usage, involving bans or heavily restricting their use.
Before you use a VPN, we recommend researching local laws and regulations in the country you visit, before you end up inadvertently breaking any laws.
Netflix has individual licensing agreements for content in each country. If you look at Netflix’s terms of service, it’s clearly stated that it’s against their policies to watch content that isn’t available in the country associated with your account.
While you may worry that Netflix will suspend your account for violating these terms, it’s more likely that Netflix will simply restrict access.
How to use Surfshark VPN to watch Netflix FAQs
Can Netflix detect a VPN?
Yes, Netflix can detect and block VPNs. However, Surfshark VPN continually updates its servers to bypass these blocks, ensuring access to various Netflix libraries.
Are there any free VPNs that work with Netflix?
Yes, some free VPNs work with Netflix. For recommendations, check out our list of the best free VPNs for Netflix.
Can I use Surfshark VPN with Amazon Prime Video?
Surfshark VPN works with Amazon Prime Video, allowing you to access different regional libraries and stream content from various countries.
Can I use Surfshark VPN with Hulu?
Surfshark VPN is compatible with Hulu, enabling you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from outside the U.S.
Can I use Surfshark VPN with Disney+?
You can use Surfshark VPN with Disney+ to access content from different regions, enhancing your streaming experience with diverse offerings.
Bottom line
Netflix offers various content libraries, depending on the country you’re in, which is why a VPN is helpful to access this broad range of content. Surfshark VPN stands out among the best VPNs for Netflix thanks to its ability to bypass geo-restrictions with ease.
With its versatility across multiple devices and operating systems, it's a convenient choice for those looking for a seamless streaming experience. Remember the four easy steps to watch Netflix with Surfshark VPN: Download and install the app, log in, connect to a server in your chosen country, and start watching!