Best VPN for geo-blocking in 2025
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Online services often use geo-blocking as a way to deter users outside of their chosen geographical locations. This means that if you travel abroad, you may no longer access your favorite websites or streaming services due to licensing agreements.
However, simply by using a reliable VPN, you can easily bypass geo restrictions and access any content you want, no matter where you are located. VPNs open vast possibilities by making you appear virtually local to any country. They can help avoid censorship, get better pricing deals, and secure your privacy, among other useful benefits.
To help you get started with bypassing restrictions, with the help of the research team, I tested a handful of VPNs. Scroll below to find the best VPN for geo-blocking.
Top 5 best VPNs for geo-blocking
- NordVPN – best performing VPN for geo-blocking
- Surfshark – security suite to bypass restrictions
- IPVanish – versatile VPN for geo-unblocking
- ExpressVPN – feature-rich geo-unblocking VPN
- PrivateVPN – privacy-focused VPN
We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
How to get around geo-blocking with a VPN
- Look for a trustworthy VPN and select a plan. I recommend NordVPN, now 77% OFF
- Download and install VPN on your device
- Connect to a server in a location without geo-restrictions to access your favorite content
- Remove geo-blocking and enjoy your favorite websites!
The best VPNs to get around geo-blocking – detailed list
After looking at unblocking performance, speed, features, and many other criteria, I present the best providers to get around geo-blocking.
1. NordVPN – best performing VPN for geo-blocking
| Servers/countries: | 7400+ servers in 118 countries |
| Based in: | Panama |
| Unblocks US Netflix: | Yes |
| Current deal: | Get 77% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN is the best VPN that can bypass geo-restrictions. NordVPN is known for its great security, performance, and solid features.
With unbreakable AES-256 encryption, NordVPN protects your traffic from unauthorized external watchers. Furthermore, the provider doesn't store your data on its server since all of them are RAM-only. Your anonymity is further protected with an independently audited no-logs policy.
NordVPN comes with a NordLynx tunneling protocol. This tunneling protocol is a variation of the renowned WireGuard protocol, which is fast and secure. NordVPN performed very well during in-house tests, delivering good speeds and low latency. It retained 93% of the original speed.
Streaming is a breeze with NordVPN, as it can unblock virtually any streaming service. I had no issues accessing Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, and other platforms.
NordVPN also offers a range of features that enhance your browsing experience. It blocks annoying ads and infected sites. On top of that, it offers a Dark Web Monitor that warns of personal data vulnerabilities. NordVPN also protects your data from leaking with a reliable kill switch.
Additionally, NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature lets you securely access your favorite shows and movies without any setup, as it’s automatically enabled in all apps. For regions with heavy censorship, obfuscated servers hide VPN traffic as regular internet activity, making restricted content accessible.
All of these benefits come with a price tag of $3.09/month. As many as 10 simultaneous connections are included in the package.
To learn more about this provider, read full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark – full-on security suite to bypass restrictions
| Servers/countries: | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Based in: | The Netherlands |
| Unblocks US Netflix: | Yes |
| Current deal: | Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark combines excellent value for the money with impressive performance, making it a great choice for bypassing geo-restrictions.
Surfshark is packed with features that deliver top-notch security and privacy. It uses AES-256 encryption to secure data on OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, and ChaCha20 encryption for the WireGuard protocol, ensuring robust protection across all connections. Meanwhile, RAM-only servers guarantee that browsing logs are deleted upon each reboot. Paired with an audited no-logs policy, Surfshark is a strong choice for anyone who wants to protect their online privacy.
When it comes to performance, Surfshark delivers fast connections with no noticeable speed drops. It's excellent if you need to unblock geo-restricted gaming and streaming platforms. The reason behind its great speed is a leading WireGuard protocol. During in-house tests, it retained 92% of the original speed.
Speaking of streaming, Surfshark is undeniably good at it. It can unblock worldwide Netflix libraries, as well as other streaming platforms, such as Disney+, Hulu, YouTube TV, and more. The best part is that there were no noticeable drops in resolution or latency.
Furthermore, Surfshark offers many features, including P2P support, server obfuscation, a malware blocker, and split tunneling. Additionally, the NoBorders feature detects network restrictions, such as geo-blocking or censorship, and automatically provides a list of servers optimized to bypass them. On top of that, this VPN is very easy to use and has a pleasant UI.
You can get Surfshark for only $1.99/month. For the price, you'll also get unlimited simultaneous connections and a great set of features.
To learn more about this provider, read full Surfshark review. Or gain different perspectives in the Surfshark vs NordVPN analysis.
3. IPVanish – versatile VPN for geo-unblocking
| Servers/countries: | 2400+ servers in 109 countries |
| Based in: | United States |
| Unblocks US Netflix: | Yes |
| Current deal: | Now up to 83% OFF IPVanish |
IPVanish is a great VPN service that offers an all-around geo-blocking bypassing with good security, performance, and versatile features.
IPVanish emphasizes privacy with AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy, ensuring your online activity remains protected. However, it lacks transparency reports and RAM-only servers, which are standard for many top-tier VPNs. If you need full anonymity, IPVanish also gives a free SOCKS5 proxy.
On top of that, you get the option to choose between different tunneling protocols. The choices are WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. All of them ensure high download speeds (retaining 82% speed during in-house testing) without compromising security.
Although IPVanish may have some trouble unblocking certain streaming services, it still does a good job with popular platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Disney+, and more.
This VPN comes with plenty of benefits. You'll get traffic obfuscation to hide the fact that you're using a VPN. Additionally, IPVanish offers split tunneling, so you can choose which applications use the VPN tunnel. For a small additional fee, you can also get encrypted storage – a rare feature for a VPN provider.
IPVanish is known as a budget-friendly provider. You can get all of its features for $2.19/month. By the way, the provider gives Unlimited simultaneous connections with all plans.
To learn more about this provider, read full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN – handy range of features for geo-unblocking
| Servers/countries: | Undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries |
| Based in: | British Virgin Islands |
| Unblocks US Netflix: | Yes |
| Current deal: | Now up to 61% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
ExpressVPN is another well-known and efficient VPN service that provides fast speeds and excellent geo-bypass performance.
Security and privacy are top priorities for ExpressVPN, which uses AES-256 encryption. For the Lightway protocol, users can select either AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption, allowing them to balance security and performance based on their device's capabilities. This VPN provider also has a strict no-log policy, which means that your online activities are private and cannot be tracked by any third party.
In terms of performance, ExpressVPN offers fast speeds thanks to its Lightway protocol, as well as support for IKEv2 and OpenVPN protocols. During in-house tests, Lightway retained 91% of the original speed. With fast and efficient protocols, the VPN is more than suitable for browsing, streaming, or gaming.
Speaking of streaming, ExpressVPN can unblock many streaming services with ease. During testing, it was able to unblock popular services such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more. Besides, ExpressVPN’s built-in obfuscation automatically hides VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, bypassing restrictions and accessing geo-blocked content seamlessly.
Furthermore, the provider offers a wide range of features to boost your browsing experience. First, it provides a Threat Manager that deters trackers and malicious ads, along with a new ad blocker feature that filters intrusive ads, improving loading times and reducing data usage while accessing geo-blocked content. On top of that, it comes with split tunneling, MediaStreamer, stealth servers, as well as a router app.
While ExpressVPN is not the cheapest provider on the market, it does deliver plenty of value for the price. It comes with a price tag of $4.99/month and a 8 simultaneous connection cap.
To learn more about this provider, read full ExpressVPN review. Or consider the NordVPN vs ExpressVPN comparison to see each service's strengths.
5. PrivateVPN – budget-friendly VPN
| Servers/countries: | 200+ servers in 63 countries |
| Based in: | Sweden |
| Unblocks US Netflix: | Yes |
| Current deal: | Now up to 85% OFF + 24 months free |
While lesser-known, PrivateVPN is definitely a hidden gem in the market. It offers strong security features and seamless performance for geo-bypassing.
PrivateVPN uses AES-256 encryption with CBC or GCM modes, the gold standard for secure data protection, while also offering the option to switch to AES-128 for improved performance in specific situations. On top of that, the provider has implemented a strict no-logs policy to keep your data safe.
PrivateVPN supports multiple protocols, including WireGuard, but using WireGuard requires downloading a separate app and importing config files from PrivateVPN’s control panel. While this improves speeds, it disables access to the app’s additional features. During our test, the provider retained 82% of the original speed, using Wireguard protocol.
When it comes to streaming, PrivateVPN is a great option. The VPN got us access to every geographically restricted service that I tested. So, you'll be able to watch Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and even YouTube unrestricted.
PrivateVPN may lack some features compared to top providers, but it still delivers useful tools like HTTP and SOCKS5 proxies for added anonymity and a port forwarding feature for customizing connections. It also includes a Stealth Mode that uses obfuscation to disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, helping bypass VPN blocks and access content in heavily censored regions.
This provider is one of the most affordable on the market, with plans starting at $2.00/month. It even allows for 10 simultaneous connections with every plan.
To learn more about this provider, read full PrivateVPN review.
How these VPNs were selected and tested
Testing VPNs takes a lot of work. After all, not all of them are equally as good at geo-blocking. Here are the criteria together with the research team I looked at to determine which providers are best:
- Server fleet. A provider with a large number of servers helps ensure that there will always be a server available in a desired location. This way, you'll be able to access various content while reducing the likelihood of congestion and slow speeds.
- Fast speed. Providers can guarantee fast speed with advanced tunneling protocols, such as WireGuard. Tunneling protocols are crucial to ensure a quick and secure connection to a VPN, reducing the chances of connection drops and delays. This is important for tasks such as streaming or playing online games that require a fast and stable internet connection.
- Strong encryption. VPN encryption is important because it protects sensitive information by encrypting internet traffic before sending to the VPN server, making it unreadable to anyone intercepting the traffic.
- Kill switch. This feature ensures an extra layer of protection. The kill switch is designed to prevent the user's actual IP from leaking if there are any network issues.
- Audited no-logs policy. The best way providers can prove that they do not log your browsing traffic is through independently audited no-logs policies. Additionally, a VPN should be based in a privacy-friendly country.
- Obfuscation. This beneficial feature prevents firewalls, such as the Great Firewall of China, from determining if a user connects through a VPN.
- Simultaneous connections. The more simultaneous connections a provider offers, the better. A large number will allow you to share the VPN with family or use several devices at once.
While having many servers and different IP addresses is one of the most crucial parts of bypassing geo-blocking, it’s not the only aspect you should pay attention to. You should also check whether the VPN provider’s DNS leak protection is adequate. After all, no amount of IP addresses will help if your IP address leaks and interferes with the geo-block bypassing process.
However, it’s practically impossible to determine whether a VPN’s leak protection is effective without testing the service yourself. As such, I recommend using a provider’s free trial or money-back guarantee to test it before subscribing.
Geo-blocking explained
If you're wondering what geo-blocking is, there's a simple explanation. Geo-blocking refers to restricting access to online content based on the user's geographical location. Service providers can do this through various means, all of which include determining users' real location.
The geo-blocking process starts by analyzing the user's IP address, which identifies their location. Some content providers also compare a user's DNS address against their IP to prevent geo-unblocking attempts.
Some providers take it even further by tracking the users' ISP providers, giving out an approximate user's location. Additionally, they can try to get your device's GPS location when they have the means to do so.
Reasons for geographical restrictions
Geo-blocking is a common practice these days. You can often encounter it in streaming, gambling, or gaming industries. It's also used as a tool for governments to restrict residents of the country. Let's take a look at the most common reasons for geographical restrictions:
- Censorship. Geo-blocking is commonly used as a censorship tool in authoritarian countries such as China, UAE, or Russia. Residents in these countries can't access platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, or even payment methods like Visa or MasterCard. Similarly, apps like TikTok have been banned in multiple regions due to government regulations. However, using a VPN for TikTok can help bypass such restrictions by changing your virtual location.
- Licensed or copyrighted content protection. Many digital platforms, such as streaming, music, gaming, TV, or even gambling, are tied to certain locations. It's all because of their licensing agreements. For instance, a movie on Netflix may be licensed to be streamed in the US, but not Germany.
- Pricing discrimination. It comes as no surprise that service prices vary based on the region. This is because providers adjust their pricing according to what they think people from those regions are willing to pay. Thus, you can get Netflix cheaper in India than in the US. The same goes for other services, such as Xbox Game Pass, which is cheaper in Turkey.
How to use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions: simple guide
Believe it or not, VPNs are very simple to use. All you have to do is set it up, and you're good to go. Here's how to bypass geo-restrictions with the top provider NordVPN:
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Go to the NordVPN website, then download the VPN app and log in
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Then, pick a relevant server from those available
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Go to the browser and try to access the geo-blocked service
Can free VPN get around geographical restrictions?
Free VPNs are a great option when you don't have additional cash to spare for a premium service. However, with limited resources and infrastructure at their disposal, free VPNs aren't always efficient.
Websites and platforms put enormous efforts into keeping VPNs at bay. They are constantly updating their geo-restriction technologies and implementing measures to detect users' real locations. While paid VPNs may have the resources to develop workarounds and stay ahead of these restrictions, free VPNs are often unable to keep up.
If you're looking to unblock geo-restricted content but want to test the waters first, I suggest freemium VPNs. These VPNs offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test them out before committing.
- NordVPN – the best VPN for accessing geo-restricted content, which provides a 7-day free trial exclusively on mobile devices via the Google Play Store and a 30-day money-back guarantee for everyone
- Surfshark – a super-fast VPN that’s fully accessible with a 7-day free trial (available on Android, iOS, and macOS) and a 30-day money-back guarantee for everyone
- IPVanish – a flexible VPN that offers a 7-day free trial for iOS and Android devices, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee applicable to their yearly plans
Is using a VPN to bypass geo-blocking illegal?
It all depends on the laws regarding the type of platform you're using. For instance, you'll be breaking the law by accessing gambling platforms while residing in a country that outlaws such services.
However, if you decide to get cheaper Spotify while connected to, let's say, an Argentinian server, you won't break any laws. However, this action is a violation of Spotify's terms of service. If the provider becomes aware of the violation, they may penalize you by blocking access to the service.
Keep in mind that some countries, such as China or North Korea, ban VPN usage altogether. To avoid legal repercussions, I recommend checking whether VPNs are legal (or only restricted) beforehand.
VPN doesn't unblock geo-blocked content: what to do?
If you are not getting access to a certain service, here are some quick fixes you can try:
- First things first, try clearing the cache and cookies. Then reset browser settings
- It's always worth trying another browser
- Some VPNs are better than others, so it's worth trying various providers, such as NordVPN
- Try using different servers in the same region, switching protocols, or opting for obfuscated servers for better connectivity
- Make sure IP and DNS addresses are not leaking in ipleak.net
- Switching from a desktop app to a browser extension may help
Conclusion
Geoblocking is not going anywhere. Luckily, a VPN can switch your IP and let you access different websites and streaming platforms worldwide. With censorship, content protection, and pricing discrimination on the rise, a VPN helps you avoid various restrictions and content bans.
NordVPN is my top VPN choice for geo-blocking, offering advanced encryption, a verified no-logs policy, and RAM-only infrastructure for ultimate privacy. It excels as an entertainment VPN, effortlessly unblocking major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Max with excellent speeds. Plus, it's cost-effective starting at just $3.09/month, making it the best performance without breaking the bank.
FAQ
Does VPN get around geo-blocking?
Yes, a VPN can be used to bypass geo-blocking. It works by routing your internet connection through a server located in a different country, making it appear as if you are connecting from that country. This way, you get access to geo-restricted content around the world.
How do you fix "Content is not available in your country"?
If you encounter the error message "Content is not available in your country," you can use a VPN. It can help you bypass geo-blocking by routing your internet connection through a server located in a different country, making it appear as if you are accessing the internet from that country.
Which VPN is best for geo-blocking?
According to my tests, the best VPN for geo-blocking is NordVPN. This provider shows excellent performance when bypassing geo-restricted content. It is also very secure, fast, and unblocks various streaming sites.
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