FAQs

Why Isn't My VPN Working with Netflix?

The most common cause is a blocked server IP address. Netflix constantly scans for known VPN server addresses and blacklists them.

To fix this, try connecting to a different server in the same country. If that fails, clear your browser cache and cookies, then reload Netflix.

Read our troubleshooting tips for additional guidance.

Why & How Does Netflix Block VPNs?

Netflix makes certain content titles only available in specific geographic region, in order to comply with licensing agreements it has signed with rights holders.

Also, Netflix explicitly says that “you can’t use a VPN while watching a live event on Netflix or with an ad-supported experience.”

As a result, Netflix goes to great lengths to identify and block VPN connections.

Its automated systems check in real-time the IP addresses logged into its service against a database of known VPN server addresses. If it detects a match, it blocks and blacklists the IP address.

Will I Get Banned for Using a VPN with Netflix?

Netflix’s terms of service prohibit the use of VPNs and proxies to access geo-restricted content, but Netflix doesn’t ban accounts for it.

The worst that happens is you’ll see a “Pardon the interruption” proxy error screen, or you’ll only see Netflix Originals.

We’ve been testing VPNs with Netflix since 2016, and we’ve never encountered a case of an account being terminated for using one.

Can I Beat the Password-sharing Ban with a VPN?

Yes, you can bypass the new Netflix password-sharing policy using NordVPN’s Meshnet software. It works similarly to a VPN, but it’s not the same.

Meshnet creates a private network between connected devices, but through a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection rather than connection to a central VPN server.

Follow these steps to share your Netflix password with friends:

  1. Download Meshnet for free on your preferred device.
  2. Install the app and launch it.
  3. Sign up to a new NordVPN account or log into your existing one.
  4. Select Meshnet on the left-side menu.
  5. Activate the Meshnet toggle.
  6. Click on “Link external device” at the bottom.
  7. Enter the email address of the person(s) you want to share your IP address with.
  8. Once they’ve accepted the invite, they can use the Meshnet client to stream Netflix using your IP address (and therefore appear to be part of your household).

Can I Keep Subtitles In My Own Language?

Netflix typically presents you with five to seven language options for subtitles based on your geographic location and your preferred “Display Language”.

When you change Netflix regions using a VPN, you can also inadvertently change your subtitles and audio options.

To keep Netflix subtitles in your own language, follow these steps:

  1. Go to your “Account” or “Manage Profiles” in the Android app.
  2. Under “Profile & parental controls”, select your profile.
  3. Select “Language” or “Display Language”.
  4. Ensure the appropriate language is selected.
  5. Under “Programmes & Films Languages”, tick all your preferred languages for subtitles and alternative audio.
  6. Sign out and sign in again. If your desired subtitle language is still not available for a given title, it simply may not be available for that movie or TV show.