We are reader supported and sometimes earn a commission if you buy through a link on our site.

There’s an Easy Way to Bypass ESPN+ Live Blackout Restrictions

Sport streaming sites like ESPN+ restrict your viewing with blackouts. In this article, we'll tell you how to get around ESPN blackouts.

At a Glance

Sports streaming services, like ESPN+, MLB.tv, and others restrict their content. Sports services are even more restrictive than movie and TV streaming services, in many cases limiting content access only to viewers located in certain states or cities.

How Can a VPN Help Me Bypass ESPN+ Restriction?

Happily, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can temporarily assign your device a new IP address, making it appear as if your connection is originating from a location outside the blackout area. My recommendation for the best VPN for accessing regionally-blocked sporting events online is NordVPN.

In this article, I’ll show you how to bypass the ESPN+ live blackout restrictions and tell you about NordVPN’s impressive features.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?

NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. This allows you to use the top-ranked VPN for bypassing ESPN+ viewing restrictions for one month. This makes it an excellent choice for ESPN viewers that are traveling outside of the ESPN+ viewing area.

There are no hidden terms - simply contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get your money back. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Blackout Examples

Nearly all major sports leagues – be they professional like the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, or MLS, or colleges, like the NCAA, SEC, AAC, and numerous other conferences – limit access to their content. They do so by implementing blackout restrictions on local viewers.

This means that if you’re a soccer fan living in Los Angeles, ESPN+’s website or app may not allow you to view LA Galaxy games, but instead requires you to view the game on a local television outlet. The same goes for the Dodgers and Rams in baseball and football, respectively.

By connecting to a server outside the blackout area, you can unblock a region-blocked game. If you’re in Los Angeles and can’t stream the Dodgers game on ESPN+, all you need to do is connect to a VPN server in Chicago (or any other server outside the Los Angeles viewing area), and you can regain access to the game on the ESPN+ app or website.

This also works great for when you’re traveling abroad and want to watch your favorite local team play.

The ESPN+ Blackout Policy

The ESPN+ blackout policy is as follows:

“Certain live sporting events and other content available through the ESPN+ service subscription may be subject to blackouts. For example, if you are in the home television territory of a team participating in a game, then the game may be blacked-out for viewing or live viewing as part of your ESPN+ service subscription (or other applicable third-party services). Blackouts will be enforced according to the location from which you are accessing the ESPN+ service or the applicable third-party services, and we may use different technologies and methods to verify your geographic location. If you do not enable location access on your device, you will not be able to access the ESPN+ service.”

How to Use a VPN to Bypass ESPN’s Sporting Event Blackouts

If a game is blacked out in your area, you’ll likely see a message that informs you that you’re blacked out due to the league’s regional restrictions.

In some cases, national sports channels, like ESPN, may simply display a notice that the content is unavailable, with no other explanation.

Keep in mind that each league has its own blackout policies. You can usually find each league’s policy by looking it up on the leagues’ websites.

Here’s how to bypass regional blackouts on ESPN and other services:

  1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN service that offers plenty of servers, delivers fast connection speeds, and offers reliable access to blacked-out games. (In my testing, I’ve found NordVPN to be the most reliable VPN for this purpose.)
  2. Install the VPN app on your device of choice. (Note: While these steps will work on computers and most tablets, you may have some issues on smartphones, where ESPN and other services can check your true location using the device’s built-in GPS capabilities. More about how to deal with this later.)
  3. Log into a VPN server located in the same country or state as the desired sporting event, but in a location where the game is not blacked out. For example, to watch a Chicago Cubs game, you’ll likely have good luck by connecting to a server in Los Angeles.
  4. Go to the ESPN website or load the ESPN app. Log into your account and select the previously blacked-out game. You will now have access to the live game and its replays that are normally blacked out.

Resolving Live Blackouts: Mobile vs. Desktop

When a streaming sports service like ESPN+ blocks your access to a particular sporting event, they likely do it by detecting your location. The service does this on desktop and laptop computers by detecting your location via your IP address.

However, for many mobile devices, such as smartphones and many tablets, a video streaming provider can detect your location using your device’s built-in GPS radio.

That’s right, the same helpful little GPS radio that helps you navigate through traffic can also act as a snitch and tell ESPN where you’re really located, even if your VPN app is telling the streaming service a different location.

While mobile apps will ask for permission before using your location information (on iOS devices, as well as Android devices), apps might not perform correctly if you don’t grant permission. A VPN can hide your real IP address, but not your GPS location.

Streaming services like ESPN+ may require you to have location services enabled so they can detect your location (as seen below). Detecting your location via GPS may defeat the VPN’s ability to spoof your location.

If the mobile version of ESPN+ continues to deny you access to your favorite local team’s live-action, you might want to try the blackout-bypassing suggestions for Android and iOS devices that I outline in my “How to Bypass MLB Blackouts With a VPN” article.

If none of the above works for mobile viewing, you may be forced to view ESPN+ on your desktop or laptop computer, or on devices like Apple TV, Roku, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, or other streaming devices that are not equipped with GPS. (While you can usually use a VPN app on the Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV (running iOS 17 or later), the other devices I’ve listed will require you to enable VPN protection on your router or share your Mac or Windows PC’s VPN connection.)

Bypassing ESPN+ Live Blackouts in a Browser

Using a VPN with your favorite browser will allow you to enjoy your favorite team in action, with no worries about having the action blacked out in your area.

Bypassing local blackouts with a browser and a VPN is simple. Load the app from your VPN provider of choice, select a VPN server outside of the blacked-out area, load your browser of choice, and visit the ESPN website. Enjoy the show. (Told you it was simple!)

If you still have an issue accessing the blacked-out game, try clearing your browser’s cache and tracking cookies. ESPN could be accessing this information to determine your location.

Methodology for Assessing a VPN for Bypassing ESPN+ Blackouts

You shouldn’t necessarily choose the first VPN service provider you see when you Google “VPN.” It may not offer the ability to bypass ESPN+ blackouts, and may not offer good stats in other areas.

When deciding upon which VPN to recommend for bypassing ESPN+ blackouts, I considered the following:

  • Speed: You’ll want a VPN that can stream ESPN+’s content in the best resolution possible, without waiting for the service to buffer while the sporting action is continuing without you. That’s why I chose to recommend NordVPN, which offers extremely fast connection speeds.
  • Server network: Since sporting events are geo-restricted based on where you are, it’s important for a VPN to offer servers in as many locations as possible. NordVPN offers tons of servers in 59+ countries, including in 15+ cities in the U.S.
  • Value: It doesn’t make sense to choose a VPN that charges a high price for little in return. NordVPN offers excellent value, with many features and much functionality for a budget price.
  • Ease of use: Don’t settle for a VPN before knowing whether or not it’s easy to use. You don’t want to be stuck with a VPN that you can’t figure out. NordVPN offers easy-to-use apps for myriad platforms.
  • Security and privacy: To protect your security and privacy, make sure that any VPN you choose offers security protections like government-grade encryption, DNS/IP leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. Also, make sure it doesn’t keep any logs of your online activities. My pick, NordVPN, offers all of this and more.
  • Streaming: Obviously, you want a VPN that’s capable of streaming ESPN+. But I made sure the VPN I recommended also offers access to other sports-centric video streaming services, like BeIN Sports, as well as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Don’t think that my research ends here. Evaluating the features above makes up just a small portion of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. My data-driven approach helps me better understand the VPN providers and the services they offer. This allows me to recommend only those that are a good fit for my readers’ needs.

What Is the Best VPN for Avoiding ESPN+ Blackouts?

While there are numerous VPN providers that may be capable of accessing local market games on ESPN+, only one VPN has proven itself to provide the most reliable unblocking power, as well as optimal protection and enhancement for all of your online activities.

Below, you’ll find my mini-review of NordVPN.

NordVPN

NordVPN provides optimal unblocking for blacked-out games in your area.

The provider’s extensive global server network provides optimal access to blocked content around the globe, while its fast connection speeds mean you’ll never have to wait long for the action to begin.

1. Connection Speed

NordVPN’s connection speeds ranked near the top of the list in my most recent speed tests, providing enough speed for both HD and 4K video streams. (ESPN and other sports networks offer 4K streams from time to time.)

The provider never restricts your viewing enjoyment by imposing data caps or bandwidth limitations on your usage.

2. Multi-Platform Support

ESPN+ is available on most popular device platforms, making comprehensive multi-platform app support an important consideration. NordVPN has most connected device platforms covered.

The provider offers native apps for Windows, macOS (including native Apple Silicon support), iOS, Android, Apple TV (iOS 17 and later), Amazon Fire, Linux, and Android TV device platforms. The provider is also compatible with Apple’s new Vision Pro AR/VR headset, thanks to the provider’s iPad compatibility.) Browser extensions are also available for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox extensions.

If you prefer to view the action on a Roku, Xbox One, PS4, or another streaming or gaming box, you can take advantage of the provider’s SmartDNS service to access your local games, or you can share your Windows PC or Mac’s VPN-protected connection.

Keep in mind, though, that the SmartDNS service doesn’t encrypt your connection like the provider’s VPN service does.

Users can simultaneously connect up to six devices to the service on a single set of login credentials. If you need to protect more than six devices, or if you need VPN protection for devices not supported by NordVPN, the provider offers compatibility with numerous makes and models of routers.

3. Customer Support

While NordVPN is one of the most reliable providers I’ve had the pleasure to use, it stands to reason that you may occasionally have an issue arise or you may have a question or two. When that time comes, you’ll appreciate NordVPN’s comprehensive customer support.

You’ll have help around the clock thanks to a 24/7 live chat option, a support ticket tracking system, email support, and a searchable support database.

4. Global Server Coverage

NordVPN has a server network that covers most of the globe, with 6,000+ servers stationed in over 60 countries. Many of those servers are spread across 15+ different cities in the U.S.

Coverage like that means you’ll be able to view your favorite team’s games, no matter where they’re located.

5. Security and Privacy

NordVPN does an excellent job of protecting your online security and privacy.

The provider’s connections are protected using military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak prevention. Its servers never save any logs of its users’ travels, and it accepts cryptocurrency as a subscription payment.

In addition, NordVPN also helps block ads and online threats like trackers, malware, and more. The provider’s dark web monitoring service alerts users when their personal information has been exposed.

The provider’s owned-and-operated server network keeps outside contractors away from NordVPN customers’ personal information. Plus, all NordVPN servers are run 100% from volatile RAM, with no data being written to a physical hard drive. This means that all data on a server is totally wiped when it is rebooted or shutdown.

6. Pricing

You’ll find that NordVPN is reasonably priced, and you will also find that the provider delivers an excellent return on investment. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

Conclusion

A Virtual Private Network offers the most reliable way to access blacked-out sporting events in your area.

Using a VPN – like my #1 choice, NordVPN – allows you to access all types of online content, including sporting events, movies, TV shows, and other types of services and websites. In addition, a VPN also prevents third parties from detecting and monitoring your online activities, while also preventing your ISP from throttling your connection speeds.

For more information or to subscribe, visit the NordVPN website.

NordVPN Coupon
Up to 69% off + 3 months FREE
Get Deal ›
Coupon applied automatically

ESPN Plus Live Blackout FAQs

What Is the Best Free VPN Provider to Avoid the ESPN Blackout?

I know I sound like a broken MP3, but there is no "best" free VPN.

Free VPNs limit your data use via daily or monthly data caps, as well as bandwidth throttling. These are only two of the many reasons you shouldn't use a free VPN for any online activity, particularly for streaming video, like that from ESPN+. Pay a few bucks for a reliable VPN provider, like NordVPN. You can also check out my cheap VPN options if you’re on a budget.

Why Is ESPN Blacked Out in My Area?

When an event takes place outside of a team's home area, it's typically broadcast nationally on networks like ESPN and ESPN+. When the game is played in a team's home area, it is typically broadcast on a Regional Sports Network or broadcast network like FOX.

To encourage you to view via the broadcast network instead of the internet, the service blacks out the game in that area.

Is It Legal to Watch ESPN Using a VPN?

Yes, as long as it is legal to use a VPN in your country and you don't use a VPN to commit crimes, it is legal to use a VPN, viewing ESPN+ included.

Why Does ESPN+ Blackout on DirecTV?

The entire ESPN service has been blacked out on DirecTV in the past, usually due to contract negotiation disagreements. However, individual games are usually blacked out because it is available in your area on a different channel, usually a local broadcast channel or a regional sports network.

Where Can I Find the ESPN+ Blackout Schedule?

Go to the ESPN.com website. Blackout schedules are published for separate leagues and sports in each sport’s section. For example, the NCAA College Extra blackout schedule is available here.

What Does “Subject to Blackout” Mean?

ESPN+ is a streaming service from ESPN that gives you access to a ton of live and on-demand sports content. One of the things that you need to be aware of, however, is that some content is subject to blackout. That means that if you're trying to watch a game that's being broadcast on ESPN+ in your local market, you may not be able to see it.

There are a few reasons for this. First, some leagues have restrictions in place that prevent certain games from being shown outside of their home markets. Second, ESPN+ does not have the rights to air certain games in certain markets.

Why is the Wild Game Blacked Out?

The blackout is due to an exclusive deal between ESPN+ and the NHL that prohibits other streaming services from showing live games. This deal was put in place to help boost ESPN+ subscriptions. As a result, if you want to watch any NHL game that isn't nationally televised, you'll need to subscribe to ESPN+.

The Minnesota Wild are a professional ice hockey team based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. They are members of the Central Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Why Can't I Watch ESPN Live With Disney Plus?

While ESPN is owned by Disney Plus, the House of the Mouse does not stream ESPN content on the Disney Plus service. Luckily, Disney offers a package deal that includes Disney Plus, ESPN+, and Hulu. The price for the bundle is greatly reduced from what you would pay if you separately subscribed to these three streaming services.

Will Sports Blackouts End at Some Point?

While there have been rumors of MLB, the NFL, the NBA, and other professional sports leagues perhaps moving to less blackouts, the major barrier to ending blackouts is the deals the leagues (and in MLB’s case, each individual team) have with local and national television networks, regional sports networks, and streaming services.

As these deals end, we may see some of the blackouts end. Until then, if you enjoy watching your favorite teams via streaming services, you could use a VPN to get around broadcast blackouts by making it appear as if you’re located in another location, out of the team’s blackout area.

How Can I Enjoy Every Blacked-Out Game Without Buffering?

Your best bet is to use a quality VPN service, like NordVPN (or Surfshark if you’re on a tight budget). Both VPN services offer fast connection speeds. So, depending on your usual internet connection speeds, you’ll have fast enough download speeds to begin streaming the action with little to no buffering or pauses in the action.

Stay away from free VPN providers. In addition to being horribly UN-private, freebie VPNs usually spoil the fun by imposing daily or monthly data caps and bandwidth limitations, making your game time experience less than FANtastic.

Are the Blackout Games Replays Also Regionally Blocked?

I can answer that question with a resounding “maybe.” It all depends on which league’s replays you want to watch, and which streaming service you watch them on.

MLB.TV offers replays of blacked-out games, but the replays are subject to a 90-minute delay after the last out is tallied. ESPN normally blacks out replays of regionally blacked-out games. Meanwhile, the NFL Game Pass and NFL Sunday Ticket websites say only that “replays and audio feeds are subject to availability.”

Check with your favorite league or streaming provider for more information.

Why is ESPN Blocked on Hulu?

Hulu+ Live TV operates like your local cable operator, in that it determines whether a game should be shown in your area. It then blocks the game from being viewed. The game will still be available for viewing on another channel, usually a local channel or sports network.

What Else Can a VPN Do?

In addition to providing access to geo-fenced content like ESPN+, a VPN also provides increased privacy and security for your online activities, thanks to its encrypted connection protection and ability to assign a fresh IP address to your device.

If a game is blacked out on ESPN3, will it be available on ESPN+?

Unfortunately no, ESPN+ does not carry any games that have been blacked out on ESPN3. This means if you live in a certain area, the game will be blacked out and not accessible on either ESPN3 or ESPN+.

However, using a VPN can help you bypass geographic restrictions put in place by sports channels like ESPN.


Roundup - best VPNs for speed

Position Our Score Verdict
1.
4.5/5
Verdict: Our top rated VPN
Get NordVPN »
2.
4.5/5
Verdict: Best budget option
Get Surfshark »
3.
4.0/5
Verdict: Great privacy options
Get ExpressVPN »
4.
4.0/5
Verdict: Highly versatile
Get CyberGhost »
5.
3.0/5
Verdict: Up to 10 devices
Get PrivateVPN »

PRIVACY ALERT: Websites you visit can see these details about you:

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

By using a VPN you can hide these details and protect your privacy.

I recommend NordVPN - the top provider in my testing. It offers outstanding privacy features and there is currently a discounted rate available through this link.

Visit NordVPN

Leave a Comment