Netflix is available in most countries around the world. However, the streaming service’s content varies greatly from country to country. This means that U.S. or U.K. visitors to Ireland may not have access to the shows they might enjoy in the United States or the United Kingdom.
It should be noted that Netflix doesn’t do this out of spite. Instead, the streaming service’s licensing agreements with movie and television producers require them to restrict the availability of their content on a country-by-country basis. This means that the movies and TV shows you have access to in one country might not be available in another country.
Can a VPN Help Me Watch U.S. or U.K. Netflix?
However, you can still access your favorite Netflix content, even if you’re visiting another country. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) opens access to Netflix in the country of your choice by making it appear as if you are accessing the internet from that country.
When you log into a VPN server, the server assigns your device an IP address from that VPN server’s physical location, making it appear as if you are in that country. This opens access to content restricted to that location.
However, Netflix and other streaming services have become hip to this trick, and block IP addresses belonging to VPN services. When this happens, the VPN provider must set up new VPN servers with fresh, unblocked IP addresses.
This requires you to use a VPN provider that has the resources and willingness to quickly react when an IP address is blocked.
In this article, I’ll share information about the six VPNs that have the best track record for accessing Netflix and other streaming services in other countries.
How to Watch U.S. and U.K. Netflix From Ireland Using a VPN
Using a VPN to access Netflix content in the U.S. or U.K. from Ireland requires only a few easy steps:
- Subscribe to a Netflix-capable VPN service. (I suggest NordVPN.)
- Install the provider’s VPN app(s) on your device(s).
- Log into the VPN provider and select a server located in either the U.S. or the U.K.
- Grab your favorite movie candy and enjoy the show!
What Is the Best VPN for Watching U.K. or U.S. Netflix?
After exhaustive testing, the following six VPNs have proven to be the best VPNs for watching Netflix from the U.K. and the U.S:
- NordVPN: Best VPN for U.S. and U.K. Netflix. This VPN provider is your best bet for reliable access to Netflix in the U.S., U.K., and other countries. Excellent global server coverage and fast download speeds make this provider a streaming-optimal VPN choice. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Best budget VPN. This is the best choice on the list for budget-minded movie fans who’d rather spend their money on movie-watching refreshments. The provider offers reliable access to Netflix in numerous countries.
- ExpressVPN: Great premium VPN option. ExpressVPN has a long history of supplying access to streaming content in other countries, the U.S. and U.K. included. Fast speeds, great app support, and a large number of servers will keep you connected to the streaming action.
- CyberGhost: Best bet for rookie VPN users. This provider’s easy-to-use apps offer access to Netflix streaming-optimized servers in both the U.S. and the U.K. Fast connection speeds and an impressive concurrent connection allowance add up to an attractive option for first-time VPN users.
- Private Internet Access: Provides reliable access to Netflix. PIA provides reliable access to Netflix, along with other geo-fenced streaming services. PIA’s well-encrypted connections keep your online activities incognito.
- PrivateVPN: Small but powerful server network. Despite a rather limited global server network, this provider does a good job of unblocking Netflix in the countries the provider is available in. Fast connections are the rule here.
You’ll find that VPN services have their own individual strengths and weaknesses. Some providers may offer huge server networks but are lacking in the download speeds department. Others offer fast connections, but lack apps for some popular device platforms.
When ranking the best VPNs to use to watch Netflix content in the U.S. and U.K., I considered the following factors:
- Reliable ability to access Netflix and other streaming services in the U.S. and U.K.
- Comprehensive global server coverage, with servers in the U.S. and U.K.
- Fast download speeds
- Excellent privacy and security protections
- Comprehensive native app support
Do you want to learn more about the criteria I used when selecting the VPN providers in this list? Then make sure you take a look at the in-depth methodology section later in this article.
So, here is my list of the top six best VPNs for watching Netflix in the U.S. and U.K. from inside of Ireland:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is my top choice for gaining access to Netflix content housed inside the borders of the United States and the United Kingdom. The provider delivers reliable access to Netflix and other streaming services around the globe.
With close to 5,500 servers in nearly 60 countries, the provider offers reliable access to Netflix streams in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Japan, the Netherlands, France, Italy, and elsewhere. Other streaming services are also accessible, including BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and others. The provider’s owned-and-operated server model keeps outside contractors away from your personal information.
NordVPN’s connection speeds are some of the fastest around. The provider’s connections are HD- and 4K-capable and are never restricted with data caps.
The provider protects its users’ connections using government-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak and IPv6 leak protection. In addition, the provider offers Double VPN (which routes your traffic through two servers) and obfuscated server options. Plus, its apps also boast malware and ad-blocking features.
The provider’s servers are completely log-free, keeping your online activities private. A cryptocurrency payment option is available to keep your payment info incognito. All NordVPN servers are run 100% from RAM, never writing any data to a physical hard drive. This allows all data to be completely wiped from the servers when they are rebooted.
The provider offers app support for the Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire, iOS, Linux, macOS (including native M1/M2 Mac support), and Windows device platforms. Extensions are available for the Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browsers.
You can connect up to six devices simultaneously on one username. The provider boasts compatibility with numerous router makes and models.
For devices such as set-top boxes and gaming consoles, which are incompatible with VPN apps, NordVPN offers a SmartDNS service that connects those devices to international streams. However, the service doesn’t encrypt your connection like the VPN service does.
Pros:
- Plenty of Netflix-able servers
- Native app support for popular devices
- HD and 4K-ready connections
- Comprehensive privacy and security protections
- Low price
Cons:
- App interface could be better
BEST VPN FOR U.S. AND U.K. NETFLIX:NordVPN is the best VPN option for providing access to Netflix in the U.S. and U.K. from Ireland. It not only enhances your entertainment options, but it also does a top-notch job of protecting your online activities from prying eyes. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark earned the #2 spot in this lineup thanks to its excellent access to all types of blocked content around the globe and doing it at a reasonable price.
Surfshark’s global server network is made up of 3,200+ servers in roughly 95 countries. Those servers open access to Netflix and other streaming services, such as HBO, Hulu, and others. The provider says it provides access to 30+ Netflix libraries around the globe.
Surfshark’s connection speeds were the fastest of any provider in recent testing, can handle both HD and 4K video streams, and are never affected by data caps.
In addition to providing banking-level connection encryption, kill switch protection, and DNS leak and IPv6 leak prevention, the provider also offers ad and malware blocking. Your info is kept private thanks to a strict no-logs policy and the provider’s acceptance of Bitcoin for a subscription.
Surfshark supports most popular device platforms, including Android, Amazon Fire, iOS, Linux, macOS (featuring native M1 Mac support), and Windows devices. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox extensions, as well as router protection, are also available. This provider offers a somewhat unusual unlimited simultaneous connections allowance.
In addition to comprehensive VPN service, the provider’s Surfshark One bundle includes antivirus protection, a private search engine, and alerts you when your information is exposed in a data breach.
Pros:
- Provides access to Netflix in the U.S., U.K., and other countries
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Budget-priced subscription options
- Super fast connection speeds
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced features that other providers offer
BEST BUDGET OPTION:Surfshark is great for movie lovers on a budget. The provider’s low price belies its high level of protection, service, and access to Netflix in several countries. The provider’s unlimited simultaneous connections allowance should come in handy. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN made it into the 3rd spot on this list thanks to its fast download speeds, comprehensive app support, and wide server coverage.
ExpressVPN has 3,000+ servers stationed in 94+ countries around the globe, providing reliable access to Netflix and other streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and others.
ExpressVPN delivers speeds that are easily up to handling the HD and 4K streams that Netflix and other providers offer. Plus, you can stream to your heart’s content, as there are never any data caps on your VPN usage.
All ExpressVPN connections are protected using military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IPv6 and DNS leak prevention. Your privacy is well-protected thanks to the provider’s strict no-logs policy and its anonymous Bitcoin subscription payment option.
The provider’s “TrustedServer” technology runs all operations 100% from RAM, never writing data to a physical hard drive. This means that all data is securely wiped from ExpressVPN servers whenever they are rebooted.
Native app support is strong with this one, with offerings for the iOS, macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Windows, Android, Amazon Fire, Chromebook, and Linux platforms. Browser extensions for the Firefox, Edge, and Chrome platforms are available.
Up to five devices can connect to the service simultaneously while using the same set of login credentials. Routers can also be used with ExpressVPN to protect all of your connected devices.
For devices that can’t use a VPN – such as streaming boxes like the Apple TV, gaming consoles, and Smart TVs – ExpressVPN offers their MediaStreamer DNS service. However, be aware that the service does not offer encrypted protection for your connection.
Pros:
- Provides access to Netflix and other streaming services
- Wide-ranging global server network
- HD and 4K-ready connections
- Comprehensive multi-platform support
Cons:
- More expensive than other providers
- Only five simultaneous connections
ALL-PURPOSE VPN:ExpressVPN offers fast connections, alongside wide server coverage, apps for multiple devices and satisfying security and privacy protections, making it a respectable choice for streaming U.K. and U.S. Netflix content and performing other activities. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is the top choice for novice VPN users who are in the market for reliable online protection, as well as one-click access to Netflix and other streaming services around the globe.
With over 8,000+ servers located in 90+ countries, CyberGhost has the world covered. Many of their servers are streaming-optimized, providing reliable, one-click access to Netflix and other streaming services, such as Amazon Prime, Paramount+, and other services.
Those streaming servers offer download speeds that provide enough horsepower to handle both HD and 4K video streams. No data caps restrict your viewing enjoyment.
The provider offers bank-grade encryption, along with kill switch, DNS leak, and IPv6 leak protection. Plus, the provider offers blocking of malware and ads and can force web servers to display HTTPS versions of their pages, if they are available.
A strict no-server-logs-ever policy and a Bitcoin payment option keep your personal info, like your online travels and payment info, safe and sound.
CyberGhost’s native app selection includes easy-to-use apps for Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows platforms. Also available are Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Up to seven simultaneous connections are allowed. Router support is also available.
In addition to VPN protection, the provider also offers a password manager, as well as an “ID Guard” service that alerts you when your email was included in a data breach. Plus, a “Security Suite for Windows” offers antivirus protection, a privacy guard feature that controls how much of your data Microsoft has access to, and a feature that scans your machine for outdated and vulnerable applications.
Pros:
- One-click access to streaming-optimized servers around the globe
- Easy-to-use yet powerful apps
- No logs and accepts Bitcoin
- Top-notch online protection
Cons:
- Apps missing advanced features that other providers offer
- Doesn’t unblock all streaming services
BEST FOR VPN FIRST-TIMERS:CyberGhost is the best option for first-time VPN users looking for a reliable and easy-to-use way to view Netflix and other streaming services. A 45-day, no-risk money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of CyberGhost.
5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) has a nicely-sized global server network, with more than 3,300 servers stationed in close to 85 countries providing reliable access to Netflix and various other streamers around the globe.
PIA’s native app support includes offerings for the Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux device platforms. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are also available. The provider’s compatibility with numerous router platforms protects all of your connected devices.
Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 devices using a single set of login credentials.
PIA’s connection speeds are far from the fastest around. That said, the provider is more than up to handling most popular online activities, including streaming, online gaming, and more. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to worry about when using PIA.
All PIA-provided connections are well-protected, thanks to the provider’s protective banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch. The provider also offers blocking of ads, trackers, malware, and dangerous websites.
Its servers save no user logs of any kind keeping your online antics private. Plus, the provider also accepts Bitcoin as subscription payment to protect your payment privacy. (If you use a disposable email address to subscribe when paying with Bitcoin it provides an additional layer of anonymity.)
Pros:
- Access to Netflix and other streaming services
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
- No data cap restrictions or bandwidth throttling
Cons:
- No streaming-enhanced servers listed in the app
- Doesn’t work well in some restrictive regions
COMPREHENSIVE ACCESS TO NETFLIX:The Private Internet Access server network provides reliable access to Netflix in many areas around the globe. Its well-protected, fast connections help ensure an enjoyable streaming session. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Private Internet Access.
6. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN snagged the #5 spot in this round, in spite of its somewhat limited global server network. The provider’s reliable and speedy access to Netflix is what got it over the hump.
While a server count of 200+ server locations in more than 60 countries is admittedly spread a bit thin, the provider does a top-notch job of opening access to Netflix, HBO, BBC iPlayer, and numerous other streaming services.
The provider’s connection speeds handle Netflix’s HD and 4K streams with ease. No data caps are to be found.
The provider’s speedy connections are well protected using kill switch, DNS leak, and IPv6 leak protection. In addition, the provider’s “Stealth VPN” protection helps hide your VPN activity by disguising it as normal internet traffic.
The provider protects your privacy well thanks to its no-logs server policy and its Bitcoin payment option.
Up to 10 devices at once can access the service on a single set of credentials, using macOS, iOS, Windows, Amazon Fire, and Android devices. The provider also offers extensive router compatibility.
Pros:
- Netflix access in multiple countries, including the U.S. and U.K.
- 4K-capable download speeds
- Up to 10 devices can be connected at once
Cons:
- Global server coverage is a bit thin
- Multi-platform support could stand improvement
GREAT CONNECTION SPEEDS:PrivateVPN delivers 4K-capable access to Netflix in numerous locations around the globe. While the provider’s server count is a bit thin, they do an excellent job of unblocking content. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of PrivateVPN.
Methodology for Assessing VPNs to Get U.S. or U.K. Netflix From Ireland
If Netflix keeps rejecting your connection when you attempt to view content from the UK or the US when using a VPN, then there are some important features that you should consider when deciding on which VPN is the best for US and UK Netflix. Here are the criteria I used when putting together my list of recommendations:
- Streaming: When the subject is streaming video, look for VPNs that reliably provide access to popular video streaming providers, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
- Connection speed: If you’re streaming, you will benefit from a fast connection. HD and 4K video streams require fast connections, which all of the VPNs on my list offer.
- Server network: Netflix is available nearly everywhere, so you’ll benefit from a VPN with a good-sized server network. Look for VPNs with more than one server in each country it serves, helping to ensure that no individual server will be overloaded with too many users at once.
- Value: You should only consider VPNs that offer a good return on investment, while also offering at least a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Ease of use: The VPNs I recommend are easy to use, making it easy to stream your favorite shows. The VPNs I have suggested also support multiple devices, providing excellent flexibility.
- Security and privacy: A provider’s online security and privacy protections are important considerations, no matter what your favorite online activity is. A VPN should protect your internet connection with banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. They get bonus points for any additional protections they offer. The VPNs I recommend offer all of the above protections and save no user logs recording your online activities.
This seems like a lot of research, but it doesn’t end here. This is just a small part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology. My data-driven approach brings me a better understanding of the VPNs, allowing me to recommend only those that are a good fit for your needs.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Netflix?
While you might get lucky occasionally getting through Netflix’s roadblocks by using a free VPN, a freebie provider will never provide reliable access to Netflix or any other streaming platform. Plus, using a free VPN can be hazardous for your online health.
Netflix and other streaming services keep an eye out for VPN users who are accessing their movie libraries. When they discover that an IP address belongs to a VPN provider, they block that IP address. It’s then up to the VPN provider to set up new IP addresses. This requires considerable resources.
Most free VPN services are run on a shoestring, so they don’t have the resources to play a virtual game of hide-and-seek with streaming providers. That means reliable access to Netflix is simply not happening.
You’ll also find that many free VPNs will make you wait in a queue before connecting you to their limited server selection. Then, you’ll either be automatically connected to a server or have only a few servers to choose from. Those servers likely won’t be in the country you’re looking to connect to.
Then there’s your online health, as in, your security and privacy.
Many “free” VPNs keep their servers humming by logging their users’ online activities and then selling the information to the highest bidder. Plus, some free VPNs will insert unwanted tracking cookies and advertisements into their users’ browser sessions.
None of the “features” I’ve listed above are exactly streaming-friendly, so why take a chance?
What Else Is a VPN Good for?
In addition to unblocking Netflix, a VPN is also handy for unblocking other types of blocked content, such as financial services, gaming servers, and other sites and services.
A VPN also hides your online activities from your ISP, preventing it from throttling your internet connection just because you’re engaging in “unapproved” activities, like file-sharing or streaming from certain sources (like Popcorn Time).
A VPN’s encrypted connection also keeps your online activities free from observation by other users on unprotected public WiFi connections. This keeps your banking, credit card, and other info safe from hackers.
Conclusion
Netflix is available all over the globe, and if you use the right VPN, you can gain access to the lion’s share of it all.
A VPN – like my #1 choice, NordVPN – allows you to view Netflix from Ireland, the U.S., the U.K., or any other country. It also protects your online activities and personal information from prying eyes.
For more information, visit the NordVPN website.
American and U.K. Netflix VPN FAQs
Will a Free VPN Work to Access U.S. and U.K. Netflix?
I have yet to find a free VPN that offers reliable access to Netflix content in the United States, the United Kingdom, or anywhere else for that matter. Free VPNs track your usage, throttle their connection speeds, and place daily or monthly data caps on their customers’ usage. None of these “features” are copacetic with streaming video.
Is It Legal to Use a VPN to View Netflix?
Yes, you can legally use a VPN to view Netflix. However, using a VPN to view a Netflix library from another country is against Netflix’s terms of use, so the company will try to prevent you from accessing that content. So far, I haven’t seen any reports of Netflix canceling or suspending service to VPN-using subscribers.
Can a VPN Allow Me to Watch Other Streaming Services?
Yes, a top-notch VPN provider can provide access to many popular streaming services. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Showtime, Vudu, and BBC iPlayer are just a few of the streaming services that can be accessed with the help of a VPN.
Contents [hide]
- Can a VPN Help Me Watch U.S. or U.K. Netflix?
- How to Watch U.S. and U.K. Netflix From Ireland Using a VPN
- What Is the Best VPN for Watching U.K. or U.S. Netflix?
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. Private Internet Access
- 6. PrivateVPN
- Methodology for Assessing VPNs to Get U.S. or U.K. Netflix From Ireland
- Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch Netflix?
- What Else Is a VPN Good for?
- Conclusion
- American and U.K. Netflix VPN FAQs
- Will a Free VPN Work to Access U.S. and U.K. Netflix?
- Is It Legal to Use a VPN to View Netflix?
- Can a VPN Allow Me to Watch Other Streaming Services?
