Want to access the vast library of American Netflix from the comfort of your Canadian home in 2020? It’s a common desire, as US Netflix boasts a significantly larger catalog of movies and TV shows than its Canadian counterpart․ While Netflix itself actively tries to block methods used to bypass regional restrictions, there are still effective strategies you can employ․ This guide will walk you through the most reliable options for learning how to watch US Netflix in Canada 2020 and enjoy a wider range of content․ Learning how to watch US Netflix in Canada 2020 is easier than you might think!
Understanding the Geo-Restrictions
Netflix uses your IP address to determine your location․ This allows them to enforce regional content licensing agreements․ Essentially, they can only show content in regions where they have the rights to do so․ This is why the content available on Netflix differs from country to country․
Methods to Access US Netflix in Canada
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN is the most popular and generally reliable method for accessing US Netflix․ It works by routing your internet traffic through a server in the United States, masking your Canadian IP address and making it appear as if you are browsing from within the US․
- How it works: You connect to a VPN server located in the US․ Your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through this server․ Netflix sees the IP address of the VPN server, not your actual location․
- Things to consider: Not all VPNs are created equal․ Netflix actively blocks VPN IP addresses․ Choose a VPN known for its ability to bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions․ Premium VPN services are usually more reliable․
- Popular VPN choices: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost․
Using Smart DNS Proxies
Smart DNS proxies reroute only the part of your internet traffic that reveals your location․ This is a less comprehensive approach than a VPN, but it can be faster and sometimes more effective at bypassing Netflix’s detection․
- How it works: You configure your device’s DNS settings to use the Smart DNS proxy server․ Only the traffic related to location verification is routed through the proxy․
- Things to consider: Smart DNS proxies typically don’t offer the same level of security and privacy as VPNs․
Is Using a VPN or Smart DNS Legal?
Generally, using a VPN or Smart DNS to access US Netflix is not illegal․ However, it does violate Netflix’s terms of service․ Netflix has the right to block users who are found to be circumventing their geo-restrictions․ However, the risk is low and usually only results in a temporary inability to access the service until you change your VPN server․
FAQ: Watching US Netflix in Canada
Will Netflix detect my VPN?
Netflix actively tries to detect and block VPN IP addresses․ However, many premium VPNs are constantly updating their servers to avoid detection․
Is it worth paying for a VPN?
If you frequently want to access US Netflix, a premium VPN is generally worth the investment․ Free VPNs are often unreliable and may not be able to bypass Netflix’s restrictions․
Can I use a free VPN?
While free VPNs exist, they are often slow, unreliable, and may compromise your privacy․ They are also less likely to be able to bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions․ They are not generally recommended․
What if my VPN stops working with Netflix?
Try connecting to a different server in the US․ Contact your VPN provider’s support team for assistance․
Ultimately, learning how to watch US Netflix in Canada 2020 comes down to selecting the right VPN or Smart DNS service and staying informed about the latest techniques for bypassing geo-restrictions․ With the information provided here, you should be well-equipped to unlock a whole new world of entertainment․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a reputable VPN or Smart DNS service, you might encounter issues accessing US Netflix․ Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- Netflix Error Code M7111-1331: This is a common error indicating that Netflix has detected you’re using a proxy or VPN․ Try switching to a different server within your VPN app․ Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can also help․
- Slow Streaming Speeds: VPNs can sometimes slow down your internet speed․ Try connecting to a server closer to your actual location within the US for better performance․ Also, ensure your internet connection is stable․
- Inconsistent Content Availability: Even when connected to a US server, you might still see Canadian Netflix content․ Double-check that your VPN is properly connected and that your DNS settings are correctly configured if using a Smart DNS proxy․ Restarting your device can sometimes resolve this issue․
- VPN Not Working At All: If your VPN consistently fails to connect or doesn’t bypass Netflix’s restrictions, consider contacting your VPN provider’s customer support․ They may have specific solutions or server recommendations․
Alternatives to Netflix for US Content
While accessing US Netflix is a popular goal, remember that other streaming services also offer a wide range of US content․ Consider exploring these options as alternatives or supplements to your Netflix experience:
- Hulu: While Hulu is primarily available in the US, it offers a vast library of TV shows and movies, including many popular US network series․
- HBO Max: Another US-based streaming service with a premium selection of movies and TV shows, including HBO originals and Warner Bros․ content․
- Amazon Prime Video: Although Amazon Prime Video has different regional catalogs, it often includes US content that isn’t available on Canadian Netflix․
- Crave: While a Canadian service, Crave often acquires rights to US HBO and Showtime content, providing access to shows like Succession and Billions․
Future of Geo-Restricted Content
The landscape of streaming and geo-restrictions is constantly evolving․ Netflix and other streaming services are continuously refining their methods for detecting and blocking VPNs․ At the same time, VPN providers are developing new techniques to bypass these restrictions․ The future likely involves a cat-and-mouse game, with both sides constantly adapting․ It is important to stay updated on the latest developments and choose a reliable VPN provider that is committed to maintaining access to US Netflix․
