Netflix is one of the most popular streaming platforms worldwide, offering thousands of movies, series, and documentaries in its catalog. However, due to copyright and licensing issues, certain content is not available in some regions.
If you’ve encountered such blocks, you should know that there are methods you can use to unblock the entire Netflix catalog. In this article, we’ll explain some of the most effective techniques.
Netflix and Geographic Restrictions
Netflix is a streaming service available in more than 190 countries. However, the catalog of movies, series, and documentaries may vary depending on your location.
This is due to the licensing agreements between producers and distributors. For example, a series you find on Netflix US might not be available in Spain or Latin America.
As a user, regional blocking can be quite annoying, especially if you want to watch exclusive content. At the same time, Netflix has implemented detection technologies to block circumvention methods.
Fortunately, there are still effective techniques that will allow you to access the entire Netflix catalog safely and reliably.
How To Unlock the Entire Netflix Catalog?
In the following section, you’ll learn some of the most effective methods for enjoying the entire Netflix catalog from the comfort of your home:
1.Install a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the safest techniques for watching Netflix content from other countries. With a VPN, you can mask your IP address and replace it with that of a different country.
This way, Netflix will “detect” that you’re in a certain location and grant you access to that location’s specific catalog.
How to Use a VPN with Netflix:
- Choose a VPN: Carefully review which VPN you’ll use, as Netflix can block a wide variety of tools.
Download and Install: Follow the steps indicated to install the product. Make sure you opt for a secure VPN download from its official website. - Connect to the Server: Choose a server in the country of interest if you’re looking for regional Netflix content.
- Access Netflix: Log in to your account and check if new options appear in your regular streaming catalog.
Risks of using a VPN with Netflix:
- Some VPNs can be detected and blocked by the platform.
- There may be a loss of connection speed.
- Not all VPN servers grant access to the full catalog.
On the other hand, you should know that it is better to use a paid VPN than a free one. This is because, with free VPNs, you generally run the risk of having your information stored, and they don’t offer many configuration options.
2.Use Proxy Servers
Proxy servers work similarly to a VPN by redirecting your internet traffic to another server to simulate a location.
How to use a proxy with Netflix:
- Choose a proxy: Some of the most common services are Smart DNS Proxy and Unblock-Us.
- Configure the proxy: You will likely need to configure the proxy address in your device’s network settings.
- Check Netflix: With the proxy already active, open Netflix and browse the new catalog offered by the proxy you selected.
Risks of using a proxy with Netflix:
- A proxy is more visible/vulnerable and easier to block than a VPN.
- They don’t offer the same level of security as VPNs.
- Free options can put your privacy at risk.
If you decide to install a proxy to access the full Netflix catalog, we recommend using a paid version. This will avoid the risks associated with browsing activity logging.
3.Configure Smart DNS
Smart DNS is an alternative to VPNs that allows you to access blocked content without changing your IP address. Instead of redirecting traffic, it modifies DNS requests based on your location.
How to use Smart DNS with Netflix:
- Research Smart DNS: Before deciding which one to use, research everything related to their server redirection.
- Configure the devices: Go to your device and router settings to prepare them for Smart DNS and verify there are no network conflicts.
- Connect to Netflix: Log in to your Netflix account and verify that you can watch previously blocked content.
Risks of using Smart DNS with Netflix:
- It doesn’t provide the same privacy and security as a VPN.
- Netflix may block some Smart DNS services.
Unlike a VPN, Smart DNS doesn’t encrypt your traffic, so your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can still see what you do online. However, it’s generally faster than a VPN.
4.Change the DNS Manually
Some users have managed to bypass Netflix content restrictions through an effective solution. This involves manually changing the DNS used by your device to Google servers (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1).
However, this method doesn’t always work and is less effective against the platform’s restrictions.
5.Create an Account in Another Country
If you have family or friends in another country, you can ask them to help you create a Netflix account to share your subscription. This works because the platform considers the account’s region and the IP address with which the primary user accesses the account.
How to use an account from another country with Netflix:
- Ask a friend/family member in another country to create a Netflix account.
- With this account, log in to your device.
- Use a VPN or Smart DNS if necessary if you want to avoid restrictions.
This method is useful if you have access to an account from a different country. However, keep in mind that Netflix is implementing specific measures to restrict account sharing between different households.
Unblocking the entire Netflix catalog is possible, as you can use VPNs, proxies, or Smart DNS. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so the decision will depend on your specific needs.
However, it’s important to consider Netflix’s policies before using any tool, as you could risk having your account temporarily blocked or encountering error messages when trying to stream content.