if you are one of the millions of people worldwide enjoy streaming content to their computers at home or their mobile devices, you have probably run into streaming issues related to geographical location and licensing agreements. There are many fantastic streaming services available but the most well-known is arguably Netflix. Netflix famously safeguards its geo-specific library content, ensuring that people in certain countries only have access to the streamed content they deem fit for that region. The problem, of course, comes when you desire to watch something but available in one region and not the one that you’re currently in. The answer? In most cases, the solution to that problem is to use a fully featured VPN service that has the capability of getting past Netflix VPN blocks.
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a virtual private network, hosted by a company focused on helping users maintain privacy and anonymity. Some VPNs come at a cost while others are free, but all seek to offer similar benefits. VPNs allow users to send requests and receive information in encrypted packets which keep prying eyes at bay. There are many people who are interested in seeing what the everyday user is doing online, including governments, ISPs (Internet Service Providers), and hackers. Using a VPN service adds an extra layer of security between you and those unwanted onlookers, while at the same time providing freedom from geo-fencing.
Staying safe with a VPN
The benefits of using a VPN are many. Accessing geo-blocked content, such as the Netflix Italia catalogo, hiding your IP address, avoiding advertisers and tracking, keeping hackers at bay, are just a few of the more common benefits associated with VPN use. There is another issue, however. That is the legal issue.
Using a VPN service to access copyrighted material is, in fact, illegal in the eyes of many governments around the world. Trying to access that content without a VPN service leaves you open to the risk of being contacted and charged for breaking copyright laws. When you use a trustworthy VPN to access your favorite online streaming service, like Netflix Italia, the VPN shields you from being identified by Internet copyright watchdogs.
Are all VPNs created equally?
The quick answer is, no. All VPNs are definitely not created equally. Even some of the best paid VPN services are not good enough to get past VPN blockers that are used by the world’s most popular streaming services. Netflix, for example, is one of those streaming services that is famous for having a very strong VPN blocking system in place.
There are a few VPNs that update their IP libraries often enough to stay ahead of the VPN blocks, but most are unable to keep up. If you are looking to connect to your favorite Netflix content library but you are away from home, always be sure to check with the VPN service that you are interested in to see if they unblock Netflix effectively. Just be careful as many VPN services claim that they get past VPN blockers but, in fact, do not. It is always a good idea to check recent reviews and feedback given by real world users.
