Does NordVPN Work With Netflix in 2023? Easy How-to Guide

NordVPN works with Netflix and can access its libraries in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, and more. While NordVPN has previously encountered challenges accessing Netflix and avoiding proxy errors, I have confirmed this is no longer an issue by conducting extensive testing.

In case you experience any issues, I listed some troubleshooting tips to help you out and some NordVPN alternatives. They all work reliably with Netflix, and some even unblock more libraries, like ExpressVPN.

NordVPN offers peace of mind with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it out for free with Netflix. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can claim a full refund.

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NordVPN vs Netflix: Does NordVPN Still Work With Netflix?

In the past, NordVPN struggled to keep up with Netflix’s VPN-detection technology. However, as my testing showed, I am pleased to confirm that it’s more reliable now. NordVPN successfully unblocked 18 Netflix libraries worldwide. These include Argentina, Austria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the US.

With its built-in SmartPlay feature, NordVPN combines the benefits of a Smart DNS service with the security of a VPN. It automatically changes your DNS and IP while encrypting your data so you can reliably and safely access Netflix or other streaming sites. It does all the work for you so you can focus on what Netflix smash hit to watch next.

I noticed some servers were more stable than others, particularly when connecting to Italy, where NordVPN’s connection dropped and reconnected to different servers multiple times. Regardless, this did not impact my viewing experience. With 5,640+ servers across 60 countries around the globe, you’ll have plenty of alternatives to try out if you’re struggling with a particular server. However, keep in mind that NordVPN does not have an Indian server.

NordVPN also lets you purchase a dedicated IP that belongs to you exclusively. Since you don't share it with other users, Netflix is less likely to detect and block this IP. You can choose to get a dedicated IP from the US, UK, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, France, Japan, Canada, and Italy.

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Specific NordVPN Servers That Worked For Me With Netflix

Here are some specific servers that worked with Netflix during testing.

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Are NordVPN’s Speeds Fast Enough for Watching Netflix?

In a word, yes! NordVPN’s servers are fast enough to watch Netflix.

As part of my research into finding the best VPNs on the market, I conduct weekly speed tests on 13+ of the most popular VPNs. NordVPN consistently produces fast download speeds, averaging a mere 14% drop. Even when connecting to servers on the other side of the world, I continued to experience speeds in the top 80–90 Mbps. These results are more than capable of meeting the minimum requirements for 4K UHD streaming and avoiding pesky interruptions to your content.

Unlike other providers who are reliant on WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, NordVPN can deliver these speeds with its own NordLynx protocol.

Netflix recommends the following minimum speed requirements for streaming:

• Standard Definition (SD) 480p — 3 Mbps
• High Definition (HD) 720p — 5 Mbps
• Full High Definition (FHD) 1080p — 15 Mbps
• 4K/Ultra High Definition (UHD) — 25 Mbps

With NordVPN’s fast download speeds, I experienced zero buffering even while watching The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring in UHD.

NordVPN’s speeds are fast enough to offer uninterrupted viewing in 4K UHD

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Why Is NordVPN Not Working With Netflix?

If you’re having trouble getting NordVPN to work with Netflix, you can try a few simple workarounds.

Three common errors that you may run into when watching Netflix with NordVPN, or any other VPN for that matter, are error codes M7111-5059, M7037-1111, and M7111-5003. These are more commonly known as proxy errors and occur when the streaming service has detected and blocked the VPN server you are using.

If you run into these errors, there are 6 fixes you can try to restore access:

1. Turn NordVPN off and on again — This is technical support 101; try restarting your device and NordVPN.
2. Try a different server — It could be that the specific server you selected is no longer working or that the title you are trying to watch is unavailable in this region.
   If you need to connect to a specific server, search for the country name with a hashtag and the server number. For example, United States #8785. Above, you can find a list of all the servers that worked for me.
3. Clear your cache — When using a browser, such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, or an app, some information is stored from websites in its cache. This allows the service to remember you and load faster the next time you visit. Netflix could be using your cache to determine your physical location, so clearing this data could resolve these pesky errors.
4. Confirm you’re using NordVPN’s DNS servers — Your connection is routed through NordVPN’s services via the Domain Name System, or DNS, settings. Nord’s preferred servers are 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100, and you should be using these as default, but some devices may need to be manually configured. You’ll find complete instructions on changing your device’s DNS servers on Nord’s support page.
5. Contact NordVPN's customer service — If you are still struggling, contact NordVPN’s 24/7 customer service team via live chat or email.
6. Use an alternative VPN service — If all else fails, it may be time to try out a different VPN service that reliably works with Netflix. I prefer ExpressVPN as it has servers in more countries than NordVPN and unblocks more Netflix libraries. Keep reading to learn about some of my top alternative picks.

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Best NordVPN Alternatives to Watch Netflix From Anywhere in 2023

1. ExpressVPN — Reliable Servers That Give You Access to 20+ Netflix Libraries Worldwide

ExpressVPN unblocks more Netflix libraries than NordVPN due to its excellent IP maintenance. It constantly replaces blocked IPs to ensure they work with Netflix. With a larger number of supported countries around the globe, it unblocked 20+ different Netflix libraries. In addition to the locations I tested with NordVPN, ExpressVPN also unblocked Chile, Hong Kong, Colombia, Malaysia, Romania, and Greece.

I had UHD picture quality throughout the episode

When testing speeds across 11 countries worldwide, ExpressVPN maintained speeds equal to the results I achieved with NordVPN. On average, I experienced a 17% drop and had download rates in the high 100–120 Mbps range. With these results and the proper base speeds, you can watch Netflix in HD or even UHD without buffering.

Out of all the VPNs I test every week, ExpressVPN is my favorite because of its simple design and easy-to-use app. Plus, it reliably connects to each location in 1–2 seconds with no hassle. With NordVPN, I have experienced the odd occasion where the first server it connects to will drop and reconnect to an alternative within the same region.

One downside is that it’s a bit pricey, with plans starting at $6.67/month. Though the average pricing is similar to NordVPN. As ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free with Netflix to ensure it's your best match. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can get a refund.

Useful Features

• Recent Location feature. ExpressVPN remembers your last used location, and it saves it on the main screen as well as in the servers menu. This way, you can reconnect with a single click and continue watching Netflix where you left off.
• Proprietary Lightway protocol. Similar to NordLynx, Lightway is optimized for speed and security, resulting in a better Netflix experience.
• 1-Click Shortcuts. From the Options menu, you’ll see the Shortcuts tab. Just add Netflix.com to the list and launch directly from the VPN for instant access.
• Split tunneling. Set the Netflix app to use the VPN connection, and you can watch Netflix from abroad while your other apps can continue to access content locally. You’ll find this in the Options menu under the General tab.

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2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Easily Access Specific Netflix Libraries

Unlike NordVPN, CyberGhost offers 26 servers optimized for specific Netflix libraries, including France, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the US. Plus, you’ll find device-specific servers that are best for watching Netflix with Android TV and Amazon Fire Stick. Optimized servers are more reliable, faster, and specifically designed to work with that library.

Optimized servers allow for a more consistent viewing experience with no buffering

While CyberGhost’s speed tests cannot keep up and match ExpressVPN, they are still more than fast enough to allow for streaming Netflix in good quality. I typically experienced speeds of 80+ Mbps and a 31% average drop.

However, locations further away from where I was testing in the UK, such as Brazil and India, showed a significant drop, between 50% and 81%. If your baseline connection is slow, to begin with, you will likely experience frequent interruptions as your Netflix title loads.

Want to give it a try? You can feel confident in seeing if CyberGhost is the right fit for you with the backing of its risk-free money-back guarantee. You have 45 days to request a refund. Just reach out via live chat or email for support.

Useful Features

• Dedicated IP. For a small additional fee, you can upgrade your CyberGhost experience with a dedicated IP that is used only by you. This makes it much harder for streaming services like Netflix to block your access. Once added, choose one location from Australia, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, or the US.
• Auto-connect on launch. You can set up to connect to your preferred Netflix-optimized server automatically when you launch the CyberGhost app.
• Add your top servers to your favorites. This way, you can easily find and switch between the locations you regularly use with Netflix.
• Prevent DNS leaks. Enable this feature in the VPN’s privacy settings to help protect against Netflix’s dreaded proxy errors.

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3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — US Servers in Every State to Reliably Access the Most Popular Netflix Library

While PIA doesn’t have servers in as many countries as ExpressVPN and CyberGhost, it is the only one on my list to offer servers in every US state. This means you’ll have reliable access to the most popular Netflix library. Overall, it unblocked 17 libraries worldwide.

I watched the original 1978 rendition of Watership Down by accessing Netflix Australia

PIA displayed remarkable performance with an average speed of 109 Mbps, and a minimal 13% reduction on nearby servers, ensuring smooth streaming without any buffering. Similarly to CyberGhost, PIA experiences some speed drops in distant locations, but popular areas such as the US, Japan, and Australia returned satisfactory results with only a 32-40% reduction.

With plans as low as $2.03/month and with frequent deals you can get on its longest plan, PIA is one of the most affordable VPNs that still deliver the features you need to watch Netflix. All plans are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you are less than satisfied with your experience, you can request a full refund.

Useful Features

• Streaming-optimized servers. These are available in 8 countries; Australia, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Japan, Sweden, the UK, and the US. However, you’ll find that you don’t always need an optimized server to access Netflix. For example, the Japan streaming-optimized server didn’t work to unblock Netflix, but the regular Japan server did.
• Customizable, easy-to-use app. The main window is fully customizable, so you can save the menu options that matter most to you. I suggest adding the Quick Connect widget on top for 1-click access to your top 6 favorite locations.
• Server latency stats. Next to each server, you’ll find the latency info, making it easier to select the fastest server for watching Netflix in your chosen region.
• Dedicated IP. Like CyberGhost, you can add-on this service to your subscription and get access to an exclusive IP for your use only, making it easier to avoid being blocked by Netflix and other streaming services. However, Private Internet Access only offers dedicated IP addresses in Canada, Germany, the UK, and the US.

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4. Surfshark — Stream Netflix on an Unlimited Number of Devices Simultaneously

Among the options listed, Surfshark stands out as the sole provider that permits unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription. This feature makes it my top recommendation for individuals aiming to stream Netflix from every device in their household, especially for larger families. With Surfshark, there will no longer be any conflicts over the remote control. Now, I can enjoy watching "The Dark Knight" in one room while the kids indulge in "Shrek" in another.

With speed drops between only 4-31%, I had no problems streaming content in UHD

I am regularly impressed with the results of my Surfshark speed tests, with outcomes that often rival that of ExpressVPN and NordVPN. However, where Surfshark needs to catch up to its competitors is its consistency, with some weekly results averaging in the high 100+ Mbps and others dropping to the 80 range. Nevertheless, these are still more than fast enough to enjoy Netflix uninterrupted.

With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try Surfshark out for yourself completely risk-free. If you don’t like it, you can easily get a full refund by contacting the support team.

Useful Features

• Customizable auto-connect. Set Surfshark to connect automatically to your chosen location upon launch so you can save time and get back to watching your favorite Netflix show.
• Quick-connect. You can also use and customize the Quick-connect button to connect to a server of your choice. With a customizable dashboard accessible from the system tray, you can connect with this feature or even change servers without entering the whole app.
• Built-in speed test. Surfshark’s speed test lets you test its servers’ download and upload speeds and latency across various categories so you can easily compare and choose the one that best fits your Netflix needs.
• Split tunneling via Bypasser. You can choose what services connect via the VPN so your settings for Netflix won’t impact other apps and websites that need a local connection, like those you use for news or banking.

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Quick Comparison Table: Netflix VPN Features

Examine the juxtaposition of the most sought-after attributes to aid in determining the most suitable VPN for streaming Netflix.

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FAQs on Watching Netflix With NordVPN

Is it legal to change regions on Netflix with NordVPN?

Using NordVPN to change regions on Netflix is legal. Netflix’s help page has a section that addresses whether you can use a VPN to watch TV shows and movies with Netflix. Depending on your viewing country, you’ll likely see that you can use a VPN with the Basic, Standard, and Premium plans to watch content that Netflix holds the global rights to. (Using a VPN with the Basic with ads plan is not supported).

The issue with using a VPN arises when you use it to access content that Netflix doesn’t hold the rights to and is unavailable in your actual region. This is against Netflix’s terms and conditions and is why they continue to improve their VPN-blocking technology.

The reason for this is country-specific licensing agreements between providers and Netflix around who owns the rights to certain streaming content and where it can be viewed. This is why certain TV shows and movies may not be available globally.

How can I watch Netflix on Android TV, Fire Stick, and Apple TV with NordVPN?

One of my favorite things about NordVPN is its compatibility with many devices and platforms. It has an app for Android TV and Amazon Fire Stick. This means you can watch Netflix on your big screen just by following these 3 simple steps.

Since Apple TV doesn’t support VPNs, you’ll need to configure NordVPN on your router. Then, connect your Apple TV to that WiFi network, and you’re good to go. Or you can just use NordVPN's Smart DNS service and configure it on your Apple TV. But keep in mind that with it, you'll be only able to watch Netflix Originals.

Why do I get the Netflix proxy error when using NordVPN, and how to avoid it?

The Netflix proxy errors occur when the service has detected and blocked your VPN server. You will most likely run into error codes M7111-5059, M7037-1111, and M7111-5003. Take a look at these 6 fixes you can try if NordVPN is not working with Netflix.

Is a free VPN a better alternative for watching Netflix than NordVPN?

Not really. Most free VPNs can be easily detected by Netflix, and the few IP servers that they have usually get blocked. Also, they come with slow speeds that will just make your streaming experience not really enjoyable with a lot of interruptions and buffering.

Data caps are another issue that comes with free VPNs. Some even limit you to as low as 500MB per month, which isn’t enough to watch 1 episode of a show in good quality.

Lastly, they’re not safe as some of them log your data and even sell it to third parties. What’s more, you can infect your device since they sometimes contain malware in their installers.

Instead, I recommend investing in a paid VPN service like NordVPN. It has proven reliability to unblock many Netflix libraries and fast connection speeds. With NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free.

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Start Watching Netflix With NordVPN

I hope now you’ll feel confident knowing how to watch Netflix with NordVPN’s tried and tested service. If you’re having trouble with NordVPN accessing Netflix, the troubleshooting steps should help. However, given its previous history and difficulty in reliably accessing Netflix content, you may find yourself searching for servers that still work, so it’s always good to have a backup.

Although NordVPN is a reputable choice overall, there are other alternatives that excel specifically in streaming Netflix. ExpressVPN, for instance, delivers comparable performance to NordVPN while providing access to a wider range of Netflix libraries.

To summarize, the best VPNs for watching Netflix are…