Does Surfshark Work With Netflix? How to Watch It in 2023

It sells itself as a VPN that helps you avoid travel restrictions, but is Surfshark powerful enough to get around Netflix’s strong geoblocks? And, if it is, are the servers fast enough to watch TV and movies in Ultra HD?

My team and I tested Surfshark to see just how good it is for streaming on Netflix. I looked at critical features like the server network, speeds, device compatibility, and more. I also tested the VPN to make sure you can access your home library when you travel — wherever you’re from.

Overall, I found Surfshark to be a decent choice, thanks to its widespread server coverage. Its fast speeds support high-quality streaming and you can connect as many devices as you like (including smart TVs). There's also a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try all Surfshark’s features for free.

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Is Surfshark Good for Netflix?

Surfshark is often included in lists of the best VPNs for Netflix, so I had high expectations. With the help of my team in 8 countries, I tested 20+ Netflix libraries and made the following findings.

Which Netflix Libraries Does Surfshark Work With?

Surfshark works with some of the biggest Netflix libraries, including the US and Canada. Its extensive network of 3,200 servers across 100 countries lets you easily access your usual home library while traveling. This is impressive as Netflix is known for its tough geoblocks and VPN/proxy detection software.

In my tests, Surfshark unblocked Netflix in the following locations:

Surfshark’s servers work with Netflix in many locations, I had no issues watching Squid Game or Breaking Bad either

The only slightly annoying thing is that not every server is reliable. For example, I couldn’t access the Spanish Netflix library using the Barcelona servers at all. I had to change to a server in Madrid and reload Netflix before it finally worked. The streaming platform frequently bans overused IP addresses, so switching servers can easily solve the problem but it’s a little time-consuming. I’d prefer it if the servers worked first time.

That said, Surfshark does a good job of unblocking other platforms besides Netflix too. I successfully used it to watch shows on my BBC iPlayer account. Here are some other streaming services Surfshark supports, such as Discovery Plus:

Is Surfshark Fast Enough for Streaming?

All VPNs drop your internet speed (because they encrypt your online activity) but I recorded speeds fast enough for 4K streaming when I tested Surfshark. My connection ranged between 118 and 86Mbps, only a 2–29% drop from my usual speeds. The VPN also gives you unlimited bandwidth, so you can stream as much as you like in one session.

These are the standard speeds required for Netflix streaming:

And here are my Surfshark speed test results. For comparison, my base speed (without a VPN) is 121.52Mbps:

Among the protocols supported by Surfshark, the fast WireGuard protocol offered the most reliable Netflix streaming speeds. On some servers, like Berlin, there was no speed loss at all.

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Is Surfshark Safe to Use With Netflix?

Yes, Surfshark helps to hide your VPN use from Netflix. Its Camouflage Mode (obfuscation technology) makes VPN traffic look like regular traffic. This is great for avoiding Netflix’s proxy detection software and also for keeping your account out of trouble.

No one can keep tabs on your streaming activities because everything you do online is encrypted. Surfshark uses the highest level of encryption available (256-bit AES), so even hackers can’t steal your sensitive information (like logins or Netflix payment details). Plus, robust protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 help to safely tunnel your traffic.

Solid privacy measures are in place too, including a transparent no-logs policy. That means your activities and online searches aren't recorded or stored by the VPN. Plus, your data is regularly wiped from the RAM-based servers. Your IP/DNS/WebRTC information isn’t exposed either, thanks to the leak protection feature. If your server connection abruptly drops, the kill switch kicks in to block internet access so that your actual location isn't revealed to Netflix.

I especially liked Surfshark’s Bypasser feature (previously known as Whitelister). It’s the VPN’s take on split tunneling and lets you choose which apps go through the VPN and which don’t. It’s handy if you want to unblock the Netflix app while you’re away, but use your browser as normal to get local search results.

If you visit a country with restrictive internet laws, the NoBorders mode also kicks in to connect you to servers that are best for getting around firewalls — so you can watch Netflix from anywhere.

Which Devices Work With Surfshark?

You can use Surfshark with most devices, including PCs, smartphones, and routers. I tested the Windows and macOS apps with Netflix and the setup process was very straightforward. There are also user-friendly apps for Android, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

If you want to watch Netflix on the big screen, there’s a native app for Fire TVs. Alternatively,

Surfshark’s SmartDNS option also allows you to unblock Netflix on devices that don’t usually support VPNs (like Apple TV, Kodi, Roku, and gaming consoles including PS4/5 and Xbox). SmartDNS is a little more complicated to set up and doesn’t encrypt your connection, but it enables you to access your home Netflix library on whichever device you like.

The VPN gives you Unlimited simultaneous connections, so it's ideal if you have a lot of devices. I tried connecting my laptop, smartphone, smart TV, and tablet at the same time and didn’t see any performance issues when streaming Netflix on all of them.

Does Surfshark Have a Money-Back Guarantee?

Yes, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. This gives you enough time to test all its features risk-free. You can easily ask for a refund if the VPN doesn't meet your expectations. I requested mine via the 24/7 live chat and my credit card was reimbursed within 7 days.

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What to Do if Surfshark Isn’t Working With Netflix

If you’re encountering Netflix’s streaming site error when trying to stream with Surfshark, here are a few things you can try:

• Switch servers. There could be outages on the server you’re using, or the server’s IP address might’ve already been banned by Netflix. Surfshark does a good job of replacing old IP addresses to avoid this issue, so it shouldn’t take long to find a server that works. Just connect to a different location and reload Netflix. You can also try switching to another Smart DNS server.
• Clear your cache. Browsers sometimes store your IP data and expose it when you visit the Netflix website, giving away your real location. Go to your browser menu and clear your history. On the Chrome browser, you can find and delete this data in the History You can also try using a more privacy-friendly browser, reinstalling the Netflix app, or restarting your router.

• Use another protocol. While Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol is better for speeds, the Camouflage obfuscation mode only works with OpenVPN. If Netflix detects that you’re using a VPN, switch to the OpenVPN/UDP protocol and enable Camouflage Mode.
• Update Surfshark. If you’re using an old version of the Surfshark app, you might be missing out on server patches or unblocking updates. Check for updates regularly to get the best performance out of the VPN.
• Contact support. Surfshark’s reps offer 24/7 support on live chat and email. You can send them a message to ask for advice if all the solutions above fail to work. There are plenty of how-to guides on the website as well.
• Get another VPN. You can also try another VPN if Surfshark isn’t working. Below are some good alternative Netflix VPNs.

Best Alternative VPNs for Netflix — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Impressive Speeds for Smooth Streaming on Netflix

ExpressVPN’s in-house Lightway protocol delivers excellent speeds for watching Netflix. The protocol uses less code than OpenVPN, which makes it fast for streaming. I only saw a 2-3% drop from my base connection on most servers. Even the distant ExpressVPN servers I tested with Netflix played UHD videos without buffering. Bandwidth isn’t restricted either, so the VPN doesn’t limit your streaming sessions.

The server distribution in 94 countries is another boost for streamers. You can easily access content worldwide because all the servers are obfuscated for bypassing geoblocks. I regularly use ExpressVPN to watch my favorite Netflix US shows like Bake Squad while traveling outside the country. It effortlessly unblocks multiple other platforms without problems too, including Hulu, DAZN, and Peacock TV.

My speeds were more than fast enough for streaming in UHD

Intuitive apps are available for various OSs, including Windows and macOS. iPhone and Android are supported too, as well as streaming devices like Android TV, Firestick, LG Smart TV, and Samsung TV. The VPN’s SmartDNS service (MediaStreamer) can be used to unblock content on devices that don't support VPNs, like PS4 and Apple TV. It helped me unblock Netflix US on my smart TV.

The subscriptions can be a bit pricey but ExpressVPN regularly offers generous discounts on the side. There’s also a 30-day money guarantee. If you change your mind, you can message the team on 24/7 live chat support for a quick refund.

Useful Features

• Military-grade encryption. The tough AES 256-bit cryptographic cipher deployed by ExpressVPN makes it safe for streaming Netflix. It also stops your ISP from seeing that you’re streaming, so it can’t deliberately throttle your speeds based on your activity.
• Audited protocol. ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol has been audited and verified for security, so you know you’re safe while streaming.
• Network Lock and leak protection. Both these features prevent your real location and identity from being leaked online. That way, you can’t be blocked by Netflix even if the VPN accidentally drops due to an unstable internet connection.
• TrustedServer tech. Besides running a strict no-logs policy, the VPN uses RAM-only servers that automatically (and regularly) delete user data. This means there are no traces of your Netflix streaming and online browsing activities left behind.
• Device connections. ExpressVPN allows 8 simultaneous connections, so you can watch Netflix on multiple devices.

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2. CyberGhost — Netflix-Optimized Servers for Watching International Content

CyberGhost gives you servers optimized for streaming Netflix in places like the US, the UK, and across Europe. The servers can easily bypass Netflix’s geoblocks and deliver fast speeds at the same time. I unblocked multiple Netflix libraries while testing CyberGhost. Even the non-optimized servers accessed the platform (there are servers in 91 countries overall). I used the Los Angeles servers to watch Ginny & Georgia on my Netflix account without issues.

CyberGhost’s server list shows ping data to help you find the fastest connection

My speeds averaged 41.50Mbps, dropping just 19% from my base connection. Servers across the US and Europe (including the UK and France) delivered exemplary speeds, especially while using the WireGuard protocol. However, the Australian and Hong Kong servers were a bit slow at 32Mbps. These speeds can’t quite match ExpressVPN, but they comfortably streamed Netflix in UHD without lag.

I easily set up the app on my iPhone, iPad, and Windows laptop while testing it with Netflix. My $2.19/month subscription allowed up to 7 simultaneous connections — enough for all my devices. You can also try CyberGhost for free via the 45-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• WiFi protection. This feature automatically launches the VPN when it detects any unknown network. That way, you’re not exposed to online threats even if you forget to activate CyberGhost when watching Netflix on public WiFi.
• Unlimited data and bandwidth. You can stream as many Netflix shows and movies as you want because there are no caps on your usage.
• Audited privacy policy. CyberGhosts no-logs policy has passed independent audits by Deloitte, so there’s a lot of transparency. Your sensitive data, like real location and IP address, isn’t collected or stored by the VPN.
• Great support. You can get help via 24/7 live chat, email, or from the online knowledge base and FAQs.

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3. Private Internet Access — Customized Security Settings to Balance Speed and Protection

PIA lets you choose between 128-bit (speed advantage for streaming) and 256-bit encryption. If watching Netflix in UHD is your priority, this customization is ideal. The VPN works with most systems, including Samsung TV and Firestick. Also, the subscriptions are affordable, starting from just $2.03/month. They are even backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test the service with your devices risk-free.

Despite connecting multiple devices, I got consistent streaming speeds while testing PIA. The maximum base speed drop was 36%, which only happened on the Japan servers. Other locations — such as Florida and Germany — easily clocked 92Mbps, representing just a 24% drop. The network of 29,650 servers is big too, giving you a good chance of being able to access your home Netflix library. I didn’t experience any buffering on any of the servers I tested with Netflix.

You can quickly find servers for Netflix because PIA has a large network

Theoretically, the default AES 128-bit encryption is supposed to give you faster streaming speeds. However, there wasn’t any significant difference compared to the custom 256-bit encryption during my tests. Like Surfshark, PIA also supports WireGuard, which did give me faster speeds.

Useful Features

• Unlimited bandwidth. Your data and bandwidth aren’t restricted, so you can stream Netflix for as long as you like.
• MACE ad and tracker blocker. This blocks annoying pop-ups and third-party trackers that could secretly collect information about your streaming activities. It helps to improve your online privacy and safety on sites like Netflix.
• Unlimited device connections. Get all your streaming devices connected to Netflix without compromise.
• 24/7 help. PIA has a round-the-clock live chat plus email support, FAQs, and setup guides on the website.

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FAQ on How to Use Surfshark with Netflix

Is it legal to use Surfshark with Netflix?

Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries and can be used with Netflix. That said, only a tough VPN with advanced encryption and privacy tools can safely access Netflix. It’s also a good idea to look for a service with lots of servers worldwide, so you can access your home Netflix library wherever you travel.

With that said, it's still important to understand the laws about VPN use in your country. Some countries — like China, Belarus, and Russia — have restricted or banned VPNs entirely. Also, using a VPN to watch Netflix can breach its terms and conditions. So always check the latest laws and regulations before using your VPN, to avoid getting in trouble.

What are the pros and cons of using Surfshark with Netflix?

Surfshark’s extensive server network works with many Netflix libraries. That means you’ve got a good chance of finding a server that lets you unblock your home region even when you travel abroad. Plus, Surfshark delivers good speeds for UHD streaming on Netflix. You can even connect all your devices to the VPN at once, thanks to unlimited simultaneous connection.

One fairly big downside is that not all of the servers are reliable. You may have to disconnect and reconnect a couple of times before you find a server that works with Netflix in your chosen region.

Which Surfshark servers should I use for Netflix?

Most of Surfshark's European and US servers (like Los Angeles) can access Netflix. It also works with libraries in Japan, Australia, and Germany. These servers are all fast enough for streaming Netflix in the highest quality.

Is Surfshark compatible with Android and iOS devices?

Yes, Surfshark has native apps for mobile devices including Android, iPhone, and iPad. The VPN also works with PCs, Smart TVs, and many more devices. You can install Surfshark on as many devices as you want because it doesn’t limit connections. Plus, its SmartDNS feature lets you access Netflix on devices that don’t otherwise support VPNs, like Apple TV.

How can I check if Surfshark is working with Netflix?

Connect to Surfshark and log in to Netflix — if you don’t see any error messages, it’s working. In some rare cases, you may experience access failure. However, connecting to a different Surfshark server helps solve most Netflix streaming issues. You can also switch to the OpenVPN protocol, which has obfuscation to hide the VPN from Netflix.

You can also enable Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode (obfuscation) to stop Netflix from detecting the VPN

Can Netflix detect if I’m using Surfshark to access it?

Most likely not, because Surfshark obfuscates your VPN traffic. This means that your VPN use is hidden (obfuscation makes VPN traffic look like normal ISP traffic). You can then access geo-restricted content on sites like Netflix without getting detected and blocked. The obfuscation feature is automatically turned on when you connect to the OpenVPN protocol on Surfshark.

Can I use a free VPN for Netflix instead of Surfshark?

It's not recommended because Netflix blocks nearly every free VPN. Most IP addresses issued by these services are already banned by Netflix, and free services can’t afford to regularly update their networks to get around this issue. Instead, you can use Surfshark’s free trial or money-back guarantee to access Netflix for free. Surfshark’s IPs are frequently replaced, making it easier to get around Netflix’s VPN blocks.

Free VPNs have other feature limitations that compromise performance too. They often restrict which servers you can access, so you can’t reliably use them to bypass geoblocks on many Netflix libraries. Some use weak (or no) encryption and may even install malware on your device. Also, lots of free VPNs collect your data and sell it to third parties like advertisers.

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Start Streaming Netflix with Surfshark

Surfshark is a decent Netflix VPN. It can take a while to find a server that works with the streaming site, but the fast speeds enable you to watch TV and movies in UHD wherever you are. The VPN is compatible with most devices and allows unlimited connections with a single subscription.

That said, my recommendation for Netflix is ExpressVPN. It’s much faster than Surfshark and its network is even bigger — making it more reliable for unblocking Netflix from anywhere. Plus, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy with the service, it’s easy to get a refund.

 To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Netflix…