ExpressVPN for Netflix: Does It Work and How to Use It?

Does ExpressVPN work with Netflix? (Updated for 2024)

Netflix, an international streaming service, distributes different content depending on the location of its users. This is because depending on their agreements with producers and studios, they may have the right to show content only to a specific country. However, there is growing interest in a global market, as more people want access to country-specific content on Netflix without being physically present in those countries. 

People have resorted to using VPNs to bypass the geo-restriction technology that Netflix uses to restrict access. To protect its agreement with producers and studios, Netflix continues to fight against this practice by making it challenging for VPNs to bypass its barriers. Therefore, only VPNs with sophisticated infrastructure can work with Netflix. 

ExpressVPN has been at the apex of the VPN industry for many years. In almost every VPN test out there, ExpressVPN regularly holds one of the top two spots, only beaten by NordVPN on occasion. In this article, we will examine whether or not ExpressVPN works with Netflix. Also, we will discuss the following.

  • Why you should use ExpressVPN for Netflix
  • How to connect to Netflix’s American library with ExpressVPN
  • Troubleshooting issues with ExpressVPN and Netflix
  • Alternatives to ExpressVPN

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How does ExpressVPN perform with Netflix?

While Netflix has many similar TV shows and movies across geographical borders, their library varies from country to country. The variations are typically based on a few native language shows and films here and there between European nations. It is the variation compared to the U.S. that is significant.

American Netflix carries a library that is up to 5 times as large as some European countries. Since some pay more or at least the same as Americans, many want to have the same access. This is where a VPN comes into the picture, and it is essential to use a VPN that works with Netflix.

ExpressVPN impressed us in our tests, and without exception, it was able to give us full access to American Netflix. For users outside the US, gaining access to Netflix’s American library is considered a fantastic deal. However, the good news is that beyond accessing Netflix’s American library, ExpressVPN can unblock other countries. 

ExpressVPN can surpass the geographical restrictions of different Netflix libraries, including UK Netflix, Australian Netflix, German Netflix, French Netflix, Canadian Netflix, and many others. With ExpressVPN, you get to explore different movies and shows on Netflix in several countries. 

The best part of it all is that you do not need to pay extra to access this content, and it is entirely legal. Your Netflix subscription counts worldwide, regardless of your location. Furthermore, VPNs are not illegal in most countries unless you use them to do something illegal. The last time we checked, watching Netflix is undoubtedly legal.

By using ExpressVPN to watch Netflix, you have the flexibility to access content from different countries. If your favorite show is not available in your country but is available in the US, you can just connect to an American IP address. ExpressVPN guarantees you access to a selection of movies across different countries.

Netflix Libraries ExpressVPN Unblocks

ExpressVPN is available in over 90 countries. However, not all its servers unblock Netflix libraries in those countries. Below, we look at country-specific Netflix libraries ExpressVPN can give you access to and content exclusive to them. 

1. United States

ExpressVPN has an extensive server collection in the US. It is no wonder we had zero problems using it to bypass Netflix’s geo-restriction technology. Plus, most servers were fast enough to watch in HD, especially those in Atlanta, San Jose, and Los Angeles. Content exclusive to Netflix US includes The Master, Starship Troopers: Traitor of Mars, Woody Woodpecker, Universal Soldier: The Return, and Bride of Chucky.

2. United Kingdom

ExpressVPN’s presence in the UK will see give you unrestricted access to UK-only content, especially servers in London and Wembley. Connecting to a server in the UK takes less than 3 seconds. All you need to do is open the ExpressVPN application on your device and select a UK server. Content exclusive to the UK includes shows and movies such as The Mexican, Twilight, Out of Time, Page Eight, A Call to Spy, and Hollow Point. 

3. Canada

With a significant number of VPN servers in Canada, ExpressVPN allows you to access Netflix’s Canadian library. Servers in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are best for Netflix. Next Friday, Critical Thinking, Infamous, Walking Tall, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3, and City Lights are examples of content exclusive to Netflix Canada. 

4. France

France is another country you can use ExpressVPN to access its Netflix library. Most of ExpressVPN’s servers in France will work with Netflix. However, some of them can’t get past Netflix’s geo-restriction technology. Content exclusive to Netflix France include Sin Nombre, Merci Pour Le Chocolate, Above the Law, My King, and Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn.

5. Japan

ExpressVPN’s server network in Tokyo is the reason you can use it to watch Japanese Netflix. Content exclusive to Japan include Deadman Inferno, The Throwaways, Million Dollar Man, Shinjuku Swan, Edens Zero, and Tokyo Revengers. 

6. Australia

Netflix Australia is available to ExpressVPN users because of its server network in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. Content exclusive to Netflix Australia include Shine, Heathers, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Palm Beach, and Oxygen. 

There are other Netlfix libraries you can access as it is not limited to the countries above. We can guarantee that with ExpressVPN, you can access at least 20 Netflix libraries.

Why Use ExpressVPN For Netflix?

Claiming the ability to provide access to American Netflix is something many VPN services do. Unfortunately, testing shows that many services fail at this, especially free services. In addition, a lot of paid services are inconsistent. Nothing is more annoying than waiting to watch your favorite show, only to have the VPN you use fail to bypass Netflix’s restrictions.

This is why using ExpressVPN, which has continually proven to work, is one of the best options out there. Not only does ExpressVPN surpass the geographical restrictions that Netflix places, but it also bypasses the IP address ban that the service uses against VPNs.

Speed tests show that ExpressVPN has very fast speed.

Furthermore, an essential aspect of a VPN is its speed. VPNs generally reduce the speed of a connection because of the computer resources encryption uses. In addition, your data needs to pass through the VPN server before reaching its destination. However, ExpressVPN reduces the speed reduction to the absolute minimum. 

After all, you don’t want to watch your favorite show on American Netflix using a VPN that allows consistent lagging and buffering because it is simply not fast enough. Therefore, selecting a VPN service such as ExpressVPN is essential to your experience with Netflix.

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How Do I Connect to American Netflix Through ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN’s applications have an easy-to-use interface that is consistent between operating systems. Connecting to Netflix’s American library through ExpressVPN only takes a few minutes from registration.

Your first step will be to register, choose a subscription, and download the program to your computer. Here, it is worth noting that ExpressVPN is undoubtedly one of the cheaper options in terms of its product offering. Furthermore, the installation goes by quickly, and it is easy to follow.

Once downloaded, ExpressVPN runs on a simple interface. Within its user interface, you have access to thousands of servers in every country you want to access. However, you need to log in with your credentials before you have access to those countries. Then, you need to select one of its servers in America, and you will appear as if you are physically in the US. 

This transition will happen in seconds, and ExpressVPN masks your original IP address. As far as Netflix knows, you are just visiting some random American IP address. Then, you will have access to Netflix’s American library. You will also gain access to Netflix content for several other prominent countries if you decide to connect to another country.

ExpressVPN Netflix Troubleshooting

No matter how good a service is, you may experience issues with it. What matters in these situations is that the service offers easy troubleshooting. Below, we look at some of the easy troubleshooting options you have if ExpressVPN does not work with Netflix.

1. Find a New IP Address

There is the possibility that Netflix blocked the IP address you used with their service. This rarely happens to superior services such as ExpressVPN, but Netflix has scaled up its battle to target VPNs at a more severe level. However, it is possible to fix this by doing something as simple as connecting to a different server. 

ExpressVPN has extremely many US servers

All you need to do is disconnect from the current server and choose a new American IP address from the list provided by ExpressVPN. When you revisit Netflix, there is a high chance you will have access to American content. If not, more in-depth steps might be necessary to regain access.

2. Clear Cookies and Cache

While blocked IP addresses are usually the way Netflix blocks you from geographically restricted content, it is not the only way. For instance, they also utilize cookies in your browser. When you visit websites, cookies give away specific information about you as a visitor. For example, cookies can let a website know you are the same person visiting from 3 different countries. 

It pays off to delete your cache when you want to use a VPN to bypass Netflix’s restrictions. Some individuals think cookies are great in a web browser, as they, for instance, remember what you watched last, what your favorite genre is, and so on. However, if it is at the expense of watching American Netflix with ExpressVPN, clearing the cache should be a priority.

3. Reach Out To Customer Support

ExpressVPN is known for its excellent customer support. Therefore, you should not be afraid to utilize it. For instance, it could be a DNS issue preventing you from unblocking Netflix. Few people know how to fix this, but you can get the guidance you need quickly with access to the ExpressVPN customer service over the phone, email, or live chat. 

Other Good VPN Services That Work With Netflix

If ExpressVPN does not work with Netflix, there are other options out there. However, it is doubtful that any other VPN service is better at unblocking Netflix than ExpressVPN. Since it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can request a refund and spend it on one of the other good options out there. NordVPN and Surfshark are two other excellent services that consistently work with Netflix

NordVPN

NordVPN is the only VPN service that consistently fights for the top spot in the market with ExpressVPN. These two giants fight for customers looking to gain access to American Netflix and so much more. NordVPN will guarantee you access to content worldwide, no matter what streaming service you might prefer.

This VPN service also offers some of the fastest servers in the industry. As a user, that means you will not need to make a compromise on speed. Nothing is worse than looking forward to watching a show through a VPN, only to experience lagging issues. Using NordVPN, you do not need to worry about lagging or buffering. You can read a review of NordVPN for Netflix here.

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Surfshark

Surfshark might not be as reputable as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, but this VPN is undoubtedly one of the best in the business in terms of working with Netflix. With worldwide servers, notably a significant portion in the US, access to American Netflix has never been a problem with Surfshark.

This VPN service also consistently delivers high-speed connections, ensuring that its users get the best experience streaming content on Netflix. Surfshark does not compromise on accessibility, flexibility, quality, and speed. Surfshark is your best bet if you are having issues with ExpressVPN or NordVPN. 

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Using ExpressVPN on Phones and Tablets

While most individuals use VPN services on their computers, ExpressVPN also gives you the option of connecting to servers on phones and tablets. This means that you can also stream American Netflix on other devices besides your computer. You will not have any problem if you don’t have a desktop or laptop, as ExpressVPN has custom applications for mobile operating systems.

You are free to choose what suits you best according to your situation. ExpressVPN’s Android and iOS applications are easy to use. Furthermore, you have access to the same high-quality infrastructure as people using computers.

How Netflix Knows You’re Using a VPN

Have you ever wondered how Netflix knows you’re using a VPN service? When you try using a VPN that cannot bypass Netflix’s barriers, you will see a message on your screen indicating you’re using a VPN or proxy. That message proves that Netflix knows when you’re using a VPN. 

However, that does not mean you cannot use a service such as ExpressVPN to get past Netflix’s barriers. As we mentioned earlier in the article, you can always switch to a different server if one is not working for it. But how does Netflix know that the IP address is from another country?

Well, the answer lies in the IP address itself. Internet Service Providers (ISP) are responsible for allocating IP addresses to customers, and your IP address shares the location of your network with websites. The primary purpose of this is to use geo-targeting to deliver content appropriate for your location. For instance, if Netflix discovers you’re visiting its website from Spain, it automatically forwards your request to servers hosting its Spanish library. 

However, it does not share any other information that indicates approximately where you are residing. ExpressVPN simply lets you hide your original IP address and take on a completely different one for the opportunity to manipulate websites such as Netflix. 

Solving Streaming Issues With Netflix While Using ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, Netflix, or your ISP could be at fault whenever you encounter any issues while streaming. Sometimes simply refreshing the website helps. A quick fix could also be to restart the browser or even the computer itself.

In another situation, you might forget to close Netflix before activating the VPN. In cases like this, you need to refresh the site or restart the browser/application. It is also vital that you clear your caches. Only then will ExpressVPN have a chance to work its magic.

If there are no servers in a country that unblocks Netflix, you can find another Netflix library with the content you want to watch. The quality and speed of connections of a server in another country might even be better than the one you intended to use.

Should You Use a Free VPN for Netflix?

We do not recommend using free VPNs for anything. They always have limitations that prevent you from having a pleasurable experience. Firstly, most free VPNs cannot get past Netflix’s geo-restriction technology. The ones that manage to scale through can only give you access to a few Netflix libraries. With a premium VPN such as ExpressVPN, you have access to country-specific content in different countries. Besides, most free VPNs cannot boast of the reach and infrastructure that premium VPNs offer to subscribers. 

Secondly, free VPNs usually have speed and bandwidth caps. Using Netflix, you need at least 5 Mbps to watch in HD and 25 Mbps for Ultra HD. With bandwidth caps, free VPNs cannot offer the same value premium VPNs provide when it comes to performance. Lastly, most free VPNs cannot afford to offer the same level of security and privacy that premium VPNs offer. 

This is because they do not generate revenue. After all, people do not pay for their services. As a result, they are more likely to store your data and sell it to third-party advertising companies. In addition, there is the chance that malicious entities own some of them or control their servers. So, it is better to find a cheap but trustworthy alternative than use a free VPN service. 

Is It Legal to Use ExpressVPN for Netflix?

To answer simply, it is perfectly legal to use ExpressVPN for Netflix. However, you might be breaking Netflix’s terms and conditions when using a VPN to access content outside your location. Consequently, Netflix might ban your IP address if they discover you’re using a VPN. In addition, while using a VPN is not illegal in most countries, doing anything illegal with a VPN can put you on the radar of law enforcement. 

Another thing to consider is if you’re in a country that has banned VPN use. For example, using a VPN in China is not exactly illegal, but you need permission from the Chinese government before you use one. Therefore, if you get caught using a VPN in China, there might be consequences. So, it is best to know the regulations in the country you are visiting before using a VPN.

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ExpressVPN Works With Netflix

If you would like to see American Netflix, there is no doubt ExpressVPN would be among the best options in the market. This VPN service prides itself on having a vast amount of servers worldwide. The number of servers in the US is certainly impressive.

All you need to do here is select one of ExpressVPN’s American servers from the server list and click connect. ExpressVPN will mask your IP address with an American one within seconds, and for a service such as Netflix, it will appear as if you are visiting from the US. In this way, ExpressVPN provides the ability for all to gain access to American Netflix.