Having a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a little like having curtains for your bedroom window; it offers a layer of privacy that you won’t know how you went without once you’ve got one. VPNs are a great way to protect your privacy while using the internet for anything, including for streaming video. We’ll break down how and why to use a VPN for streaming, and which VPNs we recommend for watching top streamers like Disney+, Max, Netflix, Peacock, and others below!

Why Use a VPN for Streaming?

There are a ton of reasons to use a VPN while you try to stream video. One of the top reasons is that streaming services often geo-block their content since media companies sell their rights to different distributors in different countries around the world. For example, many of the titles available on Netflix in the United States are found on different streamers elsewhere.

Streaming lovers who travel frequently but don’t want to miss an episode of their favorite show can use a VPN to change their location, so it appears they’re still connecting to the internet in the United States no matter where in the world they’re physically located.

Getting past geo-blocking is just one reason to use a VPN while streaming, however. These services can prevent bandwidth throttling by your ISP, which can slow down your stream or prevent you from watching video entirely. VPNs also protect your payment details and other account data from hackers or anyone else who might want to get their hands on key personal information about you.

How to Use a VPN While Streaming

It’s incredibly simple to use a VPN while streaming video. As soon as you sign up to a VPN service and install it on your device, you’ll be ready to open your favorite streaming apps or websites, and you’ll be protected as long as you stay connected to your chosen VPN.

Top VPN You Should Consider for Streaming: ExpressVPN

Express VPN is our favorite VPN service for just about everything, including streaming video. ExpressVPN servers run at speeds of up to 10Gbps, which is much more than enough to stream video in full High Definition. This service also offers servers in more than 100 countries around the world, so it’s easy for travelers to enjoy their favorite content no matter where they might be.

ExpressVPN is offering a fantastic discount on its annual subscription if customers sign up using promo code SPECIALDEAL on signup. This drops the price to $6.67 per month and includes three months of service at no cost. Otherwise, customers can choose the $12.95 monthly plan, or grab a six-month subscription for $9.99 per month.

Best Alternative: Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access is definitely counted among our favorite VPNs at The Streamable. It also offers lightning-fast connection speeds of up to 10Gbps, and with servers in over 150 countries across the globe, you can say goodbye to geo-blocking fears. Private Internet Access also keeps your data safe with highly effective security protocols, adding up to an incredibly useful product for all streaming lovers.

This VPN service comes with several different subscription options that let customers decide. The monthly subscription is $11.99, or viewers can choose the six-month plan and cut their monthly price to $7.50. For those who want a little more value, Private Internet Access comes with a 2-year plan that slashes the monthly price to just $2.03 if customers are willing to pay upfront.

A Streamer’s Dream: CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN touts itself as a VPN service that’s especially good for streamers. It uses military-grade 256-bit AES encryption to protect your privacy and keep your data safe, and it comes with servers in more than 100 countries around the world, so you never have to worry about being geo-blocked. High-speed browsing allows for HD video streaming on CyberGhost VPN, as well.

As is the case with most VPN services, CyberGhost offers multiple subscription plans. The 2-year option provides service for as little as $2.03 per month, or the six-month plan allows customers a little more flexibility in exchange for a $6.99 monthly price. CyberGhost VPN also comes with a month-to-month option for $12.99.