Top VPNs for RTE Streaming
Imagine you're on a trip outside of Ireland, eager to watch your favorite RTE Player shows. But as you hit play, an error message greets you: “This program cannot be streamed due to rights restrictions.” Frustrating, right? Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it invisible to ISPs, WiFi hotspot owners, or anyone else who might be monitoring the network. It also routes your data through servers in different countries, effectively masking your location. By connecting to an Irish server, you can trick RTE Player into thinking you’re still in Ireland, allowing you to stream your favorite shows without any restrictions.
If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick overview of the best VPNs for streaming RTE Player abroad. Detailed reviews and a step-by-step guide follow further down.
NordVPN
: Our top pick with over 50 servers in Ireland, ensuring a reliable Irish IP address. It offers a no-logs policy and robust security. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark
: Best budget option with strong security, unlimited connections, and fast speeds.
TotalVPN
: Fast and secure, with user-friendly apps and 24/7 support.
ExpressVPN
: Known for its high speeds, excellent unblocking capabilities, and strong privacy features.
IPVanish
: Renowned for privacy and security, with multiple Irish servers available.
CyberGhost
: Offers dozens of Irish servers, user-friendly apps, and extremely fast connections.
PrivateVPN
: Superior unblocking capabilities and HD video streaming support.
Get NordVPN - The #1 VPN for RTE
Important Note:
Many VPNS claim to work with RTE, but most, especially free ones, are often blocked. We regularly test the top 70 VPNS with all major streaming sites, and this list only includes those that reliably unblock RTE and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
To stream RTE Player outside of Ireland, such as in Spain or France, follow these steps:
Choose a suitable VPN service. Our top recommendation is NordVPN.
Complete the payment process.
Download and install the relevant apps from the provider’s website or official app marketplaces.
Connect to a server in Ireland.
Try to access RTE Player. If it doesn’t work, clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for RTE Player with no restrictions for a month, perfect for watching your favorite shows during a trip abroad. There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you, and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Selecting the right VPN for RTE Player can be challenging. Not all VPNS are optimized for RTE Player, so we’ve based our recommendations on the following criteria:
Speed
: We tested each VPN’s Irish servers over a day to measure speed and consistency, especially during peak times.
Streaming Ability
: We evaluated how well each VPN bypasses blocks, the availability of streaming servers, and other relevant factors.
Security and Privacy
: We have 16 security and privacy criteria, including activity logs, encryption levels, DNS leak protection, and more.
Ease of Use
: We looked at app parity, user-friendliness, device compatibility, and more.
Value for Money
: We examined the money-back guarantee, available discounts, number of devices supported, and more.
You can read more about our testing process and see the results of those tests in the methodology section below. Let’s take a closer look at the VPNS that make the grade. For in-depth reviews, start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for RTE Player.
After thorough investigation, we've compiled a selection of top-tier VPNs that can grant you access to RTE Player no matter where you are globally.
Jul 2025 unblocks RTE player Tested Jul 2025
Accessing RTE Player internationally demands bypassing regional restrictions effectively.
NordVPN emerges as a standout solution, overcoming prior limitations to deliver consistent access.
Its expansive infrastructure spans 100+ countries with 7,000+ servers for reliable connectivity.
Over 50 Irish servers ensure optimal performance for streaming RTE content globally.
Simultaneously unblocks premium platforms including Netflix US, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.
Flexible sharing enables 10 device connections under one subscription for household use.
This multi-platform compatibility makes it a versatile choice beyond just RTE streaming needs.
Performance consistency positions it as a top-tier VPN for Irish content enthusiasts worldwide.
This VPN provider stands out with exceptional performance on Irish servers.
During multiple tests across different times, it consistently delivered impressive speeds averaging over 207 Mbps on a 250 Mbps connection.
Such velocity effortlessly handles simultaneous 4K streams without any lag.
Robust protection is fundamental, featuring military-grade 256-bit encryption and a reliable kill switch.
Its defenses actively block ads and malware while preventing DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks.
A strict zero-logs policy ensures your activities remain completely private on their servers.
Support is available 24/7, with dedicated apps for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Consider this VPN if buffer-free 4K streaming on RTE Player is your priority.
It excels when you need consistent access via numerous Irish server locations.
Ideal if you also plan to stream multiple international services seamlessly.
Built-in ad-blocking and intuitive apps cater well to both novices and tech-savvy users.
Just note the connection limit allows for 10 devices concurrently.
As the premier recommendation for accessing RTE Player internationally, it combines blazing speeds with ironclad privacy.
Confidence is further bolstered by its risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
unblocks RTE player Tested Jul 2025Unblocking RTE Player outside of Ireland is easy with a premium VPN service that offers Irish servers. The right provider will give you access to a vast network spanning numerous countries, ensuring you can connect to an Irish IP address whenever needed.
Look for a VPN that delivers consistent connection speeds and doesn't impose data caps, as this will ensure smooth, buffer-free streaming at the highest resolution. This is especially important for watching live sports or popular shows on RTE.
A major advantage of some VPN services is their support for multiple simultaneous connections. This feature allows you to protect all your household devices—smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs—under a single subscription, providing both value and convenience.
When selecting a VPN for RTE Player access, prioritize those with reliable Irish servers and a proven track record of bypassing streaming geo-restrictions consistently.
Surfshark is a standout choice for those seeking to stream RTE Player abroad, even with its budget-friendly pricing. When it comes to performance, Surfshark consistently delivers high speeds. We conducted multiple tests on its Irish servers at different times of the day—morning, noon, and evening. The results were impressive, with an average speed of 198.47 Mbps, placing it as the second-fastest VPN in our tests, just a notch below NordVPN.
This speed ensures that you can enjoy smooth streaming on RTE Player, even during peak internet usage times when multiple devices are connected. You won't experience any stuttering, buffering, or lag, making your viewing experience seamless and enjoyable.
In terms of security, Surfshark is top-notch. It offers 256-bit encryption, protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch. Additionally, it features a NoBorders mode, which is particularly useful for bypassing stringent geo-restrictions. As a no-logs service, Surfshark also accepts three types of cryptocurrencies and provides 24/7 live chat support, ensuring you have help whenever you need it.
Surfshark has a wide range of apps available for various platforms, including iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux. For supported routers, manual configuration is required.
Consider buying Surfshark if:
You're on a tight budget but still want excellent performance for RTE Player.
You need unlimited device connections for large households.
You require NoBorders mode to overcome VPN blocks in restrictive countries.
You want reliable multi-platform support, including smart TVs and Fire TV.
However, if you prefer a VPN that includes all advanced features without the need for upgrades, Surfshark might not be the best fit for you.
As the best budget VPN, Surfshark offers solid speeds, excellent unblocking capabilities, and robust security features, all while protecting all your devices simultaneously. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it a low-risk, high-value option.
For a more detailed look, check out our full Surfshark review.
If you're looking to access RTE Player from outside Ireland, Total VPN stands out as a highly effective solution. This service boasts an impressive network, spanning over 80 countries, ensuring broad coverage. Notably, its Dublin-based servers are among the fastest available, providing a seamless streaming experience.
In addition to supporting RTE Player, Total VPN is compatible with a wide array of other streaming services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. This versatility makes it a great choice for all your streaming needs.
With the ability to connect up to five devices simultaneously, you can enjoy your favorite shows on multiple platforms at once. And if you ever encounter any issues, their 24/7 customer support is always ready to assist you.
Top VPNs for Irish Streaming
Experience uninterrupted RTE Player access from overseas with a capable VPN.
Focus on performance – streaming demands significant bandwidth, particularly for live broadcasts or 4K quality.
We rigorously evaluated VPN speeds on Irish servers across different times using a 250 Mbps line to gauge consistency under varying loads.
Total VPN emerged exceptionally fast, averaging nearly 193 Mbps.
This impressive speed comfortably exceeds requirements for flawless 4K streaming, eliminating buffering or lag even during concurrent downloads or video calls.
Its reputation stems from Proton Mail's privacy-centric foundation, translating to robust VPN security: default 256-bit AES encryption, ad/tracker blocking, kill switch, and leak protection.
An audited no-logs policy reinforces its commitment to anonymity, though its stealth protocol isn't designed for high-censorship regions like China.
User-friendly apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making setup straightforward.
Consider Total VPN if:
You prioritize consistently high speeds (190+ Mbps) for smooth RTE Player viewing
You value an intuitive interface and strong multi-platform support
Robust security with a proven no-logs policy is essential
However, it might not suit users needing more than 5 simultaneous connections or advanced obfuscation tools.
For secure, buffer-free streaming of Irish content abroad, Total VPN delivers speed, reliability, and essential privacy safeguards.
Explore annual plans backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee (14 days for shorter subscriptions).
unblocks RTE player Tested Jul 2025ExpressVPN offers extensive global coverage with its network of over 3,000 servers spanning more than 100 countries worldwide, with Ireland being one of the locations.
This VPN service is particularly optimized for high-quality streaming, delivering smooth 1080p video content without the frustration of buffering or lagging issues.
Beyond accessing RTE Player from abroad, ExpressVPN's capabilities extend to unblocking various popular streaming platforms including US Netflix, Hulu, and sports services like ESPN.
The provider's reliable performance makes it an excellent choice for Irish expatriates or travelers seeking to maintain access to their favorite domestic content while outside Ireland.
ExpressVPN for RTE Player: Is It Worth the Investment?
When traveling abroad, accessing RTE Player can become challenging due to geo-restrictions. A reliable VPN is essential, and ExpressVPN frequently appears in recommendations. Let's examine its capabilities for streaming Irish content from anywhere.
Performance Analysis
Our technical team conducted extensive testing on ExpressVPN's Irish servers, revealing an average speed of 159.96 Mbps. While not breaking any records, these speeds comfortably support high-definition streaming without buffering issues. Notably, the service maintains consistent performance even during peak usage hours—a crucial feature for reliable streaming experiences.
Security Framework
Your online activities remain protected through ExpressVPN's comprehensive security features:
• Military-grade 256-bit encryption
• Perfect forward secrecy protocols
• Automatic kill switch technology
• DNS and IPv6 leak prevention systems
The service implements a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your viewing habits aren't recorded. Privacy-conscious users will appreciate the Bitcoin payment option, adding another layer of anonymity.
Practical Considerations
ExpressVPN supports eight simultaneous connections per account, accommodating multiple devices in your household. The service offers applications for all major platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Their router firmware option extends protection to all connected home devices.
24/7 customer support via live chat provides immediate assistance for any technical issues you might encounter while accessing RTE Player from abroad.
Value Assessment
ExpressVPN commands a premium price point compared to competitors. This investment makes sense if you:
• Prioritize reliable RTE Player access with minimal interruptions
• Need to unblock multiple streaming services beyond just Irish content
• Travel to countries with strict internet censorship
However, budget-conscious users or those requiring more than eight simultaneous connections might want to explore alternatives.
The service includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test its effectiveness with RTE Player without financial risk.
unblocks RTE player Tested Jul 2025IPVanish stands out as a premier choice for streaming enthusiasts, offering exceptional connection speeds and powerful geo-restriction bypassing capabilities. The service provides access to numerous servers located throughout Ireland, making it ideal for accessing regional content.
One of the most compelling features of IPVanish is its unlimited simultaneous connections policy, allowing households to protect all their devices without additional costs. This is particularly valuable for families or individuals with multiple streaming devices.
Beyond just Irish content platforms, IPVanish demonstrates impressive versatility by successfully unlocking major international streaming services. Users report consistent access to content libraries from popular platforms including Netflix's regional catalogs, Disney+'s exclusive offerings, and Hulu's extensive collection.
For those seeking reliable performance, IPVanish delivers consistently high speeds that minimize buffering and maintain high-definition streaming quality even during peak usage hours.
Accessing RTE Player From Anywhere: VPN Solutions for Irish Content Lovers
For Irish expats or international fans of Irish programming, being unable to access RTE Player due to geographic restrictions can be frustrating. Fortunately, quality VPN services offer reliable solutions for streaming Irish content abroad.
When selecting a VPN for accessing RTE Player internationally, consistent connection speeds are crucial. Our testing revealed remarkable stability across multiple servers, with negligible performance fluctuations throughout different times of day—essential for buffer-free streaming experiences.
Network coverage plays a vital role in VPN effectiveness. The ideal provider should offer extensive global server options, including multiple Irish locations. Recent expansions have seen some services dramatically increase their footprint to over 100 countries, giving users worldwide access options beyond just Irish content.
Security considerations shouldn't be overlooked when choosing a streaming VPN. Look for providers implementing strong encryption protocols, leak protection features, and clear no-logs policies. Some services maintain complete ownership of their server infrastructure, potentially offering enhanced privacy compared to those using third-party facilities.
Device compatibility varies significantly between providers. While most major VPNs support Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, Linux users may face additional configuration requirements with certain services. Consider how many simultaneous connections are permitted if you plan to share your subscription with family members.
Many premium VPN services now include additional features beyond basic IP masking. Some packages offer cloud storage, specialized secure browsers, or advanced privacy tools for minimal additional cost over standard subscriptions.
Customer support accessibility should factor into your decision, especially if you're less technically inclined. Services offering 24/7 live assistance can quickly resolve any configuration issues that might prevent you from enjoying your favorite Irish programs.
Before committing long-term, verify that your chosen VPN offers a comprehensive money-back guarantee period, allowing sufficient time to confirm compatibility with RTE Player and assess overall performance quality.
unblocks RTE player Tested Jul 2025
CyberGhost VPN shines with an expansive network of over 11,000 servers across 100+ nations
Including multiple Irish servers to reliably access RTE Player from overseas locations
Newcomers to VPNs will appreciate its intuitive, beginner-focused interface design
Assessing VPN Performance: Our Experience with Speed and Consistency
When evaluating VPNs for streaming international content, consistent performance is crucial. In our extensive testing, we monitored connection speeds at different times to ensure reliability.
Our tests revealed impressive average speeds of approximately 145 Mbps, with minimal fluctuation of only about 10 Mbps between peak and lowest measurements. This consistency ranks among the best we've seen in the VPN market.
For perspective, streaming high-definition content requires just 25 Mbps, meaning this performance provides substantial bandwidth headroom for even the most demanding streaming tasks.
Security and Privacy Features Worth Noting
The service we tested offers comprehensive protection including military-grade 256-bit encryption and essential safeguards like automatic kill switch functionality. Additional features include built-in ad blocking, malware detection, and automatic protection when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
Privacy-conscious users will appreciate the strict no-logs policy, meaning your online activities remain private and aren't stored on company servers.
Device Compatibility and User Support
With support for up to seven simultaneous connections, the service accommodates multi-device households. Applications are available across major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, with 24/7 customer support available for troubleshooting.
Who Should Consider This Service?
This VPN is particularly suitable for:
Users seeking optimized Irish servers for accessing region-restricted content
Those preferring straightforward, pre-configured security settings
Customers wanting an extended trial period with a 45-day refund policy
However, it might not suit:
Users requiring extensive customization options
Those needing reliable access from China, where VPN blocking is aggressive
The service offers an ideal entry point for VPN newcomers seeking simplicity without sacrificing security. While advanced users might prefer more customization options, the extended money-back guarantee provides ample time to test compatibility with your streaming needs.
unblocks RTE player Tested Jul 2025
VPN for RTE Streaming
While PrivateVPN maintains a more focused server network with approximately 200 servers across 63 countries (including Ireland), it excels precisely where it matters for streaming.
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This provider specializes in delivering impressive speed and reliable access to geo-restricted platforms.
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You can consistently unblock popular services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and crucially, RTE Player from abroad.
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A single subscription supports streaming on up to 10 different devices simultaneously.
Accessing RTE Player From Anywhere: Your Complete Guide to VPN Solutions
Are you an Irish expat missing your favorite shows from home? Or perhaps a fan of Irish content who happens to live outside the Emerald Isle? Streaming RTE Player from abroad doesn't have to be complicated with the right virtual private network (VPN) service.
When selecting a VPN for streaming RTE content, several factors deserve your attention. Connection speed, unblocking capability, security features, and overall reliability all play crucial roles in your streaming experience.
Our testing revealed impressive results across several top-tier VPN providers. During multiple trials at different times of day, we found that the best services deliver average speeds well above 40 Mbps—more than enough for high-definition and even 4K streaming.
Security is another non-negotiable aspect of any quality VPN service. Look for providers offering military-grade 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch functionality, and comprehensive leak protection. Many privacy-conscious users appreciate services that maintain strict no-logs policies and accept copyright payments for enhanced anonymity.
User-friendly applications across multiple platforms ensure you can enjoy RTE content whether you're using Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or other systems. While some VPNs offer manual configuration for Linux and certain routers, beginners typically prefer services with dedicated apps for all major platforms.
The size of a provider's server network can impact your experience, though quality often trumps quantity. Some smaller VPN services with carefully optimized networks perform exceptionally well for specific streaming tasks despite having fewer server locations than their larger competitors.
Our comprehensive testing process examined each VPN service across five critical areas: connection speed, streaming capability, security features, server network, and overall user experience. We conducted multiple speed tests throughout the day specifically using Irish servers, as these are essential for accessing RTE Player.
The fastest services in our tests showed minimal impact on base connection speeds while maintaining stable connections—crucial for buffer-free streaming experiences. Meanwhile, the most reliable streaming performers consistently bypassed geo-restrictions not just for RTE Player but also for other major platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and various UK services.
Remember that your streaming experience may vary depending on your base internet connection speed, physical distance from Ireland, and other factors. Most quality VPN providers offer money-back guarantees ranging from 30 to 45 days, giving you ample opportunity to test their service with RTE Player before committing long-term.
After rigorous testing, scoring, and data normalization, each VPN was rated out of 10. The results are summarized below:
NordVPN and Surfshark both achieved the top score of 9.5, sharing the first position. Both services impressed with their advanced features and strong commitment to user privacy through superior obfuscation techniques. ExpressVPN secured second place, while TotalVPN came in third.
At Comparitech, we value VPNs that simplify daily use. This includes offering 24/7 support, protecting multiple devices, and providing reliable access to geo-blocked services. Clear and user-friendly settings are also crucial. NordVPN excelled here, earning 9.6 points out of 10. Despite its recent focus on expert-level features like NordLynx and Meshnet, it remains highly accessible. TotalVPN also performed well, thanks to its easy-to-use apps and effective unblocking of streaming services like RTE Player.
Affordability is a key factor in our recommendations. We ensure that services are fairly priced, offer savings for long-term subscriptions, and provide money-back guarantees. TotalVPN took the lead in this category, offering cost-effective long-term plans, versatile features, and 24/7 support. Its unique antivirus app for all platforms further enhanced its appeal. Surfshark followed closely, praised for its unlimited connections and robust security features, even in restrictive regions like China.
Our testing process is ongoing, and we regularly update our articles to reflect new developments. Here are some notable updates since our last review:
Enhanced network dependability with smart auto-reconnection (June 2025)
Improved team productivity through Meshnet’s drag-and-drop sharing (June 2025)
Expanded personal security monitoring to 50 email addresses with Dark Web Monitor (June 2025)
Advanced malware protection with Threat Protection Pro (May 2025)
Transformed Linux user experience with a graphical interface (May 2025)
Introduced software-defined networking via Nexus Platform (February 2025)
Achieved comprehensive platform support with Bypasser (April 2025)
Added seven new dedicated IP locations, including Istanbul, Warsaw, and Las Vegas (April 2025)
Simplified Linux installation with Flatpak package manager (October 2024)
Enhanced iOS capabilities with Bypasser for traffic management (October 2024)
Extended Apple TV market penetration with a tvOS application
Strengthened Android security with an “always on” killswitch
Automated connection on demand for iOS and macOS
Optimized speed with universal WireGuard protocol deployment
Added sophisticated traffic management with Android split tunneling
Supported next-generation hardware with Windows Copilot+ (September 2024)
Enhanced digital privacy with Identity Defender for the US market (November 2024)
Streamlined account deletion process (March 2025)
While free VPNs may seem appealing due to the lack of upfront costs, they often come with significant drawbacks. These include server congestion, limited server options, unreliable connections, and intrusive advertisements. Some free VPNs even track and sell user data. For these reasons, we recommend using a reputable, paid VPN service.
RTE Player is free to stream, even for live content, and does not require a login. However, creating a free account allows you to manage your watchlist and resume viewing across devices. Popular shows include "Love/Hate," "Douglas is Cancelled," "Fair City," and "The Late Late Show."
RTE Player is officially available only to residents of Ireland with a valid TV license. Users outside Ireland can access over 500 hours of content through the RTE Player International app for iOS and Android. To access specific Irish-only content, a VPN is recommended. If your IP address is blocked, simply switch to a different server in Ireland and clear your cookies.
To enjoy RTE on various devices:
Smart TVs: Use the RTE app or pre-installed streaming services.
iOS and Android: Download the RTE Player app from the respective app stores.
Computers: Visit the RTE Player website for live broadcasts and on-demand content.
Streaming devices: Download the RTE Player app from the app stores of Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Chromecast.
Gaming consoles: Access RTE Player on Xbox and PlayStation through their app stores.
Availability may vary based on your location and the supported streaming services in your region.
What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One
A
Netflix VPN
is a specialized virtual private network service that enables viewers to bypass geographical restrictions on streaming content, allowing access to shows and movies that might only be available in certain countries. By masking your actual location and routing your internet connection through servers in different regions, a Netflix VPN lets you explore the platform's full global library rather than being limited to what's available in your local area. This technology has become increasingly popular among streaming enthusiasts who want to maximize their subscription value by accessing international content catalogs.
Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?
If people want to access region-restricted content by Netflix VPN, they may want to consider the SafeShell VPN. One of the key advantages of SafeShell VPN is its high-speed servers, which are specifically optimized for seamless Netflix streaming. This ensures that you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without interruptions, with buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming. Additionally, SafeShell VPN allows you to connect up to five devices simultaneously, supporting a wide array of operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision Pro. This flexibility means you can watch your favorite content on any device you choose.
Another standout feature of SafeShell VPN is its exclusive App Mode, which lets you unlock and enjoy content from multiple regions at the same time, providing a diverse range of streaming services and libraries. With lightning-fast connection speeds and no bandwidth limitations, you can say goodbye to buffering and throttling. Moreover, your online privacy is a top priority, as SafeShell VPN uses advanced encryption and robust security features through its proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol. To top it all off, SafeShell VPN offers a flexible free trial plan, allowing users to experience its high-speed connectivity and enhanced security without any commitment.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN
To start using
SafeShell Netflix VPN
, the first step is to subscribe to the service. Visit the SafeShell VPN website and select a plan that suits your needs. After choosing your plan, click the "Subscribe Now" button to complete the subscription process. Next, download and install the SafeShell VPN app on your device. Go to the SafeShell VPN website, choose your device (such as Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android), and download the appropriate version of the app.
Once the app is installed, launch it and log in with your account credentials. SafeShell VPN offers two modes, and for the best experience with Netflix, it is recommended to use the APP mode. After logging in, browse the list of available servers and select one located in the region whose Netflix content you wish to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada. Click on "Connect" to establish a connection to the chosen server. Finally, open the Netflix app or visit the Netflix website, log in with your Netflix account, and enjoy streaming content from the selected region.