THE QUICK ANSWER

What you need to know

A VPN changes the IP address websites see and encrypts the connection between your device and its servers. That gives you a choice of connection locations, but it does not guarantee access to a streaming catalogue. Netflix, for example, says VPN use can limit available titles and is unsupported for live events and ad-supported viewing. Choose a VPN around your actual device and viewing needs, rather than an assumption that every programme will unlock.

IPVANISH · AFFILIATE PARTNER

Watching away from home? Set up IPVanish

IPVanish gives you a choice of connection locations and an encrypted connection for browsing and compatible streaming apps.

A VPN routes your traffic through a server in a location you choose. Websites see the server’s IP address instead of your usual one. This can help with some location-based access restrictions, while encrypting the connection from your device to the VPN server.

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How to set up IPVanish for streaming
  1. Check your viewing option. Confirm the exact event or title is offered by the streaming service, and check its travel, account and VPN rules.
  2. Install and sign in. Choose an IPVanish plan, then use its official device setup guide to install the appropriate app and sign in.
  3. Choose a location and connect. Select a server in the location you want to use. For travel access, check that the service permits your account to watch from there. Wait until IPVanish confirms the connection.
  4. Open your streaming app. Sign in to the broadcaster separately and open the event or title. Your VPN subscription does not include a TV subscription, sports pass or pay-per-view purchase.

If playback fails or a VPN warning appears, follow the streaming provider’s guidance. It may require disconnecting the VPN. Do not buy a VPN on the assumption that it will unlock a particular service.

Setup reference: IPVanish’s instructions. General guidance checked 12 September 2026; this is not a test of access to the service in this article.

Streaming services can block VPNs. Access still depends on the service’s rules, your account and broadcast rights; a VPN cannot create a broadcast that does not exist.

Illustrative photograph for this viewing guide

The benefit: a different connection location

A VPN sends your traffic through its server. The destination sees the server IP rather than your usual connection IP. This is the mechanism behind VPN location changes; it is not proof that a particular streaming account will be accepted in that location.

The benefit: encryption to the VPN server

IPVanish describes its VPN as encrypting internet traffic and shielding IP address data. Think of that as protection for the connection through the VPN, rather than a promise that every action online becomes anonymous.

The limitation: streaming services decide what plays

Netflix provides a useful example of why compatibility matters. Its help page says a VPN may restrict the catalogue to titles with worldwide licences. It also says VPN viewing is unsupported for live events and ad-supported viewing.

Changing a connection location and being eligible to watch a programme are different questions. Check the service you intend to use before choosing a VPN plan.

Make the decision for your own setup

Use the provider documentation to check the device you actually own. This guide explains benefits and limitations; it is not a hands-on speed test or a tested comparison of VPN providers.

  1. Open the IPVanish device setup page listed below and choose your operating system.
  2. Read the streaming service’s current VPN and travel guidance, then compare it with what you want to watch.

More device and VPN help

Find the next step for your box, media app or VPN connection.

Sources & verification

We use official sources and automated checks to prepare this guide. Availability and prices can change.

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