Netflix is an incredibly popular streaming service with about 190 content libraries worldwide. While each country has its share of exciting and diverse movies and shows, licensing agreements dictate that there are various catalogs for different audiences. That’s why so many users turn to tools like proxies and VPNs to bypass geo-blocks and enjoy unrestricted access to their favorite content. However, the streaming platform knows this and has implemented sophisticated technology to detect and block these tools. So, does ExpressVPN work with Netflix in 2026?
This guide will run through everything you need to know. We’ll explain how it works and the steps to take to get started. And because even the best VPNs sometimes struggle with Netflix’s blocks, we’ll explore various troubleshooting measures.
Does ExpressVPN Work With Netflix? (Updated in 2026)
Yes, ExpressVPN works with Netflix. In fact, based on numerous reviews, we’ve rated the provider as one of the best VPNs for Netflix.
What does that mean? You can protect your online traffic while streaming Netflix content curated for your country. Or, if you want, you can switch to foreign libraries to enjoy more diverse content not ordinarily available in your region.
A Simple Guide to Using ExpressVPN With Netflix
Here’s a straightforward guide for watching Netflix with ExpressVPN.
1. Sign Up to ExpressVPN
Visit the provider’s official website. Browse through the available subscription plans and choose one that fits your budget or preferences.
Provide the required information, select a payment method, and complete the checkout process.
2. Download and Install the ExpressVPN App
Like most VPNs, ExpressVPN offers applications for various operating systems. Navigate to its download page to download the appropriate app for your computer, smartphone, router, or other device. You may also download it directly from an official mobile app store.
Follow the instructions to install the app. If you get stuck anywhere, the provider has handy instructions to help.
3. Connect to a VPN Server
Launch the app and enter your activation code to sign in. The code is also available on your account dashboard if you didn’t copy it.
Head to the server selection menu and connect to a server in a country with the library you want to explore. Wait a few moments while the VPN activates the connection.
4. Enjoy Your Streaming
Finally, relaunch the Netflix app or visit the website. You should now be able to watch movies or shows in the regions you’re interested in. To change to a different area, simply return to the third step.
ExpressVPN Not Working With Netflix? Troubleshooting Tips
So, you’ve grabbed the popcorn and settled in for a fun evening of binge-watching your favorite show. However, upon opening the streaming service (via its app or website), you’re greeted with the dreaded error message:
“You seem to be using a VPN or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”
We know just how frustrating that can be. Unfortunately, sometimes, your VPN won’t work. Good thing you can get around the issue. Here are some fixes to consider if ExpressVPN isn’t working with Netflix:
Sign Out and In Again
It’s a ridiculously simple fix, but you’d be surprised at how often it works. Logging out of your Netflix account and then signing back in will refresh your connection. Plus, it may resolve minor issues preventing ExpressVPN from working correctly.
Confirm Your IP Address
To access foreign Netflix catalogs, ExpressVPN must hide your IP address to spoof your location. It rarely happens, but it’s possible that the VPN failed to do so when you carried out the steps above. Or you may have made a mistake somewhere.
Either way, you can double-check your current IP address on a website like whatismyipaddress.com. If it displays your original IP address, head back to the VPN and ensure it’s connected to your preferred location.
Change the Server
As effective as ExpressVPN is for bypassing Netflix’s geo-blocks, it still has IP addresses on the streaming service’s blocklist. You may be having issues because you’re connected to one of the servers with those IPs. Just switch to a different server location in the same country.
Here are some of the best ExpressVPN servers for watching Netflix. They’re server locations that work quite well according to users and the provider.
| Netflix Library | Server Location |
| United States | Washington DC
San Francisco New York Denver New Jersey – 1 New Jersey – 3 |
| Canada | Vancouver
Toronto – 2 |
| United Kingdom | London
East London Wembly |
| Germany | Frankfurt – 2 |
| France | Paris – 1
Strasbourg |
| Japan | Tokyo |
| Australia | Sydney
Melbourne |
| Italy | Milan
Naples |
| Spain | Barcelona – 2
Madrid |
Clear Cache and Cookies
Your browser’s cache and cookies store data that can sometimes interfere with your VPN connection and reveal your actual location.
Here’s what to do to remove that residual data: go to your browser settings, clear the cache and cookies, and then restart your browser. After doing this, reconnect to ExpressVPN and try accessing Netflix again.
Update the VPN App
ExpressVPN frequently updates its app to improve performance and bypass new blocks set by Netflix. You want to ensure you always have the latest version.
The VPN’s apps have an option to download and install updates automatically. Go to the general settings and check the appropriate box to grant that permission.
Switch the Protocol
The provider supports multiple VPN protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its own Lightway protocol. Sometimes, switching to a different protocol can resolve issues with Netflix.
To do this, go to the protocol settings in your ExpressVPN app. The Automatic option may be selected by default. Manually switch between Lightway UDP/TCP, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and IKEv2 (on Mac or iOS).
Use MediaStreamer Instead
Alternatively, try using ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer DNS service. The feature is designed to improve your streaming experience and, based on our evaluations, works pretty well with Netflix.
That said, it won’t encrypt your traffic, so the streaming service (and potentially other prying eyes) can detect your IP address. Additionally, it only works with the American catalog, but that’s the most popular one anyway.
Check ExpressVPN’s website for instructions on configuring your device with MediaStreamer. It works with devices without native VPN support, like gaming consoles and smart TVs.
If, despite all this, you still can’t get it to work, we recommend checking out our presentation of the best alternatives to ExpressVPN.
Contact Support
If all else fails, reach out to customer support for assistance. The VPN’s responsive customer service team is available 24/7 and can provide you with an updated list of servers that work with Netflix or help you through other troubleshooting methods.
Why ExpressVPN is Great for Netflix
If you’re going to use a VPN with Netflix, you want one that enhances your streaming experience. Here’s how ExpressVPN does just that:
Exceptional Unblocking Capability
We’ve been testing ExpressVPN for years, and it has a proven track record of consistently bypassing Netflix’s geo-restrictions. An impressive network of 3,000+ servers in 111 countries offers access to the most popular Netflix libraries. So, you can watch Netflix US or UK from outside the respective countries hassle-free.
Blazing-Fast Connection Speeds
It’s also really fast. ExpressVPN’s high-speed 10 Gbps servers ensure that you can stream Netflix in HD or even 4K without annoying buffering or lag. Performance-wise, you’ll enjoy the best results while using its custom Lightway protocol.
Wide Compatibility
ExpressVPN supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, which is great, as it means you’re not limited to a few devices for streaming Netflix. It has clients (or manual configurations) for:
- Windows
- Mac
- iOS
- Android
- Android TV
- Apple TV
- Amazon Fire TV
- Linux
- Routers
What’s more, it offers remote-control VPN extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave browsers.
No Data Caps or Bandwidth Throttling
You’re trying to catch up on the episodes you missed of your favorite show on Netflix Canada from abroad. But you only have a few hundred megabytes remaining on your data allowance. Frustrating, right? Don’t answer that — you’re never going to experience that situation with ExpressVPN.
What’s more, the VPN doesn’t throttle your bandwidth. And thanks to its military-grade encryption, your heavy data use won’t trigger your ISP into doing so, either.
Robust Privacy and Security
A feature-rich service loaded with top-notch security and privacy features ensures no third party can get their hands on your sensitive information.
ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy and uses RAM-only servers to ensure your streaming or browsing sessions aren’t recorded or shared. In addition, its Threat Manager feature stops trackers and protects you against malware.
Does ExpressVPN Free Trial Work With Netflix?
Yes, the ExpressVPN free trial does work with Netflix. The provider offers a 7-day free trial for its VPN, exclusively available on mobile devices. You can take advantage of it by downloading the app on your smartphone or tablet via the App Store or Google Play Store.
Don’t forget to cancel the subscription before the trial period is up unless you’re impressed and want to continue using ExpressVPN. In that case, the VPN will charge your payment method after seven days. It goes without saying you’ll no longer enjoy ExpressVPN’s excellent streaming capabilities once you cancel.
Conclusion
Does ExpressVPN work with Netflix? By this point, we’re certain you have a comprehensive answer to that question. Yes, it does — and it’s one of the best options for using the streaming service, whether at home or abroad.
We provided simple step-by-step instructions for setting up ExpressVPN to work with Netflix, as well as a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to fix associated issues when they pop up.
Want to give the VPN a try? A generous 49% discount on its annual plan is too good a deal to miss, especially as it comes with three extra months for free.