It is not a secret that you can still watch American TV online such as Hulu and Netflix even if you are currently outside the US. But is it possible if you are using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) service provider? If so, how do you do it and what are the consequences? Is it really legal? In case you still don’t know, VPN allows you to browse the Internet anonymously and hides your geo location as well. This means that US Internet TV companies will see you as someone in the US even if you are abroad.
However, note that watching US TV online streaming if you are not in the US does not come easy. Last April 2014, Hulu started to block VPN users, whether they are in the US or not. In fact, Hulu even blocked legitimate users who are watching their shows via VPN. Apparently, this action by Hulu has caused thousands (if not hundreds) of VPN users wondering. You must remember that the primary reason of using VPN is to protect your privacy, so this blocking of VPNs should be addressed properly.
But for the meantime, it is important that you know how VPN protects your privacy. First, you will be provided with a new IP address thus hiding your real IP address and geo location. Therefore, if you want to watch US TV online that only allows people in the US; you need to use a US-based VPN. With a trusted VPN, your web traffic is well encrypted so that no third party can intercept your online activities. The VPN creates a secured ‘tunnel,’ which means you are safe even if you are in a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Another good thing is that VPN is also available in mobile devices. This means that you can enjoy US TV streaming using your smartphone. After installing your VPN, you can change your location to US even if you are somewhere else in the world. Next, check the speed of the VPN. Note that watching TV online is very much different from simply viewing websites. You need to choose which server has the shortest path to the location of TV server. Then, choose a plan based on your personal preference.
You can also use free VPNs, but the paid ones are highly recommended. With premium VPNs, you can be sure of faster and more secured Internet connection, and 24/7 support as well. In addition, paid VPNs offer easy-to-understand instructions on how to set up your VPN account. In most cases, you will need to download the VPN software. If you plan to use a free VPN, prepare yourself to be bombarded with tons if ridiculous advertisements because this is where they get money to operate their business.
And yes, VPN is legal. In fact, many businesses are investing money just to make sure that their sensitive information is well protected. In general, VPNs for personal use is not expensive especially now that more and more VPN service providers are being established. Your only concern is the kind of security protocol you want to choose. But obviously, choose also a VPN that cannot easily be blocked.