VPN Features You Need for Streaming in 2024

Do you want to access streaming content available in other regions across the globe? If your answer is “yes”, then you need a VPN for the keys to unlock that content. A streaming VPN is the solution to gaining access to unique libraries of TV shows and movies available in countries all over the world.

There are dozens of VPNs to choose from. And if your primary goal is to access different streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, then you’ll need a specific feature set.

Specifically, there are 3 features you want to be on the lookout for when shopping for the best streaming VPN. We dive deeper into these must-have features, but, if you want to cut right to the chase, we found NordVPN is the top choice for streaming. Their technology has everything you need for a premium streaming experience.

NordVPN offers tons of streaming features to help you access shows anywhere.

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Streaming Features You Want in a VPN

Providers offer tons of different features to help users access their favorite content. Here are a few minimum requirements that make up a good VPN for streaming.

You’ll need a VPN with an extensive server list to stream content outside your region. Due to copyright agreements, streaming services often lock libraries outside of the country you reside in. A VPN with a wide server network grants you the ability to bypass geo-restrictions and access various libraries you wouldn’t normally be allowed to browse and stream. By connecting to a VPN server, you essentially spoof your location with a new IP address in the selected country. 

Let’s say you live in the US and want to access Netflix UK. All you need to do is connect your device to a VPN server in the UK, clear your browser’s cache, restart your Netflix app, and you’re ready to browse and stream the UK version of Netflix.

Streaming requires a certain amount of bandwidth to enjoy shows without buffering. To ensure you have enough, it’s important to test your internet speed — especially when your device is connected to a VPN. 

Users will inevitably experience some slow down when using a VPN due to the nature of the technology. Yet, it shouldn’t hinder you from doing normal online activities.

If you connect to a VPN server near you, you’ll most likely see similar speeds as you would when connected to your local ISP’s server. But, when you connect to servers outside the country you reside in, your connection may noticeably drop.

Take some time to test servers and their download speeds as you explore streaming libraries across the globe. Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu recommend download speeds between 5 and 25 Mbps for an HD or 4K experience, so try to aim for this or faster when choosing a VPN for streaming.

This VPN feature is mostly necessary for those who have multiple people in their households. A provider that offers more than one connection allows its users to stream on multiple devices simultaneously. So, if you like to stream true-crime documentaries while your partner is all about binge-watching reality TV, you’ll need a VPN with multiple device connections.

NordVPN for Streaming

Streaming with NordVPN will deliver a first-rate experience with endless content to binge-watch. Their software includes all 3 of the features previously mentioned—and more.

Large server network

NordVPN’s network reaches far and wide with over 5,300 servers across 60 countries. Users can connect to servers in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, and India. For Netflix streaming, NordVPN can unlock some of their most popular libraries available in the US, UK, Australia, Japan, Canada, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands. 

Better yet, NordVPN offers servers optimized for specific user needs. Of course, they offer the regular servers to encrypt internet traffic and replace IP addresses—but their network also includes optimized P2P servers for safe file sharing, obfuscated servers for users with high internet restrictions, and double encryption through two servers.

Blazing-fast speeds

NordVPN offers some of the fastest connection speeds among VPN providers. During our testing session, we connected to both near and far servers and were able to stream content with no interruptions or limits on bandwidth.

For Netflix specifically, we saw a speed loss of only 18% while connected to NordVPN, whereas the average speed loss for VPNs is usually 40% or higher. Speeds came in at 190 Mbps with NordVPN — which is only a slight drop from our base download speed of 286 Mbps.

Connect up the 6 devices

A single NordVPN subscription can secure up to 6 devices simultaneously. Protect your Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux devices all at once, or install NordVPN to your router as 1 out of the 6 available connections and every device on your network will be secure. This will cover your household, so you’re protected while streaming among other things.

Secure streaming with SmartPlay

NordVPN has taken streaming to the next level with its SmartPlay feature. SmartPlay helps you stream content all over the world by hiding your real location and replacing your device’s DNS address with your VPN provider’s DNS. It’s a step above traditional Smart DNS technology as it’s set to automatically kick in when you connect to a NordVPN server and offers data encryption to secure your streaming device. There is no setup, updating, or activation needed—which makes it great for users of all tech levels.

Endless Streaming at Your Fingertips

Streaming has taken over the entertainment industry, but there are limitations. From geo-restrictions to speed throttling, streaming the movies and TV shows you want can be a battle. Using a streaming VPN, like NordVPN, can help break down these limitations and open more doors to enhance your overall experience.

Sign up for a streaming VPN today and get the support you need to stream endless amounts of content.