In early 2016, Netflix announced their worldwide expansion. Kenyans finally had this coveted service at their fingertips with brilliant content including original TV series and Netflix movies. Unfortunately, Netflix wasn’t everything we envisioned. Distribution rights and syndication mean our local broadcasters retain the rights to many popular shows – including some from Netflix. Netflix may not allow access to this content. As a result, we have a much smaller catalog than available in the US and UK.
However, experienced Internet users know how to overcome this problem. Accessing the full US catalog is as easy as purchasing a VPN for Netflix.
Here’s a quick guide to getting you started.
What is a VPN?
If you don’t already know what a VPN is, there are several reasons to get an overview. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your data and routes it through a third-party server. It’s incredibly important these days for security reasons. After all, we live most of our lives online, and identity theft (or plain old hacking) is a real problem. By encrypting your data, you prevent others from tracking your activity. If you hide your location, nobody can track you down, even if they can somehow access your data.
This has the added benefit of tricking websites into thinking they are somewhere else. By convincing Netflix that you’re in the US, you get access to the American catalog.
It’s as easy as downloading a free VPN service. At least, that’s how it was until Netflix got active.
Streaming sites have banned VPNs
Netflix and other streaming sites have come under pressure from legal authorities to stop users from accessing their content in this way. Distribution and copyright rights are taken very seriously, and these sites had to at least show they were trying.
They’ve found ways to determine if someone is using a VPN to access content and to prevent VPN users from doing so.
Luckily, VPN providers still had some tricks up their sleeves, and many have found ways to bypass Netflix’s ban. However, free services are no longer an option. The truth is, you get what you pay for and subscription services give you more security while still having access.
Check the prices
For what you get, there are many VPN services that are relatively cheap. The average monthly subscription is $10. That drops to five or six if you purchase an annual subscription. Since Netflix and VPNs are a constant game of cat and mouse, it might be wise to pay monthly. In the event that Netflix manages to block the VPN you are using, you can switch to another one without any financial loss.
It’s worth it for the safety
While we’ve focused on Netflix, we recommend using a VPN even if you’re not streaming. VPN services are critical to the security they offer you online. In times when our entire identity is open, it’s foolish to take risks.