Netflix subscribers in the United States get access to larger and more varied selection of content than those in other regions. Unfortunately, due to licensing restrictions, it is only possible to watch the content from the catalog that Netflix offers in your specific location. In order to bypass geographical blocks and get access to movies and TV shows that are only available in the United States, many users rely on VPN services. However, there are some alternatives that could also help you to stream content that is only offered in the US version of Netflix.
One of these alternatives is to use a DNS code, which works as a proxy service that disguises your location and redirects your traffic to allow you to access content as if you were in the US. Users in Canada, the UK and other locations can use a DNS code to watch US Netflix. While DNS codes work in a similar way to VPNs, it is important to keep in mind the differences between them. There is a handful of VPN services that are still working to unblock Netflix and it is likely that you have more success using one of them. However, DNS proxies may be an option worth trying. Here you will find more about using DNS codes to access the US version of Netflix.
DNS vs VPN
DNS stand for Domain Name System and it is like the internet’s phone book. When you go to a website, a request is sent to a DNS server that returns the numerical IP address that is associated to the link your clicked on, or the URL that you typed in. Generally, your ISP deals with DNS requests and your ISP is related to a specific country and region. Netflix is able to find out your location by checking the origin of the DNS request.
With a DNS code, you can get access to a DNS proxy or smart DNS. Then your DNS requests are routed to a server that is different from the ones used by your ISP. All your internet traffic can be routed through a server located in the United States. This way, Netflix and other websites and services will think that you are actually connecting from the US. DNS proxies may have an advantage over VPNs because Netflix seems to have focused its efforts on blacklisting the IP addresses used by popular VPN services.
In addition, when you use a proxy, your traffic appears normal, while the fact that VPN traffic is encrypted, makes it easier to recognize. That being said, there are VPN services that are constantly updating their networks adding new servers to prevent the blacklisting. They have also implemented technology that disguises VPN traffic to make sure that it can’t be blocked easily.
The risks of using DNS codes
Although there may be some advantages of using a DNS code and this may be an effective option in some cases, it is not a perfect solution. Netflix is determined to stop its subscribers from using any technology that allows them to bypass the geo-blocks that have been implemented. They are likely to find out that DNS requests are coming from a commercial data center and not from a residential location. Netflix has already blocked many DNS proxies and even after you acquire a DNS code, there is no guarantee that it will always work. At some stage, it may stop being effective. If many people are using the same DNS code, it is more likely to blocked sooner.
Although you can find free DNS codes, it is likely that they don’t work and at all and in some cases, they may even be used to scam you. They may direct you to a malicious website, or may pose security risks. While some could be effective when it comes to accessing Netflix, they could fill your browser with annoying ads that can contain trackers and malware. It is important to check the provider of the DNS server before using it. Look for reviews and its privacy policy to get a better idea of how reliable it is. Some of the solutions that you can try without concerns are OverPlay and IronSocket. These providers offer good quality DNS services and are well-established companies.
Setting up a smart DNS on your computer
A DNS code is an IP address for a working DNS server. Once you get a code from a reliable provider, you can set it up on your devices. It should be noted that well-established providers will ask you to register first. Then, you will have to authorize your own computer’s IP address on their website to confirm that you are their customer. There is no additional software required.
- Windows users just need to right click om the WiFi or Ethernet icon in their system tray and click Open Network and Sharing Center.
- Next to Connection, you will see a link that says Wifi or Ethernet. Click on it. Then click Properties.
- Unmark Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6). Select the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) to make sure that it is highlighted and then click Properties.
- On the lower part of the next window, mark the option that says “Use the following DNS server addresses:”. Enter the preferred DNS server, which in this case should be located in the United States. It would be given to you by your Smart DNS provider.
- Select OK and restart your computer. Go to Netflix and try to access the US catalog.
Check for DNS cache poisoning, ad injection
When you use a DNS proxy for the first time, it is advisable to check for possible weaknesses. Ad injection can be easily recognized as all you need to do is to look for ads that are out of place. It is also possible to put your browser to the test to find if there is DNS cache poisoning on the website. Just scroll down and press the “Initiate standard DNS spoofability test”. It is also important to look for possible DNS leaks. This can be checks at IPLeak.net. You will see the DNS address of the provider under the DNS Address Detection section.
Additional considerations
It is important to note that even if your DNS code is effective on a desktop computer browser, it doesn’t mean that it will work on your mobile device or TV box. Thsi si due to the fact that these devices usually rely on apps and not on a browser, which could override the DNS address that you set up. They would use their own DNS servers instead and the only way to avoid this, is by setting up the DNS server in your WiFi router and not on the device itself.
Overall, you may be better off using a VPN since this technology will not only help you to bypass restrictions, but will also keep your online traffic protected from eavesdroppers. Plus, most DNS proxies are not able to defeat Netflix’s blocks while VPN providers like ExpressVPN have managed to stay on top of the game by offering servers that can be used to access the content that Netflix offers in the US.
