How Does Netflix Detect VPNs?

Netflix is undoubtedly one of the biggest names in the global streaming market. Its expansive catalogue of over 13 million television shows and movies, coupled with a reliable and efficient streaming service, has made it a favorite among consumers. Now, with the COVID-19 pandemic forcing many people to work remotely, Netflix has become even more popular as a way of people getting their entertainment in the confines of their homes.

To ensure privacy and security while enjoying Netflix, many consumers are turning to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Unfortunately, while most VPNs offer great security and reliability, they are not immune to security breaches. If exploited properly, VPNs can be used to intercept and analyse network traffic, exposing users to the risk of having their personal data compromised.

Thankfully, Netflix has been vigilant in detecting and blocking the use of VPNs in its services. To ensure the safety and security of its customers, it recently updated its VPN protocol to block covert VPNs operating in the background even when a consumer’s device is in compliance with the OpenVPN protocol (a common and open source VPN protocol). In this article, we will go over how Netflix detects and blocks the use of VPNs in its services, as well as how existing and potential users of VPNs can stay safe while enjoying Netflix’s services.

Detecting Virtual Private Networks

VPNs provide a way for a person operating a private network to access the internet via a public network, like the internet or a wifi network. To ensure the security of its users, Netflix requires all VPNs to adhere to its security guidelines, which include not using default passwords, limiting log entries to only IP addresses, and maintaining high security standards.

VPNs that comply with these criteria are deemed to be “good” VPNs, meaning they can be used with confidence to secure sensitive information and access resources containing sensitive data. On the other hand, VPNs that don’t comply with these criteria are categorized as “bad” VPNs and blocked by Netflix.

To detect VPNs that are bad and should be blocked, Netflix looks at a variety of factors, including user reviews, the history of the VPN, and the OpenVPN protocol itself. Additionally, given the growing prevalence of VPNs in the market, Netflix monitors the appearance of suspicious activity, including the use of potentially insecure protocols such as IPV4 and TCP/IP protocols instead of the recommended and more secure protocols such as L2TP/IPsec and SSTP.

Keeping Your Personal Data Private While Using Netflix

Even if you’re not using a VPN to access Netflix, your personal data is still at risk of being compromised. If you use public wifi to access the internet, your personal data such as your IP address and any personal information you share online could be captured and potentially sold by hackers or other third parties. This is why it’s important to keep your personal data private and secure while using public wifi. That way, when you do connect to a public network to access Netflix, your personal data remains secure and private.

To ensure the safety and security of its users, Netflix will not work with VPNs that have been flagged as suspicious, regardless of their specific criteria. Unfortunately, even when a VPN is good and meets all of Netflix’s criteria, it still can be abused by someone with malicious intent. This is why it’s important to remain vigilant and maintain a healthy skepticism whenever you use a VPN. To ensure the safety and security of its users, Netflix recommends that customers only use established and reputable VPNs.

Recommended VPNs For Netflix

Thankfully, there are several reputable VPNs that meet all of Netflix’s criteria for good VPNs. Customers can browse through a VPN’s website or read its policy to determine whether or not it’s a good fit for their needs. Once you’ve found a VPN that fits your needs, it’s important to read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of how others feel about the service. Additionally, it’s advisable to read other user reviews before deciding whether or not to purchase a product. This way, you’ll have an idea of what you’re getting into and won’t have to guess at anything. A good VPN will also keep logs of previous activity, which you can review if you ever have any questions about the service.

Taking the time to do some research and find a VPN that meets your needs and interests will ensure that you get the most out of your Netflix membership and stay safe in the process. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to find a VPN that suits your needs. More people are turning to VPNs than ever before to keep their personal data secure while streaming, and with good reason. VPNs are a vital tool in protecting your personal data, no matter what device you use to access Netflix and other online services.