The Netflix proxy error occurs whenever Netflix detects that a user is trying to stream a video through a proxy server or VPN. A proxy error message displays in the video player and is often accompanied by the error code m7111-5059:

In this article, we’ll discuss what the Netflix proxy error is, why it’s there, how it works, and how to bypass it to continue enjoying Netflix while using a VPN. We’ll also list the best VPNs to help you bypass this proxy error. We’ll go into each of them in more detail, but in case you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary.

The best VPNs for the Netflix proxy error:

  • NordVPN: Our first choice VPN for Netflix! Offers very high speeds, strong security, reliable servers, and works well with Netflix. Plus, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: A budget-friendly VPN that works great with Netflix. No speed, bandwidth, or VPN connection limits. Strong encryption. Strict no logs policy.
  • ExpressVPN: Superfast, reliable servers in every corner of the globe are great for accessing Netflix in HD quality.
  • CyberGhost: A great VPN for beginners as apps are easy to install and get working. Streaming speeds are surprisingly good for a low-cost provider.
  • IPVanish: One of the fastest VPNs tested. Ideal for streaming and works with Netflix US and Netflix UK. Unlimited simultaneous connections per account.
  • PrivateVPN: Newish provider with good capabilities at accessing most streaming sites, including Netflix.
  • Atlas VPN: Works with several popular Netflix catalogs, including Netflix US. Good server speeds, unlimited devices, and MultiHop servers included.

Why does Netflix ban VPNs and proxies?

When Netflix went global a couple of years back, it didn’t have all the licensing rights necessary to stream all of the same TV series and movies to every country. And even before the worldwide rollout, users would connect to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and other types of proxies to access the different content available in other countries’ Netflix libraries. The US Netflix library is particularly popular due to its larger and generally newer catalog of TV shows.

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

A proxy service acts as a middleman between your device and Netflix. Instead of communicating directly with Netflix, internet data is first routed through the proxy server. To Netflix and other websites and apps, it appears as though the user is connecting from the proxy server’s location instead of their own. If the user is in Canada and wants access to US Netflix, for example, they can connect to a proxy server in the USA and gain a US IP address. In simplest terms, VPNs work the same way but usually encrypt data in transit.

Netflix started blocking connections from all proxies and VPNs in early 2016 to enforce its copyright obligations. The trouble with this is that even users who connect to a proxy service or VPN server in their own country get hit with the proxy error, despite the fact they aren’t trying to access content from another country.

How to fix the Netflix proxy error

Once you have a suitable VPN, it’s easy to avoid the dreaded proxy error. Simply follow this step-by-step guide.

Here’s how to avoid the Netflix proxy error:

  • Sign up for a VPN that works with Netflix, we recommend NordVPN.
  • Run your VPN app
  • Select the server location for the Netflix library you want to access. To watch UK Netflix, for example, choose a server located in the United Kingdom, this will give you a UK IP address.
  • Hit the Connect button and give it a few seconds to establish a VPN connection.
  • Open the Netflix app or go to Netflix in your web browser.
  • If your VPN is working, you should now be able to stream without the proxy error.

If you’re still getting the proxy error, try using a different server or location, clearing your cookies, and/or clearing your web browser cache.

Your VPN provider’s customer support might be able to help choose the correct settings and servers for Netflix.

Best VPNs for bypassing the Netflix proxy error – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for bypassing the Netflix proxy error.

Best VPNs to bypass the Netflix proxy error

The most reliable method to allow access to Netflix from abroad is still by using a VPN.

Here are the best VPNs for Netflix to resolve the proxy error.

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

works with NetflixTested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background
  • FireTV

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN speed test data

BEST FOR NETFLIX:NordVPN is our top recommendation. It’s extremely fast and works with Netflix no matter which server you’re connected to, which makes it a breeze to get up and running. Strong security and privacy policies. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros:

  • Works with Netflix on any server
  • Wide network of servers in 60+ countries
  • Fast speeds
  • Allows 6 simultaneous connections
  • Strong security and privacy protocols
  • Zero logs policy

Cons:

  • Desktop apps are a little sluggish

Our score:

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

works with NetflixTested Jan 2023

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark is extremely affordable and works with several Netflix libraries, including Netflix US, UK, and Japan. It has a wide global network of over 3200 servers in around 100 countries, so finding a server in your desired location is easy. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is highly affordable and works out of the box with Netflix. It’s secure and reliable and doesn’t impose a connection limit. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Reliable connections, reasonable speeds

  • Severs in around 100 countries

  • Works with numerous Netflix libraries

  • Connect as many devices as you like

  • Strong on security and privacy

  • Server speed can vary somewhat

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

If your device doesn’t support VPNs, for example, if you’re using a game console or Apple TV, you can use the MediaStreamer smart DNS proxy included in every ExpressVPN subscription.

ExpressVPN speed test data

STREAM WITH EASE:ExpressVPN is fast and security-conscious. It’s been reliably working with Netflix since the proxy error first appeared. Secure and reliable with a no-logs policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Reliably works with Netflix

  • Fast speeds

  • Strong security

  • Servers in 94 countries

  • 24/7 live chat support

  • More expensive than others on our list

  • Only 5 devices can connect at one time

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost provides access to US Netflix and is a great beginner-friendly option. You can easily browse through any of the streaming services shown in the app, and there are many of them. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

CyberGhost speed test data

EASY TO USE:CyberGhost specifically lists Netflix servers in its apps, so you don’t have to guess at which locations work. 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • Netflix servers labeled in the app

  • Easy to set up and use

  • Fast speeds

  • Strong security and a no-logs policy

  • 45-day money-back guarantee

  • Limited configurations

  • Won’t work in China, Iran, UAE, or Saudia Arabia

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

works with netflixTested Jan 2023

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish has become one of the fastest VPNs on the market thanks to its implementation of the WireGuard protocol. Needless to say, this makes it an excellent choice for streaming Netflix, and you’ll be able to use it with both the US and UK versions.

IPVanish speed test data

LAG-FREE STREAMING:IPVanish lets you stream in the highest quality thanks to its fast, unthrottled connections. Unlimited simultaneous connections and quality customer support. Includes a no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Very fast server speeds make it ideal for streaming

  • Can be used with Netflix US and Netflix UK

  • Secure all of your devices at the same time

  • Highly secure with encryption and a kill switch feature

  • No browser extensions available

  • No anonymous payment options

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN speed test data

ONE SIZE FITS ALL:PrivateVPN works with Netflix in more countries than any other provider we’ve tested, so it’s great if you want to access international libraries. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Works with Netflix in 20+ countries

  • Fast speeds

  • Strong security

  • Strong no-logs policy

  • 10 simultaneous connections

  • Smaller server network

  • Live chat support is not 24/7

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. Atlas VPN

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Background
  • FireTV

Website: www.atlasvpn.com

Atlas VPN speed test data

HIGHLY RELIABLE:Atlas VPN is compatible with many streaming services, Netflix and Prime Video included. It’s fast and you can use it to secure as many devices as you like simultaneously. Offers MultiHop servers. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Highly reliable with streaming services such as Netflix

  • More than fast enough for streaming in high definition

  • No shortage of security features, such as an ad blocker

  • Lets you secure all of your devices simultaneously

  • Smaller network of just 750 servers

  • Doesn’t bypass censorship restrictions in China

Read our full Atlas VPN review.

Methodology: How we found the best VPNs for fixing the Netflix proxy error

Most VPNs struggle with Netflix, which often results in the Netflix proxy error. We don’t expect you to test each and every VPN to find one that works! That’s why we used our methodology to find the best VPNs for fixing the Netflix proxy error. Here’s what we looked for in each VPN:

  • Servers worldwide: Netflix is available in most countries, so we’ve looked for VPNs that cover as many of these locations as possible. In all cases, you’ll find servers across dozens of countries, including popular locations such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
  • Speed: According to Netflix, streaming its content in 4K requires connection speeds of at least 25 Mbps. The VPNs recommended in this post all offer far more than this. Furthermore, each includes unlimited bandwidth. That way, you can stream not only in high definition and 4K but do so all without lag and buffering.
  • Access streaming services: Not only do we test all of the aforementioned VPNs with Netflix, but we also check that they securely access the likes of BBC iPlayer and HBO Max. Not all VPNs excel in this area, but those selected were found to be the most reliable options available.
  • Security: If you want to be able to securely access Netflix while traveling abroad, you’ll need a VPN service that uses 256-bit AES encryption. This, combined with a kill switch and DNS leak protection, ensures you’re protected from cybercriminals. If you’re looking for even greater protection, note that some VPNs offer extras, such as an ad blocker.
  • Privacy: The best VPNs offer a strict no-logs policy. This ensures that there’s no user data to share, even if requested by authorities. We’ve looked at some 140 VPN logging policies and found those that protect your privacy (as well as those that don’t!). For full anonymity, you can always choose a VPN that lets you pay in Bitcoin.
  • Ease of use: We’ve only selected VPNs that offer user-friendly apps for desktop and mobile platforms. These are quick and easy to navigate and even come with 24/7 support which you can contact via live chat and email. You’ll also find a wide range of additional help in the form of setup and troubleshooting guides.
  • Value for money: Just because a VPN offers the above doesn’t mean it has to be expensive. This is particularly the case for the best VPNs for fixing the Netflix proxy error. That’s because we provide VPN discount coupons for each, so you can save even more. Better still, all of them come with a money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.

Our VPN testing methodology post goes into even greater detail on how we test VPNs in areas including speed and security.

How does the Netflix proxy error work?

Netflix doesn’t publicly disclose how the VPN ban and proxy error work, but through our extensive testing, we can surmise a few things.

Blacklisting IPs

An IP address is a unique string of numbers and decimals assigned to every internet-connected device. Public IP addresses are visible on the web and correspond to specific countries. Whenever you connect to a VPN or proxy service, your device’s public IP address is masked by that of the proxy server.

Netflix blacklists most proxy and VPN server IP addresses. Rather than weeding out individual servers, we believe Netflix simply blocks entire ranges of non-residential IP addresses. Netflix knows most proxy servers are hosted in data centres, which use different ranges of IP addresses than residential networks.

DNS filtering

Netflix can also detect when some VPNs and proxies are being used through DNS. Short for Domain Name System, DNS works like a phone book for the internet that associates IP addresses with domain names.

Whenever you go to the Netflix website, for instance, your web browser sends a DNS request to a DNS server. The DNS server looks up the IP address for Netflix and returns it to your device, which then fetches the video from the Netflix server. Netflix can determine which DNS server was used in this transaction.

By default, your DNS server probably belongs to your local Internet Service Provider and corresponds to a specific country or region. Many proxies and VPNs only route web traffic and not DNS traffic. If Netflix spots a mismatch between your DNS server location and your IP address location, it knows a proxy service is in use and throws up the error.

Most good VPN providers route DNS traffic along with everything else through their servers, but the Netflix apps for iOS and Android compound the issue by overriding these DNS settings. The website version that you access in a web browser doesn’t do this, though, so accessing Netflix in a browser is typically easier than on mobile apps.

Why Netflix bans VPNs

Netflix cracked down hard on VPN and smart DNS proxy providers after its global rollout. Despite its efforts, a handful of VPN providers persevered and still provide access to Netflix today.

The ban on VPNs does not take into account the fact that these tools are used widely as a means of protecting users’ privacy and allowing those traveling abroad to securely access services from home.

Despite the ban, VPNs and smart DNS proxies remain the easiest and most popular means to access Netflix abroad. We’ll explain how each can resolve the proxy error.

How do VPNs work with Netflix?

As mentioned above, a VPN encrypts a device’s internet traffic and routes it through a middleman server in a location of the user’s choosing. By connecting to a VPN in the US, you can access the internet as if you were physically located in the US.

For the average Netflix user, a VPN comes in the form of a desktop or mobile app and usually requires a small monthly fee.

Most VPNs that can reliably access Netflix don’t share how they do so. Again, however, we can surmise how they manage to do it.

Because Netflix blacklists most data center IP addresses, VPN providers set up a handful of servers that use residential IP addresses. These IPs are off Netflix’s radar, and blocking them could result in some non-proxy users being unable to access videos. If Netflix happens to block a residential IP anyway, the VPN provider simply swaps it out with the next one in line.

A few VPNs have also managed to force the Netflix app to use the VPN provider’s DNS servers instead of local ones. All of this ensures Netflix cannot determine whether the user is accessing videos through a VPN.

Smart DNS proxy

A smart DNS proxy is a clever way to only use a proxy on an as-needed basis for certain websites, apps, and services. It is usually configured in the DNS settings of your device’s network settings menu. Like VPNs, DNS proxies often require a monthly subscription.

We mentioned before that DNS works like a phone book for the internet. Smart DNS alters entries in the phone book for specific domains like “netflix.com.” Instead of Netflix’s IP address, a request for netflix.com on a smart DNS proxy sends your traffic to a proxy server in the US (or the location you want to access).

These proxy servers likely use residential IP addresses in lieu of commercial data center IP addresses so as to avoid Netflix’s firewall, similar to some VPNs. Unlike VPNs, however, your internet traffic is not necessarily encrypted, so you don’t get the same level of privacy or security. They are useful, however, on Smart TVs when no VPN app is available.

Combining smart DNS and VPNs

Most VPN providers that can access Netflix only operate a small handful of servers that can do so. This means users have to look up or ask customer service which server or location to connect to. To get around this, some providers combine a VPN with smart DNS to let users use Netflix regardless of which server they’re connected to.

For example, when you connect to any NordVPN server through a VPN, you use NordVPN’s DNS servers. Those are smart DNS servers that, in most cases, will route requests to Netflix back to the US version, regardless of actual server location. This allows NordVPN users to access Netflix USA from any server location, although they might not get the localized version they’re expecting. In this case, even though you’re connected to a server in, say, Mexico, your connections to Netflix still run through US servers.

Some VPN providers like ExpressVPN allow you to use smart DNS either with the VPN or as a standalone service.

In addition, most Free VPNs are not to be trusted. Many of them spy on user activity and sell that data to third parties. Some carry malware. A lot of them don’t have very good security and could put your data at risk.

In short, stick with paid VPNs. You can always take advantage of the money-back guarantee if you decide it’s not for you.

There are a few ways to get around this block. The first is to switch off your VPN or proxy and try again. If that doesn’t work, you can try a different VPN supplier, as recommended above.

This is because Netflix has to obtain the rights to stream each title in every country it operates in, and some countries are simply more difficult (and expensive) to obtain the rights for than others.

So if you’re ever wondering why your Netflix library looks different from someone else’s, local copyright laws are likely one of the reasons.

The second possibility is that Netflix has detected some unusual traffic coming from your IP address. Several things could cause this, but the most likely explanation is that you’re using a proxy service to access Netflix content that isn’t available in your country.

If this is the case, then you’ll need to disable the service and restart your browser in order to continue watching Netflix.