You’re looking to catch the NFL this year. But your preferred streaming service is blocked where you are, and NFL geo-restrictions are preventing you from connecting to the games. You soon find that you need a way to convince broadcasters that you’re in the right country. Conveniently, VPNs can do just that.
But before we can dive into specifics, let’s look at what exactly VPN’s are and what they do. Virtual Private Networks extend private and public networks across each other, thereby enabling users to transmit data as if their computing devices were directly connected. VPNs aren’t capable of making online connections completely anonymous, but they can increase privacy and security. To do so, VPNs typically allow only authenticated remote access.
So then, how does one use a VPN service to watch your favorite NFL teams?
1. First, you’ll want to download the VPN client.
2. Now that you’ve had a chance to download and install the software it’s time to connect. Launch the client and select a server location.
3. Select a server location.
4. Click the big round connect button.
5. A few seconds later, you’ll receive the go-ahead when the shield around the button turns green. A message letting you know the “VPN is ON” will also appear.
You now have an IP address to the location you have picked, as far as anyone can tell online. This would also apply to you if you are connected to a server in the US or anywhere else in the world. It is just that easy to do. Kick back, grab your confectionaries and watch the games. That’s all there is to it.
Our top picks for the NFL game season are:
NordVPN
With its many features, NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs and stands out for its quality. All its advanced streaming features make it a great choice to be your VPN for watching the games. It has over 1,600 servers in the US, offering you a huge number of connection choices for NFL streaming. If you need servers abroad then it has more than 5,500 servers around the globe, giving you unlimited options for all your sports streaming needs. The process of connecting is made fast and easy and stream the NFC and AFC championships. Purchasing one subscription means you can connect up to six devices at one time, so the entire family can stream the season finals and watch simultaneously. If you want to take some time to find out if it’s for you, try NordVPN for 30 days and get a full refund if you change your mind. This opens up a risk-free opportunity to see the championship games and play with the VPN’s features.
- Works with Showtime, ESPN, Hulu, Sling TV, FOX, CBS All Access, HBO GO, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Netflix
- Compatible with Firefox, Android TV, Linux, Windows, macOS, Chrome, Android, iOS, routers
- 5,500 global servers throughout 59 countries
- SmartPlay bypasses geo-blocks without manual configuration
- Lightning-fast streaming
- Full money-back guarantee within 30 days
- Live chat support available 24/7
SurfShark
Surfshark is an upcoming VPN with almost 800 servers in 50 countries. It offers incredible speed, unlimited bandwidth, and is capable of unblocking several major platforms from virtually anywhere in the world (including, but not limited to NFL Game Pass). One of the best aspects of this service, however, is that it has no limit on the number of devices you can connect, and as such, allows you to connect as many devices as you like. This VPN is security conscious and uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to keep your traffic safe at all times. Furthermore, Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information. When configured manually, it also works with home routers and Linux systems.
- Works with BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix
- Compatible with Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS.
- Decent, reliable speeds
- 800 servers in 50 countries
- Connect an unlimited number of devices
- 24/7 support is available over live chat.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN that is a quick user-friendly solution to your NFL access. It is best for watching live football action. ExpressVPN gets past geo-blocks with relative ease and offers one of the most competitive streaming speeds.
Works with Hulu, Netflix, FOX, ESPN, Sling TV, CBS All Access, Amazon Prime Video, HBO GO
- Compatible with Android TV, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Linux, routers
- Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries
- One of the fast networks for streaming
- No limits on bandwidth
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 24/7 live chat support
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable VPN provider that ensures a high-level of encryption and good VPN speed. It’s customized VPN protocols give users the security they need without compromising on a stable VPN connection. It has an easy-to-use application making the entire experience fun, if not worthwhile. Three power VPN protocols namely PPTP, L2TP/IPsec, and OpenVPN operate security. It blocks ads, trackers, and malware too. No traffic logs are kept. The best part is that it unblocks Netflix. PIA also offers P2P support which for Torrenting, if perfect. The VPN also lets you connect 5 devices simultaneously to a single account. Additionally, you can avail a 67% discount on their 1-year plan. The offer comes with a one-week money-back guarantee.
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and iOS, etc.
- Good support center containing very informative VPN guides.
- The Most Anonymous VPN Service
- Competitive prices
- Worldwide coverage with 29+ countries
- Massive network with 3295+ gateways
- Easy to use custom VPN software
- Over 3307 servers in 32 countries
- No traffic logs are kept
In conclusion, using VPNs can ensure that if you are turned away from the NFL’s virtual gatekeeper, it does not stop you from streaming the games. They provide reliable access to the NFL Game Pass regardless of whether you’re traveling abroad or you simply reside out of the United States. VPNs simultaneously enhance and protect all of your online activities while you watch your favorite NFL teams.
Image Credit: Tomsguide
