Netflix bans VPN services mercilessly. Two years after the entertaining service declared war on the unblockers, only a handful of VPN providers can still bypass its geo restrictions. Is ZenMate one of them or is it among VPNs fallen in virtual battles? I initiated my own investigation to see how good ZenMate works with Netflix. Read on to find out the results.
Why Netflix Stands against VPN Services
Before we jump into it, I would like to say a couple of words about why Netflix bans VPNs. The main reason is that these services allow bypassing geo restrictions and grant access to video libraries that are otherwise available only in specific regions. When Netflix had a small number of divisions in other countries, it turned a blind eye to people who used unblockers (because they allowed getting more new subscribers). But as soon as the streaming giant rolled out its services in 190 countries, the situation changed root and branch.
Netflix entered into agreements with content suppliers, which dictate strict rules on where particular shows and movies are available. Those users who circumvent geo-blocking are deemed as copyright law violators. Netflix warned that it would punish for such illegal practices. However, instead of subscribers, its anger overtook VPN services. Apparently, the company believes that it is better to take away the possibility to watch restricted content than to ban its own clients. Netflix’s crusade took a heavy toll on VPN, but there are still services that are up and running.
Does ZenMate Support Connection to US Netflix?
ZenMate doesn’t have an outstanding number of servers (currently, it offers 300 servers in 30 locations). When I see such modest figures I tend to believe that a VPN service won’t be able to cope with geo blockade. The reason why I think so is that Netflix and similar streaming platforms are experts in detecting and blocking virtual private networks. The smaller a network is, the easier it is to blacklist it.
As, in my opinion, ZenMate doesn’t have an impressive server count, I didn’t keep my hopes high about the service’s ability to fix an infamous Netflix proxy error. Especially, taking into the account the fact that ZenMate has been already blocked by Netflix awhile ago. However, the service proved me wrong when I conducted my own hands-on testing.
Right now, users can unblock Netflix video libraries in the USA and UK thanks to specific servers in those locations. It doesn’t mean that every American or British server will work with the streaming platforms. That’s why you should get information about spot-on options from a customer support.
Alternatively, you can use ZenMate’s Smart Locations function available through their app. It will automatically hook you up to a server located in a country of your choice (America-based servers to unblock US Netflix or UK-stationed options for UK Netflix retrospectively).
ZenMate and Netflix Sum Up
Despite a server network that one may call small, ZenMate is big in VPN services to unblock streaming platforms. By using their selected servers in the US and across the pond, you can successfully bypass a well-known Netflix proxy error. A very handy Smart Locations feature will tell you what locations will meet your streaming needs. If for some reason ZenMate doesn’t work with Netflix, you can always contact a friendly customer service for a solution or follow the steps described in this guide off your own bat.