Netflix and others block a VPN’s IP addresses, blocking access. This has led to an ongoing game of virtual whack-a-mole between VPN providers and streaming services. When they did, they began blocking those IP addresses, preventing VPN users from accessing their favorite content. Netflix and other streaming services began working to detect the IP addresses of VPN providers.
PRIVATE VPN ACCESS VS PUREVPN MOVIE
However, as time passed, streaming services began feeling the pressure from the television and movie studios they contracted with to block VPN users from accessing their shows and films from outside of contracted-for areas. Popular content includes that provided by Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Spotify, ESPN, Apple Music, and numerous others.Įarly on, it was relatively simple to find a VPN service that could reliably unblock streaming services and content that were available in other countries. I would venture to say that one of the most popular activities among internet users is the streaming of music and video. Support forums and a searchable support library are also available to use to find answers on your own. However, email support is available 24/7. Live support chat is not a 24/7 thing but is available Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. Happily, P2P file sharing is allowed on all of PIA’s servers. While PIA’s coverage isn’t as impressive as other providers, it should prove sufficient for most users’ needs. Up to 10 devices can simultaneously connect to Private Internet Access servers on one set of login credentials.Īs of the date of this review, the Private Internet Access global server network consists of 3,340+ servers in 78 countries. They’re simple enough for VPN novices to use, yet have enough options to satisfy experienced users.
The provider’s apps are lightweight and don’t grab too much of your device’s precious resources. Unfortunately, no streaming- or P2P-optimized server options are available. Alongside each server’s name is the current ping reading, allowing users to make educated decisions about which servers might perform best for their needs. When connecting to the Private Internet Access network, users are presented with options to connect to specific locations in countries around the globe. (For more information about these security features, check out my VPN Security Features article.) In addition, PIA’s “MACE” feature blocks the domains used to serve up ads, trackers, and malware. PIA’s apps offer a kill switch, DNS leak, and IP leak protection, and they protect your internet connection with military-grade encryption. (It should be noted that PIA’s Linux app is one of the few GUI-based apps available for the Linux platform.)Ĭhrome, Opera and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is support for various makes and models of routers. Private Internet Access (PIA) offers native app support for only the most popular device platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. Global server coverage could stand some expansion.Access to streaming services is limited.