VPNs are amazing tools when it comes to making the Internet a less restricted place. Not only will they safeguard your data against the myriad of cyber threats nowadays, but they also unlock whole new avenues for entertainment. Yes, that includes streaming content you can only find abroad. But can a free trial VPN unblock Netflix and other streaming sites?
Well, this depends entirely on the provider. For example, some providers may only offer a limited experience. Fewer servers, slower speeds, data caps in some rare cases, and other inconveniences. Fortunately, there are some VPN free trials that allow users access to all premium features, including the ability to unblock Netflix.
Here’s what you need to watch out for if you plan on testing things out.
Free Trial VPN for Netflix – Things to Keep in Mind
Free trials are a great way to get a feel for what the VPN is capable of, including whether it works on Netflix or not. However, there are a couple of things to take note of, especially if you’re strapped for cash as an expat:
# Free trial VPNs may ask for payment details (like a debit or credit card) to activate your trial period. While it may seem unfair, this is mostly done as a way to prevent spam accounts and abusing free trial accounts. Once again, online scammers find a way to ruin everyone’s fun. Check out the link in the beginning for some providers that don’t ask for payment info.
# Most providers won’t charge your card to test its validity. Nevertheless, keep an eye out for when the trial expires. Otherwise, you may end up paying for a month’s subscription even if you didn’t plan on using the same VPN.
# Many free trials are only available on mobile (Android & iOS). Meanwhile, PC users may not get one at all, or could be limited to a single day (as opposed to week-long trials on mobile devices).
Other than these limitations, you should have no problems accessing Netflix with a free trial VPN. And if you do get charged because you forgot to cancel your trial, don’t worry. All decent VPNs have 30 day money-back guarantees in place to help you out in such cases.
Speaking of which, you may see some VPN providers advertise “30 day trials”. Well, that’s exactly what they’re referring to. You can test out their services for 30 (sometimes 45) days, and if you don’t enjoy their services you get refunded without a fuss.
How Do Free Trial VPNs Work with Netflix?
Exactly like any other VPN that unblocks Netflix, basically. Once you sign up, download, and install a VPN client, simply connect to a server of your choice to gain access to that region’s Netflix library.
Curious about the technical aspects? Well, the VPN will mask your true IP address, which can reveal your real life location to online services. You will then receive a new IP based on which server you connect to, making it seem like you’re browsing the web from a different region.
On top of that, VPNs will encrypt (scramble) your network data – keeping it safe against hacking attempts and preventing your ISP from slowing down your streaming. The only real disadvantage in this case is the limited trial period. But, as mentioned, you can always go for the “30 day trial” option to get the most out of your Netflix subscription.