4 Ways to Fix VPN Not Working With Hulu On Firestick
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Hulu is one of the most popular streaming services in the US, offering a vast library of TV shows and movies.
However, it tries to block VPNs to stop people outside the US and Japan from accessing its shows. When this happens, you’ll get an error message saying Hulu detected your VPN or proxy.
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The good news is it’s practically impossible for Hulu to block an entire VPN service or detect any type of VPN traffic.
So what you’ll have to do is make sure Hulu doesn’t know you use VPN. We’ll show you a few ways that will help you get back into the platform ASAP.
Why is your VPN not working with Hulu on Firestick?
The most common problem with VPN not working with Hulu on Firestick is that it’s detected and blocked by Hulu.
While attempting to access Hulu content through Firestick using a VPN, you may encounter a Hulu proxy error message that says:
Your connection seems to be coming from an anonymous proxy tool. To access Hulu, please disable the tool. If you believe this message is incorrect, please reach out to our customer support team.
The error code associated with this message is BYA-403-011.
While Hulu blocks many VPNs, some top-notch providers can still bypass their restrictions, but more about that is below.
They block VPN and proxy usage to prevent users from accessing content that is not licensed for their region.
Also, your VPNs need to be updated regularly to keep up with new security protocols and streaming service restrictions.
How to run Hulu with a VPN on a Firestick?
Here are a few potential fixes to help you solve the problem of VPN not working with Hulu on Firestick:
1. Change the server
If you’re using a VPN blocked by Hulu, try changing to a different server in the US.
Most VPNs have multiple servers in different locations, so selecting a different US-based server could potentially resolve the issue.
Follow these steps to change to another server on your VPN:
- Open your VPN app.
- Click on VPN Locations to open the server list.
- Select the option to change the server.
- Choose a server in the US.
- Connect to the new server
- Now access the movie you want to unblock.
2. Clear your Firestick cache/data
Clearing the cache is a basic troubleshooting method for Firestick apps that can help fix errors.
When you clear the cache, the app’s settings and configurations are reset to their default values, which could potentially resolve the issue.
Follow the steps below to clear your Firestick’s cookies and cache:
- From the Firestick home screen, go to Settings and select Applications.
- Select Manage Installed Applications and choose Hulu.
- Select Clear Data and Clear Cache.
- Restart your Firestick and try to access Hulu with your VPN.
3. Change to a different VPN protocol
Changing to a different protocol is another option to resolve the problem. Protocols are sets of rules that dictate how the VPN operates.
In general, newer protocols are less likely to be detected by Hulu. We recommend OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, Lightway, and Nordlynx. Most reputable VPNs offer at least one of these protocols.
- Open your VPN app.
- Click on the gear icon or go to Settings.
- Go to VPN protocol.
- Select OpenVPN – TCP from the list.
- Select Change Anyway from the popup.
- Go back to the show you’re trying to access again.
4. Change to a better VPN provider
If the previous steps fail to resolve the issue, then your VPN isn’t able to bypass Hulu’s firewall. In this case, you’ll be better off if you pick another service.
So, if you can cancel your trial or subscription, it would be best to pick a better VPN that actually works with Hulu.
After testing plenty of options with different streaming apps, including Hulu, our top choice here is ExpressVPN. Here’s how to use it:
- Subscribe to an ExpressVPN plan and download the software.
- Install the ExpressVPN app on your computer.
- Log in with your credentials.
- Search for any server. For example, we used a server from the UK.
- Select and connect.
- Once connected to a US server, open the Hulu app on your Firestick and try streaming content.
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Unblock Hulu on Firestick and enjoy all of its content regardless of where you are in the world!Does Hulu block VPN services?
Yes. Hulu, much like other major streaming services implemented ways to block VPNs and proxies.
The primary reason for doing this is to protect its content licenses. Hulu blocks VPNs from accessing its content outside the US.
This is because broadcasters in different regions own the rights to the same content, making it necessary for Hulu to enforce digital borders.
By doing so, Hulu avoids the cost of obtaining global licenses, maintains its content rights, and ensures the longevity of its services.
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Summary
In summary, using a VPN to access Hulu on a Firestick can be a tricky business due to the VPN restrictions put in place by Hulu.
However, by trying out the potential solutions listed above, you can increase your chances of solving the problem of the VPN not working with Hulu on Firestick.
