How to Watch NBC Outside The US [Quick and Easy]

Bypass geo-blocks and enjoy NBC no matter where you are

Reading time icon 9 min. read


Readers help support VPNCentral. We may get a commission if you buy through our links. Tooltip Icon

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help VPNCentral sustain the editorial team Read more

watch nbc outside us

Want to watch NBC outside the US? You’re not alone. And you’re in luck.

See, the channel is officially only available in the US. However, as someone who’s been dealing with geo-restrictions for close to five years, I know that “officially” doesn’t mean anything.

So, let me show you a nifty workaround:

Quick guide: How to watch NBC outside the US

Just follow these easy steps:

  1. Get a reliable VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN due to its large US network and great unblocking capabilities.
  2. Download and install the VPN on your device.
  3. Open the app and connect to a US server.
  4. Visit NBC’s website or app and start streaming!

Why do I need a VPN to watch NBC outside the US?

NBC restricts its content to viewers within the United States. This is known as geo-blocking and is due to licensing agreements and copyright laws. However, a VPN can help bypass these blocks.

When you try to access NBC from a non-US location, your IP address reveals your geographical location, leading to a restriction message:

nbc geo-restriction error

This is where a VPN is the key. The tool works by routing your internet connection through a server located in a different country – in this case, the US. This process changes your IP address to that of the server, effectively masking your real location.

To NBC, it appears as if you are accessing their content from within the United States, so it lets you right in:

nbc unblocked with expressvpn

How to watch NBC outside the US

Now, to get the above result, you’ll have to get a reliable VPN.

This includes server availability in the US, strong encryption and privacy features to bypass geo-restrictions, and fast enough servers to let you stream in high quality.

So, my recommendation is to:

Use ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN covers all the above bases and it’s also super simple to set up.

Let me show you:

  1. Visit ExpressVPN’s website and pick a subscription plan that suits your needs.
  2. Download the app for your device.expressvpn apps
  3. Connect to a server in the United States.expressvpn connected to us server
  4. With the VPN connected, navigate to NBC’s website or app, log in, and enjoy your favorite shows!nbc unblocked with expressvpn

This VPN’s huge server network and lightning-fast speed make it a great choice. Thanks to its modern configuration, it is very unlikely that NBC will not work when connected to a VPN.

However, if that is the case, a simple server change usually fixes the problem.

ExpressVPN

Blow past geo-restrictions and enjoy NBC no matter where you are with this high-performing VPN.
Check price Visit website

Want to watch more US TV abroad? You may also enjoy reading:


NBC not working with VPN? Here’s how to fix it!

You’re all set to enjoy the latest episode of your favorite NBC show, armed with your trusty VPN for added security and privacy. 

But, alas! An error message pops up, leaving you frustrated and longing for a solution.

nbc error message - this video is not available in your location
This video is not available in your location error message popping out on NBC

Well, worry not. I have some potential fixes to ensure your VPN and NBC work perfectly together. 

As follows are tried-and-tested methods to resolve the NBC VPN compatibility issue:

  1. Change server location

    If you’re experiencing difficulties with your VPN while trying to connect to NBC, it’s likely because the service has blacklisted the specific server you’re attempting to use.

    Also, NBC might not function with some VPN servers due to IP prohibitions, too many people connected, or IP leaks.

    Therefore, to reaccess the service, you will have to use another US server location.
    Here is how to change it on ExpressVPN. But the process is pretty much the same regardless of providers.
    1. Launch your VPN app.
    2. Click the power button to disconnect from the current server.

    3. Expand the server list, search, and select another US server in the search box.
    expressvpn expand server list
    4. Then double-click or tap on the location to select said server.
    expressvpn connected to new york
    5. Now you can access NBC and enjoy everything it offers.

    Why does switching servers work?

    NBC cannot block the entire VPN but blacklists specific IP addresses. Because most VPN users share IPs, platforms may ban them because of someone else’s wrongdoings.
    By switching servers, you will be assigned a different IP address. So if NBC hasn’t blocked it, you should be able to access the streaming service with your VPN again.

  2. Clear browser cookies

    Cookies are small files that online services use to improve your experience and store your location.
    Therefore, if the location stored by NBC when you first accessed it without the VPN differs from your server location, it will deny you access due to conflicting information.

    Luckily you can quickly end this by clearing them from your browser.

    Here’s how to do it in Chrome:

    1. Access your browser’s settings by clicking on the three dots or lines in the top-right corner of your screen.

    2. Once you’re in the menu, click on Privacy & Security.

    3. From there, select Clear Browsing Data.
    clear data
    4. Delete all cookies and other site data, then select ‘Clear Data.’

    5. Now try accessing NBC from your browser or app, it should work perfectly.

    I used Chrome as an example because it’s the most popular browser right now.
    However, the method works on any other one, including Opera, Edge, or Firefox, and the steps you have to follow are the same.

  3. Change to a different protocol

    Protocols are rules that determine how data is routed through the server. Some may work better than others for specific tasks.

    So if your VPN allows it, try switching to a different protocol to solve NBC not working.

    To get started, follow the steps below:

    1. Open your VPN app.
    2. Click on the gear icon or go to options.

    3. From the settings page, pick the protocol option.

    Now check what protocols your provider offers. If possible, select OpenVPN. Most VPNs use it and it’s one of the most reliable and error-free protocols to date.
    expressvpn change protocol
    Select Change Anyway from the pop-up.

    Then go back to the NBC website you’re trying to access again with the VPN connected.

  4. Update your VPN app

    VPN providers regularly update their apps when the older versions have bugs or inefficiencies.
    If NBC is not working with your VPN, it may be because you’re using an outdated app.

    How to fix it?

    Simply update to the latest version and try reaccessing NBC.

    Luckily, developers design most VPN apps to automatically scan for the latest version and notify you if there’s a new update to download.

  5. Change your DNS server

    Changing your DNS server prevents data leaks that expose your connection and could help when your VPN is not working with geo-blocked apps like NBC.

    Some VPNs offer Private DNS servers, which you can access once you sign up for an account.  You also have the option to configure your device manually using the free Google Public DNS.

    Here’s how to manually change your DNS server on your PC. I used NordVPN’s DNS servers, but the same steps apply if you decide to go for free options.

    1. Right-click the network icon (or the WiFi icon if you are using a WiFi connection) in the taskbar notification area and select Network and Sharing Center.

    2. From the menu, select Change adapter options.

    3. Then right-click the TAP-NordVPN Windows adapter V9 and choose Properties.

    4. Now select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.

    5. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter your VPN’s DNS address or a public DNS server address (as mentioned above).
    I picked NordVPN’s DNS and entered: Preferred DNS server: 103.86.96.100 and Alternate DNS server: 103.86.99.100
    change dns settings on windows
    6. Click OK to confirm the change and visit the NBC website. It should now work with your VPN.
    Other reputable VPN services that offer private DNS include ExpressVPN and CyberGhost.
    To switch up your DNS with a different address, follow the exact instructions, but change the items you add to Preferred and Alternate DNS.

  6. Change your VPN provider

    If you’ve tried everything else and still can’t find a way to get around NBC, your current VPN might be unable to help you. 

    But there is hope! Upgrading to a premium VPN that works with NBC can unlock it.

    So if you have the possibility to end your trial or get your subscription money back from your current provider, I highly encourage trying a better VPN.

    I recommend ExpressVPN because of its multiple-server network in the US.

    Here’s how to set it up:

    1. First, you’ll have to Subscribe to an ExpressVPN plan and download the software compatible with your device.

    2. Then, install the ExpressVPN app on your computer and sign in with your credentials.
    ExpressVPN login
    3. Now open the app and expand the server list. Once you have it open, select the US.

    4. Pick a server city of your choice and double-click (or tap on mobile) to connect.
    5. Once connected to the server, open the NBC and start streaming your favorite shows.

    This VPN offers strong encryption and a wide range of server locations, which can help NBC users bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.

Does NBC block VPNs?

Yes, NBC actively blocks certain VPN connections, though not very successful.

But why, you ask? It’s all about licensing agreements.

NBC needs to comply with rules to distribute content in specific regions, so they identify VPN IP addresses and enforce access limitations. 

How does NBC detect my VPN?

NBC employs various methods to detect VPN usage and restrict access to its content, including IP blacklisting, deep packet inspection, and analyzing traffic patterns.

It also employs GeoIP databases to detect VPN tricks. 

It may also verify your DNS and WebRTC details

When caught, NBC swiftly discovers your location and blocks your access to their platform. No more streaming! Also, multiple connections from one IP address raise suspicion. 

How to avoid VPN detection on NBC?

  • Find a top-notch VPN with IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection to avoid detection. 
  • Choose one with a dedicated IP and an extensive server network for IP switching. 

These features maintain your secure connection, keeping NBC unaware of your location. Stream worry-free!

Wrapping up

With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can watch NBC in the US hassle-free.

Just get a robust VPN service like ExpressVPN, follow the easy steps above, and you’be good to go in no time!

More about the topics: Geoblocking, Unblock, Watch

User forum

0 messages