How to Watch CW Outside the US in 2024

Aliu Isa  - Streaming Expert
Last updated: February 19, 2024
Read time: 12 minutes
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Learn to watch the CW outside US regardless of your current location and watch Arrow, The Originals, and any other favorite show of yours anywhere.

THE TAKEAWAYS

CW Network is a popular streaming platform satiating US citizens with exciting content. However, it comes with geo-restrictions, blocking its accessibility outside the US and impacting CW subscribers traveling abroad. Though it sounds annoying, thankfully, you can bypass this restriction if you’ve got the right VPN service. What counts is that you must subscribe to a robust VPN service with tons of US IP addresses.

The quick guide to watching CW outside the US

Short on time to read the complete guide? No problem. To watch CW abroad, follow the outlined steps below:

  1. Begin by signing up for a CW-compatible VPN. Our number one recommendation here is NordVPN as it boasts fast servers alongside stealthy privacy and security features.
  2. Next, download and set up the VPN app chosen.
  3. Now, connect to one of your VPN’s US servers.
  4. Start streaming CW via the app or website.

Note: If the process ever fails to work, clear your browser’s cookies and then refresh the page.

Best VPNs to watch CW abroad – Quick list

  1. NordVPN – Runs hundreds of streaming-optimized servers in the US, allowing you to watch CW TV without interruptions.
  2. ExpressVPN – Has fast-speed servers in multiple US locations to let you unblock CW and other popular streaming services. 
  3. Surfshark – Offers affordable subscription plans and premium features like unlimited simultaneous connections.

An insight into the CW Network and geo-restriction

geo-restriction

The CW (also known as the CW TV or The CW Network) offers lots of content. But, unfortunately, it’s only available to viewers in the United States.

Thus, when viewers in countries such as Canada, France, Australia, Germany, the UK, China, and more try to access CW TV, they fail to access the platform.

That’s because, like other streaming platforms, CW uses regional blocking to prevent people from viewing CW content overseas due to content licensing policies. Hence, despite being an active CW user, you can’t watch your favorite program outside the US boundaries.

However, the good news is that you can bypass this geo-restriction by connecting to a VPN. By connecting to a US server, you can alter your IP address via the VPN, displaying your location to the platform as the United States. That’s how you can stream CW outside the US.

Characteristics of an ideal VPN service for CW TV

Not all VPNs from the vast range of services in the market can unblock streaming platforms, so choosing one that efficiently unblocks CW can be tricky. You must consider several factors before investing money in such a service.

For instance, the right VPNs will protect you from ads, prevent your ISP from selling off your browsing history to third parties, and generally enable you to remain anonymous online.

Besides, some other characteristics to watch out for before selecting the best VPN service for CW channel streaming include:

  • Fast speed
  • Stable connectivity
  • Numerous US servers
  • Strict no-logs policy
  • Thorough security with robust encryption
  • Seamless unblocking of CW and other streaming platforms

Also, ensure that your selected VPN bears all the additional features to support all your browsing habits. (Of course, you won’t get a VPN merely for streaming, would you?) Look at this detailed guide to choosing the right VPN to learn how to pick the exemplary service.

Top VPNs for watching CW TV overseas

Now that you know how precise you should be while selecting a VPN, you might want us to recommend some of the best VPNs for streaming. So, to save you time, here we list the best VPNs that work well with CW based on our tests.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN for Streaming

The largest provider in terms of server count, thereby enabling users to watch CW TV seamlessly and without interruptions.

servers 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries
P2P optimized servers Supports P2P sharing
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
Zero-logs policy No-logs policy
Kill switch Kill switch feature
MultiHop mode Double VPN
protection DNS/IPv6 leak protection
simultaneous connections Allows up to 6 simultaneous connections
money-back guarantee 30-days money back guarantee
Pros
  • Unblocks streaming sites including CW
  • Excellent speeds and dependable connections
  • Good customer support
Cons
  • Servers still use hard drive storage

NordVPN is probably the largest provider in server count, offering more than 5400 servers in 60 countries worldwide. In the US alone, it has over 1970 servers across 16+ locations that can be optimized for streaming, enabling users to watch CW TV seamlessly and without interruptions.

Furthermore, NordVPN allows up to six connections simultaneously and can unlock various platforms, including BBC iPlayer and Netflix. 

Besides, this VPN is customizable and can be easily accessed by amateurs. Moreover, it is well-secured, featuring 256-bit encryption, ad-blocking, and anti-malware functionality while featuring a process-specific kill switch and the ability to use Tor over VPN or double VPNs.

Furthermore, NordVPN has a strict (and tested) no-logs policy. This applies to your session information as well as your browsing activities. It features dedicated macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Windows apps. Also, supported routers can be configured manually to connect more devices to the VPN.


2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN new features block logo 120 by 120 now

Having numerous US servers from 15+ cities, ExpressVPN is our top choice for watching CW TV from anywhere across the globe.

servers 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
protection DNS/IPv6 leak protection
P2P optimized servers P2P sharing
network lock feature Network-lock feature
Trusted servers nord TrustedServer technology
Zero-logs policy Zero-logs policy
simultaneous connections Up to 5 simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30-day money back guarantee
Pros
  • Round-the-clock excellent customer service support
  • Easily bypasses geo-blocks
  • High-speed connections
  • 30+ US servers
Cons
  • Fewer connections simultaneosly

ExpressVPN offers 30+ US servers, including New York, Chicago, New Jersey, California, Chicago, Denver, Dallas, Atlanta, and California. It also offers over 3000 servers in more than 90 countries.

With many US servers, ExpressVPN easily unblocks CW USA and other services, including Hulu, US Netflix, Starz, and Amazon Prime Video. Hence, you can watch your favorite media from almost every geo-restricted platform anywhere.

The server speed is excellent for fast downloads and HD streaming. In addition, it features user-friendly apps to give a variety of operating systems.

Also, ExpressVPN ensures your traffic safety with its AES 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, kill switch, and DNS leak protection. It accepts Bitcoin, does not keep logs, and features an optional onion site, making it the ideal choice for people keen on anonymity.

Furthermore, it has a 30-day money-back warranty and excellent round-the-clock customer service support. ExpressVPN is compatible with key devices such as macOS, Linux, iOS apps, Windows, etc.


3. Surfshark

SurfsharkVPN

An excellent choice for those looking to stream CW from overseas without investing a fortune. It also provides you with a wholesome streaming experience by supporting unlimited simultaneous connections.

servers 3,200+ servers in 65 countries
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
P2P optimized servers P2P support
MultiHop mode MultiHop mode
protection DNS/IPv6 leak protection
Kill switch Automatic kill switch
Zero-logs policy No-logs policy
Camouflage mode Camouflage-mode
simultaneous connections Unlimited simultaneous connections
money-back guarantee 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros
  • It does not limit the number of connections
  • Unblocks major streaming sites including CW and Netflix
  • Responsive customer support
  • 500 UK servers
Cons
  • Slow speed on some servers

Surfshark features 3200+ reliable servers in 65 countries globally, including over 600 servers across 20+ locations in the United States.

While affordable, this in no way prevents Surfshark from unblocking primary streaming services such as BBC iPlayer, TVPlayer, US Netflix, CBS, and many more from anywhere around the world.

Besides, it supports unlimited connections on a single account without bandwidth limits. Hence, you can enjoy unlimited streaming on any device without worrying about speed lags.

Also, Surfshark has many advanced in-built privacy tools and security, such as protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks, malware scanner/ad-blocker, NoBorder mode to evade nationwide internet restrictions, customizable kill switch, and AES 256-bit encryption for privacy.

This VPN does not keep any logs; thus, your privacy is well secured. In addition, it has 24/7 customer support available via email and live chat.

Also, Surfshark is compatible with major platforms, including Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It also supports selected routers. However, this must be manually configured.


How to use The CW app with a VPN

A VPN will help you change your IP address to access CW TV from anywhere worldwide. Use the following steps to watch CW TV with a VPN. 

  1. Download and install the VPN app on your mobile device. NordVPN offers Android and iOS apps. 
  2. Connect to a server in any US location. 
  3. Download the CW app on your device’s app store. 
  4. Now, you can watch CW content like you are in the US.

How to stream CW TV live without cable

You can access CW TV on streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu if you don’t have cable television. Here are some of the streaming services and how much they cost:

ProviderCost
DirecTVStarting $64.99
Hulu + Live TV Starting $69.99
YouTube TV $62.99
FuboTV Starting $74.99

Unblocking CW abroad

For all CW fans, we now quickly overview how you can watch CW in different regions. (Please note that a USA VPN is needed to access CW regardless of your country.)

Access CW in India

Here is how to watch CW in India:

  • Download and install your preferred VPN on your device.
  • Log in to the VPN app using your account information.
  • Connect to any US-based server.
  • Visit the CW app/site and enjoy!

How to watch the CW TV in the UK

To watch CW outside the US, including the UK, follow the outlined steps below:

  • First, locate a VPN with a US server.
  • Download, install, and log into the VPN app with your account details.
  • From the server list, connect to a US server.
  • Head to CW TV and begin to watch!

Streaming CW in Canada

To stream CW in Canada, follow the steps below:

  • Subscribe, then download a VPN that features a US server.
  • Open the VPN, and log in with your account information.
  • Connect to a United States server from the list provided.
  • Visit the CW app or website and begin to watch!

How to enjoy CW USA videos in Australia

With the following steps, you will be able to watch CW shows in Australia:

  • Download and install your selected VPN.
  • Install the VPN app, then log in with your details.
  • Link to a US server from the list.
  • Head to CW app/ CW site, watch, and enjoy!

Why is CW app not working with a VPN?

Here are some reasons your CW app may not work with a VPN.

  1. You use a low-quality VPN service that cannot bypass CW’s geo-restrictions.
  2. CW has detected you are using a VPN IP address and blocking your connection.
  3. You might not be using a US server.
  4. Your device’s system settings are outdated.

Thankfully, these issues are fixable and make the CW work with a VPN. First, subscribe to a reliable VPN and connect to a US server.

If the server does not unblock the CW, you can switch to another server in the exact location. Also, delete the cache from apps and browsers and update your device.

How about using a free VPN service to watch CW TV?

CW outside US

There are lots of free VPN services available in the market that might lure you by offering their free services. However, these VPNs often fail to provide adequate services compared to their premium counterparts.

For example, they may have many users but feature fewer servers than the premium versions. As a result, connections are slower and are likely to drop out. These two factors generally lead to a poor streaming experience.

Also, some free VPNs impose queues and data caps, making the VPN less useful overall.

Besides, you may want to question the business idea of a free VPN. Since they don’t charge users for their services, they might apply unethical practices to bring in money. This includes selling your data to third parties, showing ads, or even barraging you with malware, ultimately compromising your privacy.

This isn’t mere speculation. Free VPNs have been known to mislead users, luring them to release sensitive information, installing malware on users’ devices, and even selling these users’ bandwidths to be used in botnets.

Therefore, to ensure your safety, we highly recommend VPNs with a proven track record of protecting users’ privacy.

Unblock CW TV outside the US with a smart DNS

CW TV is a geo-restricted streaming service, meaning you can only access it in the US. If not, you will likely get an error message that the streaming platform is unavailable in your region.  

That is why you must spoof your location to bypass the geographical error. This tricks CW TV into thinking that you’re within the US. A smart DNS will help you redirect URLs that reveal your whereabouts.

Remember that smart DNS won’t change your IP address or impact your internet speeds negatively.

CW shows you can’t afford to miss out on

If you are overseas and can’t seem to decide on the best shows to watch, here is a list of the most popular shows on CW TV:

  • Riverdale
  • The 100
  • Gossip girls
  • iZombie
  • The Originals
  • Katy Keene
  • Whose Line Is It Anyway?
  • Ghostfacers
  • Vampire Diaries
  • Flash
  • Arrow
  • Super Naturals
  • Americas Top Model
  • Beauty and the Beast

Watching any of these shows from anywhere in the world is simple. All you need to do is:

  • Subscribe to any of our recommended VPNs
  • Log in using your account credentials
  • Connect to an efficient server and enjoy the show!

CWTV compatible devices

You can view CWTV on critical devices by downloading the CWTV app for Windows or streaming CWTV on Roku. Either way, you can enjoy many shows from anywhere in the world.

Also, you can stream the CW online via its official website or by downloading the CWTV app on mobile phones, including Android and iOS.

Here is a list of all devices you can use directly with the CW free application.

  1. Window tablets
  2. Android phones/tablets
  3. iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch featuring iOS 9 and above
  4. Xbox One
  5. Fire TV Sticks and Amazon Fire TV
  6. Chromecast
  7. Xbox One
  8. Roku players
  9. Apple TV

How to watch The CW with a VPN on your device

If you choose the right VPN, you can stream CW TV on all your devices, including Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, etc. Here is how to unblock CW TV with a VPN. 

Watch the CW on your smartphone or computer. 

  1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN service. We recommend NordVPN because of its premium features and streaming-optimized servers.
  2. Download the VPN app on your device. Get the app from the VPN’s official website or App Store. 
  3. Connect to a US server. 
  4. Open the CW website and watch your favorite content. 

Watch CW on streaming devices.

You can also stream CW TV on streaming devices like Kodi, Roku, Apple TV, and Firestick. Unfortunately, these devices don’t support VPNs, so you must install the VPN app on your router. Here’s how to do it: 

  1. Subscribe to a trustworthy VPN with many US servers, like NordVPN. 
  2. Download and configure the VPN on your router. 
  3. Connect to a US server. 
  4. Open the CW app on your streaming device. 
  5. Enjoy your favorite content.

Are CW TV and CW the same?

CW Seed is an exceptional streaming service from CWTV with entirely different content. Both the CW and CW Seed are free and offer limited libraries.

Specifically, CW Seed is focused on various content from animation, game shows, and comedies of current and older series accumulated over time. On the other hand, the CWTV app allows you to watch the latest episodes of your favorite TV shows for free.

Conclusion

You have now reached the end of this thorough guide about how to watch CW shows outside the US. While the platform isn’t ordinarily available abroad, you now know the workaround to get unrestricted access to it; congratulations!

As you can see, using VPNs (especially the ones reviewed in this article), you can easily evade the geo-limitations to watch your favorite shows anywhere on any device. The trick lies in selecting the right VPN that effectively unblocks CW and other geo-restricted platforms.

Once you subscribe to the right provider, you can protect your privacy and resume watching your favorite CW programs how you want.

Enjoy safe streaming!

FAQs

The CW is an online streaming website that allows users to follow up on the latest hit TV series. It was created as a joint venture between CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment.

CW and all its content are only available to users in the United States. This is because the company signed a licensing agreement for the country only. Hence, it is geo-blocked, so people from other countries can’t view, watch, or stream.

To use the CW App, you only need to download the app on your device and then watch a tile of your choice. If you wish to watch CWTV overseas, you need a VPN and connect to a US server.

CW App, as well as its website, are geo-restricted. However, you can still watch your favorite shows outside the US using a VPN.

Yes, CW is free. It does not require a subscription, cable, credit card information, or any login form.

Yes, you can. However, if you are streaming CW via Hulu Live TV, note that it’s only available in cities like Atlanta, Sacramento, Tampa, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Seattle, Pittsburgh, and Detroit. For other cities and countries, you will need a VPN to watch CW live.

You can either stream CW live or watch it via these online channels: DirectTV Now ($50.00 per month), YouTube ($49.99 per month), and Hulu (charges $49.99 per month).

You can watch all the episodes and seasons of The Originals TV series outside the United States by connecting to a US server with a VPN.

Yes, we believe you can. However, note that proxies aren’t as strong as authentic VPNs. Hence, your safety isn’t assured.

Not really. While CW Network does block proxies and free VPNs, it isn’t effective at blocking premium VPNs.

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About the Author

Aliu Isa

Aliu Isa

Streaming Expert
78 Posts

Isa is a Nigeria-born professional writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience under his belt. Having worked with some of the most renowned organizations worldwide, he’s been able to produce and publish hundreds of high-quality articles across a wide range of niches. Over time, Isa has developed an immense interest in digital security and privacy. He has always been a privacy enthusiast, and now, he's giving it all to educate people on privacy, security, and geo-blocking issues around the world.

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