How to Solve Netflix Proxy Error with a VPN in 2024

Netflix is one of the biggest streaming libraries of today, featuring content from almost all major entertainment industries worldwide. That means this single platform hosts a huge content library through which it attracts users from over 190 countries worldwide.

Sadly, you can’t watch them all unless you use a proxy because Netflix has its own content accessibility restrictions.

Yet, this workaround has another dreaded consequence – Netflix proxy error!

But don’t worry. Today, you’ll learn how to bypass the Netflix proxy issue and stream your favorite content anytime, anywhere!

Why does a Netflix proxy error occur

Since the use of VPNs, especially free VPNs and proxies, is common now, people frequently try to bypass content restrictions using these tools.

However, these free tools used to work in the past. However, as the violations became common, service providers like Netflix started implementing robust measures to detect and block such attempts.

These service providers are bound to implement content limitations due to copyright, licensing, government policies, and other issues. If users bypassed these restrictions with such tools, the service providers would suffer legal and financial losses.

That’s why you can no longer use a free VPN or a proxy to unblock Netflix. The service frequently detects and blocks all requests that it finds arriving from proxy or VPN networks. In turn, you get that annoying proxy error.

While this VPN-banning practice remains the same, it works differently on the Netflix website and app. Thus, depending on your platform, you should act accordingly to bypass VPN blocks and avoid proxy errors.

How does the Netflix website detect VPN?

When you use the Netflix website for streaming, the site detects your location via your IP address. At this point, if you change your IP location, you should technically access Netflix content.

However, you instead receive a terrible proxy error because the website detects your IP spoofing tool. This is because Netflix has seemingly built up a database of IP addresses belonging to VPNs and proxies. Thus, whenever your IP address matches the one in their list, they simply block your request.

Nonetheless, bypassing these errors on a website is relatively easy. That’s because robust VPN services still succeed in offering tons of IP addresses to their customers. Thus, even if one of their IP addresses gets blocked, you’ll get another IP address from the same location.

Besides, you can also apply various other means on your devices to prevent the Netflix website from tracking you. So, you have a higher chance of getting an easy Netflix proxy error code m7111-5059 fixed.

How the Netflix app detects proxy

The Netflix app is another way to stream Netflix, which has become more common today. You can download the app right on your Android or iOS device (whether a smartphone or a tablet, etc.) and watch your favorite media on the go. It’s a truly useful resource for binge streamers to have the show running wherever they go.

Yet, a common problem is that the Netflix app detects your IP location way more easily than the website. Therefore, you are more likely to get slapped with the proxy error despite using an otherwise good VPN.

That’s because the app employs DNS-level filtering to detect your location instead of just tracking your IP address. You should only use a bold VPN that unblocks Netflix across all platforms.

Another viable option is to stop using the app and switch to the web version to resume your stream.

Best VPNs to avoid Netflix ban

You must have realized that you can no longer use a general web proxy to bypass Netflix content blocking.

But what is the best VPN to avoid these blocks? I hear you ask!

Though finding such a VPN is difficult, it isn’t impossible. You must thoroughly research the VPNs that definitely offer to unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other such strict services.

Nonetheless, if you just want us to list the best of the best, here are three VPNs that seldom give you a proxy error.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is another robust VPN that has established a thriving presence in the market for several years. The service providers are bold enough to stand for users’ privacy, and so, despite facing some unfortunate cybersecurity incidents, the VPN continues to boast a vast customer base.

Considering the choice of locations, NordVPN may appear to lag behind ExpressVPN as it offers only 59 locations. Yet, it still competes with the latter, with an even larger server network bearing over 5400 servers. This vast number makes the VPN perfect for bypassing regional blocking without fearing VPN bans.

For instance, NordVPN offers over 15 locations in the USA alone with over 1900 servers. Services like Netflix can’t easily block all of the servers from NordVPN.

If you wish to stream Netflix USA anywhere, you can easily connect to one of the NordVPN USA servers. And if you ever face trouble, simply switch your server and resume streaming.

This isn’t true only for Netflix; it applies to all other streaming platforms, such as Hulu, iPlayer, Disney Plus, and more.

In addition to streaming, NordVPN can be used for many other privacy-oriented activities, such as accessing foreign news, watching documentaries, evading government tracking, or bypassing ISP throttling.

Besides, NordVPN also works well in repressive regions like China. Plus, for the users, it offers stealth browsing features like robust encryption, obfuscated servers, and seamless Tor support. These features make your data indistinguishable from regular internet traffic. So, you remain anonymous online without the surveillance authorities knowing about your VPN use.

Want to try this one? Read along with our comprehensive NordVPN review to learn more about NordVPN features.

And if you’re truly attracted to it, go ahead to complete a stress-free subscription process with the VPN. You can do this all without fearing for your money, as the service provider keeps it safe with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For instance, if you subscribe to NordVPN to stream Netflix but continue to get that Netflix VPN blocks, simply ask for a refund from the service. Simple as that!

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has established a huge network with global coverage that makes it work anywhere. It also employs stealth browsing technology that seamlessly bypasses Netflix VPN detection.

ExpressVPN currently boasts a network of over 3,000 servers across 160 locations in 94 countries. This makes the VPN lead all others with one of the widest choices of locations.

This global presence with diversified servers not only makes it perfect for unblocking Netflix. Rather, it also works great for watching Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other location-based streaming services.

Also, with this huge network of servers, you don’t have to worry about proxy errors. The VPN can bypass all blocking attempts by Netflix and other such services.

You also don’t have to worry about data security when using ExpressVPN. That’s because it is a tested and audited no-logs VPN that simply does not care whether you use it to stream Netflix, protect your privacy, or for any other reason.

(But that doesn’t mean this VPN encourages any immoral digital activities. As a responsible internet user, you should only use helpful resources for legitimate purposes.)

The VPN also clearly claims to unblock Netflix on its website. So, you won’t likely face any issues when streaming with it. Yet, if you do, you can simply switch to another server or reconnect your VPN and continue. (Also, check out this detailed guide to resolving Netflix errors with ExpressVPN to learn more.)

Apart from streaming, ExpressVPN also supports numerous activities that demand privacy. Moreover, it’s one of the few VPNs that continue to give a tough time to the Great Firewall of China.

You can easily test this VPN for feasibility by subscribing to one of their pricing plans. Don’t worry about your money, as it remains secure with ExpressVPN – thanks to their risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Curious to know more about this VPN? Check our detailed ExpressVPN review.

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3. Surfshark

Despite being too new compared to ExpressVPN and NordVPN, Surfshark has managed to reserve a position among the best VPNs today. This is thanks to its robust security features, which the service provider has only added since its launch in 2018.

Currently, Surfshark offers even wider coverage than NordVPN. It offers server locations in 65 different countries with a modest network of 3,200+ servers.

It means you can get plenty of locations with numerous servers in the same location as Surfshark. This is a must-have for every VPN, as the more servers it bears, the better it can withstand VPN detection.

Nonetheless, that’s not the only good thing about Surfshark.

Rather, what makes it stand out among others is its typical stealth technology, the “Camouflage Mode.” This technology obfuscates your network traffic, thus making it indistinguishable from regular traffic. Neither the websites, online trackers, nor your ISP can detect that you’re using a VPN. Don’t you think this will also bypass Netflix’s proxy error?

But that is not enough!

Another thing that particularly benefits Android users when streaming Netflix without errors is its GPS spoofing technology. With this feature, you can simply spoof your GPS location with the Surfshark servers. In this way, whenever an app requests access to your location via GPS, it’ll read the VPN location as yours.

Using this feature, you can easily avoid the Netflix ban even with the app. Simply spoof your location, reset the Netflix app permissions, and start over. The app will now read your virtual location, permitting you access.

Wondering if that’s all really true? Try this VPN with ease – thanks to their no-risk 30-day money-back guarantee. Also, on Android and iOS, you can enjoy a 7-day free trial to decide whether to pay for this service.

If you wish to learn more about this VPN, check out our ultimate SurfsharkVPN review.

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Fixing the Netflix proxy error using a VPN – the detailed guide

Now that you know which VPNs you should use to stream Netflix seamlessly, let’s move on to unblocking Netflix again.

However, if you have previously used a VPN with Netflix, you might not face trouble using another VPN. In that case, you may simply skip this section.

However, if you haven’t used a VPN for that, have just used a proxy, or have simply watched Netflix via your local IP and are now interested in unblocking other content libraries, these steps will guide you through.

Bypass Netflix proxy error on PC

Now that you know the ways to bypass Netflix proxy error. You must have also selected an appropriate VPN by now that you will use to evade this error.

So, the next thing you need to learn is how actually to use this VPN to access Netflix.

Of course, this may seem easy to many of you. Yet, you might still be mistakenly enabling the VPN and connecting to Netflix. That might have caused your existing VPN or proxy to fail as well.

Therefore, here I list these things in an easy step-by-step manner. Let’s get started.

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1. Get a Netflix subscription

Netflix is typically a subscription-based service. You’re wrong if you think you can ever stream it without an account. You not only need to register with Netflix but also have to pay the subscription fee regardless of where you live.

If you live in one of the regions where Netflix is available (be it any streaming library), then you’re good to subscribe and pay for it.

Otherwise, you must change your IP location to access Netflix and create an account. To learn how to do that, you can take a look at this guide to unblocking Netflix anywhere.

Once you subscribe to it, proceed to the next step.

2. Setup the VPN on your computer

After you select a good VPN service, subscribe to it and download the native app client for your PC.

Once downloaded, click on the setup executable for installation. Usually, it won’t require any input from you during this process. After the installation is complete, you just have to enter your VPN account credentials to sign in to the app.

3. Connect to an appropriate server

After signing in, the next step is to connect to an appropriate server location.

Although, you’ll find a huge list of locations your VPN offers. You may also find the VPN recommending some fast-speed servers. Yet, you should connect to a location where your desired Netflix media library is available.

For example, connect to a USA server location to unblock Netflix USA. To access the Netflix UK library, connect to a UK server.

Some VPNs like Surfshark also show the current speed and server load indicator with the server list. So, you may choose a server with the fastest speed and less load.

Wait for your connection to establish before proceeding to the next step.

4. Start streaming via a web browser on a PC

Open the web browser on your Windows, Mac, or any other PC where you wish to stream Netflix.

Though, you may find a Netflix app to download on your PC. Yet, we advise you to use a web browser for streaming as it is relatively easy to bypass Netflix VPN blocks on a web browser than on an app. We have already explained this thing in detail earlier in this article.

So, open your web browser and check for possible IP leaks (You can also check your IP address for free using our IP tool here.) However, most good VPNs offer adequate IP leak protection by default. Yet, it’s better to double-check your security before accessing an aggressive website like Netflix. If your IP address is being leaked online, you’ll likely face that Netflix proxy block again.

With an active VPN connection, your IP address should appear the same that your VPN shows. If that’s what you see, head on to the Netflix website, sign in to your account, and start streaming.

If you follow all these steps as given, you won’t really face trouble in streaming. Yet, if you get that proxy error, simply switch your VPN server and start over. It should now work smoothly.

Bypass Netflix proxy error on mobile devices

Your favorite streaming service, Netflix, might remain the same. However, it behaves differently across different platforms.

That’s why we now share a separate step-by-step procedure to bypass these proxy errors on mobile devices.

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1. Subscribe to a VPN

Of course, that’s the basic step for you to begin with. Ideally, your chosen VPN provider should support your mobile device (Android or iOS) like it does for the PC. Yet, numerous VPN service providers offer different features for PC and mobile devices.

Therefore, before you pay, thoroughly research the features you’ll get with the VPN app on your mobile. Again, as you can see above, ExpressVPN is our number-one recommendation for Netflix streaming.

2. Set up the VPN client on the mobile device

After subscribing, download the VPN app on your mobile device. You can get the genuine app from an app store, such as Google Play or Apple App Store.

Once downloaded, give the app the requested permissions and wait until it gets installed. Usually, you don’t need to give any input at this point. Once it’s installed, sign in to the app to activate your VPN.

After that, if you have any apps that would cause trouble due to an IP conflict, such as your banking apps, you may have to adjust the app whitelist/split-tunneling feature before proceeding to the next step. (This is the most important feature after the kill switch that your VPN should offer to mobile users.)

3. Connect to the right server

After you’re done with VPN settings, scroll through the location list and connect to a server from your desired location. For example, connect to a US server to stream the Netflix USA library.

Once the connection is established, go to your mobile web browser and check for potential IP leaks. If everything is okay, proceed to the next step.

4. Stream via the mobile web browser

Don’t close your mobile browser after the previous step. Instead, go to the Netflix website.

As we explained, the Netflix app has a more robust mechanism for detecting your location. Thus, the app will likely give you that frustrating proxy error.

Therefore, you should instead choose to stream via your mobile web browser, just as you’d do on your PC. Sign in to your account and enjoy uninterrupted streaming.

Also, you may try your Netflix app. However, as a precaution, make sure to clear the app data.

How to troubleshoot recurrent Netflix proxy error

Subscribing to a VPN from a proxy or changing the VPN service to a more robust one is a viable option for avoiding Netflix errors.

However, considering how vigilant Netflix remains in detecting and blocking proxies/VPNs, expect your streaming experience to suffer interruptions repeatedly.

While in most cases, you can resolve these errors simply by changing your existing VPN server.

Nonetheless, what if this workaround stops working? Or, what if it doesn’t work for you even for once?

As I already explained, Netflix employs different strategies to detect location spoofing attempts. Thus, you cannot expect your VPN to adequately fend off all those attempts.

So, instead of losing hope, try these troubleshooting tips to get the Netflix errors fixed.

Reconnect your VPN

The first tip that may possibly resolve the Netflix proxy error on your device is to reconnect your VPN.

However, if you have a kill switch, your IP address won’t be leaked to Netflix. Yet, if this feature isn’t active or the VPN connection goes down for any technical reason, you may face errors. For example, your VPN may fail to auto-connect when you switch networks.

So, simply turn off the VPN connection and activate it again.

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Switch to another server

If you continue to have trouble with one server, disconnect from it and connect to another server from the exact location. Today, most good VPNs surely offer more than two servers from popular locations like the USA.

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Clear browser cache

If you’re streaming via the browser on your PC or mobile device (that you ideally should), halt your streaming session and clear your browser cache and cookies. You should now stream without interruptions.

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Clear the Netflix app data

If you have the Netflix app installed on your device, PC, or mobile and used it previously, it’ll likely store some of the data. And this stored data will cause trouble even after you install a VPN.

So, if you can’t stream even after installing the VPN, turn off your VPN and your internet connection, clear the Netflix app data, and start over. That proxy error should now disappear.

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Update your VPN app

If you have a good VPN app installed already and it suddenly starts to give you errors while streaming, even after you have tried all the above-given tips, then you may need to update the VPN app. Setting it up for automatic updates comes in handy, but you can also manually check for it to ensure you have the latest version running on your device.

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Check if you have the right Netflix app installed

If you’re trying to stream via your app and it gives you errors, ensure you have the right app installed. Thanks to Netflix’s popularity, perpetrators have dumped loads of fake, malicious apps on app stores mimicking Netflix. Owing to their similarity with the legit app, you’ll likely end up installing it on your device and falling prey to malware.

If you’re in doubt, go to the Netflix website and download the app again. Make sure that you have the VPN already active on your device. This will likely resolve the proxy block error.

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Check VPN app compatibility with your device

Sometimes, you may get streaming errors with VPN if you incidentally install the wrong version. Depending on your device’s OS version, the VPN may have launched a different app for it. So, ensure you have the right VPN app running on your device. You may also check the VPN provider’s website for information.

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Look for a WiFi extender

Sometimes, the main reason for that irritating proxy error is neither your VPN nor the app. Instead, it’s your WiFi extender. That’s because your WiFi extender may leak your actual location to Netflix due to DNS data. This will continue despite an active VPN connection.

So, if you have a WiFi extender in place, either turn it off or configure your router settings to prevent this leak. You may also install the VPN client directly on your router so that your entire internet traffic would reroute via the VPN. This should definitely resolve the proxy error.

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Contact VPN support

If you have tried all the fixes and nothing’s working, it’s time to contact VPN support if your VPN provider offers 24/7 support via live chat (that it ideally should), then rest assured to get an easy Netflix proxy error code m7111-5059 fix from them soon.

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How do I stream on my Smart TV/Firestick without getting the Netflix proxy error?

If you love streaming on Fire devices, you can easily install a VPN on your Fire Stick, Fire TV, or Fire TV Cube. Most good VPNs, including the ones I recommended above, like ExpressVPN, offer dedicated VPN clients for Fire devices. Having one on your device should never give you any errors while streaming.

However, if this doesn’t work for you, or you cannot install the VPN on Firestick because the service provider doesn’t offer one, then you can set up the VPN on your router. This will connect your entire network to the VPN. Therefore, any device connected to the router will automatically be connected to the VPN. This includes your Firestick too.

In fact, this workaround isn’t only applicable to Firesticks. You can also use it for your Smart TVs.

FAQs