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Surfshark VPN Review – Does It Allow Streaming?

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Surfshark was established in 2018  and gained popularity quickly due to its security features and privacy policies. The VPN was previously based in the British Virgin Islands. However, it recently changed its jurisdiction to the Netherlands, a member of the nine eye alliance, making Surfshark users uneasy about their privacy.

The service offers various features for streaming as well. It has tools for bypassing geo-bocks and other censorship. However, many VPN services make these kinds of claims and end up disappointing users. To find out if Surfshark is really worth the hype and if it is suitable for streaming, we tested and reviewed this VPN. 

Features

Description

High encryption

It uses AES-256-bit encryption, 2048-bit RSA key, and SHA-512 authentication key.

Encryption and protocols.

The VPN offers WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols.

Kill switch

This features prevent data leaks and protects users’ privacy.

Clean web

It blacks ads, malware, and pop-ups increasing the browsing speed.

GPS spoofing

This feature prevents tracking by hiding your real location.

Two-factor authentication

2FA further amplifies users’ security by protecting their login details and accounts.

No border mode

It helps in bypassing geo-blocks.

Camouflage mode

It is an obfuscating tool that helps in avoiding VPN blocks and censorship.

Multihop

It adds additional privacy layers by encrypting your data twice.

Bypasser

It is a split tunneling feature to improve the browsing experience.

IP rotator

This feature helps in avoiding trackers by changing your IP address.

Unlimited device connections

Users can connect unlimited devices and secure them all with just one subscription.

Global servers

Surfshakr has 3200+ servers in 99 countries. 10 GBit servers in 100 countries

Prevent ISP throttling

A large number of servers prevents ISP throttling.

Smart DNS

It allows users to bypass geo-blocks by changing their location.

Free trial and a money-back policy

It offers a 7-days free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Price

$3.99/m on a 1-year plan

Why is Surfshark VPN Good for streaming?

When it comes to streaming, a VPN is an important tool. A VPN can help you unblock content that may be geo-blocked in your country. It can also help protect your privacy by encrypting your traffic and hiding your IP address.

There are a lot of VPN providers out there, but Surfshark is one of the best for streaming. That’s because it offers fast speeds and reliable connections, so you’ll never have to deal with buffering or other interruptions. Surfshark also has servers in over 90 countries, so you can always find a server that meets your needs. We have compiled a list of streaming features offered by surfshark. 

Fast encryption

Surfshark is a VPN that uses military-grade encryption cipher to protect your data. This is good for streaming because it means that your data is safe from hackers and other malicious people who might try to steal it. 

The VPN offers  AES-256-bit encryption, a 2048-bit RSA key, and an SHA-512 authentication key. Not only do these cipher work in providing high security, but they help in increasing the overall steaming speed. Moreover, the encryption protocols help ensure secure and quick connections with servers. Surfshark uses WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols. Wireguard is supposedly the fastest protocol, ideal for streaming. 

No border

A streaming VPN can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access content unavailable in your country. So, If you’re a fan of streaming content from around the world, then you’ll love Surfshark VPN’s “no border” feature; This feature allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access any content you want, no matter where you are. 

No border is usually enabled automatically when the VPN detects any user network restrictions. However, you can also manually enable the no-border feature. The feature provides a list of servers performing well under restrictions.

Camouflage mode

This is an obfuscating tool that helps mask VPN traffic. If the word obfuscation doesn’t ring bells, think of it like an invisible cloak. These tools are used to hide VPN traffic. Besides, It enhances the privacy and security of users; moreover, users can bypass censorship and other restrictions. 

Some streaming websites use VPN blocks. These servers detect VPN activity and block the user from using the service while connected to a VPN. by using camouflage mode; you can easily pass VPN blocks and censorship whenever you want. If you want to use the camouflage mode, connect to OpenVPN (UDP or TCP). You can change your protocol from the settings tab. 

Smart DNS

The provider offers a smart DNS feature. The feature works by changing your DNS address; it is not a security feature as it does not encrypt users’ data. However, it plays an essential role in streaming. It allows you to unblock geo-restricted content and access it without any restrictions.

So if you’re looking for a VPN to help you stream content from anywhere in the world, then check out Surfshark. With its smart DNS feature, you’ll be able to connect to a DNS in the US and stream US content. 

Clean web 2.0

Ads and pop-ups can be pretty annoying while streaming. Not only are these ads interrupting, but they are also a major source of malware installation in users’ devices. To protect users from becoming victims of malware and trojans, Surfshark has recently updated its cleaner feature to cleanweb 2.0. the new version efficiently blocks all ads before they can load.  

Moreover, it also improves internet speed and saves internet data from running out. Besides, it will also prevent cookie requests from displaying on your screen and blocks them.  

Global servers

If you’re looking for a VPN that’s good for streaming, Surfshark is a great option. With over 3200+ servers in 99 countries, they’ve got you covered no matter where you are in the world. That means that no matter where you are, you can find a server that will give you access to the content you want. 

Besides, They also don’t keep any logs of your activity, so your privacy is guaranteed. Surfshark’s servers will give you access to any streaming site you want, and their strict privacy policy will keep your information safe.

Prevents ISP throttling and bandwidth restrictions.

Unfortunately, many ISPs throttle bandwidth and impose restrictions that make streaming difficult or even impossible. Surfshark VPN encrypts your internet traffic and reroutes it through a server in another location, making it impossible for your ISP to throttle your connection or impose bandwidth restrictions.

 This means that you’ll always be able to enjoy the fastest possible speeds for streaming, no matter what your ISP tries to do. Besides, Not only is this good for your streaming experience, but it also helps to protect your privacy. 

How to set up Surfshark VPN for streaming?

Surfshark is a reliable and easy-to-use VPN service. Here is how you can set up the VPN;

  • Step 1: Purchase a subscription to the streaming service you want to watch.
  • Step 2: Install Surfshark VPN and login into your account. Or sign up now! 
  • Step 3: Turn on the Camouflage Mode by changing the protocol to OpenVPN. It will help in bypassing geo-restrictions. 
  • Step 4: Enable Clean web 2.0 from the settings to block trackers and cookies. 
  • Step 5: Select a server or click on quick connect. 
  • Step 6: Open the streaming site you want to watch. Start streaming without interruptions!

Follow these steps to easily set up Surfshark after purchasing a subscription plan. 

How Surfshark VPN Deals With Netflix, BBC, Hulu, and Others.

Surfshark is a popular VPN service and is capable of unblocking streaming sites. Besides, it can unblock even the most popular streaming platforms with the strongest geo-restricons. Here is how;

Unblock Netflix with Surfshark VPN.

You can unblock the following Netflix libraries with Surfshark VPN;

  • Australia.
  • India.
  • Italy.
  • United Kingdom.
  • Turkey.
  • Mexico.
  • Germany.
  • Ireland.
  • Netherlands.
  • United States.

Follow these steps to access Netflix;

  1. Download Surfshark VPN. 
  2. Launch Surfshark VPN and login into your account. If you don’t have one, signup now. 
  3. After signing in, connect to a server. Make sure you are connected to a server manually. 
  4. Choose the server from where you want to access Netflix from.
  5. Turn off your GPS.
  6. Open Netflix, and you can stream on it immediately. 

Users must have a Netflix subscription to stream on the site. 

Unblock BBC with Surfshark VPN.

BBC is only available in the UK, and here is how to unblock it with Surfshark VPN;

  1. Download Surfshark VPN. 
  2. Open Surfshark VPN and login into your account. If you don’t have one, signup now.
  3. Connect to a server in the UK.
  4. Make sure your GPS is turned off. 
  5. Open BBC and start streaming. 

Users must have a BBC subscription to stream on the site. 

Unblock Hulu with Surfshark VPN.

You can unblock Hulu with Surfshark VPN by connecting to a US-based server;

  1. Download Surfshark VPN. 
  2. Open Surfshark VPN and login into your account. If you don’t have one, signup now.
  3. Connect to a US server from the server list.
  4. Turn off your GPS.
  5. Open Hulu and stream all you want!

Users must have a Hulu subscription to stream on the site. 

Unblock Amazon Prime with Surfshark VPN.

Users can easily unblock Amazon Prime with Surfshark VPN; Follow these steps to unblock Amazon Prime;

  1. Download Surfshark VPN. 
  2. Open Surfshark VPN and login into your account. If you don’t have one, signup now.
  3. Connect to a server manually.
  4. Choose the server from which you want to access Amazon Prime.
  5. Make sure your GPS is turned off.
  6. Open Amazon Prime and start streaming!

Users must have an Amazon Prime subscription to stream on the site. 

Unblock Disney + with Surfshark VPN.

You can access Disney + with Surfshark VPN; To unblock Disney +, follow these steps;

  1. Download Surfshark VPN. 
  2. Open Surfshark VPN and login into your account. If you don’t have one, signup now.
  3. Connect to a server from the list.
  4. Choose the server in the country you want to access Disney +.
  5. Turn off your GPS.
  6. Open Disney + and start streaming!

Users must have a Disney + subscription to stream on the site. 

Troubleshooting. 

If you are Having trouble accessing streaming sites? Try these methods to fix the issue;

  1. Reconnect with Surfshark VPN.
  2. Change the server location. 
  3. Clear the caches and browsing history.
  4. Turn on private browsing.

If none of the above methods work, contact customer support. 

Surfshark VPN streaming issues 

A customer in a Reddit post has complained about SUrfhsakr not being able to bypass geo-blocks. The post continued about how the servers are always overloaded, and they have only limited streaming servers. We recommend the free trial before purchasing the plan to ensure that the service works for you. 

Does it provide fast streaming speeds?

When it comes to streaming, speed is everything. Surfshark offers some of the fastest speeds thanks to its fast servers and high-speed protocols. The VPN has servers in over 99 countries, which helps provide fast speed. In addition, It offers the fastest Wireguard and IKEv2 protocols. 

Surfshark’s fast servers in different regions allow you to stream your favorite shows and movies in high definition without any buffering or lag. And with its Wireguard protocol, you’ll get even faster speeds for streaming HD content. Not only that, the IKEv2 protocol is the second fastest protocol for streaming. 

So whether you’re watching your favorite show on Netflix or catching up on the latest episode of a sitcom, you can be sure that Surfshark will give you the fastest speeds possible.

Security features of surfshark VPN

While streaming online, security is always a top priority. Streaming services are constantly under attack by hackers and cybercriminals looking to access users’ data. Whether watching your favorite show or catching up on the latest news, you want to know that your data is safe and secure. 

That’s where Surfshark VPN comes in; it encrypts your data and hides your IP address, allowing you to stream safely and privately. Using a VPN like Surfshark, you can keep your data safe and secure, ensuring that only you have access to it.

It will also help you improve your streaming experience by bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content that might be blocked in your country. Here are some of the prominent security features offered by surfshark VPN.

No-log policy

Surfshark is an excellent choice for users looking for a reliable and secure VPN service. Their no-log policy ensures that user data and activity are never tracked or monitored. Moreover, their no-log policy is audited by Deloitte. 

This means they do not keep any logs of user activity or data. This is important for users who want to remain anonymous online. It also means that Surfshark cannot be used to track user activity or data.

Encryption ciphers

One of the most important things to consider while choosing a streaming VPN is whether or not a VPN has advanced encryption ciphers. Surfshark offers military-level encryption for robust security;

  • AES-256 bit encryption,
  • 2048-bit RSA key,
  • SHA-512 authentication key.

This provider uses some of the strongest encryption ciphers, which helps keep your data safe from prying eyes. It prevents streaming issues such as ISP throttling, bandwidth restrictions, and online monitoring. Besides, These ciphers help to ensure that user data is protected from being accessed by third parties. 

Encryption protocols 

Encryption is the key to safe streaming. That’s why Surfshark utilizes some of the most robust encryption protocols available today. Surfshark uses the following encryption protocols to keep your data safe. 

  • WireGuard: it provides the fastest streaming speeds and effectively handles network changes. 
  • IKEv2 s: after wireguard, it is the second fastest protocol offered by surfshark. You get both security and fast speed together. 
  • OpenVPN: it is an open-source VPN service that offers a secure connection and good speed. 

All these protocols are incredibly effective at keeping your data safe from prying eyes. Apart from that, they also offer fast speed for streaming. So whether you’re looking for online security or a fast and reliable streaming experience, Surfshark has you covered.

Jurisdiction 

When it comes to online security, there are few things more important than choosing a VPN with a safe and secure jurisdiction. Unfortunately, not all VPN providers are created equal in this regard. Surfshark is one of the newer kids on the block, and while they offer some great features, their safety record is questionable at best.

You should be wary of using Surfshark as your VPN provider. They’re based in the Netherlands, which is a member of the nine eye alliance; This means that the company can be compelled to share their user’s data in the future. However, it is not subject to any data retention laws, and they’re not required to keep logs of user activity. 

If you’re looking for a safe and secure VPN provider, we recommend avoiding Surfshark. There are plenty of other options out there that are based in safe jurisdictions. 

2FA

Surfshark offers a unique two-factor authentication feature. In addition to your regular password, you’ll also need a second code from a separate device to log in; This provides an extra layer of security, making it much harder for someone to hack into your account. Moreover, if you lose your phone or it gets stolen, you can rest assured knowing that your data is still safe.

Bypasser

If you’re looking for a VPN provider that offers great security and convenience, Surfshark is a great option. Their split-tunneling feature makes it easy to stay safe online without sacrificing speed or convenience.

Bypasser is just another name for Surfshark’s split-tunneling feature. Surfshark’s split-tunneling feature is easy to use and gives you much control over which apps and websites are routed through the VPN. This means you can keep your banking information secure while still being able to stream your favorite shows.

IP rotator

Surfshark VPN is a provider that offers a unique feature called an IP rotator. This means that your IP address will constantly be changing, making it much harder for anyone to track you online. This is a great security measure, making it much more difficult for hackers or identity thieves to target you.

Kill switch

When you’re streaming, you want to make sure that your connection is as stable as possible. That’s where Surfshark’s kill switch feature comes in. If your connection drops for any reason, the kill switch will immediately cut off your internet connection so your true IP address can’t be exposed. 

The feature is especially important when using a VPN to stream geo-blocked content. Not only does the kill switch keep your IP address safe, but it also makes sure that you don’t miss a beat of your favorite show or movie. A kill switch protects your sensitive information from leaking under the procession of robust encryption. 

Pricing and Payment methods

Surfshark offers the following subscription plans; 

Plan Pricing 
1-month plan$12.95/m 
1-year plan $3.99/m
2-year plan$2.49/m

Users can pay through the following payment methods;

  • credit card,
  • PayPal,
  • Sofort,
  • Google Pay,
  • Amazon Pay.

Users can use CoinGate or CoinPayments also;

  • Bitcoin,
  • Ethereum, 
  • Other types of cryptocurrencies.

Final Verdict 

We have tested Surfshark VPN for a while now, and I must say that I am really impressed with it. It is one of the most trustworthy and fastest VPNs out there. Not to mention, it is also very pocket-friendly. What I like most about Surfshark is that it allows me to stream my favourite shows and movies without any buffering or lagging. 

This is thanks to its fast speed and strong encryption. I also never have to worry about my online privacy as Surfshark hides my IP address and encrypts my traffic. Overall, I highly recommend Surfshark VPN to anyone who is looking for a great all-around VPN service that is both fast and affordable.

FAQs

Is Surfshark VPN good for streaming?

Surfshark VPN is among the top-rated VPN services on the internet. The service offers over 3000 servers which is a pretty large number. These servers offer fast streaming speed, ensuring a smooth streaming experience. Moreover, you can also unblock geo-restrictions and prevent ISP throttling with surfsharks obfuscating tools and streaming features. 

Is Surfshark a good VPN for Netflix?

It is one of the best VPNs for Netflix; features like a kill switch, no border, and camouflage mode allow users to bypass Netflix’s geo-blocks. 

How can I stream Surfshark on my TV?

Yes, you can easily set up smart DNS and stream on your TV. Remember that smart DNS does not encrypt your data and is only suitable for streaming. 

Does Surfshark slow down the internet?

No, in fact, it increases the internet speed with its cleanweb feature and high encryption rate. It also prevents ISP throttling and bandwidth restrictions. 

Is Surfshark owned by China?

Surfshark is located in the Netherlands and is owned by kape technologies. 

Has Netflix blocked Surfshark?

No, surfshark can very efficiently unblock Netflix libraries with its no border and smart DNS features. 

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Shigraf is a cybersecurity journalist and privacy advocate who write on topics related to cybersecurity and internet privacy. She spends her free time watching movies and TV shows online and shares her fellow netizen's frustration over geo-blocks and streaming issues.

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