Most IPTV services are highly regulated, even blocked in some regions.
You’ll need a VPN to get access, and CyberGhost is the best.
IPTV requires fast speeds and the ability to unblock restricted content.
CyberGhost offers all this and more.
But if CyberGhost isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry.
Other alternatives are Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access.
So, if you want to watch content unavailable where you are, you’re in the right place.
Let’s jump in.
The Best 3 VPNs for IPTV
Surfshark’s standout feature is unlimited simultaneous connections. It’s also one of the fastest VPNs around, and it has an ad blocker for an uninterrupted streaming experience. The servers are more than sufficient to unblock any IPTV service and are compatible with multiple streaming devices.
CyberGhost is fast enough to handle 4K streaming. With over 7,000 servers, you can unblock restricted IPTV services. It’s also compatible with multiple streaming devices for added convenience. Furthermore, it offers encryption and a kill switch for potential online security threats.
NordVPN has over 5,000 ultra-fast servers that offer users unblocking options. It’s also swift and can handle 4K content without trouble. It’s also equipped with an ad blocker, military-grade encryption, and a kill switch if you use unsafe IPTV services.
On top of explaining each VPN in detail, I’ll show you how to set up a VPN for IPTV and briefly outline the IPTV providers to avoid.
In a Rush to Catch a Live Match? Here Are the Best VPNs for IPTV
I know there’s a lot to stream and not enough time. If you’re in a rush to go back to whatever you’re watching, here’s a glance at the 5 VPN services that made the final list.
- CyberGhost – Best Overall With Streaming Dedicated Servers
- Surfshark – Unlimited Device Connections + Fastest Streaming Speeds
- NordVPN – Reliable Privacy With Great Unblocking Capabilities
- ExpressVPN – Fast Streaming Speeds + MediaStreamer
- Private Internet Access – Easy for Beginners With MACE AdBlocker
The Best VPNs for Streaming IPTV
Many forms of entertainment are stream-based today, and IPTV is angling to occupy a fair share of that market. Connection speeds and the ability to unblock restricted services are significant. I’ll illustrate why.
So, if you use IPTV services or plan to start, read this to the end.
CyberGhost - Best Overall With Streaming Dedicated Servers
CyberGhost VPN is the best IPTV VPN. It has the largest server network on this list, making it the ideal tool for unblocking restricted IPTV services and other streaming platforms. This is how the VPN service performed in the tests.
Bypassing Regional Blocks
7000+ servers mean you can access any blocked IPTV service worldwide. The large server network is one of the main reasons CyberGhost tops this list, as it’s more than what NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN have.
I’m a Manchester United fan, and since the likes of SkySports and Bein sports are too expensive or unavailable, Sky Go IPTV is my only way to watch live matches. But that, too, isn’t available in my country.
Luckily, with CyberGhost, I switched my IP address to The UK to watch live games.
Streaming dedicated servers is another added advantage; they’re optimized for streaming HD content. You can also use CyberGhost to unblock services like BBC iPlayer, DAZN, ESPN+, Hulu Live TV, fuboTV, etc.
Streaming Speeds
CyberGhost is fast, and I average speeds of about 25Mbps.
This was handy when streaming live sports without buffering.
If you’ve watched a live game online, you understand the frustrations of missing significant action with every lag.
The connection speeds were also stable with streaming dedicated servers. Watching 4K movies and shows wasn’t hard, and I even caught up with the latest episode of The Boys.
CyberGhost was faster than ExpressVPN and PIA but slower than Surfshark and NordVPN.
Device Compatibility
The good thing about streaming is that you’re not limited to one device—anything with a screen and internet connectivity works.
Fortunately, CyberGhost is compatible with smartphones, tablets, PCs, and smart TVs. You can watch your favorite shows, movies, and live sports on the move.
For those who want to see action on the big screen, CyberGhost has a Smart DNS feature that you can configure for devices that don’t support VPNs.
Other Features
Split tunneling was a notable feature that enhanced my experience with IPTV streaming. Rather than straining the VPN with too much traffic from every app, it only routes what you specify. This bumped the speeds up.
Furthermore, CyberGhost’s encryption comes in handy if you’re using unofficial IPTV platforms. It will make traffic interception hard and save you from getting in trouble for illegal streaming.
And if your IPTV VPN gets disconnected somehow in the middle of your streaming, the kill switch will shut down the internet until the connection is recovered. That may inconvenience your viewing temporarily, but it’ll protect you from unnecessary leaks.
The best news about CyberGhost is its price plans are among the lowest.
It also offers a 45-day moneyback guarantee, the longest on this list.
If you like what it can do, save some extra bucks through this link.
Pros
- Large server network
- Blazing fast speeds
- Ability to unblock restricted IPTV services
- Affordable price plans
- Compatible with multiple streaming devices
Cons
- Ad blocker not well defined
Surfshark - Unlimited Device Connections + Fastest Streaming Speeds
Surfshark is a speed monster and can unblock restricted content with the tap of a button. But the simultaneous device connections put it a cut above the rest. This is how it performed in the tests.
Bypassing Regional Blocks
Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 85 countries.
That’s less than CyberGhost and NordVPN. But, most of these servers are located in the United States (500+) and Europe, where most IPTV content comes from.
You can choose a specific VPN server of your liking when you launch the VPN app or just hit connect to link with the fastest location right away.
If you don’t want to keep getting a different server every time you launch Surfshark, use a Static IP. It can help you avoid detection from hawk-eyed IPTV providers or your ISP.
Streaming Speeds
Surfshark was the fastest VPN during the tests, and this played out very well when streaming content from different IPTV platforms and devices. However, it doesn’t have specialized streaming servers like CyberGhost.
For the speed test, I experimented with ESPN+ to watch basketball games, and there was no buffering. The same happened when I switched to Hulu for The Bear.
Combining this with fast and stable internet speeds will give you the best IPTV experience. I averaged speeds of 27Mbps, which was more than enough, with NordVPN as the closest competitor.
To watch IPTV with a faster connection, check these tips on how to boost your Surfshark speeds here.
Device Compatibility
Surfshark is compatible with all streaming devices, whether you’re on smartphones, tablets, PCs, or smart TVs.
You can also use the Smart DNS feature to watch streaming services on your smart TV.
Moreover, Surfshark is the only secure VPN here that allows unlimited simultaneous connections. You can access IPTV on as many devices as you need, ideal if you have friends and family who want a piece of the action on their devices.
Other Features
Surfshark VPN offers split tunneling that you can use to only stream traffic from your IPTV app or browser so that your device doesn’t get overwhelmed.
It’s also equipped with a reliable kill switch that knocks out the internet lights when the VPN veil comes down. The AES-256-bit encryption is also reliable, and you’ll appreciate it more if you stream from unofficial IPTV channels.
Another feature worth mentioning is MultiHop.
It’s like NordVPN’s Double VPN, adding an extra layer of security by routing the traffic through 2 VPN servers. This can help when internet providers block IPTV and related streaming sites.
Surfshark is one of the cheapest VPN providers, perfect if you’re on a budget. You have no other excuse with a 30-day money-back guarantee and our terrific discounts.
Pros
- It can unblock restricted IPTV services
- Blazing fast speeds
- Most affordable VPN
- Works with multiple streaming devices
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Cons
- Less servers than NordVPN & CyberGhost
NordVPN - Reliable Privacy With Great Unblocking Capabilities
Next up is NordVPN. Like its peers, it’s reliable at unblocking restricted IPTV streaming services and has fast streaming speeds.
This is how the tests played out.
Bypassing Regional Blocks
What you get with NordVPN is over 5,500 servers, with over 1,800 in the United States and another 550 in the UK. It has the second-largest server network after CyberGhost.
The servers are arranged in chronological order for easy access.
For this, I tried streaming the NFL on Peacock, and everything worked fine on my Mac. Just to be sure, I switched to my Android phone and watched an episode of Dan Brown’s The Lost Symbol, and again, no complaints.
Streaming Speeds
NordVPN was faster than CyberGhost but slightly slower than Surfshark.
It registered average speeds of 26Mbps. Servers in the US performed exceptionally well, which is good news considering that’s where most IPTV options are based.
A vital tip to keep in mind: use the NordLynx protocol for your streaming needs. On top of the robust security, it underwent massive improvements in connection speeds.
Device Compatibility
NordVPN can be used on smartphones, smart TVs, tablets, computers, and other streaming devices. This unlocks a new level of convenience that allows you to enjoy whatever you want from anywhere.
You just need stable and fast internet.
Furthermore, the VPN allows up to 6 device connections simultaneously.
A little underwhelming compared to Surfshark, but that’s a decent number if you have a couple of friends who want to use an IPTV service.
Other Features
NordVPN offers split tunneling that can help you reduce clutter from your traffic by only routing what you need through the VPN.
You also get military-grade encryption that will watch your back if you stumble into unsafe IPTV platforms.
A reliable kill switch is another notable feature that will take care of leaks by disabling the internet when your VPN connection goes dark.
On the price front, NordVPN can be considered a mid VPN.
It’s not as cheap as Surfshark, but it’s more affordable than ExpressVPN.
Lucky for you, we have juicy discounts that you can take advantage of.
Pros
- It can unblock restricted IPTV services
- Reliably fast speeds
- Works with multiple streaming devices
- Split tunneling and a kill switch
Cons
- Only 6 device connections
ExpressVPN - Fast Streaming Speeds + MediaStreamer
ExpressVPN is a premium option if you don’t mind spending a tidy sum on a reliable IPTV unblocking tool. Here’s how it fared in the tests.
Bypassing Regional Blocks
ExpressVPN has over 3000 servers in 94 countries.
That’s a little short of what NordVPN and CyberGhost have, but that won’t dent your experience significantly. I unblocked IPTV platforms offering content ranging from live sports to movies and shows.
I tried watching the latest anime on Crunchyroll (which usually hides anime based on where you’re located). Titles like Naruto, Tower of God, and One Piece were all there for the picking.
Streaming Speeds
ExpressVPN is very fast. I averaged 23Mbps, above the threshold I needed to stream everything I wanted without any buffering.
This was the third fastest speed after Surfshark and NordVPN.
I used the IKEv2 protocol for the best speeds.
Choosing a server near you is another tactic that can significantly bump up speeds without interference from internet service providers.
Device Compatibility
As one of the best VPN services, ExpressVPN is compatible with most devices for streaming online content. You can use it on Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, or a smart TV.
Setting up Smart DNS (MediaStreamer) for your TV isn’t complicated, either.
Additionally, you can connect 5 devices with one ExpressVPN account simultaneously. This isn’t on par with Private Internet Access or Surfshark, but it’s convenient if you want to switch between devices without disconnecting.
Other Features
The VPN features a kill switch and state-of-the-art encryption that should take care of any security and privacy issues you may experience along the way. The biggest challenge you’ll deal with on official IPTV platforms is ensuring your VPN use isn’t detected. ExpressVPN will take care of that.
You can also use split-tunneling to limit the number of applications that go through the VPN. This reduces the encryption workload on the VPN, which is good for overall performance.
The most significant stumbling block to using ExpressVPN is the price tag. It’s not cheap. But again, you can use these fantastic discounts to get the service cheaper.
Pros
- It can unblock restricted IPTV services
- Blazing fast speeds
- Compatible with multiple streaming devices
- Reliable privacy and security features
Cons
- Expensive
Private Internet Access - Easy for Beginners With MACE AdBlocker
Private Internet Access wraps up our mini-reviews.
It’s a fast VPN with many servers distributed globally, ideal for online streaming services. Here are the results of the tests I conducted.
Bypassing Regional Blocks
Whether you want to watch live sports from the US or nature documentaries from wild Australia, PIA has the server network to achieve that.
The best part about the PIA server list is how detailed it is.
Unlike other options on this list, you can see latency values next to each server. The lower the latency, the better the speeds.
I shuffled through random servers to see what could be unblocked, and all of them worked well. I tested with Netflix US for shows and movies, then tried a hand with DirecTV Streams for live sports and news.
All were spectacular.
Streaming Speeds
PIA underwhelmed in the speed tests. I averaged 9Mbps, a far cry from the other options that averaged above 20Mbps.
I’m not sure why this was the case since I used the fastest servers I could find. I even switched protocols to see, but the difference wasn’t much.
For the tests, I used IPTVTrends, another of my favorite platforms.
I watched Jurassic Park: World Dominion in great clarity, but I had to bump the resolution to 1080p to deal with buffering.
It was a bit of an eyesore but manageable.
Device Compatibility
On a more positive note, Private Internet Access can work with multiple streaming devices. Whether you love using your smartphone, tablet, PC, or smart TV, you can access any content you want.
The Smart DNS feature works with TV boxes, too.
But one of the features that placed PIA on this list was the 10 device connections, the second-highest. There are enough slots to go around if you have company over.
Other Features
Like NordVPN and Surfshark, PIA offers an adblocker called PIA MACE for those who access unregulated IPTV channels.
You also get AES-256-bit encryption, the very best in the industry.
This keeps unwanted eyes from your traffic and works hand in hand with two kill switches.
Similar to Surfshark, PIA is equipped with Multihop to keep restricted IPTV providers, the government, or your ISP from figuring out you’re using a VPN to access the content you’re not allowed to.
On the price plans, PIA is also within the affordable range.
We also offer significant price reductions if you get your subscription through this link.
Pros
- It can unblock restricted IPTV services
- Has an ad-blocker
- Compatible with multiple streaming devices
- Robust privacy and security features
Cons
- Slowest connection speeds
Choosing a VPN for IPTV: Factors to Consider
You still have to choose the best VPN for IPTV. If making a decision is hard, here are a few pointers to help you.
- Bypassing Regional Blocks: An uncountable number of IPTV services can be accessed online and through TV boxes. But to watch the restricted ones, you need a fast and secure VPN with a sufficient number of servers in those regions to consistently unblock streaming sites. Therefore, the more the servers, the better the unblocking capabilities for your streaming TV needs.
- Streaming Speeds: You won’t get far in streaming without fast internet connections. On top of a reliable and stable base internet, a reliable VPN should complement what you already have so you can stream HD content without interruptions.
- Device Compatibility: You shouldn’t be limited to one device when using IPTV services. Get a virtual private network that can work with phones, tablets, PCs, smart TVs, and top boxes. You should watch anything from anywhere using any device as long as you have an internet connection.
- Other Features: You should also go for IPTV VPNs with proper security and privacy tools that shield your internet traffic from ISPs and IPTV providers. Think of DNS leak protection, encryption, and kill switches. IPTV providers may not be happy with you accessing content from restricted regions. The price plans shouldn’t be too expensive, either.
What Are IPTV Providers?
IPTV providers are companies that offer internet protocol television (IPTV) services. IPTV is a digital television service that uses the internet to deliver TV programming. This means you can use the internet to watch TV instead of a cable or satellite connection.
IPTV providers often offer a cheaper alternative to cable or satellite TV.
IPTV also provides a more flexible viewing experience, as you can watch TV on your schedule and choose from a wide range of channels.
Many legal IPTV providers are available, so research is essential to find one that’s right for you. Some of the most popular IPTV streams include
- AT&T U-verse
- Verizon FiOS
- Comcast XFINITY
- FalconTV
- IPTV Trends
- BestbuyIPTV
- Apollo Group TV
- Kemo IPTV
- Necro IPTV
- Comstar
IPTV Providers to Avoid
There are a lot of IPTV providers out there, and it can be tough to know which ones to trust. If you’re considering signing up for an IPTV service, avoid these providers at all costs.
- Voodoo IPTV: This is one of the most well-known providers of illegal IPTV services. The company was shut down multiple times by authorities, but it always comes back. However, the company isn’t licensed to distribute these channels, and they’re likely illegally streamed.
- Kodi Solutions IPTV: Yet another provider of illegal IPTV services. The company offers a wide range of channels, including many premium channels, for a low monthly price. Kodi Solutions IPTV is also not licensed to showcase any of this content.
- SET TV: This is an IPTV provider that has been embroiled in a lot of controversies. The company was accused of streaming pirated content and was sued by several major companies, including Dish Network. SET TV isn’t licensed to distribute the channels it offers.
- Perfect Player IPTV: Perfect Player IPTV is an IPTV player that allows you to stream content from various sources, including illegal IPTV providers. The player itself is legal, but the content you’re streaming may be pirated.
How to Set up a VPN for IPTV?
- Select a VPN provider. In our case, CyberGhost.
- Download and install the VPN software on your preferred device.
- Connect to a server that will unblock IPTV.
- Launch the IPTV provider of your choice and enjoy.
Can ISPs Block IPTV?
IPTV uses the Internet Protocol (IP) to deliver television content, so in theory, ISPs could block IPTV traffic. However, in practice, it’s unlikely that ISPs would do this for several reasons.
First, blocking IPTV traffic would be difficult and expensive.
IPTV traffic is often intermingled with other types of traffic on the Internet, so blocking it would require sophisticated filtering techniques.
This would be a significant investment for ISPs, and there is no guarantee that it would be effective.
Second, there is no economic incentive for ISPs to block IPTV.
On the contrary, IPTV is a growing market, and ISPs offering IPTV services can charge premium prices.
Third, blocking IPTV would be unpopular with customers.
Many people now subscribe to IPTV services and would likely switch to another ISP if their current one began blocking IPTV traffic.
FAQ
Best Free VPN for IPTV?
If you’re looking for an excellent free VPN to use with IPTV, we recommend AtlasVPN. However, remember that free VPNs don’t have the same features as premium VPNs. Premium VPNs are usually faster and more reliable, offering more features like data encryption and 24/7 customer support.
So if you’re looking for the best possible experience, we recommend using a premium VPN.
What VPN Is Best for IPTV Streaming?
CyberGhost is the best VPN for IPTV streaming. First, CyberGhost has servers in over 90 countries, so you can always find a server close to your location for the best possible speeds.
Second, CyberGhost offers unlimited bandwidth and server switching, so you can stream as much IPTV as you want without worrying about running out of data or being blocked by your ISP.
What’s an IPTV Set-Top Box (STB)?
IPTV set-top boxes are devices that connect to your TV and give you access to IPTV services. They come in various shapes and sizes, but all will have several key features that allow you to access and enjoy IPTV content.
STBs usually come with remote control, which allows you to navigate the various menus and options that IPTV services offer. Many STBs also come with other features such as recording capabilities, pause/rewind live TV, and access to on-demand content.
Best VPN for IPTV Firestick?
CyberGhost is the best VPN for Firestick to use with IPTV.
It offers unlimited bandwidth and fast speeds, perfect for streaming.
CyberGhost also has specialized servers for streaming and they can unblock any restricted platform from anywhere in the world.
Other good VPNs for Firestick include Surfshark and ExpressVPN.
Best VPN for IPTV Android Box?
CyberGhost is the best VPN for IPTV Android Box. This is because it offers high-speed connections, unlimited bandwidth, and military-grade encryption.
It’s equipped with streaming-dedicated servers and is compatible with most Android devices.
Is Streaming With IPTV Illegal?
Streaming with IPTV isn’t illegal. However, there are legal considerations when streaming content using IPTV services.
In most countries, streaming copyrighted material without the copyright holder’s permission is against the law. This means if you want to stream movies, TV shows, or music from online IPTV services, you need to ensure that you have the right to do so.
Do I Need to Pay for IPTV?
You do not need to pay for IPTV. There are many free and legal IPTV channels available online. However, some people choose paid IPTV services to access a broader range of channels or get premium content that isn’t available for free.
Many affordable and reliable IPTV providers offer various channels and content.
If you’re interested in paying for IPTV, research to find a reputable provider.
Wrapping Up
Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max…If you’ve used these one way or another, other IPTV services and devices shouldn’t be new. CyberGhost remains my number one pick, and the extensive server network is a big reason for that.
You can still switch to Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or PIA if you find features that meet your needs in them.
For those that stick with CyberGhost like me, you can use this link to get the best discounts.
Protect private web traffic from snooping, interference, and censorship. All plans are covered by a no-hassle 100% money-back guarantee for your first 45 days of service.
