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For those times when you’re feeling a bit homesick or hungover while you’re abroad, it can be frustrating that you’re not able to access your favorite online subscription sites. Sometimes a binge session of Netflix is just the thing you need to feel better and there’s nothing worse than seeing that message pop up saying that access is denied in your country.
If you’re studying abroad or travel anywhere besides the US, you’ll probably have trouble accessing these sites:
• Netflix
• Spotify
• Hulu
• HBO Go
• ESPN Go
• iHeartRadio
• Pandora
• Geo-restricted Youtube videos
And depending on which country you’re in, you may not be able to access any social networks or Skype either.
That’s where IPVanish comes in.
Without getting too technical, IPVanish is a VPN (Virtual Private Network) that can change your IP address so that it appears that you’re browsing the internet from your chosen country. This means that sites like Netflix, Hulu and more will think that you’re, say, in the US, and therefore will let you watch all of the TV shows and movies that Netflix offers to its US customers.
Why IPVanish is different
There are other sites that can hide or change your IP address but there are a few reasons why IPVanish is different.
An added layer of security
Your internet security is at risk when you’re using public wifi networks or even private ones at hostels or hotels. If you’re using your credit card for any transactions that you do over the network, you never know who’s able to hack the network and access that information. IPVanish adds an extra layer of security so you can feel safer using these networks. You can learn a bit more about how secure your internet browsing on public wifi is in this LifeHacker article.
Prevents ISPs from diluting your bandwidth
Did you know that some internet service providers deliberately slow your internet down when it detects that you’re using a streaming service like Netflix or Skype? Using IPVanish prevents ISPs from tracking this, meaning that your internet speed will always stay the same. This is useful if you’re on a public network as well, as they may do the same.
24/7/365 support
If you’ve ever had to contact your bank while you’ve been abroad then you know that dealing with support teams can be difficult when you’re in a different time zone. IPVanish offers 24 hour support so you won’t have to wait half a day to get some help from the other side of the world.
7-day money-back guarantee
If you aren’t thrilled after using IPVanish for a week, you can get your money back.
Using a VPN isn’t just for catching up on Orange is the New Black on Netflix. While you’re abroad you can use IPVanish to:
• Show your international friends the best Saturday Night Live skits on the NBC site (it’s “educational”)
• Book hostels and make travel plans without having to worry about your credit card information being accessed via the wifi you’re using
• Listen to your personalized Pandora stations when get bored of what’s on your iTunes
• Host an international tailgate while watching NFL or college football games (you can’t miss the Superbowl)
• Use social media sites in countries like Turkey and China, where they’re banned (be aware that this may not be legal!)
Not just for study abroad or while you’re traveling
Using a VPN is useful for when you’re back at home too. It will still offer you that extra layer of security as well as prevent your ISP from slowing your internet down during your Youtube binges. It’s great for sports fans who like to watch international soccer or rugby matches, or for those who studied in London and are longing to watch their new favorite program on the BBC iPlayer.
Visit IPVanish’s website to see subscription options and to learn more about the service.
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