How to Unblock DraftKings Fantasy Sports with a VPN

Access to sites like DraftKings is restricted in certain regions, creating a barrier for potential players. This can be frustrating for users of DraftKings’ sportsbook and daily fantasy sports services.

Fortunately, if you find yourself in a state where DraftKings is off-limits, there’s a solution. You can bypass these restrictions using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

It’s important to note that using a VPN to access gambling sites like DraftKings is legal and can be a game-changer. With a VPN, you can conceal your location and make it seem like you’re in a different part of the United States or another country.

We’ve tested hundreds of VPNs and shortlisted the best choices for DraftKings, so you can continue to play fantasy NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and soccer no matter where you’re located. We go into more detail later in this article, but here’s a quick overview if you’re in a rush.

The best VPNs for DraftKings:

1. NordVPN: Best all-around VPN for unblocking DraftKings. Has a huge network of extremely fast servers that can bypass geo-restrictions effectively. Solid security features. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for DraftKings.
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for DraftKings. Security-first VPN with an outstanding app. It has great functionality and allows as many connections as you need.
3. Total VPN: A secure VPN with easy-to-use apps for accessing DraftKings. Fast speeds and servers in 85+ countries. Low-cost subscriptions include free antivirus software. 
4. ExpressVPN: Great app that is easy to set up and use for DraftKings access. Fast servers are excellent for uninterrupted betting and streaming. Privacy and security are top-notch.
5. IPVanish: Solid app for accessing DraftKings. Good speeds and connections are reliable. Also works well with Kodi and Amazon Firestick TV for a complete entertainment package.
6. CyberGhost: Great for DraftKings users new to VPNs. Easy to set up and start using. Server speeds are impressive for a low-cost provider, ensuring smooth access to the platform.
7. PrivateVPN: Modest server network, beginner-friendly apps, and a generous connection limit. Respectable speeds for uninterrupted betting and streaming.

How to unblock DraftKings with a VPN

We’ll show you how to access DraftKings with a VPN on a desktop web browser for demonstration purposes. Note that the process might differ for DraftKings’ mobile apps.

Here’s how to unblock DraftKings anywhere with a VPN:

1. Select a suitable DraftKings VPN and subscribe. We recommend NordVPN as it’s fast and reliable and has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Install the VPN app for your device by downloading it from the VPN website or the appropriate app store.
3. Connect to the VPN in a location where DraftKings is legal and accessible.
4. Open the DraftKings website and sign in or create a new account.
5. DraftKings will check your location using the Player Location Check app. If you don’t have the app, you’ll need to download it.
6. Use your DraftKings account as normal.

You’ll need to connect to the VPN when you create your account and each time you log in. Be sure to log in from the same country each time. NordVPN had no issues bypassing the location check in our tests. Again, before doing this, be sure to check that Fantasy Sports Competitions are not illegal in your state.

Testing criteria for DraftKings

Not all VPN providers are equally effective for accessing DraftKings. To make our list of the best VPNs for unblocking DraftKings, we looked for services that meet all the following criteria:

• Extensive server network: Reliable servers in locations where DraftKings is legally accessible, including in the US. Should offer a stress-free gambling experience without interruptions.
• Unblocking ability: Bypass geo-restrictions and VPN blocks. Must be able to unblock leading betting websites and other online services, such as popular streaming platforms.
• Fast speeds: Quick speeds suitable for live betting and streaming sports events. We perform speed tests for each provider while connected to servers in multiple countries worldwide.
• Security & privacy: Strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy. Bonus points for additional features like a kill switch and split-tunneling.
• Easy to use: User-friendly apps across multiple platforms (Android, iOS, Windows, Mac). 24/7 customer support to assist with any connection issues.
• Value for money: Users should get plenty of bang for their buck. Must offer money-back guarantees and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

This is just an overview. The methodology section at the bottom of this article explains how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend.

A comparison of our recommended VPNs

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for unblocking DraftKings.

The best VPNs for unblocking DraftKings

Let’s take a closer look at the VPNs that made our list:

1. NordVPN

Aug 2025 Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

NordVPN is our number-one choice for DraftKings users seeking a reliable, secure VPN service for playing NFL fantasy football and other fantasy sports. With over 7,200 servers in 118+ countries, NordVPN offers fast and stable connections, essential for a smooth betting experience on DraftKings. NordVPN has over 1,970 servers in 16+ US cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Chicago.

Thanks to the NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard technology, its impressive speeds ensure you can place bets and access live sports streams without lag or interruption.

In our recent speed tests, NordVPN proved to be the fastest VPN on this list, with exceptional download speeds that averaged 193.98 Mbps across the day. At noon, it peaked at an impressive 213.36 Mbps. So, if you want a speedy VPN for DraftKings, NordVPN should be your number-one choice.

NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature combines VPN with Smart DNS technology, bypassing geo-restrictions that might prevent access to DraftKings while traveling. This means you can securely access your account from various locations without compromising speed or security.

It prioritizes security with AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and CyberSec technology to block ads and malware. This keeps your online activities private and protects you from cyber threats. The automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection further enhance your security, ensuring your data isn’t exposed if the VPN connection drops.

NordVPN offers a range of specialty servers. Depending on which type of server you choose, you can connect to the Tor network in a single click or establish a connection to two VPN servers for additional security and privacy. Obfuscated servers are also available.

User-friendly apps are available across all major platforms, allowing up to 10 simultaneous connections. This flexibility means you can access DraftKings securely from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. It also works to access Netflix US, iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and many more popular streaming platforms. 

With 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, NordVPN provides peace of mind and excellent value for DraftKings enthusiasts.

BEST VPN FOR DRAFTKINGS:NordVPN boasts excellent speeds, robust security features, and offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, making it our top choice for DraftKings users.

Read our full review of NordVPN here.

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2. Surfshark

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

Surfshark offers DraftKings users an affordable yet feature-rich VPN solution for sports fantasy games. Boasting a network of over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, Surfshark provides fast, reliable connections crucial for real-time betting and streaming on DraftKings. Its high-speed servers ensure minimal latency, which is essential for in-play bets where timing is critical. Surfshark also works with other major betting sites like BetMGM and Betfair.

Its credentials as a fast VPN were backed up in our recent speed tests. It averaged a download speed of 182.24 Mbps throughout the day, with highs of 197.14 Mbps at noon. This placed it as the second fastest VPN on this list, making it a great pick for DraftKings users.

One of Surfshark’s standout features is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This means you can secure all your devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers under one account, allowing you to access DraftKings securely from anywhere.

Surfshark prioritizes security with AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware. The built-in kill switch and DNS leak protection ensure your personal information and betting activities remain confidential, even if the VPN connection is interrupted.

It provides lightning-fast WireGuard, making it perfect for HD streaming, torrenting, gaming, gambling, and video conferencing with complete privacy. Plus, its alternative ID generator allows you to generate an alternative persona complete with name, address, and date of birth.

The user-friendly apps are easy to navigate, making it simple to find and connect to optimal servers for DraftKings. Surfshark’s NoBorders and Camouflage modes help bypass network restrictions and hide VPN usage, which can be beneficial if you access DraftKings from restrictive networks.

With 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, Surfshark provides a risk-free opportunity to enhance your DraftKings experience without breaking the bank.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark provides unlimited connections, strong security, and reliable access to DraftKings and other betting sites, all at an affordable price point. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

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3. Total VPN

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

Total VPN offers DraftKings users access to servers in 85+ countries. It has servers in 24 US locations, which makes it easy to access Sportsbooks like FanDuel and Stake in states where it’s permitted. The provider also has servers in more unusual locations. For example, it’s one of the few VPNs that can provide users with an IP address in Russia, China, or Kyrgyzstan.

Total VPN provides fast and stable connections, which is essential for timely betting and streaming while using Draftkings. In our tests, the provider averaged 145.21 Mbps overall, which was faster than the combined average speeds of the other tested providers.

In addition to Draftkings, Total VPN works with a variety of streaming platforms. We had no issues using it with everything from Netflix to BBC iPlayer.

Security features include AES-256 encryption, split tunneling, a kill switch, and built-in leak protection. Users can choose between connection protocols, though the default WireGuard is the fastest. HYDRA is a good option for users connecting from restrictive countries, as it is able to bypass  blocks by obfuscating VPN traffic.

Easy-to-use apps are available for Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and tvOS. Subscriptions are great value, with a one-year plan costing the equivalent of $1.59 a month. Better still, this includes free ad-blocking (Total AdBlock) and antivirus (Total AV) software.

FREE ANTIVIRUS:Total VPN has speedy servers in 85+ countries and low-cost subscriptions that come with free antivirus software and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Total VPN review.

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4. ExpressVPN

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

ExpressVPN is renowned for its fast speeds and robust security features, making it an ideal choice for DraftKings users who demand top performance for their daily fantasy contests.

With over 3,000 servers across 105+ countries, ExpressVPN ensures smooth and uninterrupted access to DraftKings, which is vital for live betting and streaming sports events like NFL, NBA, and MLB.

Our speed tests revealed that ExpressVPN was well-suited to online gambling, with an average download speed of 127.23 Mbps. Results were particularly consistent, which means you’re unlikely to meet any surprisingly slow servers.

You can play around with its various protocol options using the Protocols tab if you’re experiencing slow speeds. For example, the VPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol offers faster connection times and improved reliability, ensuring minimal lag during critical betting moments.

ExpressVPN’s ability to consistently bypass geo-restrictions allows you to access your DraftKings account securely while traveling.

Security is paramount with ExpressVPN. It uses AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and features like Network Lock (kill switch) to protect your data and privacy. DNS and IPv6 leak protection further safeguard your online activities, ensuring your connection to DraftKings remains private.

Plus, the Advanced Protection tab allows you to choose whether to block ads and trackers and has options for blocking access to malicious sites.

ExpressVPN’s intuitive apps are available on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, supporting up to eight simultaneous connections. This flexibility allows you to place bets and securely monitor your DraftKings account across multiple devices.

It’s also one of the best choices for unblocking streaming platforms, with the ability to access two dozen Netflix regions, HBO Max, Hulu, iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and most other international streaming platforms.

With 24/7 customer support via live chat and a 30-day money-back guarantee, ExpressVPN offers premium service and support, making it a top contender for serious DraftKings users.

PREMIUM PERFORMANCE:ExpressVPN delivers fast speeds and top-tier security, ideal for serious DraftKings users who want the best performance and privacy features. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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5. IPVanish

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

IPVanish is a reliable VPN for DraftKings users seeking strong performance and unlimited device connections. It has servers in 15+ US cities including Miami, Chicago, Phoenix, Dallas, Boston, and more, giving you plenty of options across the States for fast speeds. As well as DraftKings, IPVanish is a solid VPN for poker, including platforms like PokerStars and GGPoker.

With over 2,400 servers in 140+ locations worldwide, IPVanish provides the speed and stability necessary for an optimal DraftKings experience, which is significant for live betting and real-time updates.

This speed was demonstrated in our recent tests. IPVanish averaged a download speed of 133.52 Mbps throughout the day, performing consistently well in the morning, afternoon, and evening. It has more than enough juice for DraftKings and streaming your favorite sports.

One of IPVanish’s key advantages is its ability to allow unlimited simultaneous connections on multiple devices. This feature ensures that you can access DraftKings securely and play daily fantasy baseball, basketball, and NFL from all your devices without any additional cost, making it a convenient and affordable VPN for users with smartphones, tablets, and computers.

IPVanish offers robust security, with AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced settings like obfuscation to disguise VPN traffic. The app includes features such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection, essential for maintaining privacy and protecting your betting activities on DraftKings.

Its traffic scrambling feature (on OpenVPN connections) means you can access betting websites in a country that blocks or restricts VPN usage. However, it doesn’t work in China.

IPVanish’s apps are available on various platforms, and its interface is user-friendly, allowing you to quickly find and connect to the best server for your needs. Any issues can be promptly addressed with 24/7 customer support via live chat.

A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try IPVanish before you buy, making it a solid option for enhancing your DraftKings security and accessibility.

UNLIMITED DEVICES:IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous connections, perfect for users who want to secure all their devices while accessing DraftKings. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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6. CyberGhost

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

CyberGhost is an excellent option for DraftKings users who prefer simplicity without compromising performance or security. With over 11,500 servers in 100+ countries, CyberGhost provides extensive coverage to access DraftKings from various locations with reliable speeds suitable for live betting and streaming. CyberGhost is also popular among those seeking a VPN for online casinos.

The VPN offers dedicated streaming and gaming servers optimized for performance, reducing latency and providing a smoother experience on DraftKings.

With average download speeds of 151.35 Mbps in our recent speed tests, CyberGhost is the third quickest VPN in this list. Speeds were impressively fast and reliable throughout the day, which will be music to the ears of Daily Fantasy Sports users.

CyberGhost’s user-friendly apps feature a simple, one-click connect interface, making it easy for VPN beginners to secure their connection. Security features include AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection, ensuring your DraftKings activities, including fantasy soccer, remain private and secure.

CyberGhost’s Wi-Fi protection automatically activates the VPN on unknown networks, which benefits users who frequently bet on the go. CyberGhost lets you protect multiple devices, allowing up to seven simultaneous connections so you can access DraftKings securely from your smartphone, tablet, and computer.

Its account management procedures are designed to provide total anonymity, so CyberGhost knows nothing about you other than your account’s expiration date. You can also pay with Bitcoin.

Apps are available for Windows, Mac OS X, macOS, iOS, and Android. Plus, you can also manually set up the VPN on Linux and some routers and set-top boxes. Its customer support is available 24/7 via live chat, and the generous 45-day money-back guarantee provides ample time to test the service.

USER-FRIENDLY OPTION:CyberGhost offers easy-to-use apps and optimized servers for a seamless DraftKings experience. Comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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7. PrivateVPN

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Aug 2025

PrivateVPN is a smaller provider that punches above its weight, making it a suitable choice for DraftKings users looking for simplicity and reliable performance.

With servers in 63+ countries, PrivateVPN may have a smaller network, but it delivers solid speeds essential for live betting and streaming of college basketball and college football.

Despite this, it didn’t perform brilliantly in our recent speed tests, with an average of 53 Mbps throughout the day. So while it’s still an excellent option for Daily Fantasy Sports players, it might be worth considering the top providers in this list if speed is your main consideration.

However, the VPN excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing you to access DraftKings from anywhere. Security features include AES-256 encryption, a strict zero-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch.

The Stealth Mode helps you bypass VPN blocks, which can be particularly useful if you’re in a location with strict internet censorship.

It also allows port forwarding, which is particularly good for people who torrent. The port number can be used in your torrent client to download and upload files more efficiently.

PrivateVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers user-friendly apps across all major platforms. It’s one of the few VPNs that work to stream around 20 different Netflix catalogs worldwide and also allows you to access popular international services such as HBO Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and many more.

Customer support is personalized, often directly with the developers, ensuring any issues are resolved efficiently. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, PrivateVPN is a risk-free option for enhancing your DraftKings experience.

SIMPLE AND RELIABLE:PrivateVPN provides strong security and reliable access to DraftKings in a straightforward package. Trusted no-logs VPN and backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

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Why is DraftKings Fantasy Sports blocked?

DraftKings blocks play in seven states: Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, and Washington. You can still open accounts in these states, but you can’t compete for prizes.

However, DraftKings is available in the biggest sports betting states, including Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. It all comes down to online gambling laws. Fantasy sports leagues represent a legal gray area, and every state in the US has different legislation regarding how games like this are controlled, taxed, and regulated.

There are some exceptions, so you should consult DraftKings terms for full details. For example, Idaho residents who are physically located outside the state can make deposits and compete for prizes.

For now, the only players who are cleared to play for prizes on DraftKings abroad are those who live in Canada. If you live somewhere else, you may get the dreaded “We cannot locate you” message the next time you try to make a deposit.

Whether DraftKings Daily Fantasy Sport is or isn’t technically classified as gambling is an issue that the courts still haven’t completely decided on. As such, laws differ from region to region and continue to change. It’s also worth noting that the online gambling laws in the US are ever-changing.

Comparitech does not condone the illegal use of a VPN to log in to gambling websites in countries or US states where the act is not permitted.

DraftKings VPN not working? Here’s what to do

Have you subscribed to one of the VPNs from this guide? Are you still having trouble accessing DraftKings on vacation or while traveling to a US state where it is unavailable? Below, we will explain how to troubleshoot your VPN to get it working:

1. Connect to a VPN server in a state where DraftKings is available. DraftKings will only work if you get an IP address in a compatible state so try a different US location if you are struggling.
2. Test various US cities. Our recommendations give you plenty of server choices, so you should be able to find a server that works.
3. Try reinstalling the VPN. If your VPN software isn’t the latest version you may simply need to update and refresh it.
4. Clear the cookies in your browser. If DraftKings left cookies in your browser during previous sessions these could cause a conflict with the VPN. Clear your cookies or use incognito to log in and check if that helps.
5. Clear your browser cache. This can cause a similar problem to cookies. Once your cache has been cleared it should help your VPN to work again.
6. Test a different protocol. Each VPN has numerous protocols so try OpenVPN or WireGuard to see if this helps to get you connected.
7. Use obfuscation. If you are trying to use DraftKings at work, your employer may be blocking common VPN ports. Try using obfuscation (stealth VPN) or selecting OpenVPN over port 443 as this will help to connect to the VPN.
8. Contact the VPN’s live chat. If you are still having issues we advise talking to your VPN directly. Live chat support agents are on hand to help you configure the VPN and get it working with DraftKings.
9. Consider using a static or dedicated IP. Accessing DraftKings from many different IPs or locations in a short period may flag your account for suspicious behavior. Using a static IP each time you use DraftKings can help prevent arousing suspicions.

How to use a VPN With DraftKings on an iPhone

The process of using a DraftKings VPN is much the same whether you’re on a desktop or mobile. If you’re trying to use a VPN with DraftKing on an iPhone, here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Sign up with a VPN that works with DraftKings. As we’ve mentioned, we particularly recommend NordVPN.
2. Download and install the VPN’s iOS app. This should only take a minute or two.
3. Log in to the VPN app and connect to a server in which DraftKings is available. For example, a server in the US.
4. Open the DraftKings app. If you don’t already have it installed, then you will likely have to change your Apple ID country to find it on the App Store.
5. Thanks to the VPN, you should now be able to use DraftKings on your iPhone regardless of your location.

DraftKings VPNs: FAQs