How to Unblock DraftKings Fantasy Sports with a VPN

Some countries (as well as a large number of US states) block access to gambling sites like DraftKings, which causes problems for people who just want to place a few bets while traveling abroad. Fortunately, it’s quite simple to get around this kind of geographic restriction; if you find yourself visiting somewhere that DraftKings isn’t accessible, you can regain access using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Important: This post is intended for users attempting to access DraftKings securely while traveling. It is not designed to be a guide for anyone trying to place bets or gamble in countries where doing so is illegal. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult location laws and perhaps even seek professional advice beforehand. 

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. Offers 24/7 customer support over live chat. 
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 VPNs

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

Nov 2025 Unblocks DraftKingsTested Nov 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 8,000 servers in 120+ countries, NordVPN offers fast and stable connections, essential for a smooth betting experience on DraftKings. This provider has around 3,000 servers in the US alone, spread across 20+ cities including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Chicago.

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.

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. NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature combines its 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.

NordVPN prioritizes security with AES-256 encryption, automatic ad and tracker-blocking, as well as an independently-verified zero-logs policy. There’s also a kill switch and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks, plus obfuscated servers and a special NordWhisper protocol that’s designed to help you get around the internet’s toughest online restrictions. 

NordVPN offers a range of specialty servers. Depending on which type 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. There are also some optimized for torrenting, though P2P activity is permitted on any server.

User-friendly apps are available across all major platforms (MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux). You can also manually install this VPN on most routers (just check the website for instructions). 

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 Nov 2025

Surfshark is the best way to unblock DraftKings on a budget. Thanks to a recent expansion, its network now comprises of over 4,500 servers in 100+ countries, with roughly 600 spread across 24 US locations. Our team was able to access major betting sites like BetMGM and Betfair, as well as streaming platforms like Netflix. There’s no limit on the number of devices you can connect, and customer support is available, day or night, over live chat.

So how quick is Surfshark, really? We tested its American servers three times (in the morning, at noon, and in the afternoon) using a 250 Mbps connection since that’s the household average in the United States. The table below shows Surfshark’s performance at various points, as well as its average speed:

With an average speed of 182.24 Mbps, Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs on the market. As such, it’s a fantastic option for placing in-play bets where even a slight delay could cause problems.

Surfshark keeps you safe using uncrackable AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an independently-verified no-logs policy. There’s also a feature called CleanWeb that blocks ads and trackers automatically, plus a newly-added content-blocker that can be customized to stop certain types of content from showing up as you browse. Best of all, Surfshark includes a Stealth mode that lets you sidestep strict online limitations.

This provider has a few more advanced features too. For instance, you can switch between several industry-approved protocols or use its alternative ID generator to create a fake persona so that you don’t have to provide real personal details when signing up for websites.

Surfshark has apps for iOS, Android, MacOS, Linux, and Windows. Its website offers step by step installation instructions in case you’d prefer to install this VPN on your router.

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 on all plans.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

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3. Total VPN

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Nov 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.  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.

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.

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.

Total VPN offers easy to use apps 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 Nov 2025

ExpressVPN is known for its strong unblocking ability, making it a great choice for DraftKings users who want to continue betting during a trip abroad. There are servers in 105 countries so whether you’re looking to stream NFL, NBA, and MLB matches, place bets, torrent, or play online games, this VPN can help. There’s a 10-connection limit on the Basic plan (with up to 14 permitted on a Pro plan) and 24/7 customer support over live chat.

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.

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 has intuitive apps for Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS. Additionally, this VPN offers its own custom firmware for routers, which greatly simplifies the process of securing your entire home network.

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 Nov 2025

IPVanish is a remarkably versatile VPN offering access to 3,200 servers in 100+ countries. Its network also covers more than a dozen US states, so it’s great for unblocking gambling sites like PokerStars and GGPoker as well as DraftKings. This service doesn’t impose any connection limits, making it perfect for sharing with family. If you need help, just reach out using IPVanish’s 24/7 live chat service.

To be sure that IPVanish is fast enough to handle time-sensitive tasks like in-play betting, our team performed three speed tests on its US servers. 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.

Despite being one of the most affordable VPNs on the market, IPVanish is very strong on security. It has unbreakable 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, as well as an audited no-logging policy. This VPN can also obfuscate your OpenVPN traffic (though it doesn’t work in places like China, unfortunately). This high level of privacy ensures that you can access DraftKings and play daily fantasy baseball, basketball, and NFL securely.

This provider recently launched an enhanced subscription tier (called the Advanced plan). This comes with the VPN itself, a terabyte of cloud storage, and a sandboxed, remote-access browser so that you can browse anonymously anywhere.

IPVanish apps are available for MacOS, iOS, Windows, and Android. If you’d like to install this service on Linux systems or routers, you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions.

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 on annual plans.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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6. CyberGhost

Unblocks DraftKingsTested Nov 2025

CyberGhost is another fantastic option for DraftKings users. This provider has servers in over 100 countries and does a great job of sidestepping tricky online restrictions. You can connect a maximum of seven devices at once, which is a little lower than we’d like but still plenty for most users. Additionally, customer support staff are on-hand 24 hours per day just in case you need them. If you’re looking for a VPN for online casinos, streaming, or gaming, CyberGhost is well worth considering.

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 protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. However, this is just the beginning of CyberGhost’s security offering.

This VPN can also connect automatically if it detects that you’re using an unsecured network. You could even create smart rules, telling CyberGhost to open specific apps or use specific servers when you do certain things. Finally, users can choose to use a random port, which might help you bypass some forms of VPN-blocking (though it won’t help in countries with extreme online censorship). Users can even pay in Bitcoin.

Apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Plus, you can also manually set up the VPN on some routers and set-top boxes.

USER-FRIENDLY OPTION:CyberGhost offers easy-to-use apps, strong security, 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 Nov 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. This VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections and provides live chat-based customer support during European business hours. 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.

Security features include AES-256 encryption, a strict zero-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch. PrivateVPN also boasts a stealth mode capable of bypassing the world’s strictest online censorship, making it ideal for anyone planning on visiting China. This service 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.

It also excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing you to access DraftKings, 20 different Netflix catalogs, and platforms like Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Max from anywhere.

PrivateVPN has its own apps for MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. You’ll have to follow a manual setup guide to get it running on Linux systems or routers though.

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 several US states including 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.

Risks of using a VPN with DraftKings

Unfortunately, while you can use a VPN to access DraftKings securely from anywhere, doing so is not without risk. Below, we’ll explain everything you should be aware of when accessing betting platforms during a trip abroad.

• Breaching terms of use: Most betting sites will explicitly forbid you from accessing its services while connected to a VPN, or from countries outside of its intended service area. As such, if you’re caught, you could have your account limited or banned.
• Deposit and payout problems: Even if you’re able to access DraftKings, there may be issues when it comes time to deposit or withdraw funds. After all, if your IP address says you’re in the US, it’s slightly suspicious to try to send your winnings to a bank account in another country.
• Legal issues: The US doesn’t have any laws that specifically mention using a VPN to access betting sites from abroad. However, there are limitations on where you’re allowed to gamble, which could potentially open you up to legal problems if you intentionally break these rules.
• Identity verification requirements: Betting companies are legally mandated to do their due diligence and verify who their customers are. As such, if your true location is uncertain, you may be asked to provide additional documentation verifying your identity, address, or banking information.
• Potential account flags: If DraftKings realizes you’re using a VPN, it could theoretically add a flag to your account that tells staff to take a closer look at your transactions. This could result in delays to payouts, rejected bets, or even account termination.

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. Several US states have laws against online gambling, so we’d recommend trying a server in a different location to see if that helps. It may also just be that the server you’re using isn’t optimized for DraftKings.
3. Try reinstalling the VPN. Sometimes VPNs refuse to work properly if there’s a newer version available. Check to make sure your VPN is up to date (there’ll usually be a message on the main screen if you’re using an old version).
4. Clear the cookies in your browser. DraftKings uses cookie to store location data, so if you’re having problems, it could be that these are conflicting with your new location. Clear your cookies or use incognito mode to log in and check if that helps.
5. Clear your browser cache. This can cause a similar problem to cookies. Just clear your cache and hopefully, you’ll be able to use DraftKings again.
6. Test a different protocol. It’s possible that your preferred betting site is keeping an eye out for signs of OpenVPN traffic. As such, you may be able to access it using the WireGuard or IKEv2 protocols instead.
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