best vpn sky go

Quick Summary
In Short

  • Sky Go only allows users within the UK to access and view content, and strict VPN detection mechanisms mean that, even when using a VPN, you may be blocked when outside the UK.
  • Sky constantly works to detect and ban VPNs from the service, but a few VPNs invest in keeping users totally anonymous and avoiding these blocks.
  • We’ve tested 78+ major VPNs with popular UK streaming services and websites to find which avoid geo-restrictions and offer fast speeds and reliable connections.
  • NordVPN is our top recommendation for Sky Go. It allows access to UK content, including Sky Go, iPlayer, and Netflix, plus includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Sky Go is region-locked, which means you can’t normally use it from outside of the UK and Ireland. However, streaming Sky Go abroad is possible if you connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). These services allow you to spoof your location and access geo-blocked platforms like Sky Go from anywhere in the world.

Keep in mind that this works best on desktop as well as media streaming devices such as Amazon Fire TV. Like many mobile apps, Sky Go uses your GPS location instead of your IP address to determine your whereabouts on Android and iOS. As such, even the best VPNs for Sky Go won’t work on mobile unless you’re also able to spoof your GPS location. However, even this isn’t foolproof, so you’re best sticking to a desktop or your Amazon Fire device if you plan to watch Sky Go abroad.

We’ll discuss our top VPNs for Sky Go in more detail shortly. For now though, here’s a quick summary of what makes each so special.

  1. NordVPN The best VPN for watching Sky Go abroad. Works with almost any major streaming app, delivers very fast speeds, and offers powerful security features. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Sky Go.
  2. TotalVPN Works great with Sky Go, BBC iPlayer, and ITVX. User-friendly apps, fast speeds, and servers in 85+ countries. Low-cost subscriptions that come bundled with high-quality antivirus software.
  3. ProtonVPN A very fast VPN with a strong focus on privacy. Packed with advanced features and great for streaming. Offers 24/7 live chat and refuses to keep any logs of your activities.
  4. ExpressVPN Zero-logs service that can access virtually any streaming platform including Sky Go. Very easy to use, with 24/7 customer support and automatic ad and tracker-blocking.
  5. IPVanish Fast, secure, and capable of accessing Sky Go from abroad. Strong on security, with first-class streaming ability and no connection limits at all.
  6. CyberGhost A versatile, speedy provider with streaming-optimized servers all over the UK. Strong option for anyone hoping to watch Sky Go securely.
  7. PureVPN A quick and reliable VPN with affordable pricing. Works great with Sky Go and most other British streaming apps. Follows a strict no-logs policy.
  8. PrivateVPN A no-logs service that puts your privacy above all else. Provides decent speeds, works in China, and has no issues streaming Sky Go outside of the UK.
  9. Hotspot Shield Beginner-friendly VPN that has UK streaming servers and works well with Sky Go, ITVX, and more. Has a large network, 24/7 customer support, and a no-logging policy.
Get NordVPN - the #1 VPN for Sky Go
Warning

Many VPNs claim to work with Sky Go but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.

We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Sky Go and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.

Quick guide: How to watch Sky Go abroad

Connecting to a VPN server changes your IP address, which is what most geo-blocked sites use to determine your location. For instance, choosing a server in the UK will get you a British IP address, while an American server will get you an IP address which points to the United States. Follow the steps below to unblock Sky Go from anywhere in the world:

Here’s how to watch Sky Go abroad:

  1. First, sign up for one of the VPNs for Sky Go listed above. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
  2. Download and install the VPN software on your device or configure your router to use the VPN.
  3. Run the VPN, choose a server in the UK or Ireland, and connect.
  4. Clear your cookies and refresh the page with the video you want to watch.
  5. Head over to Sky Go, launch a video, and enjoy the show!

If you have any trouble accessing Sky Go abroad after following these steps, you should try clearing your cache and trying an alternative server. If issues persist, contact your VPN provider for further support.

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There are no hidden termsjust contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Our criteria for the top Sky Go VPNs

We know that people get frustrated trying to choose between VPN providers. After all, much of VPN companies’ marketing material sounds remarkably similar. To help consumers, we perform an in-depth evaluation process that removes the need to take company claims at face value. We look at the following areas:

  • Streaming performance: We first check whether providers work with Sky Go. If they do, we also try them with other popular platforms and score them accordingly. The best providers have servers in lots of countries, which makes it easy to explore new content.
  • Speed in the UK & Ireland: As Sky Go is only available in the UK and Ireland, we perform speed tests for each provider while connected to servers in—you guessed it—the UK and Ireland. The tests are carried out on a home broadband connection to give users an accurate idea of what speeds they can realistically expect.
  • Security & privacy: We score providers using 15 different security and privacy criteria. These include which VPN protocols they support, the level of encryption and authentication they use, and whether they have anonymous payment options.
  • Ease of use: We calculate providers’ ease of use scores using 10 different metrics. In addition to judging their design, we look at things like the parity of their features between apps and the existence—or non-existence—of task-specific servers.
  • Value for money: Value isn’t just about price. We evaluate VPNs on various factors including their lowest possible price, how many devices you can connect at the same time, and whether they offer a free trial or student discount.

A full breakdown of our testing process, along with the results of those tests, is available in the methodology section below. But first, let’s take a closer look at the VPNs that impressed us.

Best VPNs for Sky Go: A snapshot of features

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 Sky Go.

No valueNordVPNTotalVPNProton VPNExpressVPNIPVanishCyberGhostPureVPNPrivateVPNHotspot Shield
WebsiteNordVPN.comTotalVPN.comProtonVPN.comExpressVPN.comIPVanish.comCyberghost.comPureVPN.comPrivateVPN.comHotspotshield.com
Ranking for Sky Go123456789
Avg Speed for Sky Go47.38 Mbps47.13 Mbps46.54 Mbps46.33 Mbps45.77 Mbps44.47 Mbps44.77 Mbps44.78 Mbps39.08 Mbps
Streaming servicesSky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
ITV Hub
Sky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Sky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Sky Go
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Sky Go
Netflix
Sky Go
Amazon Prime
Simultaneous Connections105Free: 1, VPN Plus: 1014Unlimited71010Up to 10
Lowest monthly cost$2.99$1.58$3.59$3.49$6.49$2.19$1.99$2.00$2.99
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Best VPNs for streaming Sky Go abroad

We’ve reviewed each of our recommended VPNs for Sky Go below:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Oct 2025 Unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.4 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.6 / 10
Security & Privacy: 9.5 / 10
Streaming performance: 10.0 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 10.0 / 10
Value for money: 7.9 / 10

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our first choice for unblocking Sky Go. In fact, it works with all of the most popular UK streaming services including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and ITVX. This provider has more than 440 RAM-only servers in the UK, with 8,000 servers total around the world. Up to 10 devices can be secured at once and there’s 24/7 support over live chat just in case anything goes wrong.

Screenshot showing NordVPN's UK server locations
This VPN boasts a huge network with hundreds of servers throughout the UK and Ireland

We wanted to know how fast connections were, so we performed three speed tests connected to a UK server and three connected to a server in Ireland. Speeds were excellent throughout, with only a negligible overall drop of 1.46 Mbps from our base speed when connected. This makes NordVPN ideal for streaming Sky Go in the highest resolution available.

NordVPN has several interesting features that help it stand out from the crowd. For instance, it offers access to multiple types of specialty servers, readily accessible from the main panel. The obfuscated serfvers are especially notable since they can get around VPN-blocking systems, even in heavily-censored countries like China.

Screenshot showing NordVPN's specialty servers
NordVPN makes it easy to find a server suitable for the task at hand

So how does this VPN perform on privacy? NordVPN is backed by a true zero-logs policy, automatic leak protection, and uncrackable 256-bit encryption. There’s also a kill switch, ad and tracker-blocking, and automatic wifi protection so that you can use public Wi-Fi networks safely. Most importantly, NordVPN refuses to keep any logs and has proven this with several independent audits.

NordVPN’s software is available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. If you want to use Sky Go with a device that doesn’t support VPNs natively, you can purchase pre-configured routers through FlashRouters.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want to stream a range of British TV platforms abroad
  • You want a VPN with a fully open-source Linux app
  • You want the fastest speeds available
  • You’re looking for a VPN with a spotless privacy record
  • A proven zero logs record is important to you

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want a provider with port forwarding

BEST VPN FOR SKY GO:NordVPN is our first choice VPN. Extremely fast, with impressive unblocking ability and great privacy and security features. All plans come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Total VPN

TotalVPN Unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.2 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.4 / 10
Security & Privacy: 9.1 / 10
Streaming performance: 9.0 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 9.8 / 10
Value for money: 8.5 / 10

Website:  TotalVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Total VPN is the best low-cost option for watching Sky Go abroad. It has more than 1,800 servers spread across 85+ countries including the UK, Russia, China, and Kyrgyzstan. More importantly, it works perfectly with Sky Go, Netflix UK, and most other British streaming apps. Up to five devices can be protected at the same time and customer support is available via live chat or a ticket system.

Total VPN's server options.
This VPN has servers in locations that most other providers don’t

We tested Total VPN’s download speeds by connecting to servers in the UK and Ireland several times during the day. The results were both fast and consistent. Overall, the provider’s average speed differed from our base connection speed (48.86 Mbps) by just 1.76 Mbps. In other words, this VPN is perfect for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming, playing online games, or making video calls.

When it comes to security, Total VPN has you covered. It uses unbreakable AES-256 encryption backed up by a kill switch, true no-logging policy, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. This service also supports a variety of industry-approved protocols, as well as its own Hydra protocol, which can help you get around some forms of VPN-blocking.

Total VPN's protocol options.
Total VPN uses the WireGuard protocol by default but you can switch to Hydra if you’re having problems on a particular network

Total VPN apps have a minimalist design that’s ideally suited to those who are new to VPNs or who want to get connected with minimal effort. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, and Android, iOS. Unfortunately there’s no support for routers or Linux systems at the time of writing. On the plus side, Total VPN comes bundled with an antivirus app and ad-blocker.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You value easy-to-use, beginner-friendly apps
  • You want a provider that comes with an added Antivirus
  • You’re looking for a great-value, low-cost subscription
  • You need a VPN with split-tunneling

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need more than 5 simultaneous connections
  • You want to be able to pay anonymously via cryptocurrency

GREAT VALUE:Total VPN offers apps for all popular devices and has its own connection protocol for bypassing blocks. Works with a range of streaming services in addition to Sky Go. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full TotalVPN review.

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3. ProtonVPN

Proton VPN unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025  

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.6 / 10
Security & Privacy: 9.3 / 10
Streaming performance: 9.6 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 9.4 / 10
Value for money: 7.3 / 10

Website:  www.ProtonVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ProtonVPN was developed by the team behind privacy-first email client ProtonMail, so it has a fantastic pedigree. There are more than 700 servers in the UK alone, with over 15,000 spread across 120+ countries globally. Better still, this VPN excels at beating regional restrictions, allowing you to watch Sky Go, BBC iPlayer, and ITVX even if you’re traveling outside of the UK. Up to 10 devices can be protected simultaneously and 24/7 support is available via live chat.

Screenshot showing ProtonVPN's UK servers
This provider has one of the largest networks around with a particularly significant presence in the UK

ProtonVPN’s connection speeds are good enough for using Sky Go—even when streaming 4K content. We conducted speed tests at various points during the day while connecting to servers in the UK and Ireland. Speeds were noticeably consistent and very fast—ProtonVPN was the third-fastest service after NordVPN and Total VPN.

ProtonVPN is known for its extreme focus on privacy. It has all of the security features you’d expect including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS and IPv6 leak protection, plus a zero-logs policy. This VPN even has special Secure Core servers that are kept at the company’s headquarters, making it virtually impossible for anyone to compromise them and access your traffic. Finally, ProtonVPN can block ads, trackers, and malware automatically.

IP leak test.
ProtonVPN didn’t leak our IPv4 or IPv6 addresses.

The provider makes it easy for users to connect to custom DNS servers rather than use ProtonVPNs by default. There’s also an option to Moderate NAT, which disables the randomization of the local address mapping. This can help gamers establish direct connections. ProtonVPN allows port forwarding, another useful tool to gamers and torrenters, though it is not often offered by VPN providers.

ProtonVPN custom DNS server options.
ProtonVPN allows users to specify custom DNS servers.

ProtonVPN apps are available for iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and MacOS. This service also supports almost a dozen types of router firmware (though you’ll have to install it manually). Want to sign up anonymously? No problem: this provider accepts Bitcoin, though not for your first payment.

Note that while ProtonVPN has a free tier, this isn’t suitable for accessing streaming platforms like Sky Go from abroad. No free VPNs are suitable for streaming, so this isn’t surprising.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want a trustworthy service for security and privacy
  • You want fast connection speeds for streaming
  • You’re looking for a VPN suitable for live streaming, torrenting, and gaming
  • You want to connect up to 10 simultaneous devices

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You don’t want to spend time finding working Sky Go servers
  • You’re looking for the lowest-priced options

ANONYMITY ABOVE ALL:ProtonVPN goes the extra mile. It’s very fast, can reliably access Sky Go outside of the UK, and is packed with security tools. What’s more, it doesn’t keep any logs, offers a limited free plan, and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our complete ProtonVPN review.

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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN Unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.8 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.0 / 10
Security & Privacy: 9.2 / 10
Streaming performance: 9.4 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 9.2 / 10
Value for money: 7.0 / 10

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN is a reputable provider with a network spanning more than 105 countries including the UK. It works well in countries with extreme digital censorship and can reliably access even the most stubborn streaming platforms. For instance, as well as Sky Go, our experts were able to stream Netflix UK, BBC iPlayer, and Channel 4 without any issues. The basic subscription now permits up to 10 simultaneous connections too, so it’s better value than ever.

Screenshot showing ExpressVPN's UK servers
This provider has servers in several British cities, though they’re all in England

We carried out speed tests while connected to servers in both countries. ExpressVPN performed solidly throughout, with its slowest and fastest results varying by just 1.2 Mbps. Overall, ExpressVPN’s average download speed was only 2.56 Mbps slower than our average speed when not connected. This makes it a great VPN for streaming HD Sky Go content and UHD content from other platforms.

The app’s dashboard is visually appealing and very easy to use — even for someone without experience with VPN software. Connections are established almost instantaneously, so there’s no waiting around like you have to do with some providers. If you have trouble connecting or accessing Sky Go, live customer support is available through the ExpressVPN website 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

ExpressVPN keeps you safe using a blend of 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, automatic IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and an independently-verified no-logs policy. Its Advanced Protection tab lets you toggle ad and tracker-blocking, as well as limit access to adult content. This VPN also supports split tunneling, which is helpful for accessing content from two regions simultaneously.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux (command line). This VPN can also be installed directly on your router thanks to its custom firmware. This approach lets you secure devices that don’t support full VPN apps, like Smart TVs and games consoles.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want to configure a VPN connection on your router
  • You want to try a high-quality VPN without breaking the bank
  • You want the highest levels of privacy and security
  • You’d prefer a VPN that unblocks major streaming platforms on the first try, with no messing around

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re on a tight budget
  • You’re looking for more advanced features and customization options

STEADY SPEEDS:ExpressVPN is great for streaming. Reliably unblocks Sky Go as well as many other online services. Exceptional speeds for buffer-free viewing, along with total security and online privacy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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5. IPVanish

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.3 / 10
Ease of Use: 8.1 / 10
Security & Privacy: 8.7 / 10
Streaming performance: 8.7 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 8.8 / 10
Value for money: 7.3 / 10

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish owns and operates more than 3,200 servers around the world, with several hundred in the UK alone. Unlike most other VPNs, this one lets you see the current load of each server too, so it’s quick and easy to find one that meets your needs. Our team were able to unblock platforms like Sky Go, Amazon Prime Video, and Channel 4 without any issues. Best of all, IPVanish lets you protect any number of devices and offers 24/7 assistance over live chat.

Screenshot showing IPVanish's UK server load
You can view each server’s current ping and load, so there’s no need to keep reconnecting in the hopes you get a fast server

To find out what download speeds users could expect when using IPVanish, we conducted a series of speed tests while connected to servers in the UK and Ireland. Download speeds were excellent in both countries, though we did have one slower-than-average connection in Dublin. Even then, you’d have no trouble streaming Sky Go content without buffering. On average, download speeds while connected to the VPN were just 3.06 Mbps slower than when we connected without, which is a great result.

The app is easy to use and has a distinctive design with plenty going on. There’s a graph showing the amount of data uploaded and downloaded in real time alongside a map with the location of your current connection pinned to it.

The IPVanish dashboard
The IPVanish dashboard has of information to explore.

IPVanish uses unbreakable encryption and offers a kill switch that will stop sending data if your connection drops. Not only that, it prevents IPv6 and DNS leaks and can scramble your OpenVPN traffic, allowing you to sidestep some forms of VPN-blocking. Split tunneling is available too, plus IPVanish recently added a link safety checker on both mobile and desktop. Most importantly, this VPN has been audited to prove it doesn’t keep any logs of your activities.

IPVanish connection options.
Numerous connection options are available.

IPVanish offers Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV apps. Alternatively, you can configure a connection with most routers (check the support center for instructions and router compatibility). Configuring a connection on your router lets you stream Sky Go on VPN-incompatible devices such as game consoles and smart TVs.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN with fast servers in Scotland and England
  • You want to be able to access almost any UK streaming service
  • You’re looking for a newcomer-friendly VPN with strong security
  • You want unlimited device connections

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN that works in China
  • You’re concerned about using a VPN based in the US

BRITISH TV ABROAD:IPVanish works seamlessly with Sky Go, BBC iPlayer, and NOW TV. It’s fast, security-conscious, and novice-friendly. Annual plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee so there’s no harm in giving it a shot.

Interested? Why not read our full IPVanish review.

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6. CyberGhost

CyberGhost Unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.2 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.1 / 10
Security & Privacy: 8.9 / 10
Streaming performance: 7.9 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 7.7 / 10
Value for money: 7.2 / 10

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost offers access to over 10,000 servers throughout 100+ countries, including the UK. Some of these are even optimized for unblocking geo-restricted services like ITVX and BBC iPlayer, though we’ve found that the general-purpose servers also work well for platforms like Sky Go. There’s a seven-connection limit and 24/7 support via live chat, just in case you need it.

CyberGhost UK servers
This VPN doesn’t have servers specifically for unblocking Sky Go, but we had no issues streaming TV with its regular ones.

While this is impressive, it doesn’t mean much if CyberGhost isn’t fast enough for streaming. Our team performed three tests throughout the day to measure this service’s speeds and consistency.

CyberGhost averaged 44.47 Mbps across all of our tests, and its speeds were notably consistent. It’s fast enough to stream in 4K without interruption, so you shouldn’t have any issues watching Sky Go at any time of day.

When it comes to security, CyberGhost has everything you need. It secures your connection using 256-bit AES encryption, which is considered uncrackable at the time of writing. It also boasts DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, automatic ad and tracking blocking, and a proven no-logging policy. More experienced users can set up smart rules or connect via a random port, which might help you use this service on networks that usually block VPN traffic entirely.

CyberGhost has apps for Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS. Alternatively, you can follow manual setup instructions to get it running on most routers and on Linux.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You’d like solid privacy and security features enabled by default
  • You want access to over 400 high-speed servers in the UK and 10,000+ worldwide
  • You’re a beginner looking for apps that are easy to install and intuitive
  • You need specialized servers optimized for use case and streaming platform

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re a power user looking for more advanced features
  • You want to connect more than 7 devices at once.

GREAT FOR STREAMING:CyberGhost has lots of reliable British servers and works flawlessly with Sky Go, BBC iPlayer, and many similar platforms. Also offers a strong set of security features and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

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7. PureVPN

PureVPN unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025  

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.1 / 10
Security & Privacy: 8.7 / 10
Streaming performance: 8.0 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 8.0 / 10
Value for money: 6.4 / 10

Website:  www.PureVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS

PureVPN is a solid option for anyone looking to watch Sky Go on vacation or while living abroad. It operates more than 6,000 servers covering 65+ countries including the UK, though it’s worth noting that its only British servers are in England. While you’ll be able to access Sky Go, BBC iPlayer, and ITVX abroad, this does mean STV Player will be inaccessible. On the plus side, you can connect 10 devices at one time and there’s 24/7 customer support via live chat.

Screenshot showing PureVPN's UK servers
This provider has an expansive network and first-class streaming abilities

To test PureVPN’s speeds, we used servers closer to home. Using a home broadband connection in the UK, we carried out several speed tests while connected to servers in the UK and Ireland. Although PureVPN wasn’t as consistent as some of the providers in our list, its speeds were great overall.

PureVPN stops anyone from monitoring your online activities using uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. We confirmed that the leak protection worked by connecting to a server in Australia and checking whether our UK location was hidden. We also conducted DNS and WebRTC leak tests.

IP leak test.
PureVPN didn’t leak our IPv4 or IPv6 addresses.

PureVPN has an auto-connect feature, a tracker blocker, and app-based split tunneling. These can all be enabled or disabled using simple toggle switches. Behind the scenes, PureVPN’s automatic obfuscation helps users’ traffic evade VPN blocks. This is great news if you’re trying to access Sky Go from a particularly restrictive country like China.

Unlike most other providers, PureVPN has an “always on” auditing policy. This means that they could be audited at any time; so far the company has undergone two independent audits, proving that it doesn’t keep any logs of user activity.

Unusually, PureVPN offers a five-year subscription plan, while most providers have a maximum of two years. Subscribing for longer means you lock in the introductory term and ultimately save more money. PureVPN has apps for Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux. Furthermore, the help section on its website provides detailed instructions for setting up the service on your router.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You value security and streaming ability over raw speed
  • You want a VPN that works anywhere
  • You want to be able to access Sky Go, Channel 5, and similar UK services abroad
  • You’re looking for great value and affordable long-term subscriptions

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want to access online services in India or China
  • You don’t want to pay more for advanced features like port forwarding

SECURE AND AFFORDABLE:PureVPN has everything you'll need to stream your favorite shows safely. Long-term plans are reasonably priced and include a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PureVPN to learn more.

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8. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN Unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 7.4 / 10
Ease of Use: 8.2 / 10
Security & Privacy: 8.6 / 10
Streaming performance: 5.9 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 8.0 / 10
Value for money: 6.5 / 10

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN does things a litle differently to most of its rivals. For instance, instead of trying to have the largest network around, it has curated around 200 self-owned, self-managed servers (covering 60+ countries). Ping times are listed next to each server location, so you can choose the server with the lowest number to get the fastest available speeds.

PrivateVPN UK servers.
PrivateVPN has two UK server locations.

We tested PrivateVPN with Sky Go, and it worked great. We also successfully tried it with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Max. However, in some instances, we could only establish a connection when the VPN was in stealth mode. This feature, which is available via the settings menu, is easy to enable and worth a try if you’re having connection issues.

PrivateVPN's Stealth VPN feature.
PrivateVPN’s Stealth VPN feature can help with access to streaming platforms.

To find out what speeds users are likely to get while using PrivateVPN to stream Sky Go, we connected to servers in the UK and Ireland and measured our download speeds multiple times. Performance was generally pretty solid, and PrivateVPN managed to achieve an average speed of 44.78 Mbps, which is barely any slower than our speed with no VPN connected. Let’s see those results:

PrivateVPN doesn’t skimp on security, utilizing strong encryption and adhering to a no-logs policy. Unusually among VPN providers, it allows users to choose what level of encryption to use while connected. Switching from AES-256 to AES-128 can give you a speed bump if needed while still providing enough security for most users. Naturally, this VPN stops IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks in their tracks too.

PrivateVPN is also unusual in that it allows port forwarding. The port number—displayed in the dashboard when connected—can be used in your torrent client to download and upload files more efficiently. It also has a customizable kill switch, allowing you to close specific apps when your connection to the VPN drops.

This is one of the cheaper VPNs available. If you’re willing to sign up for a three-year contract, subscriptions cost as little as $2 a month. Subscribers get access to Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android apps and can use up to 10 connected devices simultaneously. The software is compatible with Linux platforms and some routers, which is helpful if you want to use Sky Go with a smart TV, though you’ll have to follow manual setup instructions.

Buy this VPN if:

  • Privacy is your top priority
  • You regularly use multiple British streaming services and need a VPN that can unblock them all reliably
  • You’re in a country where VPN use is restricted
  • You want to be able to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want access to a large server network
  • You need the fastest speeds or have a slow base connection

PRIVACY-FOCUSED:PrivateVPN is a good family choice. Unblocks Sky Go and allows up to 10 devices on the same account. A small network of servers, but fast connections. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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9. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield Unblocks Sky GOTested Oct 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 5.9 / 10
Ease of Use: 9.1 / 10
Security & Privacy: 8.6 / 10
Streaming performance: 2.4 / 10
UK and Ireland speed: 3.5 / 10
Value for money: 6.1 / 10

Website:  www.Hotspotshield.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

Editor's Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Point Wild, Comparitech's parent company.

Editor’s note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.

Hotspot Shield is a versatile VPN that operates servers in 80+ countries, with two locations in the United Kingdom (Coventry and London). Some of these are even optimized for accessing UK streaming platforms abroad. We tested these and were able to stream Sky Go, Netflix UK, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, to name but a few popular platforms.

We tested Hotspot Shield’s download speeds by connecting to servers in the UK and Ireland at different points during the day. Hotspot Shield’s download speeds were decent, though not as good as the other providers on our list.

Overall, the provider averaged 39.08 Mbps. That’s well above the 15 Mbps needed to stream 4K content without any issues. However, Hotspot Shield’s speeds could be a little more reliable, since they varied by around 10 Mbps — almost 20 percent. If you already have a fairly slow base internet speed, you may want to consider a different provider.

From a security perspective, Hotspot Shield is very strong. It uses 256-bit AES encryption (which is currently considered uncrackable), combined with a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy which has been verified by external auditors. While this VPN supports popular protocols like WireGuard and IKEv2, it also has one of its own, Hydra, which can hide the telltale signs of VPN usage.

Hotspot Shield's protocol options.
Hotspot Shield has three connection protocols to choose from.

If you’re traveling abroad, the auto-protect feature can ensure you never connect to public Wi-Fi without a VPN’s protection. The split tunneling feature is a little more advanced than most in that it allows you to specify which apps and domains should either be excluded from or exclusively included in the VPN tunnel.

Hotspot Shield has apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. It can also be configured on a wide range of home routers, enabling you to use the Sky Go app with a VPN-incompatible device on your home network.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You prefer the convenience of dedicated streaming and gaming servers
  • You need access to servers in less commonly-seen countries
  • You want to connect to the internet from China or other restrictive countries
  • You’d like the longer than average 45-day money back guarantee

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You have a slow broadband connection
  • You want fine-grained control over security and connection settings

UK STREAMING SERVERS:Hotspot Shield has servers specially optimized for services like Sky Go, BBC iPlayer, and ITV Hub. Not only that, easy to use and great at bypassing VPN blocks. There’s even a 45-day money-back guarantee included.

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

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Recent VPN Product Updates

We’re constantly reviewing our recommended VPNs for the latest product updates. Here are the most recent advancements:

NordVPN

  • Improved scam call protection to recognize more unwanted call types (October 2025)
  • The Linux platform is now open-source so that users can customize to their needs (October 2025)
  • Made browser extensions more secure. (December 2024)
  • Improved connection stability with automatic reconnect feature (June 2025)

TotalVPN

  • Launched tvOS application for Apple TV compatibility
  • Implemented “always on” kill switch for Android devices
  • Added “connect on demand” feature for iOS and macOS
  • Deployed WireGuard protocol across all applications

Proton VPN

  • Implemented IPv6 compatibility in browser extensions and Linux client (2024)
  • Introduced guest access mode for Android without registration (2024)
  • Upgraded NetShield with anti-phishing capabilities (Spring 2025)
  • Broadened streaming compatibility to approximately 100 services (Spring 2025)

ExpressVPN

  • A new version of the iPad app has been released with better functionality (October 2025)
  • A three-tier subscription was introduced, ranging from $3.49 to $7.49 per month over two years (October 2025)
  • A new free VPN offering was launched, EventVPN. (September 2025)

IPVanish

  • Expanded network, now offering access to 3,200 servers globally (September 2025)
  • Added 50 new countries, now in 107 places and 135+ cities. (October 2024)
  • Started Advanced plan with Secure Browser and 1TB of cloud storage. (October 2024)
  • Works on Apple TV, Google TV, and Vision Pro now. (December 2024)

How to stop getting Sky Go error codes when using a VPN

Having problems watching Sky Go while connected to a VPN? In this section, we’ll cover some of the most common Sky Go error codes and explain what you can do to resolve them and get back to streaming your favorite shows.

First and foremost, we have error code 1404. This is a fairly general error that just means something went wrong when loading your content. There are several possible causes: your firewall could be blocking the Sky Go app, your internet connection could be unstable, or perhaps you just don’t have a Sky TV subscription. Make sure you’re actually connected to the internet, using a UK VPN server, and have paid your bill, and you should be able to watch again.

Screenshot showing a Sky Go error

Next up, there are two regional error codes: 1314 and 1315. These are the ones you’ll probably only notice when traveling, since they just means that the Sky Go app has realized you’re outside of the UK. Connect to a British VPN server and this problem should resolve itself; if it doesn’t, we’d recommend asking your VPN provider which server to use.

Finally, there’s Sky Go error code 50-2. This one means that Sky Go has realized you’re using a VPN. If your VPN has a stealth mode, you may be able to sidestep this issue, but otherwise, your best bet is to try a few different UK VPN servers. Failing this, it’s possible you’re using a VPN that just can’t unblock Sky Go.

How to watch Sky Go using a Smart DNS proxy

Some people use Smart DNS proxies as an alternative to VPNs for unblocking region-locked content. There are a couple of benefits to this method; for instance, you can stream Sky Go on devices that don’t support full VPN apps (such as games consoles) and there’s no configuration required beyond changing a couple of settings. However, Smart DNS proxies don’t encrypt your traffic like VPNs do and often only work with US-based streaming apps.

In addition, it is important to note that services like Sky Go actively block proxy services, including some VPNs (which is why you must pick carefully). Unfortunately, most Smart DNS services have now been blocked, which makes them unsuitable for streaming Sky Go.

The good news is that some VPNs have included a free Smart DNS service for their subscribers. This means you can use both the VPN and a Smart DNS proxy for the same low cost. This comes in handy if your device won’t let you install the VPN app directly (some Smart TVs, for instance), though you will have to make sure it can actually access British streaming platforms.

You can see which of the providers in this article offer a smart DNS service in the table below:

VPN providerSmart DNS (yes = 10, no = 0)
NordVPN10
Surfshark10
IPVanish0
ExpressVPN10
PIA (Private Internet Access)10
PureVPN10
PrivateVPN0
ProtonVPN0
Hotspot Shield0

Altering your DNS settings is a bit trickier than setting up a VPN, but you usually don’t need to install any extra software.

DNS settings can be adjusted using your device’s settings menu:

  1. Sign up for a VPN that has a free Smart DNS service. We recommend NordVPN or IPVanish.
  2. Validate your device’s current IP address on the provider’s website.
  3. Input the primary and alternate DNS server addresses into your system’s internet settings (the exact process differs depending on your device)
  4. Save changes and restart your device
  5. Navigate to the Sky Go webpage or open the Sky Go app and enjoy!

Sky Go not working with your VPN? Try this…

If you’re connected to one of the VPNs we recommend above but are still unable to watch Sky Go abroad, make sure you meet the rest of Sky Go’s technical requirements:

  • System settings must be set to the English language
  • Time zone must be set to UK time (UTC +0)
  • You need a browser that supports Microsoft Silverlight, which means Internet Explorer (not Edge) for Windows users and Safari for Mac users. Firefox and Chrome have both ended support for Silverlight.
  • If you tried accessing a video and were blocked prior to using a VPN or DNS proxy, it’s probably a good idea to clear your browser cookies and cache before making another attempt.
  • Sky Go is not supported on rooted Android devices

Sky Go channels

Sky Go is an online television service launched by UK broadcaster Sky in 2006. It was previously known as Sky Player, Sky Anytime PC, and Sky By Broadband. The service lets Sky TV subscribers watch live channels and on-demand video on internet-connected devices, including Windows PCs, Mac OSX, iOS, Android, and game consoles.

Viewers can access both live TV and replays via Sky Go. The table below contains a list of all the channels you can watch using Sky Go — use the search function if you want to check whether a particular channel is available.

Bear in mind that you can only watch channels if you’ve paid for them with your TV package. It’s also worth noting that content on Sky Go is only available for a limited amount of time after it first airs on TV. So don’t let the latest episode of your favorite show sit for too long!

ChannelType
Sky Cinema PremiereMovies
Sky Cinema SelectMovies
Sky Cinema HitsMovies
Sky Cinema Sci-Fi/HorrorMovies
Sky Cinema AnimationMovies
Sky Cinema FamilyMovies
Sky Cinema ActionMovies
Sky Cinema ComedyMovies
Sky Cinema ThrillerMovies
Sky Cinema DramaMovies

Sky cable subscriptions start at £15 GBP per month with a minimum two-year contract. Subscribers can watch videos on up to two simultaneous connections by default, and up to four are available for an extra fee as part of the Sky Go Extra package. If you have used two devices in the past and want to use a third, you must remove an existing registered device before you can register another.

Sky Go Extra also allows users to download content to their local devices so they can watch offline. The content is DRM protected, which means it can’t be copied, distributed, or watched after the expiration date. Files are deleted 48 hours after viewing starts or no later than 30 days after download.

Watching Sky Go with a VPN: FAQs

Can I use a free VPN to watch Sky Go?

We’ve discussed some quality paid options for Sky Go VPN providers, but there are also a ton of free VPNs available. These seem like attractive choices but we recommend steering clear as these services are typically plagued with issues.

A free VPN provider often has too many users and a limited number of servers. This results in long wait times for servers and slow, unreliable connections. And that’s not the worst part. Many of these services use shady business tactics to make money. They might track user activity, sell customer profiles to advertisers, and even steal users’ idle bandwidth.

It’s definitely worth a few dollars a month to know you’re being served and protected by a reputable VPN provider.

Is it illegal to access Sky Go with a VPN?

It is not illegal to access Sky Go with a VPN. There is no law expressly prohibiting users from using a VPN when watching Sky Go.

When you sign up for Sky Go, however, you have to accept the terms and conditions, which state you must:

  • Be a resident of the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or the Republic of Ireland.
  • Only access and use the Service via your Devices in the Territory.

So, using a VPN to access Sky Go from outside the UK may violate the terms of service, which could be grounds for Sky Go to terminate or suspend service. That being said, we have not seen any precedent of Sky Go taking action against VPN users other than simply blocking access from many VPNs.

Does Sky Go work on a Firestick?

Yes! A Sky Go app is available directly from Amazon on the Fire TV Stick’s built-in app store. From the home screen, just click the magnifying glass icon and search for “Sky Go.” It should appear as the top result. Select it and click the Get button to download and install the Sky Go app on Firestick. You must change your Firestick location to the UK if you are abroad.

How does Sky Go detect a VPN?

Like many other streaming services, Sky Go uses various techniques to detect and block VPNs to enforce geo-restrictions. Here are some common methods Sky Go may use to detect VPNs:

  • IP blocking: Sky Go maintains a list of known VPN IP addresses and blocks access to its content if you’re connected to one of these IPs. VPN providers constantly update their IP addresses to bypass such blocks, but streaming services like Sky Go may still identify and block new IP addresses over time.
  • IP reputation: Some VPN IP addresses are shared among many users, making it easier for Sky Go to identify them as VPN IPs due to many simultaneous connections coming from the same IP address. They may also look for IP addresses with a history of suspicious activities or those associated with data centers rather than residential ISPs.
  • Deep packet inspection (DPI): Sky Go may use DPI to examine the data packets transmitted through its network to identify VPN traffic patterns. DPI allows them to detect and block the encrypted traffic associated with VPNs and block it. Some advanced VPNs use obfuscation techniques to make their traffic look like regular internet traffic, making it harder for DPI to detect them.
  • DNS and WebRTC leaks: If your VPN leaks your DNS or WebRTC requests, Sky Go may be able to see your actual location, even if you’re connected to a VPN. To prevent this, choose a VPN with built-in leak protection features.

Can I watch Sky Go with Tor?

It might be possible but we wouldn’t recommend it. First of all, Tor is slow. Too slow to stream videos in good quality without buffering.

Second, Tor does not let you choose the location from which you’ll access the internet by default. In order to get an exit node in the UK, you would have to set up Tor bridges. Even then, reliability could be an issue.

Third, Sky Go requires users to log in with a username and password. Doing so completely erases your online anonymity, so there’s little point in using Tor in the first place.

Lastly, Tor exit nodes are public, so websites, apps, and streaming services all know whether or not you’re using Tor, even if they don’t know your identity. Many sites block access to connections from Tor nodes, and even if Sky Go doesn’t block you entirely, expect to go through a lot more CAPTCHAs to get to the site.