How to watch Philo online from anywhere (outside the US)

Like most major streaming services, Philo is regionally restricted. Travelers visiting the site from outside the US will be stopped in their tracks by the following error: “Sorry, Philo is only available in the United States… for now”. This can be frustrating, but the good news is it’s actually fairly easy to regain access to your usual services while on vacation. You just need to use a VPN to gain a US IP address.

Philo determines your location by examining your IP address. However, when you connect to a VPN, this is replaced with the IP address of your chosen server. From Philo’s perspective, the user now appears to be wherever their server is. In short, if you use a server in the US, you’ll be able to securely access US-only services like Philo from anywhere in the world. What’s more, VPNs encrypt your traffic, which stops snoopers like your ISP from seeing what you do online.

In this article, we’ll explain exactly how to use a VPN to access Philo from anywhere in the world and list the best VPNs for the job. We go into more detail about each of them later on, but in case you’re short on time, we’ll start with a summary.

Best VPNs for live streaming Philo

1. NordVPN: Our top recommendation for Philo. Not only is it one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested, but it’s among the strongest on security and privacy too. All plans include a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: The best low-cost VPN for streaming Philo abroad. This VPN sits at the top of the table for speed and lets you connect every device you own. Also boasts a robust security toolkit.
3. ExpressVPN: A quick, reliable, and reputable provider that has no issues streaming Philo from abroad. Provides secure servers in 94 countries, plus 24/7 customer support.
4. CyberGhost: Works well with services like Philo. Steady speeds, streaming-optimized servers, and pre-configured security features make this a no-fuss option for novice users.
5. IPVanish: A zero-logs VPN with steady speeds and great everyday usage potential. Has no connection limit and reliably unblocks Philo from outside of the US.
6. PrivateVPN: A privacy-focused service with above-average speeds and exceptional streaming capabilities. Comes packed with security features and even works in China.

TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Philo.

How to stream Philo from anywhere using a VPN

New to VPNs and not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the process of unblocking Philo step-by-step. Just follow the instructions below and you’ll be watching your favorite shows in no time.

Here’s how to watch Philo online abroad (outside the US):

1. Begin by deciding which VPN you’d like to use (we recommend NordVPN)
2. Install the VPN app onto any device you stream with regularly. Usually, you’ll be allowed to connect five or so devices at once, but each VPN provider has a different limit
3. Next, open your VPN app and select a server in the US to get the US IP address you need to bypass Philo’s restrictions. If you’re struggling to find one that works with Philo, those in Los Angeles and New York are usually safe choices
4. Once connected, try logging into Philo and watching something. If you’re still seeing an error, clear your browser’s cookies and try again. Failing this, get in touch with your VPN’s customer support team to see if there’s a specific server you should be using

How we chose the top VPNs for Philo

People who’ve never used a VPN before often get sidetracked trying to decide which service is objectively the best. The truth is that each VPN is configured differently, and, as a result, the one that’s the best at unblocking Philo might not be the most secure, and vice versa. Instead, we find it’s better to look at VPNs that can deal with a range of day-to-day tasks reliably. That’s why all of the services we recommend today fit these non-negotiable criteria:

• Has a range of US servers capable of helping you securely access Philo while traveling abroad
• Provides high enough speeds for uninterrupted live streaming
• Uses uncrackable encryption and a wealth of other security tools to keep you safe
• Doesn’t log any information that could be used to identify you
• Includes apps for a wide range of devices
• Permits at least five simultaneous connections

Want to know more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend? Check out the more detailed methodology section below.

The best VPNs for Philo

Now, let’s examine our recommended VPNs in more detail so you knw exactly what you;re getting.

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for watching Philo outsode the US:

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024 works with PhiloTested Apr 2024

NordVPN is our #1 choice for watching Philo. This VPN combines user-friendly apps with extremely high speeds to provide a service that’s as comfortable streaming live TV as it is torrenting. This veteran provider has a wde network of global servers including almost 2,000 in teh US ideal for accessing Philo. There are no bandwidth limits to speak of, and NordVPN also works reliably with tricky platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Not only that, but users can connect up to six of their devices at a time.

There are plenty of cutting-edge security features included too. To begin with, NordVPN has its own WireGuard-based protocol named NordLynx, which is faster and easier to audit than OpenVPN. Additionally, its apps offer 256-bit encryption, protection against IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, and a customizable kill switch. NordVPN doesn’t keep any logs and recently had an independent team of investigators verify this (something it does periodically). Support is available over email and live chat, 24/7.

NordVPN users can install apps for iOS, MacOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. It’s also possible to manually configure this VPN on some routers, which will let you secure every device on your home network.

BEST VPN FOR PHILO:NordVPN is our top choice. It’s speedy enough for flawless live streaming and doesn’t compromise on security or usability. Not only that, but it offers around-the-clock assistance over live chat, and a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.

Why not take a look at our full NordVPN review?

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2. Surfshark

works with philoTested Apr 2024

Surfshark is our top choice for anyone on a budget. This provider has no problems unblocking services like Philo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV outside of the US—and with unlimited bandwidth, you’re free to stream as much as you like. Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries and is one of the very few providers that allows subscribers to connect all of their devices at once. Additionally, it performed extremely well in our latest speed tests, averaging over 200 Mbps on a 1 Gbps connection.

It’s clear that this VPN values your privacy. After all, it keeps no logs and just recently revamped its privacy policy to make it much simpler to understand; the obscure legal language is gone and it breaks down all of the information Surfshark stores in plain English. Additionally, Surfshark’s apps include 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch, plus a NoBorders mode for safe browsing in countries with strict online censorship. If you need help, just contact customer support over email or live chat—both are available 24/7.

Surfshark has its own Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, and Linux apps. If you’d prefer, you can manually install it on supported wireless routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is our top budget option. It’s quick, reliable, and able to access all manner of streaming platforms, not just Philo. Better still, this VPN has no connection limit and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our complete Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

works with philoTested Apr 2024

ExpressVPN has no problems streaming Philo. In fact, with more than 3,000 servers to choose from in 94 countries, it provides secure access to a huge range of platforms including Netflix and HBO Max. In addition, this VPN regularly delivers high speeds during testing, making it ideal for watching live TV, using P2P networks, or just browsing the web safely. Up to five devices can be connected at once, which should be more than enough for most users.

This service’s security toolkit includes a kill switch, protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, and 256-bit AES encryption. Additionally, it lets you block access to local devices, or allow certain apps to pass through the VPN entirely. ExpressVPN doesn’t log any personally identifiable data but you can always use a throwaway email address and pay in Bitcoin for another layer of privacy. Support staff are on-hand 24/7 just in case you have any problems.

ExpressVPN apps are available for Linux, Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. What’s more, this service has its own router firmware. This recently saw a major upgrade that made it quicker, more reliable, and easier to use than ever before.

NO FUSS STREAMING:ExpressVPN is a strong choice for watching Philo abroad. It boasts top-tier speeds, a solid set of security tools, and a network that spans more than 90 countries. And if that’s not enough, it also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Interested? Check out the full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

works with philoTested Apr 2024

CyberGhost has almost 1,500 servers in the US, which is more than some other VPNs have globally. Some of these are even optimized for streaming, which takes the stress out of trying to watch your favorite shows abroad. Thanks to this VPN’s fast connections and unlimited bandwidth, there are very few things you won’t be able to do. CyberGhost has a higher than average connection limit and allows up to seven devices at once.

There’s no tinkering required with this VPN, since its security tools are all enabled out of the box. This includes an always-on kill switch, 256-bit encryption, and leak protection. Newer versions of the apps also include WireGuard protocol support and the ability to connect via a random port. CyberGhost recently released its own password manager and security suite software too, so it’s clear that this provider isn’t content to rest on its laurels. A 24/7 live chat service is available to help with any issues you might have.

CyberGhost provides apps for MacOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux systems. You can also follow manual setup instructions to get this VPN running on supported routers.

GREAT FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost has almost 1,500 speedy US servers, which makes streaming Philo very simple. It’s an extremely user-friendly VPN that takes care of the security side of things for you and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

For more details, read our full review of CyberGhost.

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5. IPVanish

works with philoTested Apr 2024

IPVanish has hundreds of servers in the US, and around 1,900 globally. This lightweight service delivers solid speeds and works with a decent selection of American streaming services, including Philo, Netflix, and Sling TV. What really sets this VPN apart is that it doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect. Needless to say, this makes it an ideal choice for sharing with family.

This service’s apps recently introduced support for WireGuard connections, but that’s not all they have to offer. There’s also DNS and IPv6 leak protection, 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch, as well as the option to scramble your OpenVPN traffic. You can even tell it to try reconnecting automatically should your connection drop. IPVanish follows a strict no-logging policy and provides 24/7 support over email and live chat.

IPVanish has its own apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. Linux systems and select routers are supported too, though you’ll have to configure the VPN manually for these.

WATCH TV ANYWHERE:IPVanish is fast, secure, and reliable, making it the perfect choice for anyone hoping to stream TV from back home as they travel. Better still, it can protect all of your devices at once. Annual subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our comprehensive review of IPVanish.

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6. PrivateVPN

works with philoTested Apr 2024

PrivateVPN users have access to around 200 servers in 63 countries, with around a dozen in the US. This service has no problems accessing platforms like Philo, fuboTV, and YouTube TV, and it’s one of the fastest we’ve tested. In other words, it’s perfectly suited to streaming as you travel abroad. Ten simultaneous connections are permitted and there are no restrictions on the amount of bandwidth you can use.

You know this provider is serious about privacy, because it recently became its own ISP in order to guarantee no other company has access to user traffic. Naturally, it follows a true zero-logs policy, plus its apps use 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection to keep your browsing activities hidden. There’s also a stealth mode designed to help you browse safely in countries with oppressive online censorship. Live chat is available most, but not all, hours of the day.

PrivateVPN has apps for iOS, Android, MacOS, and Windows. It’s possible to manually configure the VPN for use with Linux devices and select network routers too.

SPEEDY NO-LOGS VPN:PrivateVPN is an exceptionally strong service for anyone who likes to watch TV. It’s among the fastest we’ve seen, works with all kinds of streaming platforms, and puts your privacy above all else. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Take a look at the complete PrivateVPN review.

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Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Philo

If you’re looking for a VPN that can help you watch Philo abroad, there are a few key things to think about. Is it fast enough? Will it be secure enough to let you stream safely? Does it support all of your devices? To ensure that we only recommend the best of the best, here’s a list of things that we consider non-negotiable:

• American servers: An outright necessity. Without these, there’s no getting around Philo’s geo-restriction measures. The more to choose from, the better.
• High speeds: Every VPN slows your connection down somewhat, but we prioritize those that have as small an impact as possible. We regularly speed test every VPN to ensure those we recommend can stream live HD video, provided your base connection is fast enough.
• Streaming potential: There may well be other services from back home you’d like to use. That’s why our top picks also work with platforms like Hulu, Sling TV, and fuboTV.
• Security and privacy tools: You should never have to compromise on security just to watch TV abroad. We won’t recommend a service without, at a minimum, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, leak protection, and 256-bit encryption. We prefer VPNs that offer even more advanced tools, though.
• Fair pricing: Overpriced VPNs have no place on our list. We compare candidates against similarly-priced rivals to ensure that they’re really worth what they charge, and we prioritize those that offer money-back guarantees and free trials so you can be sure you’re happy with the service before you commit.
• User-friendly apps: We like clean, well-organized apps that are easy enough for anyone to use. If a service lowers the barrier to entry further, say by removing connection limits, that’s even better.

Interested in finding out more about how we put services through their paces? We’ve outlined the full process in our guide to Comparitech’s VPN testing methodology.

Can I unblock Philo with a free VPN?

It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to watch Philo abroad using a free VPN. These services often only have very small networks, yet huge numbers of users. As such, you’ll almost certainly experience reliability issues and may not even get a connection that’s fast enough for streaming at all. Additionally, because there’s so much traffic coming from a small set of IP addresses, it’s laughably simple for platforms like Philo to identify and blacklist free VPN servers. In other words, even if you find a free service that works now, it might not in the future.

Unfortunately, performance issues are just the tip of the iceberg. We’ve seen multiple instances where a free VPN provider has made false statements about how secure they are. UFO VPN, for example, claimed to keep no logs until Comparitech found proof that this wasn’t the case. Rather than take providers at their word, we encourage you to research them, their privacy policies, and their reputations before deciding whether to use them. In other words, price should be just one of many things you consider rather than the deciding factor.

Streaming Philo with a VPN: FAQs