Does Hulu Work With a VPN?
03 min read
You can watch Hulu with a VPN, but it’s not always simple. Hulu blocks most VPNs because of licensing rules—they only want people in the US and Japan to watch their shows. So, you’ll need a really solid HULU VPN. Not all of them work. Only a few can actually get around Hulu’s blocks.
Here’s what to look for:
- Strong privacy features
- Reliable servers in the US or Japan
- Consistent ability to get past Hulu’s geo-restrictions
Think of it like trying to sneak into a concert with tight security. Most doors are locked, but a few special passes still work. You just have to find the right one.
What is a VPN and How Does it Work?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is basically a tool that keeps your online activity private. Here's how it works:
- It creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet.
- Your internet connection gets encrypted, so no one can easily peek at what you're doing.
- Your real IP address is hidden. Instead, websites see the VPN server’s IP.
Think of it like driving through a secret tunnel on a busy highway. No one can see where you're going or where you started.
Let’s say you connect to a VPN server in another country. Sites like Hulu will think you’re visiting from that place, not your actual location. That’s why VPNs are often used to get around region blocks.
The encryption part? It scrambles your data. So even if someone tries to intercept your info—like your ISP, a hacker, or even government agencies—they’ll just see a mess of unreadable code.
Simple, private, and a bit like having your own invisible cloak online.
Why Hulu Blocks VPNs
Hulu’s shows and movies are only licensed for viewers in the US and Japan. To stick to these rules, Hulu works hard to spot and block VPN users. Here’s how they do it:
- Blacklisted IP addresses: Hulu maintains a list of IP addresses associated with popular VPN services. If too many people log in from the same IP, Hulu notices and shuts it down.
- IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks: Not all VPNs are airtight. Some accidentally let your real IP or DNS requests slip through. If Hulu spots your real location this way, you’re out of luck.
- IP/GPS Mismatch: Using Hulu on Your Phone? They can check if your IP address matches your phone’s GPS location. If they don’t line up, access denied.
- Shared IPs: VPNs often allow multiple users to share the same IP address. When Hulu sees a crowd piling in from one spot, they get suspicious and block it.
How to Use a VPN with Hulu
If you want to watch Hulu with a VPN, you’ll need a provider that can outsmart Hulu’s detection tricks. Here’s what to look for:
- Large server networks: The more, the better. Especially in the US and Japan. If Hulu blocks one server, just switch to another. Think of it like musical chairs with IP addresses.
- Obfuscated servers: These are sometimes called “stealth” servers. They hide the fact that you’re using a VPN, so Hulu sees you as just another regular viewer. No red flags.
- Streaming-optimized servers: Some VPNs have special servers made just for streaming. They’re faster and more reliable. No more endless buffering circles.
- Strong security: Look for basics like a kill switch (it cuts your connection if the VPN drops, so your real info isn’t exposed) and DNS leak protection. It’s like double-locking your doors.
Here’s how to watch HULU with a HULU VPN:
- Choose a reliable VPN service provider that offers US servers.
- We recommend following best VPNs.
- Download install the VPN app
- Connect to a US server location within the VPN app. This will give you a US IP address and trick HULU into thinking you are accessing the service from within the US.
- Once connected to the VPN, visit the HULU website or launch the HULU app on your device.
- You should now be able to access all the content available on HULU from outside the US.
It's important to note that not all VPNs work with HULU as the service actively blocks VPN traffic. Therefore, it's important to choose a reputable VPN service like SaviourVPN and PureVPN that has a proven track record of successfully unblocking streaming services like HULU.