What is VPN?
A virtual private network extends a private network across a public network and enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network.
How To Use VPN In South Africa?
Access US Netflix and other services from home
In this section, we’ll take you through two examples of how to use your VPN. Follow these steps if you’re a foreign expatriate and would like to obtain a non-South African IP address while physically located in the country. These steps also work to protect your online anonymity and security, simply select any server location and your data will be secure.
Here’s how to unblock streaming services in South Africa:
- Browse through our recommended list of VPN services and decide on a plan that works for you. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Register and pay for the service
- Once that’s done, download the companion apps (for your phone) or software (for PC or MacOS)
- Clear your cookies and cache in all web browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) to remove old location identifiers
- Restart your device
- Open the VPN companion software and log in
- Select a server from the country you’re trying to obtain an IP address – such as the US or Great Britain
- Allow a few seconds for the connection to be established. Once that’s done there should be a green notification icon in the taskbar
- Browse the web like you normally would.
You’ll notice that the host websites will assume your location is in the country you’re currently connected to. This will open up things like streaming media content and local online banking services, including DST and Netflix US.
Access South African TV, sites and apps from abroad
Another way you can use your VPN is for South African residents that are traveling abroad and need a local South African IP address. A VPN could be for streaming content, accessing online banking, or finding cheaper airline deals.
Here’s how to unblock South African websites from abroad:
- Browse through our recommendations and settle for an option that has servers in South Africa
- Register and pay for the VPN- select either a monthly or annual plan depending on how frequently you’d like to use a VPN
- Once that’s done, get the apps for your phone or computer from the VPN download page
- Clear your cookies in all web browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) to remove old location identifiers
- Restart your device
- Open the VPN companion software and log in
- Select a server in South Africa and click connect
- Allow a few seconds for the connection to be established. Once that’s done there should be a green notification icon in the taskbar
- Browse the web like you normally would