Freeview Play Not Working With VPN? Here's The Fix!

With a VPN, you can have access to Freeview Play content from outside the UK, but what if it’s not working?

If you can’t seem to open the content library and get errors on FreeView, you’re not alone. I’ve been there and figured out how to fix it.

So let’s get started. I’ll show you all you need to know to easily watch FreeView with VPN. By the end of this, you’ll be able to access its content abroad as if you were in the UK.

After that, I’ll also outline a quick overview of the best VPNs for it.

FreeView Play not working with VPN?

If you find that Freeview Play is not working when you’re connected to a VPN, try any of these five solutions to resolve the issue:

1. Switch to a different UK Server

Sometimes, the VPN server you’re connected to might be blocked by Freeview Play, or you’re connected to a server location where Freeview Play is not supported. 

Whichever category you fall into, try switching to a different server in the UK.

This works because all servers have separate IP addresses, which might not be on Freeview Play’s blocklist.

Here’s how to do that using CyberGhost:

1. Disconnect from the current VPN server by clicking on the power icon.

2. Choose another UK server from your VPN provider’s options.

3. Reconnect to the VPN using the new UK server.

4. Launch Freeview Play and check if it is now functioning properly.

You may need to try a few UK servers in different locations to find the best one that works for you. 

NOTE

I used CyberGhost as an example, but following the same principle should give the same results, even if you use a different VPN service.

2. Clear your cached data

When you download Freeview Play on your device, it creates a cache saved on your device’s internal memory. 

The cache stores some data and settings, which include your location. This is meant to improve your user experience, but it can also tamper with your VPN.

Luckily, clearing it is simple, quick and may fix the issue for good.

➡️ On TV

Follow the steps below to clear your device’s cache, using LG Smart TV as an example:

1. From your device’s home screen, go to Settings and select Device Preferences.

2. Select Storage from the list of options.

3. Select Internal Storage.

4. Scroll down the list to select Cached data.

5. Click okay, and then reconnect to a UK server on your VPN.

6. Open Freeview and start streaming your favorite show.

Note that some SmartTVs like FireStick only have options to clear the cache data individually for each app. In that case, you’ll need to clear the streaming app’s cached data only.

➡️ On mobile

If you are using a mobile phone to access Freeview Play, follow the steps below to clear your app cache data:

1. Open your Settings app.
2. Tap on Apps or Applications.
3. Find the Freeview Play app and tap on it.

4. Tap on Storage or Storage & Cache.
5. Tap on Clear cache.
6. Try reconnecting to your Freeview Play while connected to a UK server on your VPN.

3. Check your split-tunneling settings

Split tunneling is a technique that allows you to direct specific internet traffic through the VPN while allowing other traffic to access the internet directly, bypassing the VPN. 

You can use it to ensure that Freeview Play traffic does not go through your regular internet connection, eliminating potential blocks from the streaming service. 

Here is how to activate Split Tunnel for Freeview Play on CyberGhost:

1. Tap the gear icon for Settings.

2. Open the VPN tab.
3. Tap App Split Tunnel.

4. Ensure the mode is on Custom rules.

5. Now, look if Freeview Play’s box is checked. If it is not, check it.
6. Reconnect your VPN.
7. Enjoy streaming Freeview Play.

4. Reinstall your VPN

If your VPN app is corrupted or outdated, it may fail to hide your IP address or connect to your desired server.

A simple solution to try is to reinstall the app.

Here is how to do it on a Samsung Smart TV:

1. Press the Home button on your remote and scroll down to Apps.

2. Select settings on the top right corner of your screen.

3. Navigate to your VPN app, then select Delete.

4. In the new pop-up, select Yes.

5. Press the Return button on your remote, then select the Search icon to type in your VPN provider’s name.

6. Select your VPN provider and install it.

7. Log in with your credentials.

8. Connect to a UK Server and try streaming on Freeview Play again.

This will also update your app to the latest version, ensuring you have the latest security features, bug fixes, and improvements for a smoother and safer VPN experience.

5. Change your VPN provider

If Freeview Play is not working with VPN after trying the fixes above, switching to a different VPN provider is the last resort. 

Some VPNs, especially free ones, may have DNS leaks or fewer servers that are often overloaded. 

This can result in slower speeds and Railpay suspecting and blacklisting the server.

I recommend CyberGhost for its great speed and numerous UK servers. 

 Here are the steps to use it on Freeview Play:

1. Visit CyberGhost’s website and Subscribe to a subscription plan.

2. On your Smart TV or app store, search for CyberGhost to download and install the app. 

3. Open the app and accept the Terms and Conditions by clicking on Agree and Continue.

4. Log in with your credentials.

5. Search and select a UK server.

6. Click Okay to accept VPN connection request.

7. Once connected to the server, try streaming on Freeview Play again.

CyberGhost works best with Freeview Play. Nevertheless, remember to clear your app cookies before tying it out.

Does Freeview Play block VPNs?

Freeview Play doesn’t officially block VPN usage. 

However, they might have measures in place to detect and restrict access from VPN IP addresses to comply with content licensing agreements. 

This could be the reason why some VPN users face difficulties accessing Freeview Play.

How does Freeview Play detect my VPN?

Freeview Play may detect your VPN through several methods, including:

• IP Address Blacklisting: Freeview Play might maintain a list of known VPN server IP addresses and block access from those addresses.
• Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): Freeview Play could use DPI technology to analyze network packets and identify VPN traffic characteristics.
• DNS Leaks: DNS leaks can occur when your device unintentionally reveals its actual location to Freeview Play servers, even when connected to a VPN.
• WebRTC Vulnerabilities: WebRTC can sometimes bypass VPN connections, potentially revealing your actual IP address to Freeview Play.

Does Freeview Play work with a VPN?

Yes, Freeview Play works with a VPN if you use a reliable and reputable VPN service that can evade its blocks. 

A good Freeview Play VPN will have an extensive network of servers in the UK, a fast and consistent performance, strong encryption and security features, and a user-friendly interface.

However, not all VPNs work with Freeview Play. Some VPNs are too slow, weak, or outdated to bypass Freeview Play’s blocks. 

To save you the hassle of searching for a good enough VPN, I have compiled a list of the best Freeview Play VPNs in the next section. 

Check them out!

Best VPNs for Freeview Play

In a bid to access Freeview Play from Nigeria, I tested several top VPNs, and I was able to compile a list of the five best ones. 

My selection of these VPNs is based on the following set of criteria:

• Works well with Freeview Play
• Fast and reliable servers in the UK
• High-quality streaming and no buffering
• Unlimited bandwidth and data
• Strong encryption and security
• User-friendly apps and customer support
• Money-back guarantee

Here are the tools I swear by:

CyberGhost VPN – overall best for streaming on Freeview Play

If you want to stream on Freeview Play hassle-free, CyberGhost VPN is the perfect choice. 

With over 724 UK servers spread across London, Berkshire, and Manchester, you have plenty of options for high-speed connections.

It works wonders on FreeView Play. I’ve also tested it on other UK TV platforms such as BBC iPlayer and it did just as good of a job.

No need to worry about crowded servers! Enjoy unlimited bandwidth, fast VPN protocols like WireGuard®, and streaming-optimized servers with speeds up to 10 Gbps in busy locations. 

This ensures uninterrupted streaming on Freeview Play.

Not only that, CyberGhost takes your online security seriously. With powerful 256-bit AES encryption, your sensitive data is safe from prying eyes and cybercriminals. 

The Kill Switch feature blocks all traffic if you get disconnected, so your location remains hidden from Freeview Play. 

Plus, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously with just one subscription. 

Whether it’s Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, or Amazon Fire TV Stick, CyberGhost’s user-friendly VPN apps have got you covered.

And if you ever need help, their friendly 24/7 Customer Support team is ready to assist you via live chat or email with guided walkthroughs. 

Stream Freeview Play content with peace of mind using CyberGhost VPN!

Pros:

• User-friendly apps with dedicated streaming profiles.
• No-logs policy and strong encryption for enhanced privacy.
• Specialized servers for various use cases, including streaming.

Cons:

• Some servers may experience occasional slowdowns.

CyberGhost

Never miss out on your favorite shows & unblock FreeView Play with CyberGhost!

Free trial Visit website

ExpressVPN – great streaming quality for Freeview Play

If you’re looking to bypass geo-restrictions on Freeview Play, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice. 

With servers in Docklands, London, Midlands, Wembley, and East London, you can always rely on finding a UK server to access your favorite content.

What sets ExpressVPN apart is its strong commitment to security. Utilizing robust 256-bit AES encryption and advanced leak protection, you can stream with confidence, knowing your connection is secure.

Moreover, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer is a standout feature, allowing you to extend VPN protection to devices that don’t support native VPN connections. 

Whether it’s smart TVs, gaming consoles, streaming media players, or other devices without VPN apps, ExpressVPN has you covered.

On top of that, ExpressVPN seamlessly works on popular devices such as Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience.

Your privacy is of utmost importance to ExpressVPN, demonstrated by its strict no-logs policy and use of the TrustedServer feature, which wipes server data after each session.

To make it even more enticing, ExpressVPN offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. You can try it out and see if it suits your needs without any worries.

With ExpressVPN, streaming on Freeview Play becomes easy and worry-free, allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows without restrictions or privacy concerns. 

Stream with peace of mind and unrestricted access to Freeview Play’s content library.

Pros:

• Fast and consistent performance for seamless streaming.
• User-friendly apps for various devices.
• Excellent customer support with 24/7 live chat.

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive compared to other VPNs.

ExpressVPN

Keep enjoying British TV packages on FreeView Play even abroad with this reliable VPN!

Check price Visit website

NordVPN – enough UK servers to unblock Freeview Play

NordVPN offers convenient access to more than 440 secure servers located in the UK, providing you with an effortless way to enjoy Freeview Play.

Its SmartPlay feature is designed to bypass geographical blocks on streaming platforms, which could come in handy for accessing Freeview Play.

Enjoy blazing-fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth with NordVPN, ensuring smooth HD or 4K streaming without interruptions on Freeview Play.

Regarding security and privacy, NordVPN has robust measures in place. It uses AES-256 encryption, a strong standard, to protect your data and identity. 

The kill switch automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing any accidental data leaks, which is useful for other online activities.

For added security, NordVPN offers a Double VPN feature, routing your internet traffic through two separate servers to enhance your privacy. 

NordVPN provides user-friendly apps for various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux, as well as compatibility with smart TVs, routers, and other devices, catering to other streaming services and online activities.

The best part is that NordVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free and explore its features and benefits. 

While Freeview Play may not work with VPN services, NordVPN can still offer secure and uninterrupted streaming on platforms compatible with VPN usage.

Pros:

• Extensive server network with specialty servers optimized for streaming.
• Strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy for enhanced privacy.
• User-friendly apps for multiple devices.
• Double VPN and Onion over VPN features for extra security.

Cons:

• Speeds can vary depending on the server.

NordVPN

Start streaming FreeView Play internationally with NordVPN!

Check price Visit website

Surfshark – 4K streaming quality at an affordable price

Surfshark is a fantastic option that offers excellent security at an affordable price, just $2.49 per month. 

With about 212 servers in 4 different UK cities, you can easily access Freeview Play without any data restrictions or caps.

One of the standout features of Surfshark is its ability to provide unlimited data and unrestricted bandwidth, allowing you to connect multiple devices simultaneously. 

You can stream on Freeview Play worry-free, enjoying your favorite shows and movies in high-definition or even 4K quality without interruptions.

To ensure your online security and privacy, Surfshark utilizes top-notch protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard, all equipped with the robust AES-256-GCM algorithm. 

This advanced encryption keeps your data safe and hidden from prying eyes while maintaining impressive connection speeds.

Surfshark also offers a kill switch feature that automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This ensures that your data remains private and your identity is always protected.

Additionally, Surfshark provides valuable features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware to give you a clean and uninterrupted streaming experience.

Setting up and using Surfshark is a breeze, with its user-friendly apps available for various platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and more.

With Surfshark, there’s no need to wait. Enjoy secure and private streaming with its impressive features and affordable pricing. 

It’s a reliable choice for accessing Freeview Play and other streaming services while maintaining online privacy and security.

Pros:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account.
• CleanWeb feature to block ads, malware, and trackers.
• MultiHop feature for added privacy.
• Affordable pricing with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Cons:

• Smaller server network compared to other providers.

Surfshark

Enjoy FreeView Play no matter where you are using this reliable unblocking tool!

Check price Visit website

Private Internet Access (PIA) – reliable server quality for streaming

PIA offers lightning-fast speeds with a wide selection of servers in 3 UK cities, ensuring a smooth and seamless streaming experience in Freeview Play. 

Thanks to its powerful 10 Gbps NextGen servers, you can say goodbye to frustrating lags, buffering, and freezing, even when streaming in 4K.

Enjoy unlimited bandwidth with PIA, allowing you to stream your favorite content on Freeview Play without worrying about data caps or restrictions.

PIA prioritizes your data security by employing strong encryption, giving you peace of mind during your streaming sessions. 

You can choose between 128-bit or 256-bit AES encryption ciphers, adding an extra layer of security to protect your online activities from ISPs, third parties, and even Freeview Play.

PIA offers a Smart DNS feature for added convenience, allowing you to change your virtual location directly from your Smart TV. 

While this feature doesn’t encrypt or redirect your data, it ensures that your connection speeds remain unaffected, making it a suitable option for accessing region-locked content.

Suppose you want to protect your entire network and all your devices. In that case, PIA provides the option to install the VPN directly on your router, extending its security benefits to all devices connected to the network.

With PIA, you can enjoy a seamless streaming experience on Freeview Play with lightning-fast speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and strong encryption to safeguard your online privacy and security.

Pros:

• Strong commitment to user privacy with a strict no-logs policy.
• Multiple security protocols and encryption options.
• 10 simultaneous connections on a single account.
• Affordable pricing with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Cons:

• The interface may be less intuitive for beginners than other VPNs.

PIA

Access your favorite UK channels on FreeView using PIA’s strong UK servers!

Check price Visit website

Summary

If you’re facing issues with Freeview Play while using a VPN, don’t worry. 

Following the solutions above and choosing the right VPN service, you can bypass the restrictions and enjoy uninterrupted streaming on Freeview Play. 

Remember that the streaming landscape constantly evolves, so always check for the latest updates and workarounds.  And for other like issues like the Freevee ITV-101 error, visit our guide for a detailed account on how to fix it.

Happy streaming!