Update: AT&T TV Now has now been rebranded as “DirecTV Stream”.

Trying to watch DirecTV Stream outside the US? Unfortunately, this service is region-locked and only available in the US. However, a VPN can help you watch DirecTV Stream from anywhere in the world, be it Canada, the UK, or Australia.

Short for “Virtual Private Network”, VPNs encrypt your device’s internet traffic and route it to servers in another location. In this case, you’ll want to choose a server in the US to watch DirecTV Stream abroad. In doing so, you’ll be provided with a US IP address, leading websites and online services to believe that you’re browsing from within the US.

How to watch DirecTV Stream outside the US with a VPN

Setting up a VPN is simple, even if you’ve never used one before. Follow this step-by-step guide to watch DirecTV Stream outside the US with a VPN.

Here’s how to watch DirecTV Stream online from anywhere using a VPN:

  • Sign up for a VPN service with servers in the United States – we particularly recommend NordVPN.
  • Download and install the appropriate VPN app for your device. All of the best VPNs offer apps for desktop and mobile devices.
  • Clear your browser cache and cookies. This ensures that DirecTV Stream forgets your location and accepts the US IP address provided by the VPN.
  • Open your VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in the US to obtain a US IP address.
  • Sign in to DirecTV Stream and select your preferred on-demand content, which should now be unblocked.

If you’re having trouble watching DirecTV Stream outside the US, even when connected to a VPN, we have a few suggestions. First, be sure to clear your cookies each time you connect to a new server before trying again. Trying more than one server is another potential fix in case the IP address you’re using has been blacklisted. Last but not least, it may be worth contacting your VPN’s customer support for further help.

So how are you supposed to go about choosing a VPN to unblock DirecTV Stream abroad? We know that there are many VPNs to choose from. That’s why we’ve only selected VPNs that can provide the following:

There are no hidden terms—just 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.

Don’t have time to read the full article just yet? Here’s a quick summary list of the best VPNs for watching DirecTV Stream outside the USA:

Until the recent shake-up, AT&T TV was a cable-like service that came with a set-top box. It requires you to commit to a two-year contract while there was also a one-time activation fee. In contrast, AT&T TV Now was a contract-free streaming service. Available month-to-month, AT&T TV Now was cancelable anytime and wasn’t tied to any physical hardware.

As of August 2021, however, both of those services have been discontinued and DirecTV has again rebranded its service as DirecTV Stream.

Note: We are tech experts, but cannot possibly claim to understand every country’s digital copyright laws. Nothing we’ve said above should be taken as legal advice. If you have any doubt about the legality of using a VPN, we recommend researching local laws for yourself beforehand.

For example, DirecTV Stream is available on devices such as Apple TV and Samsung Smart TV. Most VPNs don’t support such devices, which is where a smart DNS proxy stands out. On the other hand, setting up a smart DNS proxy can be more complicated. We recommend ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer, a smart DNS proxy service that lets you unblock geo-restricted content without encrypting your online traffic, minimizing speed loss.

  • CNN
  • Disney
  • ESPN
  • FS1
  • FX
  • MTV
  • National Geographic
  • Nickelodeon
  • USA Network

There is some good news, though. Customers aren’t asked to sign up without knowing what they’re getting, since there’s a five-day free trial. We’d recommend setting a reminder just in case since DirecTV Stream will automatically bill you for $75 after your trial ends.

  • NordVPN: Our #1 VPN for DirecTV Stream. Over 1,900 servers in the US. Works with Hulu, Netflix, and more. Highly secure with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: Best budget VPN for DirecTV Stream. Unlimited simultaneous connections. Great for DirecTV Stream, Netflix, and more. User-friendly service with 24/7 chat and strict no-logs policy.
  • ExpressVPN: High-speed VPN service that’s great for streaming. AConsistent data connections and an impressive selection of apps.
  • CyberGhost: Fast servers for streaming DirecTV Stream. Secure up to 7 devices simultaneously. Easy-to-use apps and safe with encryption.
  • IPVanish: US-based VPN service with servers in 15 US cities for watching DirecTV Stream. Uses encryption to protect your data. No connection limit.
  • PrivateVPN: Fast VPN service for securely accessing DirecTV Stream as well as Netflix. Beginner-friendly apps and up to 10 simultaneous connections.
  • AtlasVPN: Easy-to-use apps and 24/7 live chat support. Secures your device with encryption.

Best VPNs for DirecTV Stream – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for DirecTV Stream.

Best VPNs for watching DirecTV Stream outside the US

Here’s our list of the best VPNs to watch DirecTV Stream abroad (outside the US):

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

works with AT&T TV NowTested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

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

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is another great choice if you want a VPN to unblock DirecTV Stream outside the US. The reason for this is that NordVPN has around 1,900 servers in the United States. Indeed, it has one of the largest networks of servers of any VPN with more than 5,000 in 60 countries. This means you’ll be able to securely access all sorts of services including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Better still, NordVPN offers great value, letting you connect up to 6 supported devices simultaneously.

Having tested out the NordVPN apps for ourselves, we can say that this service is great for beginners. We particularly like that NordVPN offers specialty servers for even stronger security. There are servers designed for accessing Tor over VPN, getting a dedicated IP address, and browsing from countries with strict censorship. NordVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, provides protection from DNS leaks, and has a kill switch feature. What’s more, this service has a strict zero-logs policy.

NordVPN apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also offered. Manual setup is required for routers.

Pros:

Cons:

  • Connecting via desktop apps can take a while

Our score:

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

works with AT&T TV NowTested Jan 2023

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark has servers in at least 24 US cities which is far more than most VPNs. This makes it easy to find a fast, reliable server for streaming DirecTV Stream from anywhere in the world. Indeed, this VPN also works with the likes of Netflix, Disney+, and HBO, among other popular streaming content services. However, one of the standout features of Surfshark is that it lets you connect an unlimited number of compatible devices simultaneously which is perfect for sharing with family.

If you’re new to using a VPN, you’ll appreciate Surfshark’s beginner-friendly apps and browser extensions. There are plenty of interesting features available including Double VPN servers for improved privacy and an ad and malware blocker. Surfshark uses 256-bit AES encryption to safeguard your data while there’s also a kill switch and protection from DNS leaks. This is a no-logs VPN service that allows you to pay in cryptocurrency to protect your anonymity.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark lets you secure as many devices as you want simultaneously. It has servers across 24 US cities and works reliably with DirecTV Stream and Netflix. Very easy-to-use apps, a low price, and 24/7 live chat support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Servers in at least 24 US cities — far more than most VPNs

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections per account

  • Very strong security package with encryption and no-logs policy

  • Accepts 3 types of cryptocurrencies

  • Certain features require Surfshark One, an optional paid addon

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN is great for watching DirecTV Stream outside the US. This is thanks to its combination of speed and security. ExpressVPN has a vast network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including the US. We’ve tested ExpressVPN’s servers extensively and found them to be perfect for streaming movies and TV shows in high definition. We’ve also found that the VPN connection almost never drops. Indeed, ExpressVPN guarantees 99.9% uptime.

What makes ExpressVPN stand out from many of its rivals is its impressive array of apps. Aside from offering user-friendly apps for desktop and mobile, it also has MediaStreamer, a smart DNS proxy service that allows you to use the VPN with select smart TVs and games consoles. Another reason to choose ExpressVPN is its fast and efficient live chat support, which is available 24/7, allowing you to get help in a matter of seconds.

The best VPNs can unblock geo-restricted content such as DirecTV Stream while keeping you safe online. ExpressVPN is no exception. It secures your data with 256-bit AES encryption and provides DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. ExpressVPN offers a kill switch, split tunneling, and a no-logs policy, so your privacy is in good hands. It’s even possible to sign up for the service anonymously by using a throwaway email address and paying in Bitcoin.

ExpressVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox.

QUICK AND RELIABLE:ExpressVPN is a solid choice. for streaming DirecTV Stream, with both speed and security. Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries. Wide range of user-friendly apps, 24/7 support and excellent security with encryption. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast servers for consistent streaming of DirecTV Stream

  • Servers in 94 countries for unblocking content worldwide

  • Important security features such as encryption and no-logs policy

  • Excellent customer service with 24/7 support via live chat

  • Quite expensive compared to other popular VPNs

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost has a vast network of over 9,000 servers, over 1,400 of which are in the US. When you combine this with the high data speeds offered, CyberGhost is an excellent VPN for watching DirecTV Stream abroad. We’ve tested CyberGhost with a wide range of content and found it offers high-quality performance with little to no downtime. It’s worth mentioning that you can secure up to seven supported devices with CyberGhost, which is more than most VPNs allow.

You’ll find that CyberGhost offers a variety of user-friendly apps. These are easy to navigate and therefore well-suited to those using a VPN for the first time. The CyberGhost apps include several features such as an ad-blocker and malware-scanner. CyberGhost offers a high level of security with 256-bit AES encryption and DNS and IP leak protection. An automatic kill switch ensures your internet traffic is cut in the event of the VPN connection dropping. Last but not least, there’s a strict no-logs policy.

GOOD VALUE PROVIDER:CyberGhost has fast and reliable connections for streaming DirecTV Stream abroad. It has apps that are easy to use and allows up to 7 simultaneous connections. Security features include a kill switch and no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • More than 1,400 servers in the US for watching DirecTV Stream

  • Fast and reliable service for browsing and streaming

  • Strict no-logs policy keeps your personal information private

  • User-friendly apps with plenty of easy-to-activate features

  • Doesn’t work reliably in China or the UAE

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

Best of all, IPVanish allows you to connect as many devices as you like (most VPNs allow 3-6). Its apps are simple enough to use though live chat support is offered should you need it. IPVanish ticks all of the boxes when it comes to security, protecting your data with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and zero-logs policy.

SERVERS IN 15 US CITIES:IPVanish has plenty of servers in the US in cities such as Los Angeles and New York. Unlimited bandwidth makes it easy to watch AT&T TV Now. Allows any number of internet connections via a single account. Keeps you safe online with encryption and kill switch. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • No option to pay in Bitcoin/cryptocurrency
  • Doesn’t offer any browser extensions

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

You can use this service to protect up to 10 compatible devices simultaneously via a single account. Offering easy-to-use apps for desktop and mobile, this VPN is very accessible. PrivateVPN offers security in the form of 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6 leak protection, Stealth mode (for using the service in places where VPNs are usually blocked), and a kill switch. This VPN service is headquartered in Sweden and states that it operates a zero data-logging policy.

PrivateVPN offers apps for desktop (Windows and Mac) and mobile (Android and iOS). Manual setup is necessary for Linux and routers.

HIGH SPEED STREAMING:PrivateVPN is fast and ideal for DirecTV Stream as well as Netflix. Its apps are easy to use and it allows you to connect up to 10 supported devices. Includes all of the essential security features including encryption, kill switch, and no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • High-speed servers for streaming DirecTV Stream

  • Perfect for streaming

  • Connect up to 10 devices via a single account

  • Apps and very easy for beginners to use

  • Relatively small network of servers

  • Doesn’t offer any browser extensions

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. Atlas VPN

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

Website: www.atlasvpn.com

Atlas VPN is an excellent VPN choice for users who love to stream content abroad. Its use of WireGuard and servers in over 40 countries makes streaming AT&T TV Now from anywhere in full HD an effortless experience. Apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, combined with an unlimited connection limit, let your entire family watch streams like Netflix, Hulu, Disney plus, and Prime Video from different devices simultaneously.

If advanced security is what you’re looking for, Atlas VPN doesn’t compromise anything. You’ll benefit from 256-bit encryption, the same standard used by the military, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch that cuts your connection should your VPN connection fail.

Atlas VPN operates a no-logs policy, and due to its recent acquisition of Nord technologies, the parent company of NordVPN, you can be sure you’re in safe hands. All Atlas VPN packages include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

UNLIMITED DEVICES:Atlas VPN has apps for all major platforms with no connection limit, letting your family and friends stream AT&T TV Now without impacting your connection. All plans offer 30 days to change your mind.

  • No connection limit

  • WireGuard ensures uninterrupted HD streaming

  • Faster than many of its rivals

  • Customer support is underwhelming

  • Small server infrastructure versus other providers

Read our full AtlasVPN review.

Can I use a free VPN to watch DirecTV Stream outside the US?

Due to the strict geographic restrictions in place, most free VPNs simply won’t work with DirecTV Stream. Besides, we don’t recommend the use of a free VPN for many reasons. In particular, free VPNs are very slow. Combine too few servers with too many users and the result is limited bandwidth and a lot of buffering and lag! Needless to say, this makes streaming DirecTV Stream a frustrating experience.

It’s not just performance issues that plague free VPNs. When it comes to security, free VPNs are rarely up to the standard required. In many cases, this means that your data is not secured with a high level of encryption. It may also be that your VPN lacks important security features such as a kill switch. Additionally, some free VPNs knowingly breach your privacy by keeping logs and selling this data to third parties.

Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for DirecTV Stream

If you choose a good VPN, you’ll probably forget that it’s even turned on. However, choosing a service that’s poorly suited for streaming can lead to extremely slow speeds, videos that buffer endlessly, and overall, a disappointing experience. To ensure we find the very best VPNs for DirecTV Stream, we’ve put together a list of strict requirements that our top VPNs must meet:

  • US servers: This service is only available in the US, so if you’re traveling, you’ll need to use an American server to access it. We looked for providers with a strong presence in the US, preferably with server clusters on both coasts. This way, wherever you are in the world, there’ll be a server relatively close by.
  • Performance: We can’t overstate how important your VPN’s speed and stability are. Our team regularly runs hundreds of tests to monitor which VPNs are fastest, and only those that stand out are eligible for a spot in our list.
  • Streaming potential: The first requirement is that these VPNs work with DirecTV Stream. However, we also check to see if they provide secure access to other US platforms like Netflix, fuboTV, HBO Max, and Sling TV. This way, you’ll never be short of something to watch.
  • Security: VPNs were designed to keep your online activities private, which is why we only recommend those that include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. We require our top VPNs to follow a no-logs policy as well.
  • Price: It’s immediately obvious to us if a service charges more than is really fair. Needless to say, these providers don’t make our list. What’s more, whenever we recommend a service, we’ll let you know about available deals and discounts so that you pay as little as possible.

Our testing process is intensive and looks at each service from several different angles. Find out how we put VPNs to the test in our complete methodology post.