Want to watch DirecTV Stream (formerly AT&T TV Now) outside the US? DirecTV Stream is region-locked. As a result, it is only available in the US. Luckily, with a VPN you can stream DirecTV on vacation, be it in Canada, the UK, Europe, or Australia.

Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN is an online privacy tool that encrypts your device’s internet traffic and routes it to a server in a remote location. By connecting to a server in America, you get a US IP address so you can watch DirecTV Stream abroad.

It doesn’t just work with DirecTV, either. When you connect to a US server all websites and online services believe that you’re browsing from the US. This makes a VPN a super useful and versatile tool for gaining freedom of access while traveling abroad.

Don’t have time to read the full article right now? Here’s a quick list of the best VPNs for watching DirecTV outside the USA.

Best VPNs for DirecTV Stream:

  • NordVPN: Our #1 choice for DirecTV STREAM Over 1,600 servers in the US. Works with AT&T TV Now, Netflix, and more. Highly secure with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: Best budget VPN for DirecTV. 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. Consistent data connections and an impressive selection of apps.
  • CyberGhost: Fast servers for streaming DirecTV. Secure up to 7 devices simultaneously. Easy-to-use apps and safe with encryption and no-logs policy.
  • IPVanish: US-based VPN service with servers in 15 US cities for watching DirecTV Stream. Uses encryption to protect your data. Unlimited simultaneous connections.
  • PrivateVPN: Fast VPN service for securely accessing DirecTV Stream as well as Netflix. Beginner-friendly apps, up to 6 simultaneous connections, and a high level of security.
  • Hotspot Shield: Servers in 27 US cities for watching DirecTV abroad. Easy-to-use apps and 24/7 live chat support. Secures your device with encryption.

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 outside the US with a VPN.

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.

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 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 for unblocking DirecTV Stream.
  • Sign in to DirecTV 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 DirecTV 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.

Best VPNs for watching DIRECTV STREAM outside the US

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

  • Multiple servers across the US
  • Fast and reliable data connections for streaming DirecTV Stream
  • Secure with encryption and kill switch feature
  • Strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy
  • Easy-to-use apps for desktop and mobile
  • Customer support available via live chat and email

For more information on how we recommend VPNs, check out our VPN testing methodology.

Here’s our list of the best VPNs to watch DirecTV STREAM (formerly known as AT&T TV Now and AT&T Watch) from outside the US:

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

works with DirecTVTested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

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

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is the best option if you want a VPN to stream 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. 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 DirecTVTested 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 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. 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 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

  • Customer support could be improved

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN is great for watching DirecTV 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 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, 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 7,400 servers, over 1,100 of which are in the US. When you combine this with the high data speeds offered, CyberGhost is an excellent VPN for watching DirecTV 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.

AMAZING VALUE:CyberGhost has fast and reliable connections for streaming DirecTV 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 1,000 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 DirecTV Stream (formerly 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 six 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 6 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 content

  • Perfect for streaming

  • Connect up to 6 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. Hotspot Shield

Website: www.Hotspotshield.com

                    Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.

Hotspot Shield has a network of more than 1,800 servers. Just as impressive, it has server locations in 27 US cities including Los Angeles and New York. Needless to say, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding a server to stream DirecTV abroad. It offers very good speeds for streaming services without buffering issues and lag. It’s possible to secure up to five devices simultaneously via a single Hotspot Shield account.

While this VPN service is beginner-friendly, it includes 24/7 live chat support which makes it easy to troubleshoot any potential problems. Security-wise, Hotspot Shield protects your privacy through its use of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and features such as a kill switch. It’s also worth knowing that it doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified such as IP addresses.

Hotspot Shield apps are available for iOS, Android, MacOS, Linux, and Windows. It can be manually configured for use with supported routers.

SERVERS IN 27 US CITIES:Hotspot Shield unblocks DirecTV and has lots of high speed servers in the US. Also works with Netflix. Includes 24/7 live chat support and uses encryption to keep your data secure. 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • Offers servers across 27 US cities for watching DirecTV Stream

  • Fast, consistent speeds for browsing and streaming video

  • Provides 24/7 live chat support

  • Security includes encryption and a kill switch

  • Some past privacy concerns

  • Doesn’t offer support for Linux

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

 

Can I use a free VPN to watch DIRECTV STREAM outside the US?

Free VPNs won’t work with DirecTV, this is because streaming platforms make every effort to block VPNs and free VPN providers don’t have the time or capital to stay one step ahead.

In addition, we don’t recommend free VPNs for many reasons. In particular, free VPNs are very slow because they have too many users and not enough servers. This results in high levels of server congestion. This makes streaming DirecTV frustrating due to buffering.

It’s not just performance issues that plague free VPNs, either. When it comes to security, free VPNs are rarely fit for purpose.  In many cases, your data is not secured with robust encryption. And the VPN apps lack important security features such as a kill switch. Additionally, some free VPNs knowingly breach your privacy by keeping logs and selling your data to third parties.

Why has AT&T TV Now changed its name?

In August of 2021, AT&T finalized a deal in which it spun off DIRECTV, U-Verse, and AT&T TV (including AT&T TV Now and AT&T TV Watch) into a separate entity. The deal involved selling a 30% stake of the business to the private equity firm TPG Capital. AT&T retains a 70% stake in the new standalone firm.

The new company, which is called DirecTV, has now taken over all of AT&T TV’s operations. As a result of the shake-up, the new corporation has decided to close down all its former TV streaming services. For this reason, the new business has rebranded its streaming platform with the name DIRECTV STREAM.

DirecTV Stream will now replace all the other iterations of AT&T’s online streaming TV services. It will be available in three different plans starting at $69.99 per month plus tax. The most expensive plan (the Ultimate Package) will cost $94.99 and will include 130+ channels including regional sports networks.

HBO Max is included with a DirecTV Stream Choice and Ultimate package for the first three months. Following that t must be bundled as an extra for an additional $10 per month.

Why am I getting a DirecTV location error?

One problem some users have when trying to watch DirecTV Stream abroad is that they’re asked to enable location data on their device. The problem is that this can override the VPN connection, providing your true location and blocking the content as a result. In this case, you may see a message that looks like this:

If this is happening to you, you may be out of luck. To bypass such restrictions, you’d need to find a way to spoof your location such as with a GPS spoofing app. It may simply be better to find a service without such strict geo-restrictions. If you do go ahead, exercise caution as GPS spoofing can have a negative impact on other apps.

Can I use a smart DNS proxy to watch DirecTV abroad?

Yes, some smart DNS proxy services will unblock DirecTV Stream, however VPNs are often more reliable. A smart DNS proxy monitors DNS requests sent from your device and sends the browser traffic for that request to an appropriate server (in this case a server in the US). One of the advantages of a smart DNS proxy is that it can be used on a wider range of devices than a VPN.

For example, DirecTV 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.

What can I watch on DirecTV Stream?

DIRECTV STREAM (formerly AT&T TV Now) offers a wide range of live and on-demand content from traditional cable channels. Some of the entertainment channels include:

  • ABC
  • CNN
  • Disney
  • ESPN
  • FS1
  • FX
  • HBO Max
  • MTV
  • National Geographic
  • Nickelodeon
  • TNT
  • USA Network

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.