Today, Opera added a free virtual private network (VPN) to the developer version of its browser. Among other things, this can be used to remove geo-blocks on overseas content — which means you can access Netflix’s entire US library in Australia without paying anything extra. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your free VPN up and running.
For the uninitiated, Opera is a web browser for Windows, OS X and Linux operating systems that takes most of its design cues from Google Chrome. Today’s developer update adds a free, unlimited VPN service directly inside the browser.
Once enabled, you can set your location to exit servers in the United States, Germany or Canada, and use it as much as you like. All of your browsing data will then be encrypted and sent through Opera’s VPN concentrators. It essentially gives you most of the benefits of a VPN at a click of a button — completely free of charge.
The Opera VPN is great for people who want to mask their location or make sure their data is private on public Wi-Fi connections. Naturally, it can also be used to access online content that is blocked in Australia; including the US version of Netflix which has a hell of a lot more content.
Opera’s VPN is more of a replacement for browser-based tools than a fully featured, system-wide VPN. It’s certainly no match for some of the best full-service VPNs you can choose from. But if you’re just looking for a free way to access US Netflix using your Australian account, it gets the job done in a few seconds.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for Windows users:
Step 1: Head to Opera’s developer blog and download the new browser
Step 2: Open the browser and go to Privacy & Security
Step 3: Enable ‘VPN’ in the settings
Step 4: Click the VPN button next to the address bar and select ‘United States’
Step 5: Head to Netflix and enjoy the full US library!
Depending on the speed of your internet connection, you might notice a degradation in video quality while watching the US version of Netflix. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do about this. As with any virtual private network, the Opera VPN requires the user to stream content from the country of origin — this means the data has a lot further to travel.
Also, if you have unmetered Netflix access via your ISP, bear in mind that accessing the US version will start counting towards your quota. This is definitely something to consider if you’re connecting via a mobile network or have a modest data allowance.
Obligatory legal bit
So is any of this remotely legal? The laws surrounding geo-block circumvention are pretty ambiguous. According to our own Prime Minister, the use of VPN technology to circumvent geo-blocking is not illegal. However, the Australian Copyright Council has stated that streaming geo-blocked shows without permission in Australia is “likely” to be an infringement of copyright.
The problem is that Netflix has different licencing deals in place for each country it operates in. Circumventing these blocks can hurt Netflix’s relationship with its partners. This is the main reason Netflix has been cracking down on VPNs use in Australia despite the public backlash.
While you won’t be breaking any existing laws by using Opera’s VPN, you will absolutely be breaking Netflix’s terms of service which you agreed to follow when you initially signed up. If you want to do the “right” thing, stick to the local service.
There’s also the distinct possibility that Netflix will add this VPN to its blacklist. (For what it’s worth, it’s currently working fine for us.)
See also: Netflix Is Upping Its Attacks On VPNs: Here’s How To Dodge The Blocks | Lifehacker 101: How To Choose The Right VPN In Australia | What Are Popular VPN Services Doing About Netflix Blocks?
Additional reporting by Alan Henry.
Comments
10 responses to “How To Get US Netflix In Australia Using Opera’s Free VPN”
Seriously. Do you really believe in totally free VPN service? If not pay with money, then pay with your privacy! I suggest strongly buy a reliable VPN. Personally I use FlyVPN. Really good experience.
I don’t need privacy to watch Netflix.
Also if you’re using HTTPS then the VPN host will only see who you are talking to (e.g. Netflix) and not what you are saying (e.g. username, password, video content, etc)
To access Netflix in Australia I think the most reliable VPNs like ExpressVPN or NordVPN are good to streaming your favorite shows and movies in Australia.
not working anymore
any solution?
If it is not working, then you may take a look on “HIDE-MY-IP“. It is working perfectly for me. I have been using this VPN for more than 15 days to access Netflix and never faced any problem. It is cheap than other VPNs. It costs me $2.95/month.
Yah, great tutorial, except it doesn’t work. Detected as a proxy. Regardless, you should NEVER use a free VPN, since you know, bandwidth isn’t free. The Chinese ownership of Opera is also very troubling. Here is a great freemium based VPN: https://windscribe.com
It’s not free. You get an allocation of downloads per month, I think I ended up with 750GB when I started using it, but mileage may very for others.
doesnt work with netflix
“it’s currently working fine for us”
Enjoy it while the going’s good. Netflix didn’t come down in the last shower, so it’s only a matter of time before Opera’s server gets blacklisted. Especially since they only seem to have three exit points and only one in the US.
And let’s hope the “free VPN” bit lasts too. Providing a VPN service can’t be cheap so Opera ASA will have to be recouping elsewhere. It’s worth noting that this service is most likely using their paid-for SurfEasy network. So it’s not a stretch to assume they’ll either throttle or find some other incentive for users to start parting with cash.
already black listed. dont bother
Can i download in netflix.. it will not trace me back?