How to Use VPN with Sling TV – Unblock More Content (2024)
Do you want to use a VPN with Sling TV? Sling TV is one of the most popular live TV streaming platforms available today.
It offers a cost-effective way to watch popular cable channels without an expensive cable subscription.
However, some of the content on Sling TV may be geo-restricted, depending on where you’re located.
Using a VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions so you can access more shows and movies on Sling no matter where you are.
Why Use a VPN with Sling TV
There are a few key reasons why using a VPN in combination with Sling TV is beneficial:
- Access Geo-Blocked Content: Certain programs and live events on Sling can be blacked out or unavailable depending on your location. Connecting through a VPN masks your real location so you can access region-exclusive content.
- Enhanced Privacy and Security: By encrypting your internet traffic, a reputable VPN protects you from prying eyes when streaming over public WiFi and hides your IP address so no one can see what you’re watching.
- Prevent Throttling and Enjoy Faster Video: ISPs may throttle streaming speeds, leading to frequent buffering. A VPN prevents bandwidth throttling for smoother streaming.
Top Recommended VPNs for Sling TV
Not all VPNs are created equal when it comes to streaming capabilities. Based on speed, reliability and unlocked content, these top services stand out:
- ExpressVPN – With lightning-fast servers optimized for streaming, intuitive apps for all devices, and a proven ability to access Netflix catalogues worldwide, ExpressVPN is the best option for Sling TV in 2023.
- NordVPN – Boast’s speciality streaming servers that provide the blazing speeds necessary for live sports and events. User-friendly apps and enhanced security features make it ideal for Sling.
- Surfshark – Excellent value VPN packed with features tailored towards cord-cutters wanting to unblock streams globally. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
What To Look For in a VPN for Sling
It’s important your virtual private network has these essential features and capabilities:
- Fast connection speeds to enable quality streaming at HD or 4K without annoying lag or buffering
- Allows P2P traffic, which many streaming sites rely on to transfer high-quality video feeds
- Reliable customer support to help troubleshoot any issues accessing certain programs
- Apps are available for all devices you want to run Sling on – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Firestick, etc.
- Multiple simultaneous connections so you can secure all internet activity across devices
- Proven to work with major streaming apps like Sling TV based on user reports
Follow these criteria when evaluating VPN options for the best Sling TV experience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setup VPN with Sling
Getting your virtual private network configured correctly with Sling TV only takes a few minutes.
Just follow these steps:
1. Select Your Preferred VPN Package
Browse the recommendations above and select a provider that fits your budget and needs. For the best value, go for an annual plan.
2. Download & Install VPN App
On the device(s) you use to access Sling, visit your VPN’s website and download the app for your operating system. Most offer intuitive Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android apps and more.
3. Log In to Your VPN Account
Open the app and log in using the VPN account credentials you created during sign-up. This grants you access to all of the provider’s global servers.
4. Connect to a Server in Desired Country
Browse the list of server locations available and connect to one in a country that provides the Sling TV catalogue you wish to unlock. For the widest content options, connect to a US-based server.
5. Launch Sling TV and Test Streaming over VPN
Fire up the Sling TV app and try playing shows or live programming that was previously blocked in your region. The streams should now play smoothly via your encrypted VPN tunnel.
6. Troubleshooting Tips
If certain content remains blocked, try clearing cache/cookies or connecting to a different VPN server location. Most top providers have helpful 24/7 customer support that can offer tailored troubleshooting advice.
If the problem is still not solved, you can reset Sling TV, which will solve the problem.
Setup VPN Router for Sling TV
Install VPN software directly onto your router for convenient access across all WiFi-enabled gadgets.
This automatically allows any device connected to your home network to enjoy geo-spoofed encrypted traffic via the VPN tunnel.
Refer to your router make and model’s setup guide. Asus, Linksys and Netgear models allow VPN installation using third-party firmware like DD-WRT.
Using VPN on Various Devices
The process for configuring your virtual private network may differ slightly across platforms.
Here are specific setup instructions for VPN & Sling TV on the most popular devices:
Windows 10
- Download & install the VPN Windows.
- Right-click the Network icon > Network & Internet Settings.
- Click VPN on the left side > Add a VPN connection.
- Enter the connection name and server address from the VPN account.
- Connect and launch the Sling TV app.
MacOS
- Visit the App Store & download the VPN Mac app.
- Open System Preferences > Network.
- Click the plus sign under the Service order list.
- Select interface type as VPN > choose a provider.
- Enter credentials > Connect.
iPhone & iPad
- Get the VPN iOS app from the App Store.
- Go to Settings > General > VPN.
- Tap Add VPN Configuration.
- Enter a description, type, server and account info.
- Slide the VPN toggle ON.
Follow similar setup guides for VPN on your Android, Fire TV Stick 4K, Android boxes, gaming console or other streaming device.
Related: (6+) Fixes: Sling TV Not Working on Apple TV
Bypass Sports Blackouts on Sling TV
Sports fans frequently suffer the frustration of local broadcast blackouts when their favourite teams are playing. This restricts access even if you pay for league subscriptions like NBA League Pass or MLB.TV on Sling.
With a reliable VPN, you can bypass annoying regional restrictions and always catch the action:
- Connect to a VPN server outside your team’s broadcast territory when blacked out. International servers work best.
- For nationally televised games, you’ll need to spoof the location to a region that isn’t showing the same match you want to unblock.
- Test different server locations to identify one allowing full NBA/MLB coverage on Sling without blackout restrictions interfering.
Conclusion
Using a high-speed VPN for Sling TV unlocks a wealth of exclusive programming otherwise unavailable, depending on where you live. It also enhances privacy and security when streaming plus it helps prevent ISP throttling.
Top services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark stand out thanks to blazing streaming speeds, apps catered towards streaming plus verified ability to access geo-blocked content worldwide.
Setting up VPN protection across your devices only takes a few minutes. Follow the step-by-step connection guide based on your operating system or router firmware.
Stay protected and enjoy unlimited access to live sports and shows.
FAQs:
Q: Does using a VPN slow down Sling TV streaming?
A: No. The best VPNs have fast servers optimized for HD streaming with minimal speed loss. Some even improve stream quality!
Q: Is accessing geo-blocked streams from other countries on Sling TV legally using a VPN?
A: Yes, it is legal. VPNs simply give you localized access by changing your virtual location. However, check your streaming provider’s ToS.
Q: Can I always watch US Sling TV content from any other country if connected to a US-based VPN server?
A: Yes! Just connect to a reliable US VPN server to gain access to full American catalogues on Sling, no matter where you are.