With a VPN, you can watch Peacock from anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, even the best VPNs may have trouble accessing the US streaming service. This includes not VPN.
If NordVPN isn’t working with Peacock anymore, it means the streaming service has managed to block the IP address NordVPN has given you. However, there are several ways you can try to get around this issue, and we’ve got just the fixes.
To fix NordVPN not working with Peacock, follow this guide so you can get back to watching your favourite shows on Peacock.
When NordVPN stops working with Peacock, there are several reasons why this may be happening. To get to the root of the issue, follow the steps below:
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Check if your VPN works on another device
If NordVPN works with Peacock on your smartphone, but not your computer, then you know NordVPN isn’t the problem. If NordVPN does work on one device, jump to Step 3 below.
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Contact your VPNs live chat service
Find NordVPN’s Live Chat feature and ask for a specific server number that works with Peacock.
If they can’t point you towards a server that works with Peacock, then you know NordVPN is having issues with Peacock.
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Delete your cookies
Deleting your cookies can potentially fix NordVPN not working with Peacock issues. Accumulated or corrupted cookies in a browser might interfere with the way websites and online services function, especially when using a VPN.
Clearing these cookies removes any old or problematic data, thereby ensuring a cleaner slate for your VPN connection to operate. This can help in establishing a more stable connection and resolving conflicts between NordVPN and certain web services like Peacock.
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Connect to a different server
Fortunately, Peacock can’t block NordVPN entirely.
If Peacock was working with NordVPN and suddenly stopped working, Peacock has managed to identify and block the IP address NordVPN has given you.
Changing to a different server will give you a different IP address, and if that one hasn’t been blocked, NordVPN will work with Peacock again.
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Reinstall or update your VPN
Removing NordVPN and its settings from your device and starting again is a good way to get the most up-to-date settings configured on your devices without much effort.
If you don’t want to reinstall the software, you can always check to see if there’s an update available to download any fixes your service may have introduced.
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Switch VPN protocols
VPN protocols determine how a VPN works. When you use a VPN, the protocol is responsible for hiding your data and rerouting it via VPN servers.
If Peacock isn’t working with NordVPN, it might be because the protocol you’re using is no longer working with the service. NordVPN has three different protocols, including its own NordLynx protocol. Try changing to a different one to see if that fixes the issue.
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Upgrade your VPN
If all of the above fails, you should consider upgrading to a high-end VPN. We recommend ExpressVPN ($6.66/month) for Peacock. For more information, check out our VPN list below to see which VPN suits your needs and budget.
Why isn’t NordVPN working with Peacock?
NordVPN has stopped working with Peacock because the streaming service actively blocks known VPN IP addresses to enforce regional restrictions on their content.
Peacock only has the rights to broadcast its content in the US. Because VPNs are common ways of watching Peacock outside its broadcast zone, the streaming service tries to block VPNs.
It does this so that it doesn’t face financial punishments for distributing its service in areas where it doesn’t have the rights to do so.
NordVPN’s servers might not be optimised for accessing Peacock’s content anymore. However, it’s possible that the server you’re connected to is not located in a region where Peacock is available.
How does Peacock block NordVPN?
Peacock blocks VPNs like many other streaming services, but it uses strict VPN blocking techniques to make sure users outside the US can’t get access. This makes it hard for many VPNs to sneak past – especially free VPNs.
Here are a few ways it’s done:
- IP Address Blacklisting: Peacock maintains a list of IP addresses associated with VPN servers. When it detects traffic coming from these IP addresses, it blocks access to its content. VPN providers regularly rotate and add new IP addresses to bypass these blocks, but Peacock can update its blacklist accordingly.
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): Peacock can analyze the data packets sent by users to identify VPN usage. DPI allows Peacock to distinguish between regular user traffic and VPN traffic and subsequently block VPN connections.
- Behavioral Analysis: Peacock might employ behavioural analysis algorithms to detect patterns associated with VPN usage. For example, if a large number of users suddenly access Peacock from the same IP address or exhibit similar browsing behaviours, it might indicate VPN usage and trigger blocks.
Does Peacock still work with VPNs?
Yes, Peacock still works with VPNs. However, Peacock’s ability to work with VPNs can vary. Some users may find success accessing Peacock content through certain VPN services and server locations, while others may encounter difficulties due to Peacock’s efforts to enforce regional restrictions.
Many free VPNs have a hard time getting past these blocks, as they don’t have the proper resources to keep up with Peacock’s many blocking techniques.
Usually, NordVPN is one of the best VPNs to use with Peacock. However, there’s no guarantee it will get consistent access. If this problem keeps coming up, it’s time to switch VPNs.
The best VPN for Peacock is ExpressVPN. The VPN service has fast servers all over the world, and most importantly, it has measures in place that will stop all of its IP addresses from being blocked by Peacock.
On the off chance your IP address is blocked by the streaming service, ExpressVPN closes that IP address and opens a new one ensuring you can use the VPN to watch Peacock reliably wherever you are.
For more of the best VPN services to use instead of NordVPN, check out our list below.
Best VPNs to watch Peacock
1. ExpressVPN
The fastest and most reliable VPN of 2024
- ✔Physical servers in 104 countries
- ✔Brilliant for unblocking streaming services
- ✔Very high-speed Lightway protocol
- ✔Available on almost any device
- ✔Very secure
- ❌Pricey
- ❌Only 8 simultaneous devices
- ❌No addons
Streaming: ExpressVPN stands out for effortlessly bypassing geo-restrictions and seamlessly integrating with streaming platforms, operating reliably even in regions where VPNs are prohibited. It consistently demonstrates strong performance in getting past Peacock’s blocks.
Servers: ExpressVPN boasts a vast network pf over 3,000 servers spanning across 104 countries, well surpassing the 71-country average. These servers are ideally located for Peacock+ subscribers, and less than 3% of its servers are virtual, guaranteeing a dependable and swift connection.
Privacy: ExpressVPN’s privacy measures include passing independent audits by cybersecurity firms like Cure53 and F-Secure, ensuring a strong level of security and no significant weaknesses in its macOS, Linux, and Windows apps. More details can be found in the audit reports available online.
Price: ExpressVPN offers three payment plans: a 1-month option at $12.95/month, a 6-month option at $9.99/month, and a 12-month option at $6.67/month. Payment methods include major credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and other systems, accommodating a wide range of users.
Speeds: ExpressVPN maintains high download speeds with minimal drop-off, ensuring efficient performance. Tests showed a slight decrease in upload speeds, but download speeds remained fast across various server locations, including the US, UK, and Vietnam.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| VPN off | 937.07 | 520.93 |
| ExpressVPN US server | 824.62 | 6.96 |
| ExpressVPN UK server | 794.95 | 3.70 |
| ExpressVPN Vietnam server | 761.90 | 3.81 |
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
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2. Private Internet Access
Affordable and secure VPN with wide device compatibility
- ✔Affordable pricing plans
- ✔Unlimited simultaneous devices
- ✔Extra features like ad blocker and email protection
- ✔Verified no-log policy
- ✔Compatible with streaming services like Netflix and Hulu
- ❌High use of virtual servers
- ❌Not as fast as top-tier VPNs
- ❌Lacks proprietary protocol options
Streaming: Private Internet Access seamlessly integrates with streaming services like Peacock, overcoming initial challenges with BBC iPlayer that were successfully addressed through fixes.
Servers: PIA boasts a network of over 35,000 servers spread across 84 countries, surpassing the average of 71 countries. However, half of these servers are virtual, which affects reliability when compared to VPNs with a higher number of physical servers. Still, there’s more than enough for Peacock.
Privacy: PIA’s app is open-source, inviting third-party scrutiny and verification. It has also passed an independent no-log policy audit conducted by Deloitte, affirming its commitment to privacy.
Price: PIA offers three subscription options: 1-month at $11.95/month, 1-year at $3.33/month (upfront cost $39.95), and 3-year at $2.03/month (upfront fee $79). Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, and Amazon payments.
Speeds: Speed tests for PIA showed significant drops in download speeds across various servers. While using WireGuard protocol, speeds were faster than OpenVPN but still slower compared to top-tier VPNs like ExpressVPN.
| OpenVPN Download Speeds (Mbps) | OpenVPN Upload Speeds (Mbps) | WireGuard Download Speeds (Mbps) | WireGuard Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| VPN off (New Zealand) | 930 | 516 | ||
| PIA US server | 238.52 | 7.17 | 300.65 | 8.65 |
| PIA UK server | 245 | 3.77 | 315.78 | 7.23 |
| PIA Vietnam server | 445 | 6.55 | 489 | 8.24 |
Read our full Private Internet Access review.
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3. PureVPN
A mid-range VPN that balances performance and price
- ✔Affordable
- ✔Unblocks major streaming services
- ✔Use on up to 10 devices simultaneously
- ✔Streamlined user interface
- ✔No log audit verified by KPMG
- ✔Several free add-ons
- ❌Buffering on BBC iPlayer at peak times
- ❌Past concerns with “no log” policy
Streaming: PureVPN has demonstrated its ability to unblock streaming services over the years, including Peacock. Although it faced challenges with BBC iPlayer, its performance improved during off-peak hours. While PureVPN can successfully unblock major streaming platforms, it might experience buffering problems during peak streaming periods.
Servers: With over 6,000 servers in 65 countries, PureVPN offers a wide range of servers around the world. For Peacock, you’ll get your choice of plenty of US servers to connect to.
Privacy: PureVPN has faced criticism in the past for its privacy policies. However, it has recently undergone a no-log audit verified by KPMG in the past 12 months, aiming to reassure users about its commitment to privacy.
Price: PureVPN offers three payment options: a 1-month plan at $10.95/month, a 1-year plan at $3.74/month, and a 2-year plan at $1.96/month. PureVPN accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and a variety of other digital payment options.
Speeds: Below is a table that gives you an idea of the speed performance you can expect when using PureVPN. The VPN has shown variable download speeds across different streaming servers, with some experiencing significant drop-offs during peak times.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN | 189.44 | 139.82 |
| PureVPN UK Server | 24.31 | 98.99 |
| PureVPN US Server | 49.83 | 106.52 |
Read our full PureVPN review.
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4. Surfshark
Affordable and secure VPN with unlimited device policy of 2024
- ✔Attractive pricing for long-term subscriptions
- ✔Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
- ✔Robust security and privacy
- ✔24/7 responsive chat support
- ✔Extensive server network in 100 countries
- ❌Has trouble with services like Hulu
- ❌Lacks a unique proprietary protocol
- ❌App can be overwhelming
- ❌Not the fastest among competitors
Streaming: Surfshark get sneak past plenty of major streaming services, including Peacock. However, it may struggle with some, like Hulu. This could be a drawback for users who heavily rely on VPNs for streaming content from various regions.
Servers: Surfshark boasts a 3,000+server network in 100 countries, which is well above the average and includes both physical and virtual servers, providing extensive geographic coverage. Many of these strong servers are in the US, which is ideal for Peacock subscribers.
Privacy: Surfshark emphasizes its commitment to privacy with successful DNS leak tests and independent security audits by Cure53, ensuring robust online security and privacy. You can find more about their security audits here.
Price: Surfshark offers a 1-month option costing $12.95/month, a 12-month option at $3.99/month, and a 24-month option at $2.49/month. It accepts major credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and various cryptocurrencies.
Speeds: Below is a table that gives you an idea of the speed performance when using Surfshark. From our tests, we observed decent speeds, suitable for general use, but not the fastest compared to some rivals.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN (New Zealand) | 940.55 | 520.24 |
| Surfshark US server | 775.9 | 6.15 |
| Surfshark UK server | 587.79 | 3.79 |
Read our full Surfshark review.
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5. CyberGhost
Affordable and secure VPN with extensive server coverage
- ✔Features NoSpy servers, a Killswitch, and split tunnelling
- ✔Attractive pricing for long-term subscriptions
- ✔Over 9,000 servers in 91 countries
- ✔Independent audit confirms no-logs policy
- ✔7-device coverage
- ❌Not optimal for streaming due to speed issues
- ❌Majority of servers are virtual
- ❌Lacks a proprietary protocol
Streaming: CyberGhost enables users to access popular streaming services such as Peacock. Nonetheless, users might encounter sluggish speeds, resulting in buffering and resolution problems, which could significantly detract from the streaming experience. However, you can expect better speeds when connecting to its streaming-specific servers.
Servers: CyberGhost prides itself on its extensive network of over 9,000 servers spread across 91 countries, providing plenty of IP addresses for Peacock. However, it’s worth noting that 54% of these servers are virtual, which may impact both performance and reliability
Privacy: CyberGhost has a no-logs policy that has been independently audited by Deloitte, ensuring user privacy and security. This audit confirms that CyberGhost does not keep records of users’ online activities while using the VPN.
Price: CyberGhost offers three payment options: a 1-month subscription at $12.99/month, a 6-month subscription at $6.99/month, and a 2-year subscription at $2.19/month, which includes an extra two months for free.
Speeds: Speed tests conducted in New Zealand showed significant drops in both download and upload speeds across various servers when using CyberGhost, indicating a performance issue in terms of speed.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN (New Zealand) | 930 | 516 |
| CyberGhost US server | 192.29 | 2.63 |
| CyberGhost UK server | 139.19 | 1.90 |
| CyberGhost Vietnam server | 232.24 | 4.32 |
Read our full CyberGhost review.
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NordVPN not working with Peacock: FAQ
Q: Is using a VPN with Peacock legal?
Answer: Yes, watching Peacock with a VPN is perfectly legal, however it’s important to know that it may go against Peacock’s terms of use. If Peacock figures out you’re using a VPN to watch the streaming service in the UK, then they can block and possibly ban your account. However, Peacock has never banned anyone for using a VPN to access its service.
Q: Why isn’t Peacock working with my VPN?
Answer: Peacock regularly enhances its detection and blocking systems for VPN services. When numerous users attempt to access Peacock through shared VPN IP addresses, the platform identifies this pattern and may restrict access. Find out more on the Peacock not working with VPN issue.
Q: Is there a way to increase streaming speeds on Peacock with NordVPN?
Answer: For enhanced streaming speeds, connect to a server that is geographically closest to you or to the Peacock content you are trying to access. This reduces the distance your data has to travel, potentially increasing your connection speed and improving streaming quality.
Q: How can I contact NordVPN if I’m still having issues with Peacock?
Answer: NordVPN provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. If you’re encountering persistent issues with accessing, reaching out to their support team can offer personalised assistance and potentially more advanced troubleshooting steps to help resolve the problem.
Q: What should I do if only one of my devices can’t access Peacock using the VPN?
Answer: If Peacock functions properly on one device but encounters issues on another, it probably indicates a configuration problem specific to the device. Verify the VPN settings on the problematic device, clear its cache, and ensure that location services are disabled.