Best Comcast VPNs to prevent throttling
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Скрытые серверы
Скрытые серверы — это специализированные VPN-серверы, которые скрывают тот факт, что вы используете VPN для перенаправления трафика. Они позволяют пользователям подключаться к VPN даже в строго регулируемых средах.
Когда вы подключаетесь к обычному VPN-серверу, ваш интернет-провайдер не видит, откуда именно вы выходите в Интернет. Но он знает, что вы используете VPN, так как видит, как выглядят ваши данные. Скрытый сервер, напротив, изменяет пакеты ваших данных, поэтому инструменты для блокировки VPN-трафика пропускают такой трафик. Никто не заметит, что вы используете VPN, если только не будет проверять пакеты данных вручную.
Как работают скрытые серверы?
Скрытые серверы используются для обхода брандмауэров, которые блокируют VPN-трафик. Для этого VPN-провайдер должен удалить из ваших данных всю информацию, связанную с VPN, чтобы они выглядели как обычные пакеты данных.
VPN-провайдеры могут скрывать данные несколькими способами. Например, пакеты данных можно скрыть с помощью дополнительного шифрования SSL/SSH, чтобы не были видны метаданные VPN. По сути, это шифрование, которое скрывает ваше шифрование.
Данные также могут быть скремблированы, что скрывает метаданные из заголовка пакета. Таким образом, пакет выглядит как обычный HTTPS-трафик, передающий бессмысленную информацию. Брандмауэры не могут его распознать и поэтому пропускают.
Зачем использовать скрытые серверы
Скрытые серверы не предназначены для повседневного использования. Когда и для чего их необходимо использовать?
Best Comcast VPNs to prevent throttling
Using a VPN is the most effective way to overcome ISP throttling with companies like Comcast. This guide includes the best VPNs for Comcast and instructions on how to use them.
Comcast has a history of restricting users’ bandwidth. In 2007, the US Federal Communication Commission (FCC) stated that Comcast’s network management practices had “significantly impeded consumers’ ability to access the content and use the applications of their choice”.
Although the company has said it no longer restricts P2P – or any other – traffic, some users still claim that it throttles their connections. The best VPNs prevent this practice by encrypting users’ traffic so that ISPs like Comcast cannot see which websites and apps users are visiting.
A virtual private network (VPN) has the additional benefit of allowing users to change their virtual location. This is made possible by routing users’ traffic through a VPN server before joining the internet proper. Users can connect to any server in the VPN provider’s network – which in some cases can comprise almost 10,000 machines.
We’ll examine individual VPN providers in more detail later. For now, here’s a summary of our top choices.
Best VPNs for Comcast:
- NordVPN: Our recommended VPN for Comcast. Has 1,970+ RAM-only servers in the US providing very fast connection speeds. Allows one-click access to the Tor network and can bypass Chinese blocks. Plans come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Comcast. Subscriptions include unlimited device connections and access to RAM-only servers in 25+ US cities. Its obfuscation works in China and static IP addresses are available in the US.
- ExpressVPN: Speedy RAM-only servers available in 15+ US cities and Santa Monica. Great for streaming and has its own site on the Tor network. Obfuscation enables connections in China and is enabled by default. Dedicated app available for routers.
- PrivateVPN: Independent provider with servers in 12+ US cities. Works well with all major streaming platforms and allows port forwarding for improved torrenting. Connection speeds are fast enough for streaming video in 4K.
- CyberGhost: Notably fast connection speeds and RAM-only servers in 11+ US cities. Strong encryption and servers optimized for gaming, torrenting, and individual streaming platforms. Has an audited no-logs policy.
- IPVanish: Has very fast servers in 20+ US cities that are ideal for Comcast users. It owns the majority of its network hardware and has an independently audited no-logs policy. Subscriptions include unlimited device connections.
- AtlasVPN: Has servers in seven US cities that provide the fastest speeds for Comcast users. Works with all major streaming platforms and allows unlimited device connections. Its SafeSwap servers can rotate users’ IP addresses in-session.
Summary Table
| No value | TEST WINNER | No value | No value | No value | No value | No value | No value |
| No value | NordVPN www.nordvpn.com | Surfshark www.surfshark.com | ExpressVPN www.expressvpn.com | PrivateVPN www.privatevpn.com | CyberGhost www.cyberghost.com | IPVanish www.ipvanish.com | Atlas VPN www.atlasvpn.com |
| Ranking | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| US servers | 1970+ | 600+ | 15 cities | 12 cities | 1356 | 1106 | 7 cities |
| Ave Speed (US) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 94 Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 5 | 10 | 7 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux Android TV, Amazon Fire TV |
| Best deal (per month) | $3.29 SAVE 63% + FREE months | $2.30 84% off 2yr plan | $6.67 Save 49% | $2.00 SAVE 85% on 3yr plan | $2.11 SAVE 83% | $2.50 SAVE 77% | $1.83 SAVE 83% |
So how do we arrive at the above selection? After all, there are literally hundreds of VPNs available. To find the best, we compare providers against a list of criteria. These are summarized below and expanded upon later in the article where we discuss our testing methodology in more detail.
- Servers in the US
- Fast connection speeds
- Good for streaming
- Strong privacy and security features
- Good value for money
- Helpful customer support
To be included as one of our top three providers, we additionally require VPNs to have a RAM-only server network, independently audited software and infrastructure, effective obfuscation, and a location beyond the reach of cross-border spying alliances.
Get a risk free trial
NordVPN offers a risk-free 30-day trial so you can sign up here with zero risk. You can use the VPN rated #1 on this list with no restrictions for a full month.
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 .
Best VPNs for Comcast
Now let’s explore each of our recommended providers in a little more detail:
How to get a US IP address in 5 easy steps (still works in 2023)
Are you struggling with geo-blocks and missing your favorite US-based content while you’re abroad? You’re not alone, and we’ve found the definitive solution. After exhaustive research and rigorous testing, we reveal the easy way to obtain a US IP address: Enter the VPN. Whether you’re on a Mac, a Windows PC, an Android device, an iPhone, or even using an Amazon Fire Stick, our recommendations have you covered.
We’re not just suggesting any VPN; we’re talking about the best VPNs for obtaining a US IP address, tested for speed, reliability, and security. Don’t settle for inferior methods that put your data at risk or offer sluggish performance.
Skip the hassle and dive straight into our expertly vetted list of the best VPNs guaranteed to get you a US IP address, no matter where your travels take you. Here is our summary list of the 7 best VPNs to get a US IP:
- NordVPN: Our #1 Choice VPN for a US IP. Dozens of superfast servers in multiple locations throughout the US. Lets you stream a huge range of content abroad. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Steady speeds, no connection limit, and plenty of American servers to choose from. Impressive security and privacy features.
- ExpressVPN: A reliable, reputable VPN boasting real versatility, high-speed American servers, and top-notch security features.
- CyberGhost: Good choice for beginners. Hundreds of servers in the US. Apps are easy to install and use. 45-day money-back guarantee.
- Private Internet Access: Fast US-based VPN with servers in 20 US cities. Highly customizable security options. No logs policy. Works with Netflix US.
- PrivateVPN: Secure Swedish VPN provider. Great for torrenting. Works with Netflix US, Hulu, and many more US services.
- AtlasVPN: Superb option for streaming. Good value for money. Fast WireGuard connections. Servers in 6 US cities.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for a US IP.
We go into more detail on the exact criteria used for testing a VPN to get a US IP address later, but here is a quick rundown of a few key areas we look at:
- Large range of server locations in the US
- Speed and stability of connection
- Rigid encryption protocols so your location remains hidden
- Ease of use
- Apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS
How to get a US IP address
Getting a US IP address is easy, just follow these steps:
- Sign up for a Virtual Private Network (VPN). We recommend NordVPN.
- Register for the service and download the VPN software or app
- Clear your cookies and restart your device to remove old location identifiers
- Log in to your VPN provider and connect to a server in the US
- Access your US site like you normally would
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for getting a US IP address with no restrictions for a month—perfect for accessing US services during a short trip outside of the country.
There are no hidden terms—just contact customer support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll receive a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Best VPNs for a US IP – Our hands-on review
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 getting a US IP address.
Best VPNs to get a US IP address
Based on real-world experience, here’s our list of the best VPNs to get a US IP address:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is an excellent option for advanced users who want customized options coupled with tier-1 service. In fact, out of all the VPN’s we’ve tested, this is by far the fastest. Such impressive download speeds make it a perfect VPN for streaming, and other activities like online gaming and torrenting.
NordVPN allows you to select servers based on your specific requirements – such as anti-DDoS, video streaming, double VPN, Tor over VPN, or P2P. NordVPN operates more than 5,000 servers in total, and a large portion of those are in the US, granting access to content only available in the country.
It works well with Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, among others.
NordVPN uses the 256-bit AES protocol encryption standard by default coupled with 2,048-bit SSL keys. DNS leak protection is enabled. It holds zero user data – this includes browsing habits, timestamps, and server information.
There’s a NordVPN app for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android, and a NordVPN subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
NordVPN speed test data
Pros:
- Beats all of its rivals when it comes to speed
- Excels at securely accessing region-locked services
- No logs policy
- Strong security and privacy features
- Tons of servers
Cons:
- Desktop app is a little sluggish
4.5 out of 5
BEST VPN FOR A US IP ADDRESS: NordVPN is our first choice for getting a US IP address. It’s extremely fast, has a major security focus, and allows up to 6 simultaneous connections. Best of all, it keeps no logs and has a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Here’s our full review of NordVPN.
NordVPN Coupon
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2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark operates VPN servers in 20+ US cities. It’s also one of the only providers on this list to allow users an unlimited number of connections on a single plan. This premium VPN provides reliable access to plenty of platforms including US Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, among others. Kill switches come built into both the mobile and desktop apps, so you never have to worry about leaking your real IP address.
Live chat support is staffed around the clock. Surfshark uses military-grade encryption and keeps no logs. Torrenting is allowed and the lightning-fast speeds make it a great VPN for doing so.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android.
Surfshark speed test data
Pros:
- Great for American Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video
- Generally strong speeds
- Maximum security offering
- Keeps no logs
- Unlimited devices
Cons:
- Relatively small server network
- Occasional slow server
4.5 out of 5
BEST BUDGET PICK: Get a US IP for as many devices as you want with Surfshark. This VPN is fast, affordable, and security-conscious, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark Coupon
Get 2 Months FREE with a 2-year plan
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3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is an impeccable VPN service that’s easy to set up and comes with a simple design. The service packs a punch when rated on both speed and encryption standards. The US occupies the bulk of ExpressVPN’s server locations with options in 14 cities. Overall there are over 3,000 secure servers in 94 countries and 160 locations spread across the world.
The company has a stated policy of not storing any user or traffic logs, so it scores high marks from a privacy angle too. The only minimal data it does extract is the “date (not time) of connection, choice of server location, and total bandwidth used”. This is used to improve service quality standards. It’s important to note that your individual IP address won’t be recorded.
If you’re still feeling skittish, we recommend you sign up for the service via a burner email account and pay through Bitcoin. It’ll become extremely difficult for your digital footprint to be traced back to you.
Encryption standards are military grade for maximum online protection. The service leverages 256-bit AES-CBC protocols as well as HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy. An internet kill switch is included, which ExpressVPN refers to as a ‘network lock’. This feature means all web traffic will be temporarily halted if the connection drops.
The service is able to securely access Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.
There are apps for Android and iOS as well as desktop clients for Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
ExpressVPN speed test data
Pros:
- Strong connection security
- Fast, stable speeds
- Plenty of servers
- Great for streaming content from anywhere
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
4.5 out of 5
GREAT ALL-ROUNDER: ExpressVPN is a fast and reliable choice Great for streaming. Strong privacy features and a no-logs policy, not to mention a 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN Coupon
SAVE: 49% on the annual plan
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4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost will appeal to beginner users who want a relatively inexpensive VPN. It delivers on both speed and security, as well as the ability to securely access streaming sites like American Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. It has the largest server network of servers of any VPN on this list, including thousands in The United States.
The company is headquartered in Romania, which means it’s not required to store any user information, so it keeps zero logs.
User-friendly apps are available for both Android and iOS as well as desktop support for Windows, macOS, and Linux. There is also a browser extension for Google Chrome.
CyberGhost VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption which is among the best in the business. An internet kill switch is included for great threat protection, even when using a public Wi-Fi network.
CyberGhost speed test data
Pros:
- Works with lots of streaming sites
- Fast connections
- Great security
- Zero logs
Cons:
- Not suitable for users in China
- Few customizable features
4.5 out of 5
BEST FOR BEGINNERS: CyberGhost has a simple set up and is easy to use. Streams HD video reliably. Limited in use with some popular streaming sites. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
CyberGhost Coupon
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5. Private Internet Access
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PIA is a US-based VPN that is strong on privacy and secure browsing. It is suitable for getting an IP address in the US, thanks to its servers in 20 cities. This service has over 10,000 servers in total spread across 80+ countries, which also allows you to unblock services from all over the world.
PIA has apps for all platforms and they come with many advanced features. This includes DNS leak protection, a kill-switch, malware filtering, and customizable encryption options. This allows you to strengthen or weaken the encryption depending on what you need. This makes the VPN versatile and means you can always get security or added privacy whether at home or on public wifi. It also has a no-logs policy that it has proven in court.
When it comes to accessing US streaming platforms, this VPN is not as good as our other recommendations. It does work with Netflix US, but it struggles with many others. The good news is that a subscription plan with Private Internet Access has a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. So, if you do want to check it with your specific VoD account, you can.
If you have any questions or want help with using or setting up the VPN, you can contact the 24/7 live chat support. Finally, torrenting is allowed and the VPN throws in a Shadowsocks proxy for those who need it.
Private Internet Access speed test data
Pros:
- Fast WireGuard protocol
- Strong security and highly customizable apps
- Zero logs
- Works with Netflix US
- Servers in 20 US cities
Cons:
- Sometimes struggles with streaming services
- Based in the US
4 out of 5
HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE: Fast and secure. Lets you connect using up to 10 devices at once. No logs policy. Over 10,000 servers in 80+ countries; including servers in 20 US cities. WireGuard and OpenVPN protocol. robust AES encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Private Internet Access Coupon
SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 3 months free
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6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is a reliable provider based in Sweden. It has super-secure apps for all platforms that come with a wealth of useful privacy and security feature. This includes DNS leak protection, a kill-switch, obfuscation, AES encryption, and an auto-connect feature. It also has a solid no-logs policy and servers that are optimized for torrenting.
Servers are located in 63+ countries. Admittedly, it does have fewer servers in total compared to our other recommendations (it only has around 250 in total). That said, it provides fantastic speeds for streaming, and it is one of the few services that consistently works to access around 20 different Netflix regions, Hulu, iPlayer, Amazon time Video, and more.
The primary drawback with this service is that the live chat is only available between 18 and 22 hours per day. This is an extremely minor complaint, and you can always send them an email instead. Servers are available right across the US East and West coast to let you get a US IP address where you need it. You can test it yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
PrivateVPN speed test data
Pros:
- Secure apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
- Works in China
- Good for American Netflix
- No logs
- Lots of strong security features
Cons:
- Fewer servers in each location than competitors
4.5 out of 5
SOLID PERFORMER: This Swedish VPN has bare metal servers in 63 countries, including the US. Works with around two-dozen Netflix regions. Excellent connection speeds. Allows torrenting. Easy to use. Has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
PrivateVPN Coupon
SAVE 85% on the three year plan
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7. AtlasVPN
Apps Available:
VPN Ratings:
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
AtlasVPN has around 700 servers in 30+ countries worldwide, including the US. This simple VPN doesn’t have as many advanced features as our other recommendations, but it is an excellent low-cost option that works well for streaming US TV platforms. This includes popular platforms like Netflix US, iPlayer, Hulu, Disney Plus, Prime Video, and HBO Max.
In addition to being cheap, this VPN is generous. It lets you connect an unlimited number of devices. This means you can share your account with all your friends and family if you want to. It also means you can use it to gain online privacy whether at home or on public wifi using your mobile devices.
One slight caveat is that this VPN does not provide the popular OpenVPN protocol. However, it does have IKEv2 with robust AES-256 encryption, and the super-fast WireGuard protocol for streaming and torrenting. A no-logs policy means the VPN never tracks what you do online. You can test it yourself to get an IP address in 6 different US cities and in 30+ countries around the world.
AtlasVPN speed test data
Pros:
- Fast, reliable server connections
- Works with a wide range of geo-blocked platforms
- Strong on connection security
- Servers in 6 US cities
- Unlimited connections permitted
Cons:
- Fewer advances features
- Servers in 30+ countries only
4 out of 5
GOOD FOR STREAMING: A fast US-based VPN that has servers in six US cities. Allows an unlimited number of connections. Works with most streaming services. Easy to use. Kill-switch and split tunneling features. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our full AtlasVPN review.
AtlasVPN Coupon
SAVE 85% on a 2 year plan
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Why get an American IP address?
People might want to obtain a US IP address for several reasons. American residents traveling abroad can use it to regain access to geo-restricted media streaming services like Netflix or Hulu. Netflix restricts its catalog depending on where you’ve logged in from, so it’s a good choice if you would like to obtain the full range of movies and TV shows. That’s similar to how HBO GO and Vudu operate, so a VPN is a good tool for those as well.
Others might want to keep in touch with live sports such as Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), or the National Football League (NFL) by streaming ESPN.
With a US IP address, you can also access online banking and other services that block non-US users.
Should I use a free VPN?
Free VPNs are heavily advertised on the internet and some users may be tempted to sign up. However, many such services have a poor track record of impinging on users’ rights by stealing their data and selling it to third-party advertisers.
After all, even free VPNs are registered businesses. Hence they need to make money to pay for staff salaries, server maintenance, and general office overheads. That’s why the route for monetization becomes users themselves.
Even if your data isn’t stolen, expect bandwidth throttling, weak encryption standards, and data caps. So it’s likely that you’ll be booted out if you stream Netflix for an hour or so. Tons of invasive advertisements are also common, with the real risk of contracting a malware infection. We recommend you avoid the random free VPNs on the web.
See also:
- Best VPNs for USA
- Best VPNs for US TV
Some VPNs to avoid
If you’re trying to obtain a US IP address, it’s pivotal that your privacy and anonymity is secured at all times. The VPNs mentioned in this list don’t have a history of handing over user data but there are several other unscrupulous ones. We think you should turn your back on them.
Here are two such cases:
1. PureVPN
There’s evidence to suggest that VPN provider PureVPN collaborated with law enforcement agencies to help identify one of its users.
PureVPN and the FBI joined forces after an unnamed 24-year-old woman filed a complaint about falling prey to an online blackmailing plot. She suspected her roommate, Ryan Lin, to be culpable.
The FBI traced the internet activity back to PureVPN, who then used its logs to identify the culprit. Ryan was arrested. PureVPN insists that it didn’t record the content of communications, but it did have a ‘no-logs’ policy in place. There’s a real question mark on how ethical they might have behaved.
2. HolaVPN
Israel-based Hola, a popular VPN extension for Chrome, used its sizable user base of almost 50 million for illegal purposes. The company turned this critical mass into a massive botnet in 2015, leveraging individual user bandwidth to engage in Distributed Denial of Service Attacks and distributing copyrighted material. Users were completely in the dark.
Use an American DNS server
Nearly as important as your public IP address is the server your device uses to look up the IP addresses of different web pages and other online content. DNS, or Domain Name System, works sort of like a phone book in which names (domains) are matched with phone numbers (IP addresses). When attempting to access geo-locked content, many websites not only check where you’re calling from, but where the phone book is located.
Even when you have an American IP address, if a DNS request is sent to a server outside of the US to look up a public IP address, the website or app can see this and still block you. Therefore, it’s important that the DNS server you use is in the same country as your IP address. In this case, you need a DNS server inside the US.
All of the VPNs in the above list have apps that take care of this for you. When you connect to the VPN server, your DNS requests are also sent through the encrypted tunnel. Good VPNs, like the ones we recommend, operate their own private DNS servers, so your DNS requests cannot be used to track which websites you visit by your Internet Service Provider or another DNS server provider. You might need to toggle this option on in your VPN app’s settings.
Some mediocre VPNs will send your DNS requests through the tunnel, but then use a public DNS service like Google DNS on the other side. This will let you use DNS servers in the US, but Google would be able to record which websites you visit and when, which is not ideal for privacy. Other VPNs fail to tunnel DNS requests altogether.
If your VPN provider doesn’t tunnel DNS traffic for you, you can manually configure DNS servers on most devices. We recommend a service like OpenNIC, which offers free DNS servers in specific countries including the US. The exact process for changing DNS servers varies between devices, but you can usually add primary and secondary DNS servers somewhere in your network configuration settings.
Windows 10 users in particular should be aware that their operating system often sends such requests in tandem, one over the IPv4 protocol and one over IPv6. Windows uses whichever one comes back faster, however, IPv6 requests are often sent outside the VPN tunnel. If your VPN doesn’t offer IPv6 leak protection, you may need to disable IPv6 altogether in your wifi settings.
What are the other ways to get a US IP address?
There’s the option of using the Tor browser. This is a free service available to everyone on the web and designed to provide encryption and anonymity. Many people including journalists, human rights activists, and whistleblowers use Tor to keep their identity hidden on the web.
It is possible to acquire a US IP address with Tor, but the process is a bit complicated and requires multiple steps. This guide breaks it down in more detail. Having said that, speeds on the Tor browser are buggy at best so if you’re looking to download or stream HD video, this isn’t a suitable option. Best to go with a VPN instead.
The last possible option is to use a free proxy server. But these work in a similar vein to free VPN services. There are download caps and unclear privacy policies. Be prepared to be booted out just halfway into your episode of House of Cards. HTTP and SOCKS proxies often aren’t encrypted, and they only route internet traffic from certain apps, such as your web browser.
Finding the best VPNs to get a US IP: Our methodology
Traveling abroad may have some impact on your usual online activity, particularly when it comes to streaming. There are a number of hurdles to overcome including geographic restrictions, slow speeds, and poor security on public wifi. To make your life easier, we evaluated each VPN to ensure it meets the criteria as listed below:
- Servers in the US: Of course, in order to get a US IP address, you’ll need to use a VPN that offers servers in the US. It also helps if these servers are spread across multiple cities. That way, you can select a server closer to your location for faster speeds. That’s why we’ve covered only the fastest VPNs.
- Speed: The faster the speeds offered by a VPN, the easier it will be to stream and torrent. All of the VPNs recommended in this post provide not only fast server speeds but unlimited bandwidth. This becomes most obvious when streaming as you’re less likely to encounter lag and buffering.
- Network size: Traveling outside the US may mean you occasionally need more than just a US IP address. Indeed, there may be websites or services from other countries that you wish to access. A VPN should therefore provide servers in dozens of countries around the world.
- Security: If you’re going on vacation, you may find yourself using public wifi. Unfortunately, this comes with some security risks. However, using a VPN protects your data from hackers and snoopers alike. This is done with encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and more.
- Privacy: There are a number of things a VPN can do to protect your privacy. One of the biggest is to have a no-logs policy. That’s why we’ve assessed 140 VPN logging policies to find the very best. It also helps if a VPN allows you to pay anonymously in cryptocurrency.
- Ease of use: It doesn’t hurt if a VPN provides apps that are easy to use for beginners! Indeed, the very best VPNs allow you to connect to a server with a single click. There should also be a live chat and email support as well as resources including setup guides.
- Value for money: Some VPNs offer very few features yet charge a similar price to the VPNs covered in this post. We believe we’ve found VPNs that are fairly priced for what they offer. Better still, our discount coupons can help you save even more on the price of a subscription.
The above is just part of our full VPN testing methodology. By testing each and every aspect of a VPN for ourselves, we can develop an in-depth understanding of it. This is how we provide you with information that is not only accurate, but up-to-date.
How to get an American IP Address FAQ
Can I get an IP address from a specific US city?
Many VPNs allow you to choose not just the country that your chosen city is in, but also the city. This makes sense: the US is a huge country, so there could be a significant difference in speeds between servers on the East and West coasts. Most providers offer servers in New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, at the very least.
Is getting an IP address from US legal?
Of course — there’s no legal requirement to use the IP address that your Internet Service Provider gives you. That said, you could run into problems if you use a VPN with the intent of committing crimes online. As long as you’re not planning on downloading copyrighted content, harassing anyone, or accessing illegal material, you should be fine.
Can an American proxy hide my IP address?
An American proxy server will hide your IP address, but they don’t really hold up to VPNs when it comes to security or privacy. For instance, even if your proxy server is encrypted, it’ll still only secure traffic from your browser. In contrast, a VPN will protect data from any app on your device.
Additionally, when you use a reputable VPN provider, you know exactly what personal information is recorded and who has access to it. However, proxy servers, particularly free ones, come with no such guarantees.
Can I access online banking in America with these VPNs?
Although VPNs are primarily used to enhance your digital privacy, many banks still don’t allow you to access their online banking services while connected. The main reason for this is to help prevent fraud (for instance, by recording foreign login attempts). Unfortunately, if you’re traveling, this means that you may be forced to access your online banking service over a public wifi connection, which are notoriously insecure.
Here’s the thing: it’s just not possible to detect every VPN. The Chinese government has been trying for years, and still hasn’t succeeded, so banks just don’t stand a chance. Even if a service is blocked, most major providers will find a workaround in days (or sometimes hours), making it a constant game of cat and mouse. In other words, if your current VPN doesn’t work with your bank, you can just try a different one.
How do I determine the physical location of an IP address in the US?
You can’t determine the exact physical location of an IP address. Tracking an IP address will only show the approximate server location. Regardless, by using a VPN to get an IP address in the US, you can hide your IP address and have improved privacy protection. Internet traffic is encrypted while you also share the same US IP address as other users on the same server. All user activity is mixed up as a result, allowing you to browse anonymously.
Will an IP address from the US hide my internet activity from my ISP?
ISPs in the US can see what you’re doing online. This includes the websites you visit and how long you spend on them. You can hide your internet activity from your ISP by using a VPN. This encrypts your internet traffic so your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online. Furthermore, any reputable VPN should have a strict no-logs policy . This means that even if data were requested, there shouldn’t be anything to share.
Can I use a US IP address to watch American Netflix?
Yes. Anybody outside of the US traveling or on vacation can regain access to the US Netflix catalog by connecting to an IP address in America. However, it is important to remember that very few VPNs nowadays work to access Netflix from abroad. This means that you must pick a VPN service carefully.
Netflix works hard to block VPNs to prevent consumers from being able to access foreign catalogs. It does this to comply with the licensing agreements it has entered with copyright holders and content producers. The good news is that there are still some market-leading services that know how to stay one step ahead of the Netflix VPN blocks.
Do I need a static US IP address?
A static IP, or dedicated IP address, can be useful if you want to appear to be accessing a service from the same IP each time. This is useful if you play on poker sites, for example, that do not permit VPN use. By connecting with a static IP, you appear to be a regular subscriber who is connecting from a regular home IP.
The vast majority of VPNs provide shared, dynamic IPs that change over time. This can make it hard to get a static IP address. Most VPNs have multiple IPs in each location where they have a server. When you connect to a particular server location, they assign you an IP at random to help combat server congestion. This ensures that each IP is not overloaded, to improve speeds for its users.
As a result, users who require the same IP address each time must find a VPN that provides a dedicated IP. A dedicated IP is an IP address that is rented by a VPN subscriber for their use only. This is a disadvantage for privacy, because it means that it is easier to trace back VPN use to the individual who paid for the dedicated IP.
The advantage of a dedicated IP is that the IP address will remain the same each time you use it. This allows you to host game servers, websites, and other resources via that personal IP address. It also means that you can host publicly accessible resources without needing to reveal your real IP address. To find out more about dedicated static IPs and changing your IP address, check out our guides.
Will changing to a US IP address slow my internet connection?
Changing to a US IP address can slow your internet connection if you use a slow VPN. However, the fastest VPNs may not have a negative impact on your connection, despite the fact that internet traffic is routed to their server before going to the website or service in question. In fact, some VPNs may actually improve your internet connection, particularly if you’re suffering bandwidth throttling from your ISP. That’s because the best VPNs for getting a US IP address provide unlimited bandwidth.
How can I check what my IP address is?
Check your IP address is straightforward by visiting a website that displays IP addresses, such as WhatIsMyIP.com. To find your IP address, simply look for the section of the page that says “Your IP Address is.” You’ll find your IP address listed next to this heading.
What type of content can I unblock with a US IP address?
With a US IP address, you can unblock streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu and US-specific content on YouTube, ABC Network, CBS All Access, and many other websites. You’ll also be able to access all the great US-only apps in the App Store or Google Play Store. In addition, by having a US IP address, you won’t have to worry about being blocked from accessing your favorite American content. Plus, if you’re traveling outside the country and want to access American content without being geo-restricted, using a VPN with a US IP address is a great way to do it.
A VPN connection will encrypt your internet traffic and assign you an American IP address so that websites think you’re accessing them from the US. This way, you can access all your favorite American websites, content, and apps while traveling abroad. So if you’re interested in unblocking American-only content with a US IP address, a VPN is an ideal solution.
Can I get a US IP without a VPN?
Yes, it’s possible to change your IP address and get a US IP address by connecting to a proxy server. However, there is one main difference between a proxy and a VPN . In particular, only a VPN encrypts all of your internet traffic from your browser to your apps. While some proxies use encryption, this will only secure browser traffic. So if you’re looking to improve your online security as well as get a US IP address, a VPN is your best bet.
Can you change to a US IP address on a mobile phone?
Yes, it is possible to change your IP address on a mobile phone to a US one by using a VPN. This encrypted connection allows you to appear as if you’re located somewhere other than where you are.
By connecting via a VPN from anywhere in the world and choosing an IP address based in America, all web traffic originates from inside US borders, regardless of which country or region users are physically present in when using their mobile phones.
How do I stop my US IP address from leaking?
To stop your US IP address from leaking, you can follow these steps:
- Use a VPN with built-in IP leak protection: Choose a reliable VPN service that offers IP leak protection, such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN.
- Disable IPv6 manually on your system: Disabling IPv6 can help prevent IP leaks. You can find instructions on how to disable IPv6 here.
- Test your VPN for leaks: Regularly test your VPN for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks using websites like ipleak.net or dnsleaktest.com. If your VPN leaks, consider switching to a more reliable VPN service.
- Disable WebRTC in your browser: WebRTC can cause IP leaks, so disabling it in your browser settings or installing a WebRTC block plugin can help prevent leaks.
Following these steps, you can effectively prevent your US IP address from leaking and maintain your online privacy and security.
Can I download torrents with a US IP address?
Yes, it is possible to download torrents with a US IP address, but it is essential to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself, such as using a VPN.
Torrenting itself is not illegal, but it is illegal to download copyrighted material that you don’t own the rights to. Uploading files of digital content that’s copyrighted through the process of seeding is always illegal.
Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with torrenting and to take steps to protect yourself.