Geo-blocking is nothing new, and there are plenty of good reasons as to why it’s so common (usually international licensing agreements). However, it can be frustrating to arrive in a foreign country and realize that the only content available to you is in a language you don’t speak. If you’re trying to watch DStv online from abroad you may have already found this to be the case. Luckily, it’s easy to get around regional content restrictions and watch DStv online using a VPN.

So how does this all work exactly? Well, most region-locked services check the user’s IP address to make sure they’re in a supported country. VPNs can send your data through servers in other locations, though, which changes your IP address and makes it seem like you’re elsewhere in the world. For example, if you were to connect to an American server, any geo-restricted services would conclude that you were in the US.

Short on time? Below, you’ll find a quick guide to the best VPNs for unblocking DStv Now. If any catch your eye, just scroll down for a more detailed review of each.

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 watching DStv online from outside South Africa:

  • NordVPN: Our top VPN for anyone looking to watch DStv channels abroad. Extremely high speeds, top-notch security features, and great unblocking ability. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • Surfshark: The best low-cost VPN for live streaming DStv. Boasts solid speeds, an impressive security offering, and the ability to secure all of your devices at once.
  • ExpressVPN: A veteran provider with a reputation for unblocking tricky streaming services. Consistent, reliable speeds and plenty of powerful privacy features built-in.
  • CyberGhost: A novice-friendly service that provides fast speeds and unblocks DStv with ease. All of its security features come pre-configured.
  • IPVanish: This no-logs VPN lets you connect as many devices as you like. It’s fast enough for flawless live streaming and has half a dozen South African servers to choose from.
  • PrivateVPN: A speedy, security-first service that can unblock all but the most stubborn streaming services. Works with Netflix, DStv, and more. Six-connection limit.
  • Private Internet Access: Good speeds and successfully unblocks DStv. Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections. No-logs VPN with 24/7 support.

Best VPNs for DStv – at a glance

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 watching DStv.

Deciding which VPN to use doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, despite what the marketing material would have you believe, the best VPNs tend to be the ones that can handle everything reasonably well, not the services that are the best at one particular thing. That’s why we decided to only recommend VPNs that met all of the criteria below:

  • Has a large network, ideally with servers in multiple DStv-supported countries
  • Provides stable connections and speeds that are high enough for live streaming
  • Unblocks DStv and other popular streaming services
  • Keeps you safe using cutting-edge security features
  • Doesn’t log any data that could identify you
  • Comes with apps for all of the most popular operating systems

Best VPN for watching DStv online

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for unblocking DStv abroad:

1. NordVPN

                    Jan 2023

Unblocks DStvTested Jan 2023

Apps Available:

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

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

When it comes to security, NordVPN is one of the best. It keeps you safe from snoopers with a combination of DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch. Ads and malware are blocked automatically, and for even greater privacy, you can connect to special obfuscated servers. These even work in places like China, so you’re all but guaranteed safe browsing. NordVPN doesn’t keep any logs and offers 24/7 support via live chat.

NordVPN provides easy to use apps for iOS, MacOS, Android, Windows, and Linux systems. Further, it can be manually configured for use with supported routers.

BEST VPN FOR DSTV:NordVPN is our first choice for DStv.It’s the fastest VPN on the market right now, and comes packed with powerful security features. There’s also a no-logs policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can try it completely risk-free.

Pros:

  • Faster than any other VPN we’ve tested
  • Unblocks the majority of streaming services with ease
  • Major emphasis on security and privacy
  • No-logs policy
  • 24/7 live chat support available

Cons:

  • Desktop app takes some getting used to

Our score:

Interested? For more information, check out our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

Unblocks DStvTested Jan 2023

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website: www.Surfshark.com

This service’s security features are top-notch and include 256-bit AES encryption, a customizable kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. Further, it offers a toggleable NoBorders mode capable of bypassing especially strict online blocking. Surfshark is a zero-logs provider so it can’t reveal details of your activities under any circumstances. Users can pay with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple for another layer of anonymity. Live chat is available around the clock in case of any problems.

Surfshark offers clean, uncluttered Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS apps. Alternatively, you can manually install it on select wireless routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an inexpensive provider but it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to stream DStv abroad. Steady speeds, strong security and privacy protections, plus the ability to secure every device you own. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also included.

  • Decent speeds and no bandwidth limits

  • Fast enough for streaming live TV without any issues

  • Puts your security and privacy first

  • No limit on number of devices connected

  • Some servers are slower than others

  • Only has servers in two African countries

Read our complete Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

There are all kinds of security features built-in, like 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. You can also choose to block local connections or let certain apps bypass the VPN (for instance, so you can use local streaming services as well as DStv without having to disconnect). Importantly, ExpressVPN doesn’t log any data that could be used to identify you. If you run into any issues, you can reach support staff over live chat at any time of day.

ExpressVPN apps are available for MacOS, Linux, Windows, iOS, and Android. This service also offers custom router firmware that makes it easier to secure your whole network.

HIGHLY VERSATILE:ExpressVPN blends speed, security, and unblocking ability to create an extremely well-balanced service that can handle almost any task. With impressive unblocking capabilities and a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s well worthy of your consideration.

  • Fast enough to play HD video without buffering

  • Works with DStv, SuperSport, and more

  • Great security and privacy credentials

  • Pay anonymously with Bitcoin

  • Slightly higher cost than others

  • Could offer more control over advanced functionality

Take a look at our in-depth ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost has dozens of servers spread across Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, and more than 6,600 overall in 90 countries. This novice-friendly service provides consistently high speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and clearly-labeled servers that tell you which streaming services they unblock. This makes it as easy as possible to access not just DStv, but other major platforms like Netflix US, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer from abroad.

This VPN uses 256-bit encryption, an always-on kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks to keep your activities hidden at all times. It also blocks ads, malware, and trackers automatically and refuses to log any personally identifiable data. Better still, all of these features come enabled by default, meaning there’s no need to configure anything; you’re protected from the moment you connect. In the unlikely event of any problems, you can reach support 24/7 via email or live chat.

CyberGhost offers user-friendly iOS, MacOS, Windows, Android, and Linux apps. What’s more, some network routers are supported via manual configuration.

SPEEDY AND SECURE:CyberGhost is easy to use and doesn’t skimp on server choice, speed, or security. This makes it ideal for streaming DStv abroad, torrenting, or even just browsing privately as you travel. What’s more, it comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

  • Consistently high speeds

  • Plenty of fast South African servers

  • Strong unblocking capabilities

  • Scores highly in terms of security and privacy

  • Less suitable for power users

  • Doesn’t work in China or the UAE

For more details, read our full review of CyberGhost.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish has around 1,600 servers in 60+ countries worldwide, including about a dozen in South Africa and Nigeria. Thanks to this service’s high speeds, users can watch their favorite shows in the highest possible quality, free from lag and buffering. It’s not just DStv, either: this service works with platforms like Netflix US and Hulu too. Best of all, IPVanish has no connection limit, making it ideal for those looking to protect lots of devices at once.

This is one service that doesn’t compromise on security. User traffic is hidden with 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch, but you can also choose to block LAN traffic entirely or scramble your data (which helps hide the fact that you’re using a VPN at all). IPVanish is a zero-logs provider and as such, can’t divulge details of your activities to anyone, ever. 24/7 support is available over live chat and email.

IPVanish comes with apps for Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS devices. You can also manually configure it for use with Linux systems and supported routers if you’d prefer.

STREAM WITHOUT LIMITS:IPVanish has no issues unblocking DStv, plus its high speeds mean you can watch in the highest possible quality. Keeps no logs, offers plenty of security features and has no connection limits. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Fast and reliable connections

  • Offers a no-logs policy and a wide range of powerful security features

  • Connect as many devices as you like

  • Struggles to unblock some major streaming services

  • Doesn’t accept Bitcoin

Check out the full review of IPVanish.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

This VPN boasts effectively uncrackable 256-bit encryption, as well as a customizable kill switch and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Looking for a little more privacy? There’s also a no-logs policy and a stealth mode capable of bypassing especially strict online censorship. Customer support isn’t quite available 24/7 but it does operate most hours of the day and boasts some of the fastest email response times we’ve seen.

PrivateVPN apps are available for Linux, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. Select internet routers are supported via manual configuration.

ZERO LOGS KEPT:PrivateVPN is an extremely fast service that unblocks DStv, Netflix, and similar platforms without breaking a sweat. Has a strong security focus and keeps no logs at all. Best of all, this provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Exceptionally high speeds

  • Gaining reputation for their growing list of sites they unblock

  • Strong security and privacy protection features

  • Small number of servers to choose from

  • Doesn’t have 24/7 live chat

Find out more in our comprehensive PrivateVPN review.

7. Private Internet Access

Unblocks DSTVTested Jan 2023

Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Private Internet Access covers more countries than most VPNs. Indeed, its network of servers covers over 80 countries including South Africa. As such, you can use it to access DStv while traveling abroad. Notably, it works with other popular streaming platforms such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Our speed tests found it to be among the fastest VPNs with average speeds of 94 Mbps.

Your PIA account comes with 24/7 live chat and email support. You can also use it to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously (most VPNs only allow up to five or six simultaneous connections). A strict no-logs service, PIA routes your data through a 256-bit AES encrypted tunnel. You can also expect protection from DNS leaks as well as a kill switch feature. For an extra monthly fee, you can get a dedicated IP address.

SERVERS WORLDWIDE:Private Internet Access has fast servers in South Africa. Stream DStv and Netflix without lag while traveling abroad. Use it on up to 10 devices at the same time. Strict no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

  • Server network covers 80+ countries including South Africa

  • Good speeds makes it ideal for streaming DStv

  • Can be used on up to 10 devices at once

  • True no-logs policy — doesn’t even keep connection logs

  • Struggles to work in China

  • Apps could be easier to navigate

Read the full Private Internet Access review.

DStv VPN testing methodology

There are many consumer-facing VPNs on the market and they are not all of an equal caliber. To ensure we recommend the very best VPNs, we test market leading services using a scientific VPN testing methodology.

We check VPN apps for important security and privacy features, and we test that those apps behave as they should to protect your data and web browsing habits against snoops. This includes performing important IP and DNS leak tests, for example.

For added transparency, we have included a list of important features we searched for when recommending the best VPNs for DStv:

How to unblock DStv outside of Africa with a VPN

There’s no need to worry; VPNs are much more simple to use than you might think. In fact, you can unblock DStv in a matter of minutes. Below is a quick guide to streaming DStv abroad.

Here’s how to watch DStv online from anywhere:

  • First, sign up for one of the VPNs above (we recommend NordVPN).
  • Now, download and install the app onto whichever device you plan to use for streaming.
  • Log in and connect to a server in a country where DStv operates. Most Sub-Saharan countries should work, but if you’re in any doubt, use a South African server.
  • Visit the DStv website and log in. You should be able to start streaming without any errors or loading issues. If not, clear your cookies and try again. If problems persist, get in touch with your VPN’s support team for further advice.

Streaming DStv abroad: your frequently asked questions

Free VPNs come with their share of security concerns too. For instance, many fail to even encrypt your traffic, which means they provide no privacy benefits whatsoever. Further, many malicious third parties have taken to disguising their malware as free VPNs, so there’s a chance that your bid to improve your online security actually does the opposite. Finally, while paid services will let you know exactly what information they log and how it is handled, there are no such guarantees from free services. For these reasons, we advise sticking with reputable, privacy-first VPNs instead of using a service simply because it’s free. 

That said, once you’ve signed up and connected to a VPN, there’s nothing stopping you from accessing DStv Now (the provider’s online service) while traveling abroad. 

  • SuperSport
  • M-Net
  • Vuzu
  • Via
  • 1Magic
  • AfricaMagic Family
  • KykNET Nou!
  • Newzroom Afrika

The reason for this is simple: VPNs are legitimate privacy tools that are used by millions of people every day. If streaming services banned everyone who inadvertently left their VPN active before trying to watch something, they’d have no customers left. 

The DStv Now app will not work for streaming on your account unless you are in South Africa. Thus, if you are outside of the country on vacation, you will need to connect to a VPN server in South Africa to bypass its regional restrictions and stream videos.

Fortunately, you can stream DStv on an Xbox One device and an Android TV using a standalone app. To do so, simply search for DStv in the device’s app store and install it. Following that you will be able to stream on the device.

Due to the fact that DStv is only available in South Africa, you will need to connect your device to a VPN server if you are outside of the country. If your Android TV allows yu to install the VPN app directly, you can simply search for the VPN ap in the Google Play store. 

If this is not possible on your device, the easiest way to connect is to either use a VPN-compatible router or link your device to a Windows PC or Mac that has been set up as a VPN-enabled hotspot.

DStv Now provides access to a large cross-section of live TV channels and catch-up TV on-demand. Some of the most popular channels available on DStv Now include Telemundo, Blackbelt TV, BBC Brit, TLC Entertainment, Discovery, Comedy Central, Sony Max, ESPN and Super Sport. Content ranges from movies and tv shows, children’s channels, music channels like MTV, news channels, and specialist foreign channels as well.

Unlike Netflix, which only has one catalog of titles in each region, DStv offers a number of different subscription plans. These plans provide varying channels and content depending on the customer’s entertainment needs. We have listed the plans available below:

  • Premium. 160 channels.
  • Compact Plus. 145 channels.
  • Compact. 130 channels.
  • Family. 75 channels.
  • Access. 66 channels.
  • Easy View. 25 channels.

Like Netflix South Africa, DStv provides access to many TV shows and movies that can be streamed on demand, as well as its live TV channels. However, it is worth noting that while you will be able to stream recent episodes of shows to catch-up, you may not be able to watch the entire series as is possible on Netflix.

Finally, it is worth noting that a premium subscription to DStv will cost around $50 per month, which is considerably more costly than a subscription to Netflix which starts at just $7.99 for a basic plan for one user.

Instead, rights to streamable content such as TV shows and movies are typically shared by many broadcasters and platforms in different countries. DStv ensures content is region-locked and inaccessible overseas in order to comply with these agreements.