Resourceful Netflix users angry at the streaming service’s password ban have figured out a way to share their accounts with others for free.
The trick — which Netflix is likely to frown upon — was first shared on Reddit’s Unethical Life Pro Tips channel, but has since surfaced on other places online.
If you’re familiar with the words VPN and LAN, then using the hack should be a breeze. Your pals and family members who are less tech-savyy, however, may require some help setting it up.
According to Redditors, the technique basically allows multiple devices to connect to a single virtual network, no matter where they are in the world. The trick can currently be performed by downloading NordVPN and switching on its meshnet feature, which is available on a range of devices, including Android TVs.
As far as sharing Netflix is concerned, it means that people can connect to the same IP address as the main account holder. This way, they can apparently continue to use that account free of charge.
Netflix checks which devices are connected to your home internet network in order to enforce its password-sharing ban. Last month, the company warned Brits that a Netflix account was “for use by one household” and those wanting to share accounts “with someone who doesn’t live with you” must pay an extra £5 for the extra member.
NordVPN’s Meshnet feature doesn’t actually require you to connect to a VPN to change or hide your IP address. Instead, it can route your internet traffic through a TV or laptop at home.
The feature is typically used by people who want to connect to their home computer while on the go. It can also be used by gamers who want to create a Virtual LAN to play with others online.
How to use NordVPN Meshnet
In order to use meshnet, you’ll need to download NordVPN and set up an account.
To switch on the feature on a laptop, log into the NordVPN app, and then turn on the Meshnet toggle at the left-hand side of the screen.
On the dialogue box that appears, select ‘turn on Meshnet’.
To enable traffic routing, which shows multiple devices as connected to the same home internet, select ‘route traffic’, and you’ll see a list of devices you can activate.
This will consist of all the devices signed into your NordVPN account.
To add ‘external’ devices, including those from another NordVPN account, you can send invitations directly from the NordVPN app by selecting ‘Link Devices’, then entering the email address.
The invitation will appear on any devices that are logged in with Meshnet switched on.
As soon as the recipient accepts the invitation on a device, they will join your Meshnet.
NordVPN lets you connect 10 devices from a single Meshnet account, and up to 50 external devices.
