You’re trying to watch Hulu with Surfshark and hitting some snags, right? We’ve all been there. It’s frustrating when you’re all set for a binge-watching session, and Hulu throws up that “anonymous proxy” error. But don’t worry, getting Surfshark to work with Hulu is totally doable, and I’m going to walk you through exactly how to make it happen, along with some killer troubleshooting tips. Surfshark is actually one of the top VPNs that consistently manages to bypass Hulu’s tough geo-restrictions, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to stream their favorite shows and movies without interruption. Whether you’re traveling outside the US, dealing with a temporary service glitch, or just looking to keep your streaming habits private, Surfshark has features that can help. It boasts a massive network of servers in the US, which is crucial for reliably accessing Hulu’s content. Plus, with features like its ad-blocker, CleanWeb, you might even find your viewing experience gets a nice upgrade. Stick around, and we’ll get you back to your shows in no time!

Getting Hulu to play nicely with Surfshark isn’t usually rocket science, but sometimes it needs a little nudge in the right direction. Here’s how you typically set it up to get streaming:

Grab a Surfshark Subscription: First things first, you’ll need an active Surfshark account. They often have some pretty sweet deals, so keep an eye out for those. Plus, they usually come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it out risk-free.
Download and Install the App: Once you’re signed up, download the Surfshark app onto the device you plan to use for Hulu. Whether it’s your Windows PC, macOS, iPhone, Android phone, or even a Fire TV Stick, Surfshark has apps for pretty much everything.
Log In and Connect to a US Server: Open the Surfshark app and log in. Now, this is the crucial part: you need to connect to a server in the United States. Hulu is only available in the US and Japan, but most people are after the US library, so a US IP address is essential. I’ve found that servers in cities like New York or Los Angeles often work really well and offer great speeds. Surfshark has over 600 servers spread across 25 US cities, giving you plenty of options.
Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies: This step is a must if you’re hitting roadblocks. Your browser or even the Hulu app might have old location data saved from before you connected to the VPN. Clearing this data helps Hulu “forget” your real location and accept the new US IP address from Surfshark.
- For browsers: Go into your browser settings, find “Privacy and Security” or “History,” and clear your cache and cookies.
- For apps: On mobile or streaming devices, you might need to go into your device’s app settings, find Hulu, and clear its cache/data.
Launch Hulu and Start Streaming: With your VPN connected to a US server and your cache cleared, open the Hulu website or app. Sign in to your account, and you should be good to go! If you’re having trouble logging in, try disconnecting from the VPN, logging into Hulu, then reconnecting to your chosen US server before trying to watch.

That’s usually all it takes. But if you’re still seeing that pesky “Hulu not working with Surfshark” message, don’t sweat it. We’ve got more tricks up our sleeve.

Table of Contents

Why Hulu Blocks VPNs and How Surfshark Keeps Up

You might be wondering why Hulu even bothers blocking VPNs in the first place. It’s not because they dislike VPN users. it all boils down to content licensing agreements. Hulu only holds the rights to show its content within the US, so to avoid violating copyright, they have to actively prevent anyone outside the US from accessing their library.

Hulu employs some pretty sophisticated VPN detection methods to try and catch people using these services:

IP Blacklisting: This is the most common method. Hulu monitors IP addresses that are frequently used by many different users in a short amount of time, which is a tell-tale sign of a VPN server. Once identified, these IPs get blacklisted.
DNS and WebRTC Leaks: If your VPN isn’t robust enough, it might leak your real IP address or DNS information, revealing your true location to Hulu.
GPS vs. IP Mismatch: On mobile devices, Hulu can check your device’s GPS location. If it doesn’t match the IP address provided by your VPN, that’s another red flag.
Deep Packet Inspection DPI: Some services even use DPI to examine data packets and detect encrypted VPN traffic.

It’s a constant “cat and mouse” game between streaming services and VPN providers. The good news is, reputable VPNs like Surfshark are always working to stay ahead. They regularly update their server networks, introduce new IP addresses, and improve their technology to bypass these blocks. Surfshark has a massive global network with over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, including a significant presence in the US, making it easier for them to rotate IPs and offer working connections.

Common Issues: Surfshark Hulu Not Working & Easy Fixes

Even with a top-notch VPN like Surfshark, you might occasionally run into a “Hulu not working with Surfshark” error. It’s annoying, but these issues are usually simple to fix. Here are some of the most common reasons and their solutions:

1. Hulu Has Blacklisted Your Current Server’s IP Address

This is probably the most frequent reason for problems. Hulu is constantly updating its list of blocked VPN IP addresses.

The Fix: Switch to a different US server. Surfshark has hundreds of servers across many US cities. If one isn’t working, just pick another one. For example, if you’re on a New York server, try one in Los Angeles, Chicago, or Dallas. Often, simply changing cities is enough to resolve the issue.

2. Old Location Data is Stored on Your Device

As we talked about earlier, cached data can give away your real location.

The Fix: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. If you’re using the Hulu app, clear the app’s cache and data on your device. You can also try using your browser’s incognito or private mode, as these modes don’t store cookies from previous sessions.

3. Your VPN App or Device Needs a Restart

Sometimes, a simple refresh is all it takes to clear up a temporary glitch.

The Fix: Restart your Surfshark app, then your streaming device computer, phone, smart TV, etc.. After restarting, reconnect to a US server in Surfshark and try Hulu again.

4. IP, DNS, or WebRTC Leaks

If your real IP address or DNS requests are leaking, Hulu will see your true location.

The Fix: Check for leaks. Many VPNs have built-in leak protection, but you can also use online tools to perform an IP and DNS leak test while your VPN is connected. If you find leaks, ensure your Surfshark app’s Kill Switch feature is enabled. The Kill Switch automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP from being exposed.

5. Your GPS Location Doesn’t Match Your VPN IP Mobile Devices

For mobile devices, Hulu can cross-reference your IP with your device’s GPS.

The Fix: Disable GPS/location services on your mobile device while streaming with Surfshark. Some Reddit users have suggested an “Override GPS location” option in Surfshark’s advanced settings, which might help on some devices.

6. Outdated Surfshark App

An old version of the app might have bugs or not be optimized for Hulu’s latest anti-VPN measures.

The Fix: Update your Surfshark app. Always make sure you’re running the latest version to get the best performance and compatibility.

7. VPN Protocol Issues

Sometimes, the VPN protocol you’re using can affect connectivity.

The Fix: Try switching VPN protocols in your Surfshark app settings. For example, if you’re on WireGuard, try OpenVPN UDP or IKEv2. Surfshark uses industry-leading encryption standards like AES-256-GCM and secure tunneling protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2, ensuring strong security while bypassing geo-restrictions.

8. Interference from Antivirus or Firewall

Your security software might be blocking the VPN connection.

The Fix: Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall to see if it resolves the issue. If it does, you’ll need to add Surfshark as an exception in your security software settings.

If you’ve tried all these steps and still no luck, reaching out to Surfshark’s customer support is your next best bet. They have 24/7 live chat support and can often tell you which specific US servers are currently working best with Hulu. Many Reddit users report getting help from their support team when faced with issues.

Best Surfshark Servers for Hulu

While Surfshark boasts a large number of servers across 25 US cities, not all of them might work perfectly with Hulu at any given moment. Based on user experiences and general VPN performance, here are some tips for picking the best Surfshark servers for Hulu:

East Coast Servers New York, Ashburn, Boston: These are often a solid choice, especially New York. They tend to be well-maintained and frequently refreshed. If you’re physically closer to the East Coast, these might also offer better speeds.
West Coast Servers Los Angeles, Fremont: Los Angeles is another popular and reliable hub for streaming.
Central US Servers Chicago, Dallas: Don’t overlook these. Sometimes, less congested servers in the middle of the country can offer excellent performance.
Static IP Servers: Surfshark offers Static IP servers in five countries, including the USA. While not a dedicated IP you still share it with others, a static IP can sometimes be more consistent than a dynamic one because its address doesn’t change frequently, which might help avoid detection. You can find these in the “Static IP” tab within the Surfshark app.
Avoid Overly Crowded Servers: While Surfshark’s network is extensive and designed to handle traffic, occasionally a server might get overloaded. If you experience slow speeds or buffering, try another server. Surfshark is known for its 10Gbps speeds, which are great for full-HD and 4K streaming.

Remember, the key is to experiment. If one server isn’t working, just switch to another in a different US city. Surfshark’s app makes it easy to switch servers with just a few clicks.

Surfshark Features That Enhance Your Streaming Experience

Surfshark isn’t just about unblocking Hulu. it comes packed with features designed to make your overall online experience better, especially for streaming.

CleanWeb: Blocking Ads on Hulu and Beyond

this is a big one for many Hulu users. If you’re on one of Hulu’s ad-supported plans, you know how annoying those interruptions can be. Hulu’s more affordable on-demand plans include ads.

Does Surfshark block Hulu ads? Yes, it can! Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature is designed to block ads, trackers, and malware.

How it works: CleanWeb works by filtering out ad content before it even reaches your device. This means fewer pop-ups, banners, and even in-video ads on many platforms, including Hulu.
For Hulu: If you’re using Surfshark’s browser extension CleanWeb 2.0, it’s particularly effective at eliminating ads on Hulu. It also blocks trackers, which prevents Hulu from monitoring your viewing habits.
Benefits: Not only does it make your streaming more enjoyable, but blocking ads can also speed up page load times and even save you a bit of data by not downloading unnecessary ad content.

To activate CleanWeb, simply enable it within your Surfshark app or browser extension settings.

NoBorders Mode: Bypassing Tough Restrictions

Sometimes, you might be in a highly restrictive network environment, like a public Wi-Fi network, school, or even certain countries where VPN usage is limited or detected easily. That’s where NoBorders mode comes in handy.

What it does: NoBorders mode is designed to help you connect to the VPN even when there are network restrictions. If the Surfshark app detects any limitations on your network, it automatically switches on and connects you to the best-performing servers under those conditions.
How it helps Hulu: In situations where Hulu’s VPN detection is particularly aggressive, NoBorders mode can help mask your VPN traffic, making it look like regular internet traffic and helping you bypass those blocks. This is especially useful for those who want to watch Hulu while traveling or from locations with strict internet censorship.

Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Stream on All Your Devices

One of Surfshark’s biggest advantages, and something that sets it apart from many competitors, is its unlimited simultaneous connections.

What it means for you: You can use one Surfshark account to protect and stream on as many devices as you own – your phone, tablet, laptop, smart TV, gaming console – all at the same time. This is perfect for households where everyone wants to watch something different on Hulu or other streaming services. You don’t have to pick and choose which device gets VPN protection.
Router Setup: You can even set up Surfshark on your router, which then extends VPN protection to every device connected to your home Wi-Fi network, including smart TVs and gaming consoles that don’t natively support VPN apps.

Fast Speeds for Buffer-Free Streaming

Nobody likes buffering when they’re in the middle of a thrilling scene. Surfshark is known for its impressive speeds, which are crucial for streaming Hulu in HD or even 4K.

Performance: In tests, Surfshark has shown average download speeds of over 300 Mbps and 40.25 Mbps with minimal reduction from baseline speeds. Hulu recommends speeds of 3.0 Mbps for standard streaming, 8.0 Mbps for live streams, and 16.0 Mbps for 4K content. Surfshark easily surpasses these recommendations, ensuring a smooth, buffer-free experience.
No Throttling: Your Internet Service Provider ISP might sometimes intentionally slow down your connection if they detect heavy streaming. This is called throttling. When you use Surfshark, your internet traffic is encrypted, so your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online. This prevents them from throttling your speeds, ensuring you get the full bandwidth you pay for.

The Broader Benefits of Using a VPN for Streaming

Beyond just unblocking Hulu, using a VPN like Surfshark offers several other significant advantages for your streaming habits and overall online life:

Enhanced Privacy: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, keeping your online activities private from your ISP, advertisers, and other prying eyes. This means your streaming choices remain your business.
Improved Security: When you’re connected to public Wi-Fi networks think coffee shops, airports, your data can be vulnerable. A VPN secures your connection, protecting your personal information from hackers and other malicious actors.
Bypassing Geo-Restrictions for Other Services: Hulu isn’t the only service that’s geo-restricted. With Surfshark, you can access international libraries of other popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more. This opens up a whole new world of content you wouldn’t normally see.
Avoiding ISP Throttling: As mentioned, ISPs sometimes slow down your internet speeds if they detect high-bandwidth activities like streaming. By encrypting your traffic, Surfshark prevents your ISP from seeing what you’re doing, thus preventing them from throttling your connection.
Protection for All Devices: With unlimited simultaneous connections, Surfshark lets you protect all your streaming devices, from your phone to your smart TV, ensuring consistent privacy and access across your entire digital ecosystem.

Using Surfshark with Hulu truly elevates your streaming experience, giving you freedom, privacy, and speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Hulu detect Surfshark?

Yes, Hulu has advanced VPN detection systems and can sometimes detect that you’re using a VPN, including Surfshark. This usually happens if the specific IP address you’re using has been identified and blacklisted by Hulu. However, Surfshark is consistently working to bypass these blocks by updating its server network and technology.

What should I do if Surfshark isn’t working with Hulu?

If Surfshark isn’t working with Hulu, the first thing you should try is switching to a different US server within the Surfshark app. If that doesn’t work, clear your browser’s cache and cookies or the Hulu app’s cache, restart both the Surfshark app and your device, and ensure your Kill Switch is active to prevent IP leaks. You can also try changing VPN protocols or contacting Surfshark’s 24/7 customer support for specific server recommendations.

Will using Surfshark slow down my streaming on Hulu?

While any VPN can introduce a slight reduction in speed due to encryption and routing, Surfshark is known for its fast speeds, making it ideal for streaming. In tests, Surfshark averaged over 300 Mbps which is more than enough to stream Hulu in HD or even 4K without buffering Hulu recommends 3-16 Mbps depending on quality. It can also prevent your ISP from throttling your connection during heavy streaming.

Does Surfshark block Hulu ads?

Yes, Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature can block ads on Hulu. If you’re using Surfshark’s browser extension CleanWeb 2.0, it’s particularly effective at eliminating in-video ads, pop-ups, and trackers, providing a much smoother, ad-free streaming experience on Hulu’s ad-supported plans. Surfshark VPN: A Journey from Startup to Cybersecurity Powerhouse

Can I get banned from Hulu for using Surfshark?

No, you won’t get banned from Hulu for using Surfshark. Hulu’s terms of service prohibit using VPNs to bypass geo-restrictions, but if they detect a VPN, they typically just block access from that specific IP address, not your account. Surfshark uses strong encryption, so your activities aren’t traceable back to you personally. You’ll likely just encounter a proxy error message, requiring you to switch servers or troubleshoot.

Does Surfshark offer servers specifically optimized for streaming Hulu?

Surfshark doesn’t explicitly label “Hulu-optimized” servers, but its extensive network of over 600 servers across 25 US cities is designed for high performance and streaming. This large pool allows them to continually rotate IP addresses and quickly adapt to Hulu’s VPN detection methods. Any US server should theoretically work, but if you encounter issues, switching between different US cities or contacting support for current recommendations is the best approach.

Can I use Surfshark on a smart TV or streaming device for Hulu?

Yes, you can use Surfshark on many smart TVs and streaming devices. Surfshark offers native apps for platforms like Android TV and Amazon Fire TV. For devices that don’t support VPN apps directly like some smart TVs or gaming consoles, you can install Surfshark on your router, which will then extend VPN protection to all devices connected to that network. This lets you stream Hulu on virtually any device.

Surfshark VPN herunterladen: Dein ultimativer Guide für Online-Sicherheit

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How to Watch Hulu with Surfshark: Your Step-by-Step Guide