About 25% of all internet users live stream content on a weekly basis. That said, streaming platforms and other providers have clamped down in recent years, making it all that more difficult to get your favorite content from anywhere in the world.
The good news is that virtual private networks (VPNs) may be a great solution that lets you stream online while also keeping your connection safe.
In this Article:
Can You Live-Stream with a VPN?
The short answer to this question is a resounding yes: VPNs can be used for live streaming.
But, in order to understand the nuances, let’s start from the top.
More than 30% of internet users rely on VPNs because these tools encrypt your internet connection. In other words, no one can intercept and access the information being transmitted from your device — not even your internet provider!
Another benefit of VPNs is that they help mask your real location. If you use the right VPN you can make it look like you’re connecting from somewhere else entirely, which can influence your streaming experience.
Pros of Live Streaming with a VPN
One of the biggest pros of VPNs for live streaming is that you can use them across different devices like desktops and smartphones. Just make sure to find a VPN app APK or installer from a reliable provider.
In addition to this, some of the biggest advantages of live streaming with a VPN include:
#1. Your Connection Will Remain Safe
Besides giving you a privacy boost, encrypting your connection means increasing your safety levels.
Cybercriminals must be able to reach your connection in order to access your device and intercept messages. As long as you choose a quality platform, attackers shouldn’t even be able to break the first layer of VPN encryption.
Not only this, but you may also have other security features available, as well as the ability to protect multiple devices with a single VPN account.
#2. The VPN May Unblock Geo-Restricted Streams and Features
You may find that some platforms have additional live streams when you’re using your VPN. This is actually due to a common practice called GEO-restricting, where some content is only available to users in specific locations.
As a matter of fact, some live streaming services will only work if you’re in a specific country or city. VPNs can help you access these platforms and watch your favorite content regardless of your location.
#3. VPNs for Live Streaming Can Reduce Buffering
Internet service providers (ISPs) are known use use a technique called connection throttling in order to manage congestion in their networks.
Simply put, throttling is the practice of slowing down internet connections that are taking up too much bandwidth, for example, a device that’s live streaming content.
VPNs can help you avoid throttling, which is usually the culprit behind video buffering, because ISPs can’t gauge nor regulate your bandwidth consumption.
Cons of VPN Live Streaming
Although they bring many great benefits, VPNs also come with some drawbacks. These include:
- Cost: Reliable VPNs are powerful tools, so they are not usually free;
- Not Hermetic: VPNs can see your data, but the best providers have no-logs policies;
- Higher Floor, Lower Ceiling: While the connection is more stable, maximum speeds may be slower due to the extra connection layers.
To Wrap Up
Using a VPN for live streaming is a great way to protect your devices, potentially access locked content, and avoid connection throttling.
That said, you should also keep drawbacks like limited top speeds in mind before deciding if you’re protecting your connection with a VPN for live streaming.
OneStream Live is a cloud-based live streaming solution to create, schedule, and multistream professional-looking live streams across 45+ social media platforms and the web simultaneously. For content-related queries and feedback, write to us at [email protected]. You’re also welcome to Write for Us!
