How To Watch DirecTV Stream in Canada
By Staff• Edited by Deja Harris • Updated Oct 30, 2023
As of 2023, DirecTV Stream is not officially available in Canada, but don't worry, there is a solution. By using a virtual private network (VPN), you can easily access DirecTV Stream and other American streaming services.
Fortunately, VPNs are incredibly user-friendly and simple to install. With a VPN subscription, you can also unlock a variety of American streaming services, including Hulu + Live TV, Peacock, and American Netflix.
Our team recommends ExpressVPN, as it is a premium service with servers in every country we've ever needed to explore. However, there are many other great VPNs to choose from, as shown in the table below:
Now, let's dive into everything you need to know to watch DirecTV Stream in Canada with confidence.
Why do you need a VPN to watch DirecTV Stream in Canada?
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you're eagerly looking forward to watching a particular show on DirecTV Stream, only to be greeted by a message that says "We couldn't locate you, which is necessary for viewing this content?” It can be incredibly frustrating to face this kind of geo-block message, especially when you're looking forward to watching a particular show.
But why does this happen? The reason is simple — despite the fact that the internet has made the world a global village, streaming services like DirecTV Stream are still bound by geographical restrictions. These restrictions are usually imposed due to local laws, trade agreements, and other factors that are beyond the control of streaming services. As a result, streaming services may have to comply with the regulations of the country in which they operate.
However, there is a solution to this problem - by adding a VPN subscription to your streaming workflow, you can bypass geo-blocking and access all content on DirecTV Stream from Canada. With a reliable VPN, you won't have to worry about missing out on shows like Married at First Sight, Law & Order, or Grey’s Anatomy, as you'll have unrestricted access to all the content available on DirecTV Stream.
Do I still need to pay for a DirecTV Stream subscription to watch from Canada with a VPN?
Absolutely, a subscription to DirecTV Stream is still required if you wish to stream content from Canada, even if you use a VPN.
Think of a VPN as an internet teleportation device that virtually takes you to the destination you select as your desired server. So, when you use a VPN from Canada to watch DirecTV Stream as if you were in the United States, the VPN does the work of virtually transporting you to the United States.
However, that is the extent of what your VPN subscription can do. A VPN does not automatically allow you to watch any movie or show you want. To achieve that, you must also subscribe to DirecTV Stream. The good news is that with a DirecTV Stream subscription, you get access to up to 65,000+ on-demand titles.
Check out our full DirecTV Stream review to discover why we recommend it.
How to access DirecTV Stream from Canada with a VPN?
Accessing DirecTV Stream from Canada is just as easy as accessing it from any other country. Follow these steps with confidence:
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service such as our top choice, ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app or client on your device.
- Connect to the VPN from the United States, since you want to access DirecTV Stream as if you're in the US.
- Sign in to your DirecTV Stream account or create one if you haven't already. Use our link to DirecTV Stream to get the best free trials and deals available.
- Start streaming!
Next time you want to watch DirecTV Stream from Canada, simply follow steps 3-5. It's that simple! Plus, you can use the same VPN subscription to access other streaming services from around the world.
Here are some frequently asked questions.
You asked, we've got the answers! Below, you'll find the solutions to the frequently asked questions about watching DirecTV Stream in Canada.
What other channels are available on DirecTV Stream?
No one wants to subscribe to a streaming service and pay for a VPN for just one show or channel.
As of our last count, the cheapest tier of DirecTV Stream has 75+ channels, including CNN, Disney Channel, and ESPN, but the Premier tier offers 150+ channels.
What if DirecTV Stream blocks VPNs?
While it's technically possible for DirecTV Stream to identify all VPN servers and add them to their list of blocked IP addresses, doing so would require a lot of effort on their part. DirecTV Stream would have to detect and block every single VPN provider for the countermeasure to be effective.
To date, Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services have tried to set up anti-VPN countermeasures, but they haven't been very successful. If a VPN provider realizes that it's been blocked, all it has to do is change the IP addresses that it uses.
There just isn't much that a streaming service can do about VPNs other than ignore them.
Can I stream live TV in Canada?
There are several ways to watch live TV in Canada without cable, such as subscribing to a streaming service available in Canada or using a TV provider's online streaming platform. Additionally, some Canadian networks have their own streaming services, like CBC Gem and Global TV.
Can I watch DirecTV Stream outside the US?
Yes, it's possible to watch DirecTV Stream outside of the US by using a VPN service. A VPN can hide your IP address and make it appear as if you are located in the US, allowing you to stream DirecTV Stream content without restrictions.
We've explored many VPN services that offer high-quality streaming speeds and unlimited bandwidth, making it possible to enjoy streaming DirecTV Stream in other countries. Our favorite VPN to use for watching DirecTV Stream outside the US is ExpressVPN.
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Lisa Holden • Author
Lisa Holden is an editor and creative based in Houston, TX. Lisa holds a BA in African-American Studies from Temple University and has spent her career working in news publications and magazines, even founding a magazine herself. When she’s not editing or working on one of her many creative endeavors (whenever that is), she enjoys traveling to new places and biking on sunny days.
Deja Harris • Editor
Deja is a digital media editor hailing from Delaware, USA, and is currently embarking on a global adventure. Her insatiable curiosity fuels her passion for exploring new destinations, connecting with new people, and engaging in unique experiences. When she's not immersed in her professional pursuits, you'll often find her trying out new recipes, indulging in compelling cinematic experiences, or gracefully engaging in the art of Latin dance.