BBC iPlayer not working

There’s nothing more frustrating than sitting down to watch your favorite show and being hit with an error like “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.” or “This content is not available in your location.” Normally, you’d be able to regain access by connecting to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) but what if even that doesn’t help? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Screenshot showing two of BBC iPlayer's regional restriction errors
This kind of error is frustrating but usually quite easy to deal with, provided you’re using a reputable VPN that prioritizes streaming ability.

Our team of experts have personally tested dozens of leading VPNs to find out which ones work the most reliably with BBC iPlayer. Not only that, we’ve drawn upon our years of experience to put together a short list of potential fixes that might help if you keep running into problems when streaming BBC iPlayer from outside of the UK.

Why doesn’t my VPN work with BBC iPlayer?

As one of the UK’s largest broadcasters, the BBC has invested significant amounts of time and money into making sure that you can only access its platform from within the UK. As a result, it can be difficult to unblock BBC iPlayer with a VPN.

Here are the potential reasons your VPN isn’t work with BBC iPlayer:

  • Your VPN’s servers have been blacklisted by the BBC.
  • Your device’s GPS location and IP address location don’t match.
  • Your VPN doesn’t have the resources to keep finding workarounds when BBC iPlayer’s geo-blocking system is upgraded.
  • BBC iPlayer has stored a cookie on your device which is telling its services that you’re not in the UK.
  • Your VPN is using virtual servers, and BBC iPlayer can see the server’s actual location.
  • Your real IP address is leaking.
  • The server you’re using simply isn’t able to unblock BBC iPlayer.

How to fix VPN problems with BBC iPlayer

Now you know some of the potential causes of your problem, it’s time to try and rectify them. Follow the steps below to fix most playback issues and stream BBC iPlayer live from anywhere in the world. Be sure to reload the site or app after each step to see if your problem has been resolved. If not, just keep making your way down the list.

Here’s how to fix your VPN not working with BBC iPlayer:

  1. Make sure you’re using the latest version of your VPN software.
  2. Clear your cookies and cache or try a different browser.
  3. If possible, avoid virtual servers and use one that’s physically located in the UK.
  4. Ask your VPN’s customer support team which server to use, since sometimes only certain ones can unblock the most popular streaming services.
  5. Enable leak protection in your VPN’s settings menu to prevent BBC iPlayer from discovering your real location.
  6. Turn on your VPN’s stealth mode (if available). While you’re at it, try deactivating its ad and tracker-blocking tools since these have been known to cause problems sometimes.
  7. Try watching on a desktop PC instead of a mobile device. This way, GPS location data can’t be cross-referenced with your IP address.
  8. If none of the above steps helped, your VPN will likely not work with BBC iPlayer. Instead, try using one of the VPNs below, they have all been proven to consistently work with BBC iPlayer.

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Which VPNs still work with BBC iPlayer?

We’ve found these VPNs to be the most consistent at working with BBC iPlayer:

  1. NordVPN: Our top choice for streaming BBC iPlayer. Particularly fast, with a no-logs policy and excellent unblocking ability. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for BBC iPlayer.
  2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for iPlayer. Quick and reliable, with a major focus on privacy, it offers lots of advanced features. There are apps for all popular platforms, and you can connect as many devices as you like.
  3. IPVanish: A fast VPN with servers in the UK that works well with BBC iPlayer. Has a proven no-logs policy and lets you secure as many devices as you like.
  4. ExpressVPN: Great all-rounder. Easy-to-use and security-conscious VPN with servers in 105 countries. Works with various popular platforms including iPlayer, Netflix UK, ITVX, and All 4.
  5. CyberGhost: CyberGhost is highly versatile and novice-friendly. Large presence in the UK and even has servers specially designed to unblock BBC iPlayer. Good set of security tools and 24/7 customer support.
  6. ProtonVPN: Provides top-notch security and privacy features. Plenty of speedy servers in the UK. Great for streaming and torrenting.
  7. PureVPN: Beginner-friendly option with fast British servers and a solid set of privacy features. Works with most popular streaming services and can protect up to 10 devices at a time.
  8. PrivateVPN: Capable of accessing BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and ITVX without any issues. Boasts a stealth mode, no-logs policy and advanced security features.
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Warning

Many VPNs claim to work with BBC iPlayer but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.

We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock BBC iPlayer and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.

Best VPNs for BBC iPlayer: Our hands-on review

We’ve tested and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for BBC iPlayer.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPureVPNPrivateVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comIPVanish.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comProtonVPN.comPureVPN.comPrivateVPN.com
BBC iPlayer12345678
Simultaneous Connections10UnlimitedUnlimited87Free: 1, VPN Plus: 101010
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV
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Why streaming services region-lock their content

Why do streaming services region-lock their content?

Usually, streaming services don’t own exclusive worldwide broadcast rights for their shows, although there are some exceptions, such as with Netflix Originals. This means that, for instance, the BBC might have the rights to broadcast a particular title in the UK while another network has the rights to show it in the US. As such, major streaming services often use region-locking to stick to their end of the bargain and prevent users in other countries from watching anything they aren’t supposed to.

Of course, region-locking doesn’t help much if your broadcast schedule punishes the viewer for living outside of a certain country. Killing Eve, for instance, had different release dates for the UK and the US, meaning British fans not only had to wait longer but also had to avoid spoilers for several months. To prevent having one of the UK’s biggest shows in recent years spoiled for them, many fans resorted to using VPNs to watch new episodes as they were released on American TV.

How to watch BBC iPlayer with a VPN

With the right VPN, it’s easy to watch geo-blocked content abroad. Just follow the steps below to get a British IP address and stream BBC iPlayer from outside the UK.

Here’s how to use BBC iPlayer with a VPN:

  1. First, sign up for a suitable VPN. We recommend NordVPN. We tested using the Standard plan (the cheapest), which worked without issues. Surfshark is a great option, too.
  2. Download and install the VPN app, taking care to get the appropriate version for your device.
  3. Connect to one of your VPN’s British servers (ideally in London or another major city).
  4. Now, create a BBC iPlayer account. You’ll be asked for your postal code, but the BBC doesn’t actually check whether you live there or not, so any valid UK postal code will work. Note that due to British law, you’ll need a TV licence to watch anything on BBC iPlayer, regardless of whether it’s live or not.

    Screenshot showing NordVPN running while BBC Iplayer content is playing
    Any of  your VPN’s British servers should work with BBC iPlayer but in our experience, those in London are usually the most reliable
  5. Finally, try playing a video. If it doesn’t start right away, clear your browser’s cookies and cache, then reload the page. Still having trouble? Head back up to the troubleshooting section and work your way through the steps to fix the most common problems.
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How to fix BBC iPlayer error code 02066

Encountering BBC iPlayer error code 02066 can be quite frustrating, especially when you’re eager to stream your favorite shows. However, the solution is often more straightforward than it seems. This error usually stems from network connectivity issues, app cache corruption, or the use of VPNs.

To resolve error code 02066, follow the simple steps below:

  1. Start by clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, a straightforward process.
  2. Ensure your internet connection is stable; consider using an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection.
  3. If you’re using a VPN, disable it, as BBC iPlayer’s geo-restriction measures can block VPN traffic. For VPN users wanting to use iPlayer outside the UK, try switching to a different UK server or use a different VPN from our list above.
  4. Updating the BBC iPlayer app to the latest version can resolve compatibility issues.
  5. Reboot your device to clear up any potential glitches that may have occured.
  6. If these steps fail, uninstall and reinstall the app.

By following these simple steps, you can often overcome error code 02066 and enjoy uninterrupted streaming of your favorite British shows and movies.

What can I watch on BBC iPlayer?

BBC iPlayer lets you stream 10 TV channels and one radio station live online, for free. It also offers a wide range of on-demand content covering everything from news to documentaries to reality TV. Here’s a brief list of some of the content you can watch on BBC iPlayer with a VPN:

Live streams

  • BBC One
  • BBC Two
  • CBBC
  • BBC Three
  • BBC Four
  • CBeebies
  • BBC News
  • BBC Scotland
  • S4C
  • BBC Parliament
  • Radio 1
  • BBC Alba

Classic, exclusive, new, and popular iPlayer content 

  • Happy Valley
  • Eastenders
  • The Traitors
  • What We Do in the Shadows
  • Doctor Who
  • Silent Witness
  • Fleabag
  • A Good Girls Guide To Murder
  • Call the Midwife
  • Drag Race UK / UK vs The World
  • The Jetty
  • Would I Lie to You?
  • Killing Eve
  • The Responder
  • We Might Regret This
  • Daddy Issues
  • Waterloo Road
  • Match of the Day

Recent updates to our top VPNs

We closely monitor our recommended VPNs and update our posts to reflect any new additions or improvements that they roll out. Here are a few of the biggest changes to our top VPNs for BBC iPlayer that were introduced recently:

NordVPN

  • Reworked server list to make it easier to tell which were virtual versus physically located in their respective countries. (September 2024)
  • Incorporated automatic detection system for unsecured wireless networks. (September 2024)
  • Unveiled updated Threat Protection Pro™ control center. (October 2024)
  • Launched restructured browser extension with reinforced security measures. (December 2024)

Surfshark

  • Completed server system upgrade to 10Gbps architecture for superior performance. (September 2024)
  • Began allowing users to get a static IP address. (September 2024)
  • Introduced a free personal information compromise scanner. (October 2024)

IPVanish

  • Extended network coverage to include 108 nations and over 135 urban centers. (December 2024)
  • Secured position as leading VPN provider for South American server coverage. (December 2024)

ExpressVPN

  • Deployed ARM-compatible software for Windows Copilot+ platforms. (September 2024)
  • Introduced Identity Defender suite for U.S. users with identity monitoring, insurance coverage, data purge, and credit tracking features. (November 2024)

Proton VPN

  • Delivered Windows ARM-native client with complete feature set, including: (November 2024)
  • Implemented advanced tools including an integrated ad elimination system, custom routing options, and speed enhancement technology

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for BBC iPlayer

Like most streaming platforms, BBC iPlayer is constantly upgrading its VPN-detection systems. This means that sometimes, VPNs that worked previously will stop being able to access the service, which is why it’s important to retest them regularly. But we don’t stop there. We also test — and score — providers on several other fronts. Based on extensive research, we decided the following five key areas were the most useful in finding the best VPNs for BBC iPlayer:

Speed

There’s little point being able to access BBC iPlayer if the VPN you’re using is too slow for streaming. With this in mind, we carried out several speed tests while connected to each VPN’s UK servers. You can see the results below.

The first thing to notice is that all providers performed consistently. This means that you won’t experience sudden slowdowns while streaming BBC iPlayer. You’ll also notice that NordVPN and Surfshark were by far the fastest providers in all three tests. If you have a slow base connection speed, these are the providers to go for as they’ll maintain as much of your speed as possible (though it’s worth noting all VPNs slow down your connection — some just have more of an impact than others).

Streaming ability

In addition to making sure that providers worked with BBC iPlayer, we scored each VPN on how well it could access a range of UK content from major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.

We then scored providers on the number of server locations they had in the UK. As some VPNs don’t release the actual number of servers, this is the next best metric to gauge server availability.

Finally, we averaged these two scores to give us our overall streaming ability score. You can see how the VPNs compare in the chart below.

ExpressVPN is the best overall for UK streaming, with five UK server locations and a well-known ability to unblock all manner of streaming services. Surfshark and NordVPN are also great alternative options, particularly as they offer obfuscation features that can help you access even the most stubborn streaming apps.

Security and privacy

VPNs should help keep you safe online. Unfortunately, some don’t. To evaluate the level of security and privacy offered by each provider, we used 16 different criteria. These included everything from the range of protocols they support to the level of encryption they use.

NordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPureVPNPrivateVPN
Activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logs
IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logs
EncryptionAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higher
AuthenticationSHA-384SHA-512SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256SHA-256
Keys4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit2048-bit4096-bit2048-bit
Perfect Forward SecrecyYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
DNS leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
IPv6 leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Private DNSYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Torrenting allowedYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Kill switchAll platformsMobile app-levelAll platformsMobile app-levelAll platformsAll platformsSome platformsSome platforms
HQ outside 9 eyesYesNoYesYesYesYesYesYes
ObfuscationStealthStealthStealthAutomaticStealthStealthAutomaticStealth
Supported protocolsOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlyOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlySecure protocols only
Anonymous payment optionsMultipleMultipleNoneMultipleMultipleOneOneOne
Additional security featuresYesYesNoNoNoYesNoNo

Ease of use

If you’re getting frustrated with BBC iPlayer not working, then you’ll want a VPN service that’s easy to use so that you can quickly get back to streaming. To gauge which VPNs fulfil this requirement, we scored providers against 10 different criteria. We looked at everything from the user-friendliness of their apps to whether they offered router support.

NordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPureVPNPrivateVPN
Apps for all major platformsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Novice-friendly designYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Ease of signup (reviewer to score)5 (easy)45 (easy)5 (easy)4434
Router supportStandardStandardStandardAppStandardStandardAppStandard
Unblocking consistencyGreatGreatGreatGenerally worksGreatGreatGreatGenerally works
Task specific serversYesNoNoNoYesYesYesNo
Network60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries
Ease of cancellationVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easy
InterfaceWell-organisedA little clutteredWell-organisedWell-organisedA little clutteredTakes some getting used toA little clutteredWell-organised
Feature parityMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsAll features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versions

Value for money

BBC iPlayer is free, so you’re unlikely to be over the moon about paying for a VPN to use it. The good news is that some providers offer great value for money. We found out which these were by evaluating them against eight different criteria. We considered everything from the existence of money-back guarantees and free trials, to the number of allowed connections.

NordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostProton VPNPureVPNPrivateVPN
Apps for all major platformsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Novice-friendly design6UnlimitedUnlimited66666
Ease of signup (reviewer to score)3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+3 terms+
Router supportFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running dealsFrequently running deals
Unblocking consistency<$13<$10<$13$15+<$13<$10<$13<$10
Task specific servers<$5<$5<$5$5+<$5$5+<$5<$5
NetworkYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Ease of cancellationYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNo

Watching BBC iPlayer with a VPN: FAQ

Is it legal to watch iPlayer with a VPN?

Using a VPN to access geo-restricted services like iPlayer while on vacation abroad is not illegal, and there is no precedent of UK residents being prosecuted for using a VPN to watch iPlayer while traveling abroad.

That said, it is technically in breach of the BBC’s terms of service, and you could theoretically have your login revoked. Despite this, the BBC does not spend time blocking accounts or chasing up VPN users.

Instead, it uses technical means to detect IP addresses associated with VPNs and blacklists them to prevent users from being able to watch iPlayer abroad. This is why only a few VPNs work and why it is essential to use a recommended VPN that knows how to stay one step ahead of those blocks.

The only instance in which using a VPN to access iPlayer could be construed as illegal is if a UK resident attempted to cover up their use of iPlayer to avoid paying their TV license. In this case, the user would be breaking UK law and could be fined. Nothing in this article constitutes legal advice, so please do your own research before using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions.

Are there any free VPNs that work with iPlayer?

It’s possible you’ll be able to find a free VPN that unblocks BBC iPlayer, but not likely. This service has poured a lot of resources into its VPN-detection systems so that many major VPN providers still can’t access it.

However, even if you find one that works, you will likely encounter other issues. There’ll almost certainly be a monthly bandwidth cap preventing you from streaming regularly, for instance, and as most free VPNs tend to have small networks, your connection may not even be fast enough to watch at all. Free VPNs often lack basic encryption measures and some store your data to sell to third parties. In short we recommend avoiding the risk and avoiding free VPNs.

Can I still stream in HD on BBC iPlayer with a VPN?

Most VPNs will indeed slow your connection to some degree. However, live HD broadcasts only require download speeds of around 5 Mbps. In other words, unless your internet connection is already extremely slow, you shouldn’t have any problems streaming BBC iPlayer with an active VPN.

Do I need a TV license to watch BBC iPlayer?

Yes, you need a TV license to watch BBC iPlayer. This is the case whether you’re streaming content live or on-demand. The platform asks you to say whether you have a TV liscence when you sign up. However, there is no no verification process in place.

What devices does BBC iPlayer support?

You can access and stream BBC iPlayer on a wide range of devices. This includes desktop and mobile devices, smart TVs, set-top boxes, and games consoles. Here’s a full list of devices that BBC iPlayer supports:

  • Desktop (Windows 7 and above, Mac OS 10.10 and above, and Linux)
  • Mobile (Android 5.0 or above, iOS 7 or above, Blackberry 10, Windows 10)
  • Browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari)
  • Set-top boxes (Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Roku)

Games consoles (Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5)

Can I use a free proxy for BBC iPlayer?

Yes, you can use a free proxy for BBC iPlayer, but it’s not a secure option. A VPN is a better option. A proxy server acts in the middle between a user and the web, hiding the user’s IP address from a web server the user visits, but it does not secure the sent and received data. On the other hand, a VPN encrypts all your internet traffic and runs it through an encrypted tunnel, making it an effective solution for ensuring network security.

While proxies and VPNs can help you access BBC iPlayer from outside the UK, most free VPNs have severe limitations like data caps, small networks with few/no UK servers, poor unblocking abilities, and slow speeds. Even worse, they can risk your security by exposing you to malware or selling your data to third parties.

See also: