Many websites and services, including the Virgin Media TV Go streaming service, have geo-restrictions due to licensing issues. However, there’s a convenient workaround. While in the UK, you can download TV shows and movies on Virgin Media TV Go, allowing you to watch them offline. This could be a great option if you plan to travel abroad soon. Alternatively, you can explore the option of using a VPN for Virgin Media.
In order to watch Virgin Media anywhere, you’ll need a UK IP address. You can get this by connecting to a UK server with a VPN. A VPN, or “virtual private network,” not only provides you with a UK IP address but also enhances your online privacy by routing your internet traffic to another server (in this case, one in the UK). This effectively hides your IP address and, combined with additional security features such as encryption, ensures your online activities remain private and secure.
While it’s true that Virgin Media TV Go blocks many VPNs, we’ve done the research and found the ones that still work. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed list of these VPNs. But for now, here’s a quick preview of our top picks for accessing Virgin Media content from abroad.
The best VPN services for Virgin Media TV Go:
- NordVPN: Our #1 choice Virgin Media VPN. A huge network of servers in the UK and worldwide. Fast servers for streaming including Virgin TV Go and Netflix. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Virgin Media. - Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Virgin Media. Fast enough for HD streaming, and you can access content worldwide. Strong on security, including AES 256-bit encryption. Allows unlimited connections.
- IPVanish: Offers fast and reliable UK servers and excellent privacy features to keep you safe. Access Virgin Media and other geo-restricted services from anywhere in the world.
- ExpressVPN: Secure UK servers for Virgin Media streaming. Works with most popular streaming sites including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. No bandwidth throttling and a dedicated router app.
- Private Internet Access: A solid choice for users in the UK. Works with most British streaming platforms, takes your security seriously, and offers very competitive performance.
- CyberGhost: Great for beginners. High-speed VPN for streaming in high definition. An extensive network of servers and advanced security features like strong encryption and a no-logs policy.
- ProtonVPN: A fantastic option for Virgin Media customers. Boasts top-tier performance, an expansive security toolkit, and impressive streaming ability. 24/7 customer support.
- PureVPN: Excellent option for streaming, with built-in obfuscation to protect you from snoopers like your ISP or employer. Low-cost subscriptions and plenty of server availability.
- PrivateVPN: Great value subscriptions and excellent at unblocking streaming services, including Virgin Media, Amazon Prime Video, and others.
Many VPNs claim to work with Virgin Media 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 Virgin Media and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
Note that to watch Virgin Media TV Go, you’ll need to be a Virgin customer. If you haven’t already, this means signing up for Virgin TV, Virgin Broadband, or both.
Best VPNs for Virgin Media – 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 Virgin Media.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access | CyberGhost | Proton VPN | PureVPN | PrivateVPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | Cyberghost.com | ProtonVPN.com | PureVPN.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for Virgin Media | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Streaming services | Virgin Media BBC iPlayer Netflix ITV Hub Sky Go | Virgin Media BBC iPlayer Netflix ITV Hub Sky Go | Virgin Media BBC iPlayer ITV Hub | Virgin Media Netflix ITV Hub Sky Go | Virgin Media Netflix ITV Hub Sky Go | Virgin Media Netflix ITV Hub Sky Go | Virgin Media BBC iPlayer ITV Hub | Virgin Media BBC iPlayer ITV Hub | Virgin Media BBC iPlayer ITV Hub | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | Unlimited | 7 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 | 10 | 10 | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $3.39 Up to 72% off 2 year plans | $2.19 86% OFF + 3 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 4 months free! | $2.99 SAVE 70% on a 2-year plan | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
How we chose the top VPNs for TV Go
Our ranking methodology for the best VPNs for Virgin Media is based on several factors, which we’ve summarized below. You can explore each area fully in the methodology section later in the article.
- Streaming ability: Many streaming sites — including Virgin Media TV Go — have implemented anti-VPN measures, which meant our first task was testing which providers worked with which services. We also checked how many UK server locations they had, as this provides an indication of availability — which is important if you’re competing with other users.
- Speed: It’s essential that VPNs are fast enough to stream with. Very many aren’t. We tested the speed of each VPN while connected to their UK servers. We did this multiple times over the course of a day for a more accurate representation.
- Ease of use: To find which providers had the most user-friendly service overall, we evaluated them using 10 different metrics related to their learnability, efficiency, memorability, errors, and satisfaction.
- Value for money: The most expensive VPNs aren’t necessarily the best. To find which were worth their subscription fees, we evaluated them against eight different criteria.
- Security and privacy: VPNs should be able to protect your connection while you’re streaming Virgin Media. To find those best-equipped to do that, we evaluated them using 16 different metrics.
Best VPNs for Virgin Media
From real-world testing, here is our list of the best Virgin Media VPNs:
1. NordVPN
Jan 2025 unblocks Virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 9.3 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 8.1 / 10 |
UK speed: | 10.0 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN leads the way when it comes to the sheer quantity of servers on offer. If you’re looking for a VPN with plenty of UK servers, NordVPN certainly ticks that box with well over 400. Overall, NordVPN has more than 7,100 servers across 118 countries.
In our tests, NordVPN worked seamlessly with streaming services including Virgin Media TV Go, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video. The service includes a smart DNS feature, which can help users spoof their location when streaming on a VPN-incompatible device such as a games console. Note, however, that the only location on offer is the US. NordVPN works with select routers, making router configuration an alternative option if you want to use NordVPN’s UK servers with non-VPN-supporting devices.
What’s more, NordVPN is fast. NordVPN actually had the fastest UK servers of any provider we tested, delivering average speeds of over 400 Mbps. What’s more, there was very little difference in performance at different times of day, which is saying a lot about its reliability.
With a solid set of British locations to choose from, this service is a strong choice for anyone looking to watch UK TV abroad, torrent, or just browse the web anonymously.
You can use NordVPN on up to ten devices simultaneously, which is more than enough for most people. NordVPN is one of the few VPNs that offer browser extensions, which makes using the VPN quicker and easier. These are currently available for Chrome and Firefox.
Apps — which are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux and Android TV — perform well in terms of both learnability and usability. In a nutshell, they’re easy to use and do what they should.
NordVPN offers excellent security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, split tunneling, and an automatic kill switch. We verified that the service was leak-free by connecting to a server in the US and checking our IP address.
If you’re seeking even greater security, you can choose double VPN and onion over VPN servers. These are located in the Specialty Server section, where you’ll also be able to obfuscate your traffic if trying to connect from a restrictive country such as China.
The provider has its own connection protocol, called NordLynx. OpenVPN is available, but NordLynx gives you protection against potential quantum computer attacks.
NordVPN is based in Panama, which has no mandatory data-retention law. Furthermore, the company has a strict no-logs policy — which has been independently audited multiple times.
Buy this VPN if:
- You’re in the market for a no-logs service with a great reputation
- Speed is your #1 priority
- You’d like to be able to tweak your security settings for maximum privacy
- Your VPN needs to have a large presence in the UK
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a VPN with specially optimized servers for streaming
BEST VPN FOR VIRGIN MEDIA:NordVPN is our #1 choice. It has a huge network of servers, offers fast connection speeds and even includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
unblocks virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 9.3 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 8.9 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 8.9 / 10 |
UK speed: | 9.3 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.7 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is ideal for streaming Virgin Media TV Go as well as popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. We found that it worked with every service we tested it with.
Subscriptions come with a smart DNS service that you can use to access US content libraries when streaming with a smart TV or games console. Like NordVPN, Surfshark can also be configured with some home routers.
This provider has a smaller server network than NordVPN, amounting to approximately 3,000 servers spread across 100 countries. Switching between them is easy enough and there’s the additional option of using a static IP address in six countries, or setting up a multi-hop connection.
A common issue users face is finding out too late that their VPN makes day-to-day browsing painfully slow. Luckily, that won’t be a problem with Surfshark. When we tested its British servers, it delivered an average speed of 389 Mbps. Further, there was less than 10 Mbps of variance between its highest and lowest results.
Considering most providers can’t reach these heights in the first place, that’s particularly impressive.
This service has several powerful security features, including a kill switch (in all versions), and 256-bit AES encryption. A NoBorders feature lets you access the internet freely from countries with strict online censorship. Surfshark offers protection against IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leaks — which we confirmed ourselves in a series of tests.
Other features include split tunneling, an option to rotate your IP address while connected, and an ID generation tool. This allows users to create a fake persona complete with a name, address, date of birth. This can be useful when signing up to service that you don’t necessarily trust with your personal information.
The provider follows a strict no-logs policy, so your activities cannot be traced back to you. There is the option to pay in cryptocurrency for another layer of protection, though. Live chat-based support is available 24/7 in case of any issues.
Surfshark has apps for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS devices. There’s no connection limit, which means you can use Surfshark on as many devices as you want at the same time. This makes it ideal for sharing a subscription with friends or family.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to be able to connect every device you own simultaneously
- You’re looking for a high-speed VPN that works anywhere
- You stream a lot using services like BBC iPlayer and Now TV
- You demand a high degree of security
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN with port forwarding functionality
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark has exceptional unblocking ability and allows as many connections as you need, but it remains affordable and even offer powerful security and privacy features. As if that wasn’t enough, this service includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
3. IPVanish
unblocks virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.3 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 8.7 / 10 |
UK speed: | 4.8 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.6 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is one of the better-value VPNs on the market. What we really like about this VPN is that you can have any number of connections at once, and that you can choose individual servers rather than just choosing a particular location.
IPVanish has a good network of servers overall, with 2,400 worldwide in more than 100 countries. With around 216 servers in the UK (London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Nottingham), you won’t be short of options when it comes to unblocking Virgin Media.
IPVanish has spent lots of time optimizing its network for speed, which became extremely clear when our team tried out its British servers. In all three tests, it broke the 200 Mbps barrier, leading to an average speed of 219.67 Mbps.
For context, that’s fast enough to queue up dozens of live streams simultaneously or download a 1GB file in around 4.5 seconds.
Features include multi-hop servers; split tunneling; and an ad, tracker and malware blocker. Available protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. Users opting for OpenVPN can enable the Scramble function to obfuscate their traffic.
When it comes to the IPVanish apps, they’re all very easy to navigate. You can choose a server from the map, or scroll through the available locations. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. IPVanish is one of the few VPNs with an app for Amazon Fire TV.
You can enjoy peace of mind with the high level of security of IPVanish. It uses 256-bit AES encryption and has DNS leak protection built-in while a kill switch ensures that traffic is cut should your VPN connection drop. It’s also worth knowing that IPVanish states that it keeps no traffic logs — and has the results of independent audits to prove it.
A basic IPVanish subscription costs the equivalent of $2.19 a month, and includes access to a free SOCKS5 proxy. However, for just over a dollar a month more, you can get 1TB of cloud storage and a secure sandboxed browser thrown in.
Buy this VPN if:
- Your ideal VPN has a proven no-logs policy and no connection limits
- You need a service that offers both ultra-fast speeds and strong security
- You’d like a VPN that works with just about every British streaming platform
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want full app-based split tunneling on MacOS or iOS
SECURE ALL DEVICES:Use a single IPVanish account to secure as many devices as you like. Offers user-friendly apps, high speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
unblocks virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.7 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.3 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 9.1 / 10 |
UK speed: | 2.4 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN can securely access Virgin Media online and many other popular streaming sites, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
It has a smart DNS service for devices that don’t support VPN software natively. Uniquely, it also has a dedicated router app, hugely simplifying the process of protecting every device on a home network.
ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 servers available in 105 countries, so it is an ideal VPN for travel. Within the UK, it has servers in five London locations and one in the Midlands. All are suitable for use with Virgin Media TV Go.
Once you’ve chosen a server, connections are established almost instantaneously. This is partially thanks to ExpressVPN’s homegrown Lightway connection protocol. In general, the provider is extremely reliable and has a stated server uptime of 99.9%.
It’s a little slower than some of the other VPNs we’ve covered so far, but with an average speed of 126.33 Mbps in our tests, it’s still more than enough for whatever you have in mind.
While connected, we could stream 4K video, play online games, and torrent safely without any noticeable issues.
ExpressVPN keeps no traffic logs and has had multiple third-party audits to prove it. It uses strong 256-bit encryption by default and its apps — available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux — come with split tunneling and a kill switch. Users can specify whether they want to block adult sites, malware, ads or trackers (or all four of them). Leak protection is built-in, and worked as it should when tested.
We also tested the 24/7 live chat support offered by ExpressVPN and received a reply within seconds, which was impressive.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to access locations outside of London
- You’re looking for a service that puts ease of use above all else
- You refuse to use a service that doesn’t prioritize privacy
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You specifically need Scottish servers
PRIVACY-FIRST SERVICE:ExpressVPN is security-conscious and offers access to many high-speed servers, 24/7 live chat support, and a high level of security. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. Private Internet Access
unblocks Virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.7 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 6.7 / 10 |
UK speed: | 4.7 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access might not be as well known as some other providers in this list but it’s still well worth your consideration. It boasts servers in 91+ countries, including England (but no other countries within the UK, unfortunately).
The provider also has a dedicated UK streaming server, which is great for accessing Virgin Media TV Go and BBC iPlayer, ITVX and Channel 4. PIA’s US streaming servers work great with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
If you have any issues accessing a particular streaming platform, support is available 24 hours per day over live chat.
Speed-wise, this service is no slouch. Across three tests, it boasted an average speed of 215.67 Mbps – that’s no small feat, especially considering how inexpensive it is.
Additionally, there was minimal variance; just 8 Mbps separate its highest and lowest results, making it one of the most consistent VPNs we tested. Regardless of whether you want to game, stream, or video call, you’re unlikely to experience any performance issues with this service (provided your base connection is fast enough, of course).
Unlike most VPNs, PIA allows port forwarding — which can be handy if you do a lot of torrenting or gaming. It also allows users to adjust the level of encryption used on their traffic. Other features include a kill switch; an ad, tracker and malware blocker; and split tunneling.
The provider uses effectively uncrackable encryption, and offers protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. We confirmed the lack of leaks while connected to one of its servers in the US.
It also follows a no-logs policy, and we know this for sure as it’s been independently audited. Users can set up custom rules for automating when the VPN connects, or obfuscate their traffic, which can help users to browse freely in countries with extreme online censorship (note, however, that PIA doesn’t work in China).
Private Internet Access has apps for iOS, MacOS, Windows, Android, and Linux. To install it on your router, follow the website’s manual setup instructions. The provider has no connection limit, which means you can protect as many devices as you like simultaneously.
Buy this VPN if:
- Your main concern is staying safe online
- You’d like to be able to access a wide range of region-locked sites
- You’re sick of managing connection limits
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You don’t need control over advanced functionality
SPEEDY AND SECURE:Private Internet Access is a great all-rounder. Boasts a strong presence in the UK, powerful security features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
6. CyberGhost
unblocks virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.5 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 5.3 / 10 |
UK speed: | 4.6 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has over 700 servers in the UK, most of which are located in London and Manchester. Overall, CyberGhost’s network consists of more than 10,000 servers in 100 countries, making it ideal for changing your IP address.
In addition to its regular servers, CyberGhost has servers optimized for individual streaming platforms. This makes it quick and easy to find the right server for the right platform — whether that’s the US version of Netflix or BBC iPlayer.
While there’s no server specifically optimized for TV Go, we found it worked with the Netflix UK server. If it doesn’t work for you, try one of the other UK-base streaming-optimized servers or get in touch with customer support.
CyberGhost is another excellent VPN where performance is concerned. Using one of its three UK server locations, we recorded average speeds of 212 Mbps, with a little over 11 Mbps of difference across the three tests.
The NoSpy servers are slightly slower but that’s to be expected given they’re further away and have a higher level of privacy. Overall, our testing of CyberGhost was very positive with no annoying buffering or lag to speak of.
We like the CyberGhost apps, which are easy to use and very responsive. Supported platforms include Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire Stick.
The provider has an independently audited no-logs policy, and plenty of options for customizing your connection. Users can, for example, set up automatic wi-fi protection, or link CyberGhost to particular apps so that it launches automatically.
CyberGhost is one of the safer VPNs you can use since it has a wide range of security features. These include DNS and IP leak protection; 256-bit AES encryption; a kill switch; an ad, tracker and malware blocker; and split tunneling.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need a VPN that makes streaming UK TV as easy as possible
- You’d like to take advantage of advanced security tools
- You need a speedy, zero-logs service with a huge network
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want to browse safely while visiting high-censorship countries
Easy to use:CyberGhost has over 700 servers in the UK, offers fast streaming speeds and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
7. ProtonVPN
unblocks virgin mediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.2 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 8.8 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 5.5 / 10 |
UK speed: | 4.9 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN is a freemium service but if you plan on using it regularly, we’d strongly suggest upgrading to a paid plan. This will allow you to access a huge range of region-locked streaming sites, provide access to 24/7 customer support (via live chat), and increase the connection limit to 10.
You’ll also gain access to the full network of 10,800 servers in 117 countries and will no longer have your speeds limited.
In the UK, ProtonVPN has 53 servers spread across five cities. Users can choose between individual severs within each city.
Using a server in London, we were able to access Virgin Media TV Go, as well as BBC iPlayer and ITVX. The US servers enabled us to stream the US versions of Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime Video.
As well as its regular servers, ProtonVPN has what it calls Secure Core servers. These are housed in high security ProtonVPN-owned and operated data centres. Turning Secure Core on routes users’ traffic through one of these servers in addition to their chosen VPN server, This means traffic remains protected even if the primary server is compromised.
We wanted to see what ProtonVPN could do speed-wise, so we ran three tests using its British servers throughout the day. Straight off the bat, it was clear that they were capable of handling anything we threw at them.
In fact, with an average speed of 223.67 Mbps, you’ll only notice slowdown if you’re already used to ultra-high speeds.
There’s no need to worry about Virgin Media monitoring your activities, either. That’s because ProtonVPN uses uncrackable encryption, prevents DNS and IPv6 leaks, blocks ads and trackers, and has been independently audited to prove that it doesn’t keep logs. It offers the OpenVPN and WireGuard connection protocols, and has a Stealth mode that can help bypass VPN blocks (though not in China).
If you’d like, you can configure the split tunneling and port forwarding features for even more control over your connection.
Apps are available for iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, and Linux. The provider also supports a wide range of router firmware, meaning you can install it on a Virgin Super Hub with just a few hours of work.
Buy this VPN if:
- You’d like to securely watch Netflix UK, BBC iPlayer, and more
- You need a VPN with a spotless privacy record
- You want a VPN that offers exceptional performance, security, and streaming ability
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re looking for long-term coverage and have a tight budget
ADVANCED SECURITY:ProtonVPN gives you plenty of ways to tailor your security setup to your needs. What’s more, it’s one of the fastest VPNs on the market and won’t be stopped by most online restrictions. Paid plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Take a look at our in-depth ProtonVPN review.
8. PureVPN
Unblocks Virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 6.7 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 6.5 / 10 |
UK speed: | 1 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.1 / 10 |
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN might not be the best-known service, but it certainly has a lot to offer. It operates more than 6,000 servers in 65 countries and its always-on obfuscation means it works in restrictive countries such as China (so you shouldn’t have any issues keeping your activities hidden from Virgin Media).
More pertinently, it’s capable of flying under the radar of most ISPs and region-locked platforms, which means you’ll be able to access your favorite streaming sites without worrying about throttling or regional restrictions.
We used its UK servers to access Virgin Media TV Go as well as other popular UK-based platforms such as Channel 4, Sky Go, ITVX, and BBC iPlayer.
To make streaming easier still, PureVPN has a list of servers that work with particular platforms. Connecting to one will automatically open the relevant streaming website.
Historically, PureVPN has performed extremely well in terms of speed, even taking second place in our comprehensive speed tests. However, when we tested its UK servers for this article, we recorded noticeably lower speeds than before and an average of just 45.33 Mbps.
That’s still more than enough for 4K streaming and gaming, though you may notice some slowdown when multiple people in your home are using the internet simultaneously.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Detailed configuration instructions are available online in case you’d like to configure the service on a home router.
We are big fans of services that make it possible to stay safe online, and PureVPN — thanks to its unbeatable encryption, kill switch, leak protection, and verified no-logs policy — definitely fits the bill.
Buy this VPN if:
- You’re hoping to get a privacy-friendly VPN with steady speeds
- Security is one of your top priorities
- You need a reliable service that doesn’t cost the world
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’d like a VPN that can block ads
- You want the fastest UK servers
GREAT EVERYDAY VPN:PureVPN can handle most VPN blocks and is relatively easy to install on a Virgin Media Superhub. It’s privacy-conscious and great for streaming. Not only that but all plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Still have questions? Find answers in our full PureVPN review.
9. PrivateVPN
unblocks virgin MediaTested Jan 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 6.3 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.6 / 10 |
Streaming ability: | 4.2 / 10 |
UK speed: | 2.1 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN has several servers in the UK (London and Manchester) and approximately 200 worldwide in 63+ countries. While it’s not a particularly big server network, it works well with Virgin Media TV Go as well as other UK services like BBC iPlayer, Channel 4 and ITVX.
This VPN has never been the fastest service around but it does still deliver steady, reliable performance. For example, after our team ran multiple tests, we recorded an average speed of 115.33 Mbps.
You’ll find this more than enough for any task, so there’s no need to worry if your family all like to use the internet at the same time. If your connection is extremely slow, we’d suggest trying a different server or contacting support – they’re available almost 24 hours per day over live chat.
This is a VPN that is particularly user-friendly. The apps are pleasingly designed and responsive, with two formats you can switch between. A simplified dashboard for those who just want to connect and be done with it, and an Advanced view, which displays connection information needed to set up port forwarding or alter the level of encryption.
PrivateVPN apps can be downloaded for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, while Linux can be set up manually. Features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch and leak protection. We confirmed that there were no leaks by connecting to a US server and checking our IP address.
PrivateVPN is relatively unusual in that it has static IP addresses available. That means you can disconnect and reconnect while keeping the same IP address (they’re normally reallocated after disconnection).
Another point of interest is PrivateVPN’s Stealth mode. This disguises your VPN’s traffic as regular web traffic, allowing you to bypass deep packet inspection in countries such as China.
The company states that it has a zero data logging policy and doesn’t even know what its users are doing online. At the time of writing, this has yet to be independently audited — though we have no reason to doubt its claims.
Buy this VPN if:
- You need no-hassle access to popular streaming apps
- You want a high level of privacy without having to configure too much
- You’re looking for inexpensive long-term protection
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a VPN with a huge server network
- You’d like a service that has been professionally-audited
GREAT FOR STREAMING:PrivateVPN offers very fast speeds and can be used on up to 10 devices simultaneously. Has a zero data logging policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for Virgin Media customers
Most consumers don’t have the time or desire to sit down and compare multiple VPNs. This means that they’ll often end up with a service that doesn’t fit their requirements (and possibly doesn’t even keep them safe). Good news: we’ve done the hard work for you. Our experts have created a comprehensive testing strategy that breaks down everything competing providers have to offer in a way that’s easy to understand. Below, we’ll discuss this in more detail and explain exactly why each key area is so important to consider.
Performance
Experts agree that you’ll usually get the best performance using a VPN server that’s nearby your actual location. Virgin Media only operates in the UK, which is why we decided to test the speeds of each provider’s British servers. Now, doing this is trickier than you might expect given the inherent randomness of the internet. For this reason, our team ran multiple speed tests at different times of day and averaged the results.
From here, we assigned each provider a score, with the fastest VPN automatically earning a perfect 10 out of 10. Note that services are ranked relative to each other. The reason behind this is that it ensures any differences are easy to see, as there’s a meaningful performance gap between a VPN which scores five points and one that scores six, for instance.
NordVPN was the fastest service we saw, beating the second-fastest — Surfshark — by more than 27 Mbps. At the other end of the spectrum, PureVPN had the lowest score. It’s pretty clear why: this service’s average was more than nine times slower that NordVPN, and less than half the speed of its nearest rival. PureVPN usually performs quite well though, so it’s possible it was just having a bad day.
Streaming ability
Connecting to a VPN lets you keep your online activities private but they’re frequently also used to spoof your location. That’s why streaming services like Netflix try so hard to stop VPN users from accessing their content. However, we don’t believe you should have to give up on security just to continue using a platform you pay for. That’s why we personally tested each VPN in our list to see how many streaming apps it could access and how reliably they worked.
As Virgin Media TV Go is a UK-only service, we also checked how many UK server locations each VPN provider had. This helps gauge the level of server availability (actual server counts aren’t always available).
We used the results of the above to generate a score out of ten for comparison.
ExpressVPN was actually the top contender in this category. It worked with virtually every streaming service we tested and we rarely had to try more than one server to gain access. Further, it blocks ads, includes a Smart DNS feature, and obfuscates your traffic automatically. PrivateVPN, meanwhile, was in last place – it’s still a good choice overall but occasionally struggled to access popular platforms and lacked some of the more advanced tools of its rivals.
Security and privacy
The main purpose of a VPN is to protect your activities from prying eyes. No matter how good it is for streaming, no matter how fast it is, a service just isn’t worth using if it can’t keep you safe. Here at Comparitech, we evaluate what VPNs have to offer in 15 distinct security-related areas to find out which are actually the most privacy-conscious. You’ll find these (and our findings) in the table below:
VPN Provider | Activity logs | IP logs | Encryption | Authentication | Keys | Perfect Forward Secrecy | DNS leak protection | IPv6 leak protection | Private DNS | Torrenting allowed | Kill switch | HQ outside 9 eyes | Obfuscation | Supported protocols | Anonymous payment options | Additional security features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security |
NordVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-384 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Own protocol | Multiple | Yes |
Surfshark | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mobile app-level | No | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | Yes |
IPVanish | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | None | No |
ExpressVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mobile app-level | Yes | Automatic | Own protocol | Multiple | No |
PIA | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | No | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | Yes |
CyberGhost | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | No |
PrivateVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 2048-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | One | No |
PureVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some platforms | Yes | Automatic | Secure protocols only | One | No |
Proton VPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 2048-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | One | Yes |
Just as before, we assigned scores to each provider based on how well-equipped it is for privacy. Again, these were weighted and normalized, ensuring each VPN was given a score out of 10. Here are the results:
We have a two-way tie for first place between NordVPN and Surfshark, which each scored 9.5 points. Our only complaints were that NordVPN could do with bringing its authentication up to SHA-512 instead of the (still secure) SHA-381, and that Surfshark’s base of operations being in a 14 Eyes country might make some users uncomfortable. PrivateVPN, meanwhile, delivered an overall score of 8.6 – that’s impressive but could be pushed even higher if a few additional features (tracker-blocking or tap-jacking protection, for instance) were added.
Ease of use
If you buy a VPN, only to realize that it’s difficult to use, you’re unlikely to rely on it very often. Our main concern is ensuring that our readers know how to protect themselves online, so naturally, we take user-friendliness very seriously. Some of the things we look out for are simple, streamlined apps that look similar across multiple platforms, automatic wifi protection, and a high connection limit. Check out the table below for a full list of our highest-priority areas:
VPN Provider | Apps for all major platforms | Novice-friendly design | Ease of signup (reviewer to score) | Router support | Unblocking consistency | Task specific servers | Network | Ease of cancellation | Interface | Feature parity |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use |
NordVPN | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
Surfshark | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
IPVanish | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
ExpressVPN | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | App | Generally works | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | All features available on all versions |
PIA | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
CyberGhost | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
PrivateVPN | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Generally works | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
PureVPN | Yes | Yes | 3 | App | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
Proton VPN | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Takes some getting used to | Most features available on all versions |
Once again, we have a tie. Private Internet Access and NordVPN each scored an impressive 9.6 points. While these providers both have plenty of advanced features, they’ve gone to great lengths to keep things are welcoming as possible for new users. Even PrivateVPN, which delivered the lowest score, remains easy to use, going as far as to offer a two-design interface (one for experts, one for beginners). There’s genuinely not a bad option here.
Value for money
If you’re looking at popular providers and the monthly price is putting you off, that’s entirely understandable. On the plus side, there are lots of ways to cut the cost. Our team examines many factors including how frequently each VPN goes on sale, whether it offers discounts for emergency workers or students, and how much you can save with a long-term plan. Additionally, we require providers to offer a 30-day money-back guarantee as this gives you the chance to try it and claim a full refund if you’re unsatisfied.
VPN Provider | Money-back guarantee | Connection limit | Subscription terms | Sale frequency | Monthly pricing | Lowest price | Free trial available | Student discount |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money |
NordVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
Surfshark | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
IPVanish | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
ExpressVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | $15+ | $5+ | Yes | Yes |
PIA | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | No |
CyberGhost | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
PrivateVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | <$5 | Yes | No |
PureVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | No |
Proton VPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | $5+ | Yes | No |
This time, Surfshark took first place. It scored 9.7 points, narrowly beating IPVanish thanks to its slightly lower monthly price. Of course, the fact that it allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices certainly helped elevate it above the competition. ProtonVPN, on the other hand, scored only 7.4 points. It does cost a little more per month, even when you’re on a multi-year plan, though this is offset slightly by the fact that it offers a free tier with no time limits or bandwidth caps.
January 2025 updates
We update our reviews on a regular basis. VPN providers are constantly adding new features and our scoring is modified to reflect that. Here are some of the more significant changes that have happened since our last update.
NordVPN
- Deployed reinforced security measures in revamped browser extension. (December 2024)
- Added Saily eSIM functionality to core settings panel. (December 2024)
- Extended ad-blocking to Saily platform, reducing data consumption by 21%. (December 2024)
- Established quantum-resistant security in Linux platform. (September 2024)
Surfshark
- Introduced iOS-specific VPN bypass utility for selective connection management. (October 2024)
- Deployed complimentary data breach detection utility. (October 2024)
- Formed strategic alliance with Streamlabs to enhance gaming and streaming capabilities. (September 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)
How to watch Virgin Media online abroad with a VPN
Here’s how to watch Virgin Media online abroad using a VPN:
- Sign up for one of the suggested VPNs – we particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the appropriate VPN software for your operating system.
- Select one of the VPN’s UK servers (this is the only country in which Virgin Media is available) in order to get a UK IP address.
- Open Virgin Media and watch the content that should now be unblocked. You may need to clear your cookies for changes to take effect. If it doesn’t work, be sure to try another server.
- Enjoy unrestricted access to Virgin Media’s live and on-demand content!
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Virgin TV with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to stream your favorite shows or are going abroad.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
VPN for Virgin Media FAQs
Can I use a free VPN with Virgin Media?
While you may find a free VPN that works with Virgin Media, we wouldn’t recommend it for a few reasons. First off, free VPNs tend to suffer from poor performance. This is understandable since they have too few servers and too many users. You’ll, therefore, experience buffering and lag when trying to use a free VPN to watch Virgin Media outside the UK.
A good-quality VPN should be able to unblock services like Virgin Media and improve online privacy. Unfortunately, this is not the case with many free VPNs, which spam users with inappropriate and annoying ads and infect devices with malware. What’s more, some free VPNs actually log your data and activity and sell it to third parties. Poor performance and poor privacy are the reasons why free VPNs simply aren’t worth it.
What can I watch on Virgin Media?
Virgin Media offers a wide range of live TV as well as on-demand TV shows and movies. Here are some of the channels you can watch on Virgin Media:
- Terrestrial TV (BBC One, BBC Two, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5)
- Sky One and Sky Two
- ITV 2, ITV 3 and ITV 4
- Dave
- Comedy Central
- MTV
- Syfy
- Universal
- Fox
- Paramount
You can also use Virgin Media to watch the following titles on demand:
- The Walking Dead
- Supergirl
- The Late Late Show With James Corden
- Grey’s Anatomy
- Atlanta
- Wolf Creek
- Ash Vs Evil Dead
- S.W.A.T.
- Prime Suspect
- Criminal Minds
What devices can I watch Virgin Media on?
Virgin Media’s app, Virgin TV Go, is available on desktop and mobile (Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS). More specifically, it supports Windows 8.1 and MacOSX 10.1 and browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. To watch Virgin TV Go on a mobile device, it needs to be Android 5.1 or later or iOS 11 or later. However, Virgin TV Go is not available on Amazon Fire devices. Note that you can watch Virgin Media content on up to two devices simultaneously.