Have you ever felt the sting of geo-blocking when trying to stream DStv from overseas? You’re not alone. DSTV offers content in 50+ African countries but is mostly focused on South Africa, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. If you are connecting from outside these countries, you may miss out on content or be refused access altogether. This frustrating roadblock results from international licensing agreements restricting content based on location. This limits your content choices and can bring language barriers into play.
But here’s the good news: after thorough research and rigorous testing, we’ve unlocked the solution to this widespread problem. Enter the Virtual Private Network (VPN). This technology effortlessly bypasses these regional restrictions by rerouting your data to a server in a country where DStv is available. This masks your original IP address and presents it as though you’re browsing from, for example, South Africa.
Simply follow our easy-to-follow steps, and you’ll be immersed in a world of diverse DStv content, watching your preferred shows and movies from any corner of the globe. Your viewing experience deserves to be boundless. We’re here to ensure it is.
Short on time? Below, you’ll find a quick guide to the best VPNs for unblocking DStv (formerly DStv Now). If any catch your eye, just scroll down for a more detailed review of each.
Best VPNs for watching DStv online from outside South Africa:
- NordVPN: Our top VPN for anyone looking to watch DStv channels outside of South Africa. Extremely high speeds, top-notch security features, and great unblocking ability. Has a strict no-logs policy and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for DStv. - Surfshark: The best low-cost VPN for live streaming DStv. Boasts solid speeds, an impressive security offering, and the ability to secure all of your devices at once.
- IPVanish: This no-logs VPN lets you connect as many devices as you like. It’s fast enough for flawless live streaming and has half a dozen South African servers to choose from.
- ExpressVPN: A veteran provider that unblocks DStv and other geo-restricted content. Consistent, reliable speeds and plenty of powerful privacy features built-in, like military-grade encryption.
- CyberGhost: A novice-friendly service that provides fast speeds and unblocks the DStv content library with ease. All of its security features come pre-configured, including 256-bit AES encryption.
- PrivateVPN: A speedy, security-first service that can unblock all but the most stubborn streaming services. Works with Netflix, DStv, Disney Channel, Kayo Sports, and more. Six-connection limit.
- Private Internet Access: Good speeds and successfully unblocks DStv channels. Allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections. No-logs VPN with 24/7 support.
- PureVPN: This VPN boasts very fast servers in South Africa and works flawlessly with DStv. Designed for beginners but includes a great set of security tools and a proven no-logs policy.
- ProtonVPN: Quick South African servers and exceptional streaming capabilities. Perfect for anyone hoping to watch DStv abroad. Provides 24/7 live chat and a high connection limit.
Many VPNs claim to work with DStv 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 DStv and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
How to watch DStv outside of Africa with a VPN
There’s no need to worry; VPNs are much simpler to use than you might think. You can unblock DStv in a matter of minutes. Below is a quick guide to streaming DStv abroad.
Here’s how to watch DStv online from anywhere:
- First, sign up for one of the VPNs above (we recommend NordVPN).
- Now, download and install the app onto whichever device you plan to use for streaming.
- Log in and connect to a server in a country where DStv operates. Most Sub-Saharan countries should work, but if you’re in any doubt, use a South African server.
- Visit your MyDStv account and log in. You should be able to start streaming without any errors or loading issues. If not, clear your cookies and try again. If problems persist, get in touch with your VPN’s support team for further advice.
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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.
Criteria for the best DStv VPNs
Deciding which VPN to use doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, despite what the marketing material would have you believe, the best VPNs tend to be the ones that can handle everything reasonably well, not the services that are the best at one particular thing. That’s why we decided to only recommend VPNs that met all of the criteria below:
- Has a large network, including servers in South Africa for a South African IP address, servers in other Afrian countries is a bonus
- Provides stable connections and speeds that are high enough for live streaming
- Unblocks DStv and other popular South African channels and streaming services
- Keeps you safe using cutting-edge security protocols and advanced features
- Doesn’t log any data that could identify you
- Comes with apps for all of the most popular operating systems
Best VPNs for DStv – 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 watching DStv.
| No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PrivateVPN | Private Internet Access | PureVPN | Proton VPN |
| Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateVPN.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | PureVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com | Ranking for DStv | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 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, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Total number of servers | 6,000+ | 3,200 | 2,200+ | Undisclosed | 11,000+ | 200+ | Undisclosed | 6,500+ | 3,800 | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | 7 | 10 | Unlimited | 10 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan | $4.49 SAVE 55% on a 2-year plan |
Best VPN for watching DStv online
From our real-world experience, here’s our list of the best VPNs for unblocking DStv abroad:
1. NordVPN
Dec 2024
Unblocks DStvTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is an excellent choice for anyone looking to stream DStv abroad. It has more than 8,200 servers in 111 countries, including South Africa, which means you’ll also be able to access popular platforms like Netflix US and Amazon Prime Video. Further, this is by far the fastest service we’ve tested, which means you won’t have to worry about lag or buffering. Users can connect up to six devices at any one time.
NordVPN is one of the best when it comes to security. It keeps you safe from snoopers with a combination of DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch. Ads and malware are blocked automatically, and for even greater privacy, you can connect to special obfuscated servers. These even work in places like China, so you’re all but guaranteed safe browsing. NordVPN doesn’t keep any logs and offers 24/7 support via live chat.
NordVPN provides easy-to-use apps for iOS, MacOS, Android, Windows, and Linux systems. Further, it can be manually configured for use with supported routers.
Pros:
- Faster than any other VPN we’ve tested
- Unblocks the majority of South African channels
- Major emphasis on security and privacy
- No-logs policy
- 24/7 live chat support available
Cons:
- Desktop app takes some getting used to
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR DSTV:NordVPN is our first choice for DStv.It’s the fastest VPN on the market right now and comes packed with powerful security features. There’s also a no-logs policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can try it completely risk-free.
Interested? For more information, check out our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark offers access to around 3,200 servers in 65 countries (South Africa and Nigeria included). Needless to say, this makes it a solid choice for streaming. It gets better: this VPN provides generally high speeds and doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect at once. Like DSTV, Surfshark is able to access services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
This service’s security features are top-notch and include 256-bit AES encryption, a customizable kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. Further, it offers a toggleable NoBorders mode capable of bypassing especially strict online blocking. Surfshark is a zero-logs provider, so it can’t reveal details of your activities under any circumstances. Users can pay with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple for another layer of anonymity. Live chat is available around the clock in case of any problems.
Surfshark offers clean, uncluttered Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS apps. Alternatively, you can manually install it on select wireless routers.
Pros:
- Decent speeds and no bandwidth limits
- Fast enough for streaming live TV without any issues
- Puts your security and privacy first
- No limit on the number of devices connected
Cons:
- Some servers are slower than others
- Only has servers in two African countries
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an inexpensive provider but it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to stream DStv abroad. Steady speeds, strong security and privacy protections, plus the ability to secure every device you own. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also included.
Read our complete Surfshark review.
3. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish has around 2,000 servers in 60+ countries worldwide, including about a dozen in South Africa and Nigeria. Thanks to this service’s high speeds, users can watch their favorite shows in the highest possible quality, free from lag and buffering. It’s not just DStv, either: this service works with platforms like Netflix US and Hulu too. Best of all, IPVanish has no connection limit, making it ideal for those looking to protect lots of devices at once.
This is one service that doesn’t compromise on security. User traffic is hidden with 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch, but you can also choose to block LAN traffic entirely or scramble your data (which helps hide the fact that you’re using a VPN at all). IPVanish is a zero-logs provider and as such, can’t divulge details of your activities to anyone, ever. 24/7 support is available over live chat and email.
IPVanish comes with apps for Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS devices. You can also manually configure it for use with Linux systems and supported routers if you’d prefer.
Pros:
- Fast and reliable connections
- Offers a no-logs policy and a wide range of powerful security features
- Connect as many devices as you like
- Popular with Kodi users and torrenters
- Easy-to-use apps
Cons:
- Struggles to unblock some major streaming services
- Doesn’t accept Bitcoin
Our score:
STREAM WITHOUT LIMITS:IPVanish has no issues unblocking DStv, plus its high speeds mean you can watch in the highest possible quality. It keeps no logs, offers plenty of security features, and has no connection limits. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out the full review of IPVanish.
4. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is a strong performer with more than 3,000 servers in South Africa and 93 other countries. This VPN is more than fast enough for live streaming DStv. You shouldn’t run into any issues when watching Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, even in 4K. With a five-connection limit and no bandwidth throttling, this service allows you to stream as much as you like, wherever you are.
There are all kinds of security features built-in, like 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. You can also choose to block local connections or let certain apps bypass the VPN through split tunneling (for instance, so you can use local streaming services as well as DStv without having to disconnect). Importantly, ExpressVPN doesn’t log any data that could be used to identify you. If you run into any issues, you can reach support staff over live chat at any time of day.
ExpressVPN apps are available for MacOS, Linux, Windows, iOS, and Android. This service also offers custom router firmware that makes it easier to secure your whole network.
Pros:
- Fast enough to play HD video without buffering
- Works with DStv, SuperSport, and more
- Great security and privacy credentials
- Pay anonymously with Bitcoin
- 24/7 support
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost than others
- Could offer more control over advanced functionality
Our score:
HIGHLY VERSATILE:ExpressVPN blends speed, security, and unblocking ability to create an extremely well-balanced service that can handle almost any task. With impressive unblocking capabilities and a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s well worth your consideration.
Take a look at our in-depth ExpressVPN review.
5. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has dozens of servers spread across Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, and more than 8,000 overall in 90 countries. This novice-friendly service provides consistently high speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and clearly labeled servers that tell you which streaming services they unblock. This makes it as easy as possible to access not just DStv, but other major platforms like Netflix US, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer from abroad.
This VPN uses 256-bit encryption, an always-on kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks to keep your activities hidden at all times. It also blocks ads, malware, and trackers automatically and refuses to log any personally identifiable data. Better still, all of these features come enabled by default, meaning there’s no need to configure anything; you’re protected from the moment you connect. In the unlikely event of any problems, you can reach support 24/7 via email or live chat.
CyberGhost offers user-friendly iOS, MacOS, Windows, Android, and Linux apps. What’s more, some network routers are supported via manual configuration.
Pros:
- Consistently high speeds
- Plenty of fast South African servers
- Strong unblocking capabilities
- Scores highly in terms of security and privacy
Cons:
- Less suitable for power users
- Doesn’t work in China or the UAE
Our score:
SPEEDY AND SECURE:CyberGhost is easy to use and doesn’t skimp on server choice, speed, or security. This makes it ideal for streaming DStv abroad, torrenting, or even just browsing privately as you travel. What’s more, it comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
For more details, read our full review of CyberGhost.
6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN doesn’t have as large a network as its rivals (around 150 servers in 60 countries), but it does offer some of the fastest South African servers on the market. Further, it has a fantastic unblocking ability and works with plenty of major streaming services like DStv, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video to name a few. These features make it ideal for torrenting and live streaming, plus with a six-connection limit, you can protect all of your favorite devices at once.
This VPN boasts effectively uncrackable 256-bit encryption, as well as a customizable kill switch and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Looking for a little more privacy? There’s also a no-logs policy and a stealth mode capable of bypassing especially strict online censorship. Customer support isn’t quite available 24/7, but it does operate most hours of the day and boasts some of the fastest email response times we’ve seen.
PrivateVPN apps are available for Linux, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. Select internet routers are supported via manual configuration.
Pros:
- Exceptionally high speeds
- Gaining a reputation for their growing list of sites they unblock
- Strong security and privacy protection features
Cons:
- Small number of servers to choose from
- Doesn’t have 24/7 live chat
Our score:
ZERO LOGS KEPT:PrivateVPN is an extremely fast service that unblocks DStv, Netflix, and similar platforms without breaking a sweat. Has a strong security focus and keeps no logs at all. Best of all, this provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our comprehensive PrivateVPN review.
7. Private Internet Access
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access covers more countries than most VPNs. Indeed, its network of servers covers over 80 countries including South Africa. As such, you can use it to access DStv while traveling abroad. Notably, it works with other popular streaming platforms such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Our speed tests found it to be among the fastest VPNs with average speeds of 94 Mbps.
Your PIA account comes with 24/7 live chat and email support. You can also use it to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously (most VPNs only allow up to five or six simultaneous connections). A strict no-logs service, PIA routes your data through a 256-bit AES encrypted tunnel. You can also expect protection from DNS leaks as well as a kill switch feature. For an extra monthly fee, you can get a dedicated IP address.
Private Internet Access apps are offered for desktop (Windows, Mac, and Linux), mobile (Android and iOS), and Amazon Fire TV. Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions are also offered. A router connection can be manually configured.
Pros:
- Server network covers 80+ countries, including South Africa
- Good speeds makes it ideal for streaming DStv
- Can be used on up to 10 devices at once
- True no-logs policy — doesn’t even keep connection logs
Cons:
- Struggles to work in China
- Apps could be easier to navigate
Our score:
SERVERS WORLDWIDE:Private Internet Access has fast servers in South Africa. Stream DStv and Netflix without lag while traveling abroad. Use it on up to 10 devices at the same time. Strict no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read the full Private Internet Access review.
8. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN has one of the largest networks around, with 6,800 servers in 65 countries including South Africa. You’ll be able to stream DStv effortlessly from anywhere, even China, and don’t worry if you get bored: it also works with Netflix, Disney+, and many similar platforms. Still not impressed? What if we told you PureVPN has average speeds of almost 400 Mbps, allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, and operates a 24/7 live chat help desk?
This VPN is extremely easy to use but still manages to provide a high level of security. Its encryption is considered uncrackable, it prevents DNS and IPv6 leaks by default, and there’s a kill switch (on most platforms) that ensures you’ll never browse unprotected. PureVPN has been audited four times, proving that it doesn’t keep any logs of your activities. We’d prefer if there were some anonymous payment options and if tracker-blocking was included as standard rather than only on the more expensive plans
PureVPN offers apps for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS. Further, users can manually install it on a wide range of routers.
Pros:
- One of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested
- Has everything you’ll need to stream DStv safely
- Beginner-friendly apps for all major platforms
Cons:
- Doesn’t include an ad-blocker
- Fairly light on advanced functionality
Our score:
GREAT FOR NOVICES:PureVPN keeps things simple, allowing anyone to protect themselves whilst watching DStv abroad. It boasts better-than-average speeds and works with plenty of streaming apps, plus it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PureVPN review for more information.
9. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN has more than 3,800 servers and offers 85 locations (including many places its rivals don’t, such as Nigeria, Senegal, and Algeria). As such, it’s a fantastic way to access DStv and various other African streaming platforms while traveling abroad. This provider’s average speeds exceed 300 Mbps, so you’re unlikely to notice any performance drop, and with a 10 connection limit, users are free to watch on whichever device they please. Need help? No problem: support staff are on hand 24 hours per day over live chat.
Few other providers are as versatile as ProtonVPN. For instance, it supports port forwarding and split tunneling, plus it can block ads and trackers automatically. There are even specially optimized Secure Core servers designed to provide the highest level of privacy possible. It goes without saying that unbeatable encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection are included as well. ProtonVPN doesn’t keep any logs of your online activities and has proven this with an independent audit. It accepts Bitcoin and cash payments, too, giving you multiple ways to sign up anonymously.
ProtonVPN apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS. Alternatively, it can be manually installed on most routers (check the website for setup instructions).
Pros:
- Impressive performance, no bandwidth limit
- High level of customization
- Works with just about every streaming service we’ve tried
Cons:
- Long-term plans could be a little cheaper
- Port forwarding is only available on Windows
Our score:
SAFE STREAMING:ProtonVPN is fast, reliable, and great for watching DStv securely. Experienced users will appreciate its advanced functionality and expansive knowledge base. Paid subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Our comprehensive ProtonVPN review will answer any lingering questions you might have.
Our DStv VPN testing methodology
There are many consumer-facing VPNs on the market and they are not all of an equal caliber. To ensure we recommend the very best VPNs, we test market-leading services using a scientific VPN testing methodology.
We check VPN apps for important security and privacy features, and we test that those apps behave as they should to protect your data and web browsing habits against snoops. This includes performing important IP and DNS leak tests, for example.
For added transparency, we have included a list of important features we searched for when recommending the best VPNs for DStv:
- Fast servers: We check that the VPN has a wide choice of fast servers capable of streaming TV and movies in HD, torrenting, video conferencing, and doing other data-intensive tasks. We also check that the VPN has servers in South Africa that work to stream DStv. Finally, we test the VPN to see if it works with other popular international services such as Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max.
- Apps for all platforms: A useful VPN has apps for all popular platforms to let you stream DStv on any device you own. We have recommended services that have VPN apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Firesticks, and routers. Some services even have browser extensions for added ease of use. We are also looking for those that work with Apple TV and Smart TVs.
- Strong security features: A reliable VPN must provide secure VPN protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. These implement high levels of security, including robust AES encryption, and perfect forward secrecy. Our recommendations also provide a kill-switch to ensure you never leak data outside of the encrypted tunnel and DNS leak protection to ensure your ISP is never privy to the URLs you visit.
- A no-logs policy: What a VPN provider does with your data is highly important. This is why we closely inspect each VPN’s privacy policy to ensure it never tracks what you do while connected. This means the VPN never has records that could be analyzed at a later date.
- Outstanding customer care: All of our recommended providers have both live chat and email support to allow you to ask questions and get help with using the VPN. These market-leading VPNs also provide guides, FAQs, and other resources on their website to help you with installing or using the VPN to gain freedom of access.
- Advanced features: Many VPNs provide only a basic feature set. We search for services that offer as many advanced features as possible at the best possible cost. Our recommendations include features like obfuscation, split tunneling, P2P optimized servers, malware protection, ad blocking, Smart DNS, and a SOCKS5 proxy.
- Value for money: Our value-for-money assessment starts at the cost of a subscription but doesn’t end there. We expect to see competitive pricing and generous discounts for long-term subscriptions. We also factor in device connection limits, money-back guarantees, and what features you’re getting for your money.
Streaming DStv abroad: your frequently asked questions
Can I live stream DStv with a free VPN?
We don’t recommend streaming DStv (formerly DStv Now) with a free VPN for a few reasons. First, these services tend to be very slow, which causes long pauses while the video buffers. You may even be forced to watch in standard definition (or lower). Additionally, free services tend to focus their networks in high-traffic countries like the US, and if there are any African servers, they’re usually an afterthought. It’s highly unlikely that these will be able to unblock DStv, and even if they can, your connection will almost certainly drop at some point due to the number of like-minded travelers who are also trying to watch.
Free VPNs come with their share of security concerns, too. For instance, many fail even to encrypt your traffic, which means they provide no privacy benefits whatsoever. Further, many malicious third parties have taken to disguising their malware as free VPNs, so there’s a chance that your bid to improve your online security actually does the opposite. Finally, while paid services will let you know exactly what information they log and how it is handled, there are no such guarantees from free services. For these reasons, we advise sticking with reputable, privacy-first VPNs instead of using a service simply because it’s free.
Is it possible to sign up for DStv from abroad?
At the moment, you need to live in a country where DStv services are available in order to sign up. This is because, after registration, the company’s engineers have to install equipment in your home physically. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer any standalone streaming service, which means there’s no way to watch DStv online without cable.
That said, once you’ve signed up and connected to a VPN, there’s nothing stopping you from accessing DStv (the provider’s online service) while traveling abroad.
What channels can I watch on DStv?
Once signed in, you can stream dozens of DStv channels online. In fact, there’s such a wide variety of content that something’s sure to grab you, whatever mood you’re in. Here are some of the most popular TV channels and movies you can watch on DStv:
- SuperSport
- M-Net
- Vuzu
- Via
- 1Magic
- AfricaMagic Family
- KykNET Nou!
- Newzroom Afrika
Will DStv ban me for using a VPN?
Although DStv tries its best to detect VPN traffic, it won’t actually punish you if it finds out that you’re using one. Technically, doing so is against the terms of service if you’re outside of a supported country, but the chances of anything happening are vanishingly small. In fact, the worst that is likely to happen is you’ll see an error (either “Sorry, DStv isn’t available in your region” or “Sorry, we’re unable to play this video right now”).
The reason for this is simple: VPNs are legitimate privacy tools that are used by millions of people every day. If streaming services banned everyone who inadvertently left their VPN active before trying to watch something, they’d have no customers left.
How do I download DStv outside of South Africa?
If you want to download the DStv (formerly DStv Now) app outside of South Africa, you can do so by visiting the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Although DStv is only available to stream in South Africa, the app itself is available elsewhere. This means that you can download the DStv app, MyDStv, from anywhere.
The DStv (formerly DStv Now) app will not work for streaming on your account unless you are in South Africa. Thus, if you are outside of the country on vacation, you will need to connect to a VPN server in South Africa to bypass its regional restrictions and stream videos.
How do I watch DStv (formerly DStv Now) on PS4, Xbox, or Android TV?
Unfortunately, DStv does not currently have an app for the PS4. This means that you will need to navigate to the DStv website in the PS4’s browser; this should allow you to sign into your DStv account and stream.
Fortunately, you can stream DStv on an Xbox One device and an Android TV using a standalone app. To do so, simply search for DStv in the device’s app store and install it. Following that you will be able to stream on the device.
Due to the fact that DStv is only available in South Africa, you will need to connect your device to a VPN server if you are outside of the country. If your Android TV allows you to install the VPN app directly, you can simply search for the VPN app in the Google Play store.
If this is not possible on your device, the easiest way to connect is to either use a VPN-compatible router or link your device to a Windows PC or Mac that has been set up as a VPN-enabled hotspot.
How does Netflix South Africa compare to DStv?
Netflix South Africa is exclusively a streaming service, whereas DStv is available either as a satellite TV package (via a decoder set-top box) or as a streaming service that is accessible online.
DStv (formerly DStv Now) provides access to a large cross-section of live TV channels and catch-up TV on-demand. Some of the most popular channels available on DStv include Telemundo, Blackbelt TV, BBC Brit, TLC Entertainment, Discovery, Comedy Central, Sony Max, ESPN, and Super Sport. Content ranges from movies and tv shows, children’s channels, music channels like MTV, news channels, and specialist foreign channels as well.
Unlike Netflix, which only has one catalog of titles in each region, DStv offers a number of different subscription plans. These plans provide varying channels and content depending on the customer’s entertainment needs. We have listed the plans available below:
- Premium. 160 channels.
- Compact Plus. 145 channels.
- Compact. 130 channels.
- Family. 75 channels.
- Access. 66 channels.
- Easy View. 25 channels.
Like Netflix South Africa, DStv provides access to many TV shows and movies that can be streamed on demand, as well as its live TV channels. However, it is worth noting that while you will be able to stream recent episodes of shows to catch up, you may not be able to watch the entire series as is possible on Netflix.
Finally, it is worth noting that a premium subscription plan to DStv will cost around $50 per month, which is considerably more costly than a subscription to Netflix which starts at just $7.99 for a basic plan for one user
In which countries is DStv available?
DStv is available in multiple countries across Sub-Saharan Africa. It is most popular in South Africa, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe but is also available to some degree in:
Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, DRC, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zambia, Uganda, Mauritius, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Lesotho, Ethiopia, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Swaziland, and Botswana.
How many people can watch DStv at the same time?
Although you can create up to 4 profiles on the DStv app, MyDstv, only one profile can stream content at a time. This change came into force on the 22nd of March, 2022, because too many people were password-sharing access to DStv.
However, you can watch DStv on your decoder and stream content on the app simultaneously. However, you can watch DStv on your decoder and stream content on the app simultaneously. It’s also worth noting that most VPNs have simultaneous device connection limitations, so even if you can watch ten devices, you will need to ensure your VPN can protect them all.
What this article fails to mention is that DSTV continuously blocks VPN IP Blocks and as such renders your VPN useless. If you plan on watching sport over the weekend you can go and test your VPN during the week and all will work only to find on the Saturday that DSTV has blocked that range of IP’s. You can then email your VPN provider to assist in generating a new range, which generally takes a week. Again making the use of the VPN redundant.
VPN’s have now rolled out dedicated IP’s which circumvents the above mentioned issues however DSTV has now found a way to reduce the streaming quality to those IP’s. When live streaming the quality is close to 420p.