Netflix Blocked Password Sharing - But Here's How to Sail Around It 🏴☠️
The Quick and Dirty Summary
- Netflix now limits accounts to a single physical household
- Little Jimmy at college doesn't count anymore
- Solution: Use Tailscale VPN to appear like you're at home
- No router fiddling required (thank god)
- Works for multiple users, but Netflix might get wise eventually
The Problem: Netflix's New Rules
Remember when Netflix's whole thing was "Love is sharing a password"? Well, they've officially changed their tune. Now your account is limited to a single physical household, and all devices need to connect from that location at least once a month or you'll have to pay extra.
Netflix determines your "primary location" using IP addresses, device IDs, and account activity. They'll let you set it manually through a TV or set-top box, but as Linus found out, that feature is kinda buggy and might not even work.
The Linus Tech Tips Solution: Tailscale VPN
Instead of using commercial VPNs like NordVPN (which Netflix blocks anyway), the solution is running your own VPN server from your primary location. Enter Tailscale - a free service that makes this surprisingly easy.
The genius part? You don't need to mess with router settings. Just install Tailscale on a computer at your "home" location that stays on 24/7, and have everyone connect through it.
How to Set It Up (The Simple Version)
- Sign up for Tailscale (it's free)
- Install Tailscale on "Mom's PC" at your primary location
- Set that PC as an "exit node" in Tailscale settings
- Install Tailscale on all devices that need Netflix access
- Connect those devices through Mom's PC exit node
- Netflix now thinks everyone's watching from home!
The Catches and Considerations
There are some downsides. The "exit node" computer needs to stay on all the time. Your internet speed might take a hit (though still fast enough for Netflix). And if too many people stream through Mom's connection, she might need faster internet.
Plus, Netflix isn't stupid. They might notice if one profile only logs in from "home" exactly once a month. Linus suggests using the VPN consistently rather than just for monthly check-ins.
Alternative Solutions
Not feeling Tailscale? Linus mentions other options:
- SoftEther VPN (also no router required)
- WireGuard VPN (requires router setup)
- PiVPN on a Raspberry Pi
The Legal Gray Area
Let's be real - this technically violates Netflix's terms of service. They could ban your account if they catch on. But as Linus points out, there's a fine line between maximizing revenue and ticking off customers to the point where they cancel.
Final Thoughts
This whole situation feels like Netflix trying to squeeze more money from loyal customers. While the Tailscale workaround is clever, it's kind of ridiculous that we need to resort to these methods just to share with our own family members.
Will Netflix crack down harder? Probably. But for now, this solution works. Just remember - if you get caught, you can't say we didn't warn you! 🏴☠️