Channel 5 may not be the most popular channel in the UK, but it’s certainly about to get a lot more viewers – as it’s a new free-to-air home of the NFL. Previously, games in this country were locked behind premium subscriptions and channels.
Like rivals such as BBC One , ITV and Channel 4 , Channel 5 is exclusive to British viewers. However, if you want to watch the NFL while you’re travelling or abroad without forking out for a hefty subscription, or any other content that Channel 5 offers for that matter, then that may be an annoyance.
Fortunately, we have a tried and tested method that allows you to stream Channel 5 from anywhere in the world. Here’s what you need to know.
How to watch Channel 5 with a VPN
If you want to watch Channel 5 from abroad, the answer is simple – you need a VPN, AKA a virtual private network.
This software allows you to browse the internet while appearing to be in a different country from where you are based. So, you can mask your location from Channel 5’s website and make it appear as if you’re from the UK, as it reroutes your IP address.
VPN providers are available in abundance, but for the best pricing, performance and range of servers, we rank NordVPN as the best option – and we’ve proven it works for signing up for Channel 5. You can either get the app on desktop, opt for a browser extension or download it on your smartphone.
We also have a chart of the best VPNs if you’d like more options. Otherwise, keep reading for a breakdown of the steps you need to take.
Get NordVPN here
Jim Martin / Foundry
Install NordVPN
Jim Martin / Foundry
If you’re on PC, head to the NordVPN website , log in to your account and then download the PC app under the section labelled ‘Downloads’
If you’re on a smartphone or tablet, then just search for NordVPN in the app store
Connect to a UK server on your chosen VPN
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Many VPNs have numerous servers to choose from, so if one doesn’t work you can try another
Head to the Channel 5 website or app
With your UK VPN server, you should now be able to access the Channel 5 website – click on ‘Sign in’
On the Sign in pop-up box, select ‘Register’ and enter your details
If you already have a Channel 5 account, simply sign in with your usual details
If not, add your name, date of birth and a UK postcode, plus your email address and password
Search for the show you want to watch
Use the search bar to find content you want, or navigate at the top with the TV guide
If you still can’t connect, try a different server within your VPN until you find one that works for you
Using methods such as this is against Channel 5’s terms and conditions, and there is a risk that your account could be blocked – proceed at your own risk.
Author: Hannah Cowton-Barnes, Entertainment Editor, Tech Advisor
As Tech Advisor’s Entertainment Editor, Hannah is the resident expert in all things streaming, film and TV. Before joining Tech Advisor in 2019, she studied Theatre and Performance at the University of Leeds and created a website dedicated to geek culture and lifestyle. She’s also reviewed a whole range of gadgets including flagship smartphones, wearables and styling tools. Outside of Foundry, she’s written freelance pieces for Polygon, Metro and Den of Geek, and is proud to be a Women Techmakers Ambassador for Google.
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