How to watch NBC without cable in 2024

The National Broadcasting Company, more commonly known as NBC, is a popular American TV and radio network that offers a plethora of content. We’re talking about live broadcasts, news, shows, movies, animations, sports, and more, making the entertainment possibilities almost endless. To the dismay of many, though, NBC is only available to US citizens.

You can bypass the troublesome geo-block by utilizing the right services – Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Just connect to a US server, and voilà, NBC’s vast library is finally within your grasp. What’s more, these nifty tools make your overall online experience safer, keeping you hidden from anyone who might be snooping on you. Read on to find out about the best NBC VPNs.

How to watch NBC from anywhere

1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN. We recommend NordVPN, now 74% off!
2. Install the software on the device of your choice
3. Connect to a US server from the list
4. Access NBC without any restrictions!

Unblock NBC today

Why do you need a VPN to watch NBC?

As mentioned previously, the rest of the world is missing out on a genuinely excellent service because NBC is only available in the US. Acquiring an American IP address or a US cable subscription is a must, or you’re doomed to see the dreaded “This video is not available in your location” message upon accessing the website. You can thank the various copyright and distribution laws for that.

And if that’s not bad enough, even US citizens who take a step outside the country can’t watch their favorite shows anymore. Good luck tuning in to the latest episode of Top Chef or Dateline while on vacation or a business trip to Europe. Once the system detects you’re not in America, you get the boot.

Thankfully, NBC’s strict geo-restrictions aren’t impenetrable. The workaround is relatively easy, really – just change your actual IP address into a US one. Our recommended tools for the job, the best VPNs on the market, assign you an American IP and trick NBC into thinking you’re an actual resident. Then, you are free to watch anything you want.

Besides this, VPNs are useful for staying hidden online. All traffic gets encrypted with an unbreakable cipher, making everything you do on the interwebs a mystery to potential hackers and your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Other blocked services and websites also become available, making the internet actually free from restrictions, as originally intended.

The Best VPNs for NBC: overview

1. NordVPN – The best VPN for NBC
2. Surfshark VPN – NBC VPN with unlimited connections
3. PrivateVPN – Streaming-focused VPN for NBC
4. IPVanish – NBC VPN with malware protection

The best streaming VPN for NBC has to include several vital things if you want everything to run without a hitch. First and foremost, it must have plenty of American servers with as many US IP addresses as possible. Then, to avoid needless buffering and lag, excellent speeds and no data limits are mandatory.

Besides the expected features like leak protection, military-grade encryption, and a kill switch, you want to be able to connect to NBC from any platform. This is where broad device compatibility comes into play. And last but not least, the service should offer at least 5 simultaneous connections per account – this way, your family won’t be fighting over what to watch.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for NBC

9.7

Top VPN provider

Visit NordVPN‍

Number of countries covered:
111

Number of servers:
6400

Support:
24/7 live chat, Email

• Speeds powered by NordLynx
• SmartPlay for bypassing geo-blocks
• Independently-audited and secure
• No router app

NordVPN is an excellent choice for NBC streaming with an extensive array of high-speed servers. A subscription nets you all the necessary tools to enjoy videos securely, plus extra features like anti-malware and ad-blockers. Being based in privacy-friendly Panama and having an independently-audited no-logs policy also means you’re virtually hidden from everyone.

The massive network of 6400+ servers scattered across 111+ countries includes plenty of US locations. Watch NBC by connecting to one of the 15 city-level locations that boast thousands of American servers. And we’re pretty sure that lag won’t be an issue since everything runs on the NordLynx tunneling protocol.

With optimized servers for HD content, NordVPN is precisely what you need when watching NBC Sports. It can also unblock HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and other streaming services for your convenience. Everything’s made possible with the nifty SmartPlay feature.

Let your housemates enjoy their favorite shows with 6 simultaneous connections for just $2.99/month. This great deal is only available with our NordVPN coupon. The 30-day money-back guarantee ensures you can back out if it’s not for you. But we’re sure you’re going to be hooked after trying out the 7-day free trial, available via the Google Play Store.

Save 74% on the most popular NordVPN subscription!

2. Surfshark VPN – NBC VPN with unlimited connections

9.4

Top VPN provider

Visit Surfshark VPN‍

Number of countries covered:
100

Number of servers:
3200

Support:
24/7 live chat, FAQ

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Smart DNS for smooth streaming
• WireGuard-powered speeds
• Unaudited no-logs policy

Another excellent NBC VPN worth checking out is Surfshark VPN, boasting exceptional privacy features. Subscribers get plenty of tools for securing everything they own, which is quick and easy when there’s no device limit per account. Knowing the provider adheres to a zero-logs policy will also put surveillance-weary folks at ease.

You’ll find many connection points when the network consists of 3200+ RAM-only servers in 100+ countries. It even includes 25 city-based locations with many US servers for all your NBC needs. Worried about video quality? Don’t be, since performance is outstanding, thanks to the WireGuard protocol and Nexus upgrade.

The extensive NBC library isn’t the only thing you’ll be accessing with Surfshark. Popular streaming services known for geo-restrictions – Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ – also become available.

Apply a Surfshark VPN code and pay no more than $1.99/month for a superb service. You don’t have to commit right away when there’s a 7-day free trial you can download on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. And if you do end up purchasing a plan, you won’t lose a penny with the 30-day money-back guarantee if things fall through.

Save 87% on the most popular Surfshark VPN subscription!

3. PrivateVPN – streaming-focused VPN for NBC

9.1

Visit PrivateVPN‍

Number of countries covered:
63

Number of servers:
200

Support:
24/7 live chat

• User-friendly apps
• Owns all hardware
• Great price-to-feature ratio
• Mac and iOS lack features

You won’t be wondering how to watch NBC once you subscribe to PrivateVPN. Available on all major platforms, it costs surprisingly little for all the security and privacy features you’re getting. While the base of operations, Sweden, is less than stellar, the government will never get any data because this provider doesn’t collect any information.

The tight-knit network of 200+ servers in 63+ countries is more than enough to unblock NBC when there’s 12 city-level American servers you can connect to. 4K-ready speeds are a guarantee as well – the whole infrastructure is fully optimized for that. Buying internet capacity straight from the source further reduces latency, improving the overall streaming experience.

If NBC doesn’t have a specific show you’ve wanted to watch for ages, feel free to peruse the libraries of Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. The generous 10 simultaneous connections per account aren’t enough for your household? Simply install PrivateVPN onto your router for full device coverage.

$2.00/month after applying a PrivateVPN discount code won’t make a dent in your wallet. You can find out if it’s the right fit for you via the 7-day free trial. And don’t be afraid to subscribe if you like what you’re seeing – the 30-day money-back guarantee got you covered.

Save 85% on the most popular PrivateVPN subscription!

4. IPVanish – NBC VPN with malware protection

8.8

Visit IPVanish‍

Number of countries covered:
51

Number of servers:
2200

Support:
24/7 live chat, email, knowledge base

• Unlimited connections
• Extensive US server list
• Independently-audited
• No anonymous payment methods

As the name suggests, IPVanish makes your actual IP address “disappear,” opening the doors to many previously unavailable geo-blocked services, including NBC. Robust privacy features and independently-audited no-logs policy, coupled with no device limit, ensure nothing you do on any platform falls into the hands of snoopers.

The provider owns all hardware – 2200+ servers across 51+ countries. What’s more, lightning-fast speed is the language of IPVanish. You can watch NBC consistently and never notice any buffering or lag, thanks to the ultra-fast WireGuard tunneling protocol. Just connect to one of the 1250 US servers and start watching.

Subscribers also get to unblock PBS, CBS, HBO Max, and CW TV to enjoy live sports from anywhere they want. Plus, IPVanish has dedicated apps for Android TV, Amazon Firestick, and ChromeOS, making it a really convenient service.

Pay only $2.19/month by utilizing an IPVanish coupon to watch NBC live without a hitch. There’s no trial version, so the only choice is to buy a plan, but don’t worry if the service doesn’t satisfy you 100%. You can get a refund thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Save 83% on the most popular IPVanish subscription!

Streaming services that show NBC online

So, you’ve finally cut the cord and are wondering how to watch NBC online. Well, you can always subscribe to the official NBCUniversal streaming service called Peacock. It has three tiers, including a completely free one but with limited content and plenty of ads. Third-party options aren’t off the table either:

• Sling TV
• Hulu Live TV
• fuboTV
• YouTube TV

Keep in mind that you’ll still have to use a USA VPN to access NBC since the service is limited to America only.

Sling TV

One of the most inexpensive ways to access NBC is Sling TV. Besides it, subscribers also get Fox, CBS, ABC, CNN, AMC, and many other channels. It supports most streaming platforms and has iOS, Android, and PC apps. The drawback is that it only has NBC available in select places, so you’ll have to double-check those on the official website.

The cheapest plan starts at $35.00/month, and there are plenty of add-ons and bundles you can stack on top of that for an additional cost. Depending on the subscription, you can simultaneously use from 1 to 3 devices.

Hulu Live TV

Hulu is another popular American streaming service that includes plenty of networks in its roster, NBC not excluded. CBS, CNN, HGTV, TLC, VICE, and ESPN are just a fraction of what’s available here, not to mention the numerous originals created by Hulu itself. It supports most streaming platforms and has iOS, Android, and PC apps.

The Hulu + Live TV plan costs just $69.99/month and covers Disney+ and ESPN+ as well. The basic subscription without Live TV is way cheaper – $6.99/month. You can see what you’re getting with the 7-day free trial.

fuboTV

While it started as a sports-centered service, now fuboTV provides a full spectrum of networks, including NBC. You can enjoy various channels, ranging from sports (NBA TV, Eleven Sports) to relaxing entertainment (Food Network, A&E). It supports most streaming platforms and has iOS, Android, and PC apps.

The cheapest plan starts at $69.99/month, with various bundles and add-ons available for an additional cost. Subscribers get unlimited screens at home. Luckily, you can also test the services with the 7-day free trial.

YouTube TV

The popular video platform has branched out and offers a premium live TV service aptly called YouTube TV. Tune in to NBC, AMC, Fox News, Comedy Central, CBS, and other essential US channels. It supports most streaming platforms and has iOS, Android, and PC apps.

You pay no more than $64.99/month for the base plan that you can customize further for an additional cost. Luckily, the subscription allows up to 6 accounts and 3 simultaneous streams. Take it for a spin with the 7-day free trial. Just don’t forget to subscribe to a VPN for YouTube TV as well since this service isn’t available outside the US.

How to watch NBC with VPN on devices

Like numerous other services, NBC has dedicated apps for many commonly used devices. Accessing its extensive library won’t be a problem, no matter what you’re using. Stop wondering how to watch NBC shows – grab a VPN compatible with your preferred device and start streaming:

• VPNs for Windows
• VPNs for Linux
• VPNs for Mac
• VPNs for Android
• VPNs for iPhone

How to watch NBC on PC (Windows and Mac)

1. Subscribe to a robust VPN for NBC. We recommend NordVPN, now 74% off!
2. Install the application on your computer and connect to a US server
3. Open your browser and navigate to the NBC website
4. Create an account or log in if you have one
5. Select a show and begin watching!

How to watch NBC on your phone (Android and iOS)

1. Pick a suitable NBC VPN. NordVPN has extensive device compatibility.
2. Download the client on your phone and choose a server in the US
3. Boot up the NBC app or open the website via a browser
4. Sign up or log in to an existing account
5. Start streaming the latest shows!

How to watch NBC on Smart TV

1. Download a reliable VPN. We’ve found that you can never go wrong with NordVPN.
2. Install the VPN on your router, and pick a US server
3. Download the NBC application from the TV’s app store
4. Log in or create an account if necessary
5. Enjoy unlimited entertainment!

How to watch NBC with VPN on streaming devices

The NBC application is widely available on numerous streaming devices for your convenience. The setup process is quick and easy, though it differs slightly in each case. Don’t forget to snatch a VPN suitable for the device of your choice:

• VPNs for Roku
• VPNs for Kodi
• VPNs for Apple TV
• VPNs for Amazon Fire TV Stick

How to watch NBC on Roku

1. Reset your Roku device
2. Install the VPN for NBC on your router. NordVPN has plenty of US locations.
3. Pick a US server
4. Connect the device to newly configured VPN router network
5. Connect Roku to your TV and go to the Channel Store
6. Find NBC and connect to it
7. Sit back and relax with your favorite movies!

How to watch NBC on Kodi

1. Select a robust NBC VPN. NordVPN is the best choice for Kodi.
2. Install the VPN add-on on Kodi and connect to a server in the US
3. Get the NBC app on Kodi
4. Log in to your account or make another
5. Browse the vast selection of content!

How to watch NBC on Apple TV

1. Purchase an NBC VPN. Try NordVPN, the best VPN for Apple TV.
2. Install the VPN on your router, and connect to a server in the US
3. Download the NBC application from the TV’s app store
4. Log in to your account or make a new one
5. Explore the extensive NBC library!

How to watch NBC on Firestick

1. Download a VPN with plenty of US locations. You can never go wrong with NordVPN.
2. Install the software on your router or get an add-on, and connect to a US server
3. Open the Firestick dashboard and install the NBC app
4. Create an account or log in to an existing one
5. Enjoy quality entertainment!

Why can’t I access NBC?

You’re rushing home – tonight’s NFL playoffs are about to start, and you don’t want to miss the opening. You toe off your shoes at the doorstep and struggle out of the jacket while snatching the remote wedged between the sofa cushions. You cycle through the channels until, finally, NBC comes up, and– you’re greeted with the “Video not available in this location” message.

Well, the obvious explanation is that NBC is not working with a VPN at the moment. There’s no need to panic – you can sort it all out by doing some troubleshooting. Here’s what you can try depending on the issue:

• The server got blacklisted. NBC is known for blocking popular VPN ports, so before you do anything drastic, connect to another US server and restart the streaming service.
• Your location is leaking. Your actual IP address might be visible due to stored browser cookies or disabled security features. Clear out your cache if you’re using a phone or computer and cycle through the available protocols until you find the one that works. Remember to restart NBC as well.
• The VPN software is outdated. NBC is likely inaccessible because you’re running an older version of the VPN. Check if you have the latest update, and get it if you don’t.
• The TAP drivers are corrupted. It is more applicable to those who tried installing multiple VPNs on their router while looking for the one that works. The router’s TAP drivers were messed up during the process, so you have to delete them and install new ones.

You can always try contacting customer support for further guidance. But if the VPN for NBC is not working after all these steps, it’s time to switch to better services. We’ve found NordVPN to be especially reliable, offering outstanding performance when streaming, gaming, downloading files via P2P, and more.

How to watch NBC for free

NBC is free to watch if you have cable, so cord-cutters often find themselves in a bind. Luckily, there are ways to stream the content you want to see the most, albeit for a limited time. You guessed it, we’re talking about utilizing the 7-day free trials of streaming platforms that include NBC in their roster. You can try:

• Hulu
• fuboTV
• NBC Peacock
• YouTube TV

Now, it’s another matter if you find yourself living outside America. These services are only available to those who have a US IP address. So, you’re going to have to subscribe to the appropriate free USA VPNs if you’re not a citizen.

Just don’t download the first free provider you stumble upon in your search on how to watch NBC for free. If you’re not careful, you’re bound to experience many disadvantages the zero price tag usually has in store:

• Potato quality videos – can’t forget constant lag and buffering as well, since the speeds of free NBC VPNs leave much to be desired
• Privacy invasions – yep, these providers actively collect data about you and sell it to any shady party with a wad of cash
• Security risks – by now, it’s an open secret that most free VPN clients come bundled with malware, free of charge
• Weak circumvention tools – oh, you actually wanted to access geo-blocked platforms? Expecting a bit too much here since most free providers can barely mask your IP address.

The trick here is to do some research – perform a background check on all potential VPNs, investigate their policies, and read up on user reviews. Proton VPN, for example, comes from trustworthy providers who are transparent about their practices.

What can you watch on NBC?

You can enjoy a wide range of programming on NBC – TV shows, documentaries, news, sports, movies, and so on. While the platform is best known for streaming movies and shows in HD, you can still catch live sports and breaking news through the on-demand service. It also provides local and international news stories in addition to entertainment, business, politics, and scientific content.

This service has a bit of something for every kind of viewer, even the pickiest ones. Bypass the pesky geo-blocks and unlock all the streaming possibilities with the best NBC VPNs we’ve listed above.

Bottom line

NBC television is among the oldest commercial TV networks in the US that offers streaming options. With multiple stations for entertaining viewers, you shouldn’t miss the chance to watch it live no matter where you live.

A VPN subscription opens all previously locked doors. Providers like NordVPN hide your actual IP address, making it look like you reside in another country. All that’s left is to dive into the content you’ve always wanted to see and do it safely under wraps, thanks to unbreakable ciphers.

Have you used a VPN for NBC in the past? What’s your go-to show after a long day? Let us know in the comments below!

You may also like to read:
Best VPN for streaming
Best VPN for HBO Max
Best VPN for Disney+
Best VPN for Android TV Box
Best VPN for Amazon Prime Video
Watch Hulu outside the US
Watch CBS from anywhere

FAQ

How can I watch NBC outside the US?

The only way to watch NBC outside the US is with a VPN. Because the streaming service is US-only, you have to mask your IP address to make it look like you live in America. You can do that by connecting to US servers through VPNs.

Can I use a VPN to watch NBC?

Yes, you can use a VPN to watch NBC. Keep in mind that the platform bans IPs if the system detects that it comes from a VPN. To avoid this, subscribe only to the best VPNs with numerous US locations, like NordVPN.

How can I watch NBC Sports with a VPN?

Download a trusted VPN, install it on the device of your choice, and connect to a US server. Now, live NBC Sports broadcasts should be available once you navigate to the correct webpage.

Can you watch NBC on Netflix?

You can only watch select NBC shows on Netflix, like Brooklyn Nine-Nine and The Office. The entire catalog of movies, series, reality TV, sports broadcasts, etc., is only available through official NBC websites and applications, which can be viewed just by US residents.