How to Watch Hotstar From Anywhere: A Comprehensive Guide

Hotstar, a leading streaming service, offers a wide range of TV shows, movies, sports, and live channels, particularly popular for its Indian content and coverage of major sports events like the IPL and international cricket. Unfortunately, Hotstar is geo-restricted and only available in certain regions like India, the UK, and the US. If you’re traveling or living outside these areas, accessing Hotstar can be a challenge. However, there are ways to bypass these restrictions and watch Hotstar from anywhere in the world.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to watch Hotstar from anywhere using effective methods like VPNs and discuss other practical solutions.

Why Is Hotstar Geo-Restricted?

Like many streaming platforms, Hotstar uses geo-blocking to control who can access their content based on licensing agreements. This means that shows or movies available in one country may not be available in another. If you try to access Hotstar from outside an allowed region, you’ll likely receive an error message, preventing you from enjoying its content.

But don’t worry — you can access Hotstar from anywhere with the right tools.

How to Watch Hotstar from Anywhere Using a VPN

One of the most reliable ways to access Hotstar outside its supported regions is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN allows you to change your IP address, making it appear as if you’re browsing from a different location. This enables you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from regions where it’s available.

Step 1: Choose a VPN Service

Not all VPNs are created equal, and some may not work with Hotstar due to IP detection or throttling issues. Here’s what to look for in a VPN for streaming Hotstar:

• Fast connection speeds: Streaming requires a fast internet connection, so opt for VPNs known for minimal speed loss.
• Global server locations: Ensure the VPN has servers in India, the US, or the UK, where Hotstar is officially available.
• Strong encryption and no-logs policy: For privacy and security, choose a VPN with AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
• Reliable unblocking: Some VPNs can get blacklisted by streaming services, so it’s important to pick one known to bypass restrictions.

Recommended VPNs for Hotstar include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. These services have proven to consistently unblock Hotstar and other geo-restricted content.

Step 2: Install the VPN and Connect to a Server

Once you’ve chosen a VPN, the next step is installing the app on your device. Most VPNs are compatible with a variety of platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even smart TVs.

• Download and install the VPN on your device.
• Log in to your account.
• Connect to a server in India, the US, or the UK, where Hotstar is available.

Step 3: Access Hotstar

Once connected to the appropriate VPN server, visit the Hotstar website or use the Hotstar app on your device. You should now have access to all the content available in the region corresponding to your selected server.

How to Use Hotstar with Smart DNS

If you don’t want to use a VPN, another method to unblock Hotstar from anywhere is by using Smart DNS. Smart DNS services reroute the part of your traffic that reveals your location, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions without encrypting your entire internet connection.

Here’s how to use Smart DNS to watch Hotstar:

• Sign up for a Smart DNS service that supports Hotstar, like Unlocator or SmartDNSProxy.
• Configure your device to use the Smart DNS service by changing your DNS settings. Most providers will offer detailed setup guides for different devices.
• Once the Smart DNS is set up, visit the Hotstar website or open the app and enjoy streaming content without any location restrictions.

Streaming Hotstar on Different Devices

Hotstar offers compatibility with a wide variety of devices, including:

• Smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android)
• Laptops and desktops (Windows, macOS)
• Smart TVs
• Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV

Using Hotstar on Smartphones and Tablets

If you’re using a smartphone or tablet, you can download the Hotstar app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. When accessing Hotstar from outside supported regions, make sure you’re connected to a VPN or Smart DNS to bypass geo-blocking.

Using Hotstar on Laptops and Desktops

On your laptop or desktop, you can watch Hotstar from anywhere, directly from its website. Just open your browser, connect to a VPN or Smart DNS, and stream away. For an enhanced viewing experience, you might want to clear your browser’s cache or use incognito mode, ensuring you bypass any cookies that reveal your true location.

Using Hotstar on Smart TVs and Streaming Devices

For Smart TVs or streaming devices like the Fire Stick or Apple TV, you may need to configure your router to use the VPN or Smart DNS service, as these devices often don’t support VPN apps directly.

Alternatively, some routers allow VPN installation, meaning all devices connected to the network will be protected by the VPN. If setting up the VPN on your router seems too complicated, check if your VPN offers a Smart DNS feature that is easier to configure on such devices.

Troubleshooting Hotstar Streaming Issues

While VPNs and Smart DNS services are effective at bypassing geo-blocks, there can sometimes be issues when streaming Hotstar from abroad. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

• Hotstar detects the VPN: If Hotstar is blocking your VPN connection, try switching to a different server. Some VPN services offer dedicated streaming servers that work more reliably.
• Slow streaming speeds: If you experience buffering, check your VPN server’s location. Connecting to a server that’s geographically closer to your actual location may improve speeds. Additionally, try a wired internet connection instead of Wi-Fi for better stability.
• The content isn’t available in your region: Even with a VPN, some content may still be restricted due to licensing. If this happens, try connecting to a different country’s server where the content is available.

Conclusion

Accessing Hotstar from anywhere is easier than ever with the right tools. Whether you choose a VPN or Smart DNS, you can enjoy unlimited access to Hotstar’s vast library of shows, movies, and sports events from around the globe. With a good VPN, you can also ensure your browsing is secure, private, and fast enough to enjoy HD streaming without interruptions.