One of the most common questions we get at OTT VIP is: "Do I need a VPN to use your service?". The short answer is: Not necessarily, but it helps.
Our service works globally without a VPN. However, depending on where you live (UK, USA, France), your Internet Service Provider (ISP) might be the reason you are experiencing buffering.
1. What is ISP Throttling?
Have you noticed that your internet is fast during the day, but as soon as a big football match starts at 8 PM, your IPTV starts buffering? This is called Throttling.
ISPs (like BT, Virgin Media, AT&T) monitor your traffic. When they see you are streaming high-bandwidth video, they intentionally slow down your connection to save money.
How a VPN helps: A VPN encrypts your traffic. Your ISP cannot see what you are doing, so they cannot slow you down.
2. Privacy & Security
While OTT VIP is a secure service that protects user data, adding an extra layer of security never hurts. A VPN hides your IP address, making your streaming activity completely anonymous.
Is your ISP blocking you?
If our service works on 4G (Mobile) but not on WiFi, your ISP is blocking IPTV. A VPN solves this instantly.
3. When do you NOT need a VPN?
If you live in a country with "Net Neutrality" or relaxed internet laws (like many parts of Europe, Latin America, or Asia), and you have a fast connection, you likely do not need a VPN. Our servers are secure enough to run directly.
Conclusion
If you are in the UK (Premier League blocks) or having buffering issues during peak times, we highly recommend using a VPN like Surfshark or NordVPN. If you are elsewhere and your stream is smooth, you are good to go!