# How to bypass geo-blocking using SmartDNS in 2 easy minutes

Geo-blocking restricts your access to digital content based on your physical location. SmartDNS provides a high-speed solution to bypass these restrictions effectively.

This guide details how to configure and use SmartDNS to unlock global streaming libraries.


## Understanding the Technology

SmartDNS works by intercepting your device's Domain Name System (DNS) requests. When you try to access a restricted site like Hulu or BBC iPlayer, the SmartDNS server redirects that specific request through a server in the approved country.

This process is different from a VPN in critical ways.

* **VPN:** Encrypts all traffic and hides your IP completely. This offers security but can reduce speed.
* **SmartDNS:** Only redirects location data. It offers no encryption, resulting in maximum streaming speeds.

### The "Skeleton Key" Analogy

Think of SmartDNS as a skeleton key. It is lightweight and designed to open specific doors (streaming sites).

A VPN is more like an armored truck. It gets you through the door but carries heavy armor (encryption) that slows down the journey.

## Why Use SmartDNS?

There are distinct advantages to using this technology for entertainment purposes.

### 1. Speed
Because there is no encryption overhead, you utilize the full bandwidth of your internet connection. This is vital for 4K and 8K streaming where every bit of data counts.

### 2. Compatibility
Many devices do not support native VPN applications. SmartDNS can be configured on almost any device that allows network settings changes, including:
* Samsung and LG Smart TVs
* PlayStation and Xbox consoles
* Apple TV and Roku
* Older media players

### 3. Simultaneous Access
SmartDNS often allows you to access local content and foreign content at the same time without toggling settings.

## Step-by-Step Configuration

Configuring SmartDNS requires manual entry of server addresses. Follow these specific instructions for common devices.

### Prerequisites

1. **Subscription:** Ensure you have an active account with a provider.
2. **IP Registration:** Log in to your provider's dashboard and register your current IP address. This authorizes your network to use their servers.
3. **DNS Addresses:** Note down the Primary and Secondary DNS IP addresses provided by the service.

### For Windows 11 Users

1. Navigate to **Settings** > **Network & internet**.
2. Select your active connection (**Wi-Fi** or **Ethernet**).
3. Click on **Hardware properties**.
4. Locate "DNS server assignment" and click **Edit**.
5. Change the dropdown to **Manual**.
6. Toggle **IPv4** to "On".
7. Enter the **Preferred DNS** and **Alternate DNS** numbers.
8. Click **Save**.

### For macOS Users

1. Open **System Settings**.
2. Go to **Network**.
3. Click the **Details** button on your active connection.
4. Select the **DNS** tab from the left menu.
5. Click the **+** symbol to add the new server addresses.
6. Click **OK** to apply.

### For Smart TVs (Generic Guide)

1. Access the TV's **Network Settings** menu.
2. Select **IP Settings** or **Advanced Setup**.
3. Change the DNS setting from "Get Automatically" to **Manual**.
4. Enter the DNS address provided.
5. **Restart** the TV to flush the old DNS cache.

## Troubleshooting Common Errors

If the service is not working, consider these solutions.

**1. Dynamic IP Issues**
Most residential internet connections have dynamic IP addresses. If your router restarts, your IP changes.
* **Fix:** You must log in to your SmartDNS provider's website and re-register your new IP address.

**2. Hardcoded DNS**
Some apps, like Netflix on Android TV, may force Google's DNS (8.8.8.8) regardless of your settings.
* **Fix:** You may need to configure the SmartDNS settings directly on your home router instead of the device itself.

**3. Service Blocks**
Streaming services actively try to block known SmartDNS servers.
* **Fix:** Check your provider's support page for alternative server addresses or updated instructions.

## Conclusion: The Best Strategy

For most users, the ideal solution is a "hybrid" approach. Purchase a high-quality VPN subscription that includes a free SmartDNS feature (such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN).

This provides the flexibility to use SmartDNS on your television for entertainment while keeping the VPN active on your laptop for banking and privacy.

**Read the full article with images here:** [https://safelyo.com/how-to-bypass-geo-blocking-using-smartdns/](https://safelyo.com/how-to-bypass-geo-blocking-using-smartdns/)

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