If you’ve been watching Discovery+ with NordVPN and it’s not working, don’t panic. There are some simple fixes you can try to resolve this problem.
Because a VPN can potentially allow you to watch Discovery+ outside of its broadcast zone, the streaming services constantly tries to block VPN IP addresses. NordVPN currently isn’t working because the IP address it has given you has been blocked and NordVPN has fallen behind and is currently unable to stay ahead of Discovery’s VPN blocking techniques.
This article will explain how to fix NordVPN not working with Discovery+.
How to fix NordVPN not working with Discovery+: Guide
Total Time: 5 minutes
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Check if your VPN works on another device
This is the easiest thing you can do to figure out what you need to do next. If NordVPN works with Discovery+ on your smartphone, but not your computer, then you know NordVPN isn’t the problem. If NordVPN does work on one device, jump to Step 3 below.
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Contact your VPNs live chat service
This is another easy one. Find NordVPN’s Live Chat feature and ask for a specific server number that works with Discovery+. This is the single most effective way to diagnose if NordVPN is the problem or not. If they can’t point you towards a server that works with Discovery+ then you know, without doubt, that NordVPN is having issues with Discovery+.
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Delete your cookies
Deleting your cookies can potentially fix NordVPN not working with Discovery+ issues. Accumulated or corrupted cookies in a browser might interfere with the way websites and online services function, especially when using a VPN.
Clearing these cookies removes any old or problematic data, thereby ensuring a cleaner slate for your VPN connection to operate. This can help in establishing a more stable connection and resolving conflicts between NordVPN and certain web services like Discovery+.
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Connect to a different server
If NordVPN has suddenly stopped working with Discovery+, it might be because the IP address your VPN has given you has been identified and blocked by the streaming service.
Changing to a different server will give you a different IP address, and if that one hasn’t been blocked, NordVPN will work with Discovery+ again.
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Reinstall or update your VPN
Think of this as the classic “turn it on and off again” tactic. Removing NordVPN, and its settings, from your device and starting again is a good way to get the most up-to-date settings configured on your devices without much effort. If you don’t want to reinstall the software, you can always check to see if there’s an update available to download any fixes your service may have introduced.
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Switch VPN protocols
VPN protocols are the beating heart of a VPN. They determine how the VPN works. When you use a VPN the protocol is responsible for hiding your data and rerouting it via VPN servers.
If Discovery+ isn’t working with NordVPN, it might be because the protocol you’re using is no longer working with the service. NordVPN has three different protocols, try changing to a different one to see if that fixes the issue.
Take a look at our VPN protocols article to discover more about which technology might be best for you.
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Upgrade your VPN
If all of the above fails, you should consider using a different, high-end VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN ($6.66/month) for Discovery+. For more information, check out our VPN list below to see which VPN suits your needs and budget.
Why has NordVPN suddenly stopped working with Discovery+?
If NordVPN stops working with Discovery+, there could be several reasons behind this issue, similar to challenges faced when accessing other streaming services. Here are some common factors to consider:
- IP Blockage: Discovery+ may have detected and blocked the IP addresses provided by NordVPN. Streaming services regularly update their VPN detection techniques to block IP addresses that they identify as coming from VPN services.
- Server Overload: If too many users are connected to the same NordVPN server, the server’s IP address can become overcrowded. This not only slows down your connection but also makes it easier for Discovery+ to identify and block the server.
- Outdated VPN Software: Using an outdated version of NordVPN can lead to connectivity issues. VPN providers continuously update their software to improve security, speed, and compatibility with streaming services. An outdated app may lack the latest features designed to circumvent blocks.
How does Discovery+ block NordVPN?
Discovery+ blocks NordVPN by identifying and blocking the IP addresses provided by NordVPN to its users. This blocking strategy involves detecting an unusually large number of connections from the same IP address, indicating VPN use.
Given that NordVPN is a popular VPN service with a large user base, it’s likely that more people are using its servers to access Discovery+.
This popularity can lead to certain IP addresses being used more frequently, making them more noticeable and susceptible to being blocked by Discovery+. When Discovery+ recognises these patterns, it can choose to block those IP addresses, preventing NordVPN users from accessing their content.
Does Discovery+ still work with VPNs?
I’ll preface this with NordVPN is usually very good at unblocking Discovery+ and it will only be a matter of time before it sorts itself out and is compatible with the streaming service again. With that said, you may have to wait a while..
Yes, Discovery+ will still work with a VPN, but you need to use a VPN that has IP addresses that are still compatible with the service. By compatible, that means you need a VPN that hasn’t had all of its IP addresses blocked by Discovery+.
You can either wait for NordVPN to release more IP addresses that haven’t been blocked by Discovery+, but the chances are, you’ll run into this error again. To fix the problem, you need a VPN that plays a game of cat and mouse with Discovery+. This is where the VPN is able to stay one step ahead of Discovery’s blocks by closing blocked IP addresses and opening new fresh ones.
One of the best VPNs for this is ExpressVPN, but there are many other VPNs that will do this as well.
This capability will allow you to reliably watch Discovery+ from anywhere in the world, and it will help to prevent the errors you’ve run into from happening again.
Will a free VPN work with Discovery+?
Using a free VPN to access Discovery+ might work, but it comes with several limitations and risks that could affect your streaming experience. Free VPNs often have fewer servers, which can get overcrowded quickly, leading to slower speeds and more buffering. Because these servers are limited, they’re also more likely to be recognized and blocked by Discovery+, making it harder to consistently access the service.
Additionally, free VPNs typically have data limits, which can be quickly exhausted when streaming video content. Security is another concern, as some free VPNs may log your browsing activity or serve intrusive ads, compromising your privacy and security.
For a more reliable and secure experience with Discovery+, a reputable paid VPN service with a track record of bypassing geo-restrictions and offering good speeds and privacy protection is generally recommended.
The VPN services we recommend for Discovery+ when NordVPN isn’t working
1. ExpressVPN 🥈
The fastest and most reliable VPN of 2024
- ✔Physical servers in 104 countries
- ✔Brilliant for unblocking streaming services
- ✔Very high-speed Lightway protocol
- ✔Available on almost any device
- ✔Very secure
- ❌Pricey
- ❌Only 8 simultaneous devices
- ❌No addons
Streaming: ExpressVPN provides fast and reliable connections, ensuring high-quality streaming on Discovery+ without buffering. Its strong unblocking capabilities allow you to access Discovery+ content from anywhere in the world.
Servers: ExpressVPN’s servers in the US, Europe, and other regions support fast and reliable access to Discovery+, allowing you to stream your favorite shows in HD. These servers are regularly updated to evade VPN blocks, ensuring consistent access to Discovery+ content.
Privacy: ExpressVPN’s privacy measures include passing independent audits by cybersecurity firms like Cure53 and F-Secure, ensuring a strong level of security and no significant weaknesses in its macOS, Linux, and Windows apps. More details can be found in the audit reports available online.
Price: ExpressVPN offers three payment plans: a 1-month option at $12.95/month, a 6-month option at $9.99/month, and a 12-month option at $6.67/month. Payment methods include major credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and other systems, accommodating a wide range of users.
Speeds: ExpressVPN maintains high download speeds with minimal drop-off, ensuring efficient performance. Tests showed a slight decrease in upload speeds, but download speeds remained fast across various server locations, including the US, UK, and Vietnam.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| VPN off | 937.07 | 520.93 |
| ExpressVPN US server | 824.62 | 6.96 |
| ExpressVPN UK server | 794.95 | 3.70 |
| ExpressVPN Vietnam server | 761.90 | 3.81 |
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
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2. PureVPN 🥉
A mid-range VPN that balances performance and price
- ✔Affordable
- ✔Unblocks major streaming services
- ✔Use on up to 10 devices simultaneously
- ✔Streamlined user interface
- ✔No log audit verified by KPMG
- ✔Several free add-ons
- ❌Buffering on BBC iPlayer at peak times
- ❌Past concerns with “no log” policy
Streaming: PureVPN’s streaming-optimized servers are designed to provide fast and uninterrupted access to Discovery+, ensuring a seamless viewing experience. Its wide server coverage includes countries where Discovery+ is available, making it easier to access from anywhere.
Servers: PureVPN’s servers are engineered to provide high-speed access to streaming services like Discovery+, with dedicated routes that ensure low latency and high bandwidth. This setup allows for smooth streaming of Discovery+ content without interruptions.
Privacy: PureVPN has faced criticism in the past for its privacy policies. However, it has recently undergone a no-log audit verified by KPMG in the past 12 months, aiming to reassure users about its commitment to privacy.
Price: PureVPN offers three payment options: a 1-month plan at $10.95/month, a 1-year plan at $3.74/month, and a 2-year plan at $1.96/month. PureVPN accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and a variety of other digital payment options.
Speeds: Below is a table that gives you an idea of the speed performance you can expect when using PureVPN. The VPN has shown variable download speeds across different streaming servers, with some experiencing significant drop-offs during peak times.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN | 189.44 | 139.82 |
| PureVPN UK Server | 24.31 | 98.99 |
| PureVPN US Server | 49.83 | 106.52 |
Read our full PureVPN review.
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3. Surfshark
Affordable and secure VPN with unlimited device policy of 2024
- ✔Attractive pricing for long-term subscriptions
- ✔Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
- ✔Robust security and privacy
- ✔24/7 responsive chat support
- ✔Extensive server network in 100 countries
- ❌Has trouble with services like Hulu
- ❌Lacks a unique proprietary protocol
- ❌App can be overwhelming
- ❌Not the fastest among competitors
Streaming: Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can stream Discovery+ on as many devices as you like under one subscription. Its NoBorders mode is specifically designed to bypass geo-blocks and provide access to Discovery+ in restricted regions.
Servers: Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature on its servers blocks ads, trackers, and malware, ensuring a clean and uninterrupted viewing experience on Discovery+. Its servers also employ camouflage mode to prevent ISPs from detecting VPN usage, maintaining access to Discovery+.
Privacy: Surfshark emphasizes its commitment to privacy with successful DNS leak tests and independent security audits by Cure53, ensuring robust online security and privacy. You can find more about their security audits here.
Price: Surfshark offers a 1-month option costing $12.95/month, a 12-month option at $3.99/month, and a 24-month option at $2.49/month. It accepts major credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and various cryptocurrencies.
Speeds: Below is a table that gives you an idea of the speed performance when using Surfshark. From our tests, we observed decent speeds, suitable for general use, but not the fastest compared to some rivals.
| Download Speeds (Mbps) | Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| No VPN (New Zealand) | 940.55 | 520.24 |
| Surfshark US server | 775.9 | 6.15 |
| Surfshark UK server | 587.79 | 3.79 |
Read our full Surfshark review.
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4. Private Internet Access
Affordable and secure VPN with wide device compatibility
- ✔Affordable pricing plans
- ✔Unlimited simultaneous devices
- ✔Extra features like ad blocker and email protection
- ✔Verified no-log policy
- ✔Compatible with streaming services like Netflix and Hulu
- ❌High use of virtual servers
- ❌Not as fast as top-tier VPNs
- ❌Lacks proprietary protocol options
Streaming: PIA offers a vast network of servers worldwide, giving you plenty of options to bypass geo-restrictions and access Discovery+. Its strong encryption keeps your connection secure, making it a safe option for streaming.
Servers: PIA’s extensive server network includes locations where Discovery+ is available, offering multiple options for accessing the service. These servers are equipped with automatic kill switches and PIA MACE to block ads, enhancing your Discovery+ streaming experience.
Privacy: PIA’s app is open-source, inviting third-party scrutiny and verification. It has also passed an independent no-log policy audit conducted by Deloitte, affirming its commitment to privacy.
Price: PIA offers three subscription options: 1-month at $11.95/month, 1-year at $3.33/month (upfront cost $39.95), and 3-year at $2.03/month (upfront fee $79). Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, and Amazon payments.
Speeds: Speed tests for PIA showed significant drops in download speeds across various servers. While using WireGuard protocol, speeds were faster than OpenVPN but still slower compared to top-tier VPNs like ExpressVPN.
| OpenVPN Download Speeds (Mbps) | OpenVPN Upload Speeds (Mbps) | WireGuard Download Speeds (Mbps) | WireGuard Upload Speeds (Mbps) | |
| VPN off (New Zealand) | 930 | 516 | ||
| PIA US server | 238.52 | 7.17 | 300.65 | 8.65 |
| PIA UK server | 245 | 3.77 | 315.78 | 7.23 |
| PIA Vietnam server | 445 | 6.55 | 489 | 8.24 |
Read our full Private Internet Access review.
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Q: Why is NordVPN not working with Discovery+?
Answer: Discovery+ may block the IP addresses provided by NordVPN if it detects them as VPN sources. To resolve this, try connecting to a different UK or US server on NordVPN, as these countries have access to Discovery+ and switching servers can give you a new IP address that may not be blocked.
Q: Can I still access Discovery+ abroad with NordVPN?
Answer: Yes, you can access Discovery+ abroad with NordVPN by connecting to a server in a country where Discovery+ is available, such as the United States or the United Kingdom. Ensure you’re using a server that hasn’t been blocked by Discovery+ by trying different server locations if you encounter issues.
Q: What should I do if Discovery+ suddenly stops working with NordVPN?
Answer: If Discovery+ stops working while you’re connected to NordVPN, first clear your browser’s cache and cookies to remove any location identifiers. Then, disconnect from the current server and reconnect to a different server in a supported country, as this can often bypass the block.
Q: How can I improve streaming quality on Discovery+ with NordVPN?
Answer: To improve streaming quality on Discovery+ with NordVPN, ensure you’re connected to the server closest to your actual location that’s still in a Discovery+-supported region. This minimises distance-related latency and can provide a smoother streaming experience. Additionally, check that NordVPN’s app is up to date, as updates often include performance improvements.
Q: Why does Discovery+ detect my VPN when I’m using NordVPN?
Answer: Discovery+ may detect your VPN if NordVPN’s IP addresses have been flagged or if there’s a mismatch between your IP location and DNS server locations. Using NordVPN’s feature to secure and encrypt your DNS queries can help prevent detection. Make sure you’re also using a server that effectively masks your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic.