Using the already available information on the internet and a few threads of this XDA forum, I figured out how to get Netflix working in Switzerland, without having to use a VPN service.
DISCLAIMER: This is not a replacement for a VPN service and its functionality, but an alternative way to use geoblocked websites outside their origin countries. This workaround needs you to have either a DD-WRT router or atleast a router on which you can configure iptables via CLI.
Sign up for the free beta at Unlocator
You will need admin access to your home router. Connect to this router via web interface or command line whichever is applicable.
Follow Setup Guides for Multiple Devices and setup your home router with the Unlocator DNS IPs
Follow How to Setup DD-WRT to Work With Chromecast
I didn't have a DD-WRT router but with admin access I could use the commands in the previous step on the command line of my TP-Link W8960N router.
You can replace the DNS IPs in these commands with any other service that you are using for eg. Unblock-US
Code:
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -d 8.8.8.8 -j DNAT --to-destination 185.37.37.37
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -d 8.8.4.4 -j DNAT --to-destination 185.37.37.185
Edit: Due to some problems with newer Netflix app versions on the Chromecast build 19084 these iptables rules seem to be a better option. They redirect only DNS requests made to Google servers to the server of your choice
Code:
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -i br0 -p tcp --dport 53 -j DNAT --to 185.37.37.37
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -i br0 -p udp --dport 53 -j DNAT --to 185.37.37.37
Try playing any Netflix content in the Chrome browser, and use the Netflix player's Chromecast button to cast your content. It will work without any issues as your Chromecast will be able to bypass having to query Google's DNS and query Unlocator's DNS.
You can now try the same from any Android or iOS device using the appropriate Netflix app. (You can find the Netflix apk here)
Happy Netflixing! :highfive:
Here are detailed and confirmed working steps to:
Configure a router running Tomato firmware.
Configure a router running OpenWRT firmware
rufree2talk said:
Using the already available information on the internet and a few threads of this XDA forum, I figured out how to get Netflix working in Switzerland, without having to use a VPN service.
DISCLAIMER: This is not a replacement for a VPN service and its functionality, but an alternative way to use geoblocked websites outside their origin countries. This workaround needs you to have either a DD-WRT router or atleast a router on which you can configure iptables via CLI.
Sign up for the free beta at Unlocator
You will need admin access to your home router. Connect to this router via web interface or command line whichever is applicable.
Follow How to Setup DD-WRT to Work With Chromecast
I didn't have a DD-WRT router but with admin access I could use the commands in the previous step on the command line of my TP-Link W8960N router.
Use a free VPN service like Tunnelbear on your Android/iOS device or PC/Mac to connect to Netflix and setup your account. You can use any Credit Card as long as you provide the correct name and verification code. You can use any random USA based ZIP code.
I went ahead and created another iptables rule to force using Unlocator's DNS for all DNS queries via my router, hence making the need for this VPN step redundant. I can now access netflix.com without any VPN connection.
Try playing any Netflix content in the Chrome browser, and use the Netflix player's Chromecast button to cast your content. It will work without any issues as your Chromecast will be able to bypass having to query Google's DNS and query Unlocator's DNS.
You can now try the same from any Android or iOS device using the appropriate Netflix app. (You can find the Netflix apk here)
Happy Netflixing! :highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WOW,
I can confirm that this works from Norway!
Thanks a a lot for the tips about unlocator. Have not heard about them before.
Jo Christian
jochr said:
WOW,
I can confirm that this works from Norway!
Thanks a a lot for the tips about unlocator. Have not heard about them before.
Jo Christian
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for confirming this! Glad to know it worked for you. Even I chanced upon Unlocator by a Google search on DNS spoofing. I think they are quite new as the Beta channel was launched just around the end of July this year.
Free vpn through netherlands
Username:free
Password:1492
Sent from my SPH-L720 using xda app-developers app
Works out of the box from Denmark
Chromecast netflix works out of the box from Denmark, subtitles and everything. Is it because you use a US Netflix instead of a local one?
xylifyx said:
Chromecast netflix works out of the box from Denmark, subtitles and everything. Is it because you use a US Netflix instead of a local one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that is because Netflix has a Danish website to begin with. I am located in Switzerland, where there is no Netflix or anything even remotely similar.
Even then, if at any time you feel that the content on the Danish Netflix is outdated as compared to the USA Netflix, you could use the information in the first post to access the USA Netflix. I heard Netflix launched in Netherlands today, but it doesn't have a lot of latest content especially for TV shows.
As a matter of fact, if you have an Unlocator account, you can switch to any country's Netflix, by just selecting it from your Channel Settings page
Why not use the orbot method? Works for me, but must be roooted. Just turn on orbot on your phone or tablet and use any geoblocked app you want. Have to set the specific exit nodes for the us, but after the setup everything runs smoothly. I prefer this method that way i choose which apps use orbot and avoid bouncing private info off unknown servers. The only is when using netflix through orbot I get no cast button.
I'm usina netflix Brazil without VPN
Sent from my C6503 using Tapatalk 4
vinaaa said:
I'm usina netflix Brazil without VPN
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well congratulations to you! On the other hand being able to access Netflix Brazil while sitting in São Paulo ain't much of a mean feat :silly:
This tutorial is meant for two kinds of people:
users like myself who happen to be in a country where Netflix isn't available
users like you who happen to be in a Netflix supported country, but would like to access the Netflix content of another country
Entende? :highfive:
rufree2talk said:
Well congratulations to you! On the other hand being able to access Netflix Brazil while sitting in São Paulo ain't much of a mean feat :silly:
This tutorial is meant for two kinds of people:
users like myself who happen to be in a country where Netflix isn't available
users like you who happen to be in a Netflix supported country, but would like to access the Netflix content of another country
Entende? :highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't know why you are having that attitude, but I appreciate his comment. I'm outside the US and Chromecast supposedly only worked with Netlfix US. Glad to know its not the case.
mayhemrules said:
Don't know why you are having that attitude, but I appreciate his comment. I'm outside the US and Chromecast supposedly only worked with Netlfix US. Glad to know its not the case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true. I have Netflix Dom Rep (and currently reside in the Dom Rep.) and chromecast works fine. The problem is when I use orbot to access Netflix US. No chromecast button. Must be a conflict between the Orbot Ip and my ISP/modem ip
I can't access signup.Netflix.com and android app doesn't open when using Unlocator DNS servers.
EDIT: Ok, got the Android app working. Had to use VPN to sign up, after that it works. Now need to get my router setup for Chromecast. Thanks for the guide rufree2talk!
poisike said:
I can't access signup.Netflix.com and android app doesn't open when using Unlocator DNS servers.
EDIT: Ok, got the Android app working. Had to use VPN to sign up, after that it works. Now need to get my router setup for Chromecast. Thanks for the guide rufree2talk!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome! As a matter of fact, I have written the guide very poorly. If you would have setup your router to begin with, you wouldn't have needed the VPN step to sign up for Netflix. You would have been able to access Netflix without a VPN, sign up and directly Netflix content!
Thanks, a small query
rufree2talk said:
Using the already available information on the internet and a few threads of this XDA forum, I figured out how to get Netflix working in Switzerland, without having to use a VPN service.
DISCLAIMER: This is not a replacement for a VPN service and its functionality, but an alternative way to use geoblocked websites outside their origin countries. This workaround needs you to have either a DD-WRT router or atleast a router on which you can configure iptables via CLI.
Sign up for the free beta at Unlocator
You will need admin access to your home router. Connect to this router via web interface or command line whichever is applicable.
Follow How to Setup DD-WRT to Work With Chromecast
I didn't have a DD-WRT router but with admin access I could use the commands in the previous step on the command line of my TP-Link W8960N router.
Use a free VPN service like Tunnelbear on your Android/iOS device or PC/Mac to connect to Netflix and setup your account. You can use any Credit Card as long as you provide the correct name and verification code. You can use any random USA based ZIP code.
I went ahead and created another iptables rule to force using Unlocator's DNS for all DNS queries via my router, hence making the need for this VPN step redundant. I can now access netflix.com without any VPN connection.
Code:
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -d 192.168.1.1 --dport 53 -j DNAT --to-destination [Unlocator's_DNS_IP]
Try playing any Netflix content in the Chrome browser, and use the Netflix player's Chromecast button to cast your content. It will work without any issues as your Chromecast will be able to bypass having to query Google's DNS and query Unlocator's DNS.
You can now try the same from any Android or iOS device using the appropriate Netflix app. (You can find the Netflix apk here)
Happy Netflixing! :highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Thanks so much for this important post.
Can you please help or suggest what DNS codes I should use in India ?
Regards,
Gunjan
gunjandubey said:
Can you please help or suggest what DNS codes I should use in India ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
India or wherever, you should be using the DNS IPs of the service that you are using. Did you sign up for the Unlocator beta? If so, then you should be using Unlocator's DNS IPs (primary 50.112.186.233 and secondary 50.112.143.40)
Does "tomato" or "gargoyle" third party firmware on wndr3800 allow you to do this?
Nbsss said:
Does "tomato" or "gargoyle" third party firmware on wndr3800 allow you to do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I believe it will... this method will work with DD-WRT, Tomato, Gargoyle or any other firmware which gives you proper control of your router... I am not sure what manufacturer/make is the WNDR3800 but if it has a compatible Tomato image you can very well flash it and use this procedure.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 4
rufree2talk said:
Yes I believe it will... this method will work with DD-WRT, Tomato, Gargoyle or any other firmware which gives you proper control of your router... I am not sure what manufacturer/make is the WNDR3800 but if it has a compatible Tomato image you can very well flash it and use this procedure.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cheers, I've flashed countless android phones but never a router. But I'd change the firmware just for this. Hopefully I don't brick it, should arrive in 3-5 days.
I heard good things about gargoyle, might give that one a try.
Anyone have any tips before I give it a go?
rufree2talk said:
Yes I believe it will... this method will work with DD-WRT, Tomato, Gargoyle or any other firmware which gives you proper control of your router... I am not sure what manufacturer/make is the WNDR3800 but if it has a compatible Tomato image you can very well flash it and use this procedure.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big thanks for this, I really appreciate it, but can you please tell me what to look for in Tomato firmware to enable the method you mentioned.
Thanks again,
basboss said:
can you please tell me what to look for in Tomato firmware to enable the method you mentioned
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not have a Tomato router, but the documentation is very easily available on the internet at Tomato Firmware/Menu Reference
Connect to your Tomato router at http://192.168.1.1 as root user:
Go to Basic --> Network --> LAN --> Static DNS and configure Unlocator's DNS IPs (50.112.186.233 and 50.112.143.40) in the first two text boxes
Go to Advanced --> DHCP/DNS --> DNSmasq Custom Configuration and type strict-order in the text box
Go to Administration --> Scripts --> Firewall and add the two lines
Code:
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -d 8.8.8.8 -j DNAT --to-destination 50.112.186.233
iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -d 8.8.4.4 -j DNAT --to-destination 50.112.143.40
Save and reboot your router and test whether you are able to open any Geoblocked website for eg. http://signup.netflix.com
I have posted this previously on Reddit but didn't get much of a response. I purchased 2 Chromecast devices in the UK on their release and set them up at home. With my router DNS set to Unotelly, I expected Netflix not to work with US content until I had made the required adjustments to the router (blocking Google DNS). However, both of them have worked perfectly with US and UK content (via app not casting a tab).
I have since bought another Chromecast for a relative and set it up the same way and again it appears to have taken the DNS settings of the router as opposed to just using 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
Is this something new? Is it affecting other people? Just UK Chromecast devices for some reason?
Chris
See http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2691753
Hello
I have a App which is blocked by my ISP
When I install a VPN the app works PERFECTLY on my PHONE , however CC does not work, (im guessing its because the VPN chnages my IP so cc cant recognise it )
What can I do?
Is there a way to modify the VPN so e.g it makes THAT SPECIFIC APP use e.g US IP BUT EVERYTHING ELSE is normal ??? or am I lost in la la land??
Thank You very much! Would SOO Appreciate it and give a small reward if someone could find a way to solve this puzzle
I don't think that VPN will work with an unrooted CC. And even with a rooted its not really possible I guess.
The people here are using special DNS Services combined with some magic stuff inside their routers (redirecting Google DNS for Chromecast to another DNS which unblocks Netflix for example in Germany).
People do make this work, but it can be a bit tricky, and you might find it beyond your technical ability if you are not very experienced with routers and networking.
The Chromecast and the app casting to it have to be on the same local network so that the app can see the Chromecast. An app using a VPN when the Chromecast is not will put them on two different networks, and the app won't see the Chromecast. If you are going to use the VPN, then it has to apply to both of them. Since the Chromecast has no support for VPNs, you have to set up the VPN in your router. Not every router can do that - typically only routers with optional firmware like DD-WRT. If you have this support in your router, you'll need to look up the instructions in your router's documentation.
If your goal is to get around geoblocking, then other alternative is to use a DNS proxy service instead of a VPN. This can also be a bit tricky with the Chromecast. Since it doesn't allow manual DNS settings in the device, you have to do it using your router. It's even worse with North American models because they are set to use Google DNS by default, so you have to block or redirect Google DNS to force it to use your DNS settings (apparently this does not apply to the just-released European firmware). The details of this method are given in other threads here, so I won't repeat them. You'll need to subscribe to a DNS proxy service (not the same as a VPN, although many VPN companies also offer a DNS proxy service).
Hi,
So, since Chromecast updated to 16664 i have been unable to use it in conjunction with Unblock-Us VPN service. This is only the case when attempting to play through chromecast, all other devices work as expected. I have tried routing my primary AP router to Unblock-Us DNS servers and i have also set up a dd-wrt router as a repeater and applied all necessary measures to preroute chromecast dns requests or simply block its dns requests. None od this has worked unfortunately.
The build update for 16664 stated 'dns robustness' which i figure is why this has happened. Does anyone know what this mean? Perhaps, if we knew this info we could figure out a work around.
Usually robustness would mean some sort of protection for it... Like perhaps routing the DNS requests over some sort of secure tunnel/connection so they're invisible to any local DNS caching or rewriting... Someone with Wireshark should be able to see exactly what is (or isn't) happening quite easily though.
I know this won't be very helpful at all, but I got my Chromecast today and it works just fine with my unblock-us account. I have the unblock-us dns servers set in my router (using Tomato rather than dd-wrt) and I was able to switch regions seamlessly.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium HD app
I checked this latest build to see if it is still necessary to block or redirect Google DNS lookups to use another DNS, and it is. No change there, at least from Canada (UK/Europe firmware may be different).
netflix was not working with build 16664, hulu plus is fine. i had to redirect google DNS to a non existent IP address to get netflix to work. now both are running fine. i'm using adfreetime DNS on my Linksys router.
Dear community,
I have just setup a raspberry PI as a WIFI Router and connected the chromecast to the cretaed network. Unfortunately i had to realize that it will work
only with an active internet connection. I'm running a Plex server on the raspberry and my intention is to use the PI in combination with the Chromecast while traveling. Especially when there is no intenet available. Given the fact that the chromecast firmware is on the most current level a root is not going to work. I have found a very interesting article explaining the basics of the rCast mod and wondering whether it would be possible to simulate a working internet connection on the raspberry.
– CAST_SHELL AND NET_MGR MAKES HTTP REQUESTS TO GOOGLE SERVERS. I HAVE PATCHED THOSE BINARIES SO THEY MAKE REQUESTS TO THE LOCAL WEB SERVER INSTEAD.
– THE DEVICE MAKE A DNS LOOKUP SENT TO SERVER 8.8.8.8. I HAVE WORKED AROUND THAT BY CREATING AN ALIAS FOR 8.8.8.8 ON THE LOCAL HOST AND RUN A DNS SERVER.
– THE DEVICE WILL NOT FINISH BOOTING UNTIL IT HAS RECEIVED AN UPDATED TIME FROM POOL.NTP.ORG. THIS IS FIXED BY ADDING POOL.NTP.ORG AS 127.0.0.1 IN THE HOSTS FILE, AND LOCALLY RUNNING A SNTP SERVER.
THOSE WORKAROUNDS WILL LET THE DEVICE START UP NORMALLY EVEN WHEN NETWORK IS MISSING.
Does anyone have already experience in this kind of work or could help me to figure if this could work.
Many Thanks
HubbyHub