If you visit a country where the service isn’t supported, HBO Max will typically block you and display an error like "HBO Max is not available in your region."

Although the platform is live in many territories — for example the United States, Australia, France and Spain — it hasn’t rolled out everywhere, so users in places such as the UK, Canada or China may be blocked.

The usual workaround is a VPN: tools like Total VPN let you route your connection through an allowed country so HBO Max thinks you’re accessing it from a supported location.

If Total VPN won’t let you watch HBO Max, it’s usually down to how streaming services enforce regional licensing. HBO Max restricts some shows and movies to certain territories, so it blocks IP addresses from places that shouldn’t have access — including IPs that are known to belong to VPNs. That’s why a VPN that normally works can sometimes be detected and stopped.

Common causes when Total VPN can’t access HBO Max:

• HBO Max has blacklisted the VPN server IP you’re using.
• The service still sees your old IP/location because of cached data or cookies.
• You’re connected to a Total VPN server in a country that doesn’t have HBO Max.
• Your VPN dropped and you’re actually using your real IP.
• Your mobile device is leaking location data via GPS.

Quick checks to run first:

• Confirm Total VPN shows an active connection to a server in a country where HBO Max is offered.
• Try loading HBO Max in a private/incognito browser window to skip stored cookies.
• Make sure the VPN client is up to date.
• Verify your device’s IP using an online checker to ensure the VPN IP is in effect.

Step-by-step fixes that usually work:

1. Update the Total VPN app on your device or reinstall the latest version from the provider’s site.
2. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies (or use an incognito window) so HBO Max can’t “remember” a previous location.
3. Switch servers: pick a different server in the same country (US servers are often best for HBO Max). Between tries, clear cookies so the service recognizes the new IP.
4. Check for connection drops and reconnect if necessary. Rebooting your router or device can help.
5. If you’re on a phone, disable location/GPS for your browser and the HBO Max app, or try streaming from a desktop where GPS won’t interfere.
6. If none of the above helps, contact Total VPN’s support (they offer live chat) and ask which server is currently recommended for HBO Max or request further troubleshooting.

How to set up Total VPN to watch HBO Max (concise):

• Get a Total VPN account and install the correct app for your device.
• Open the app, sign in, and pick a server in a region that has HBO Max (for example, a US server).
• Visit HBO Max and test playback. If you hit an error, clear cookies and try another server.

Alternatives if Total VPN keeps failing:

If you want backup options, several paid VPNs are known for reliable streaming and strong unblocking features: NordVPN (large server network and fast speeds), Surfshark (good value and unlimited device connections), Proton VPN (privacy-focused, accepts anonymous payments), ExpressVPN (stable, user-friendly apps), IPVanish (many North American servers, strong speeds), and CyberGhost (large server fleet and very fast connections). Many of these providers offer money-back guarantees or short-term trials if you want to test them risk-free.

About HBO Max availability and region switching:

HBO Max is available in multiple European countries, though rollout varies by market. If the country you’re in doesn’t yet have HBO Max, connecting to a server in a supported country and clearing your cookies usually lets you access that catalog. Remember that streaming services actively enforce licensing restrictions, so you may need to switch servers occasionally.

Why free VPNs rarely work for HBO Max:

Free VPNs generally have too few IPs, heavy user sharing, and limited bandwidth — making them easy to detect and block and poor for high-quality streaming. They also often lack advanced privacy features and sometimes log or sell data. Given the availability of paid VPNs with trials and refunds, free options are usually not worth the frustration.

If you still can’t get HBO Max working after trying these steps, reach out to Total VPN support for server recommendations or consider testing one of the major streaming-capable VPNs for a short period.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a specialized virtual private network service designed primarily to bypass geographical restrictions imposed by Netflix. Its core function is to enable users to access the distinct libraries of TV shows and movies available in different countries by masking their real location. Essentially, a Netflix VPN allows subscribers to virtually relocate themselves to unlock region-specific content that would otherwise be unavailable in their physical location.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you want to access region-restricted content by Netflix VPN, you may want to consider the SafeShell VPN. Its network of high-performance servers is tuned for smooth, buffer-free streaming and supports ultra-high-definition playback, while lightning-fast connection speeds and unlimited bandwidth keep throttling at bay; combined with an App Mode that lets you unlock libraries from multiple regions at once and simultaneous connections for up to five devices across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision Pro, SafeShell VPN makes watching international Netflix catalogs convenient and consistent.

Beyond raw speed, SafeShell VPN focuses on reliability and privacy so you can avoid the common headache of Netflix vpn not working: proprietary ShellGuard encryption and continual protocol updates help evade detection and secure your traffic, and a flexible free trial lets you confirm performance risk-free before committing; the result is a modern, user-friendly service that prioritizes uninterrupted streaming, cross-device access, and strong security so you can enjoy global content with confidence.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

Unlocking global Netflix content is a breeze with SafeShell Netflix VPN, a powerful tool designed to bypass geographical restrictions. To begin, visit SafeShell's official website and select a subscription plan that aligns with your viewing habits and budget. After completing your purchase, download the appropriate application for your device—whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. Once installed, launch the app, log into your account, and select APP mode for the optimal streaming experience.

With the SafeShell Netflix VPN app running, browse through the available server locations and select one in your desired Netflix region—popular choices include the US for the largest content library, the UK for British shows, or Canada for its unique offerings. After connecting to your chosen server, simply open the Netflix application or website and log in with your credentials. You'll immediately notice that the content library has changed to reflect what's available in your selected region, allowing you to enjoy thousands of previously inaccessible movies and TV shows with no buffering or quality loss.