Fix HBO Max streaming errors when using Proton VPN
Sometimes you may encounter errors watching HBO Max while connected to Proton VPN. The troubleshooting steps outlined below should help you resolve them.
If you want to find out more about how to use Proton VPN to stream on HBO Max, visit our page about HBO Max streaming instead.
Troubleshooting steps
If you experience issues watching HBO Max, please try the following:
- Restart the Proton VPN app and start a new VPN connection.
- If you are accessing Max via your browser, try clearing your browser cache(new window).
- Restart your device.
- Clear your DNS cache (Windows, Mac, or Linux).
If none of these options work, please check out our Streaming troubleshooting guide or contact our Support team.
Verify these details
The following factors can impact streaming on HBO Max when using Proton VPN.
Confirm your Proton VPN subscription type
To stream using Proton VPN, you will need a VPN Plus, Proton Unlimited, or Visionary (legacy users only) account. If you already have a Free plan, upgrade your account by signing in and selecting VPN Plus or Proton Unlimited from your account Subscription page.
Make sure your apps are up to date
Verify that your Proton VPN, HBO Max, and browser applications are up to date with the latest versions.
To verify that your mobile apps are up to date, check the Play Store on your Android device or Chromebook, or the App Store on your iOS or iPadOS device.
To verify that your desktop apps are up to date, check the settings within the app itself.
For help installing Proton apps, we have support guides for:
Check that you have a valid HBO Max subscription
You will need an HBO Max subscription to watch shows on the service. An HBO Max subscription is separate from your Proton VPN subscription.
Understanding HBO Max behavior when connected to Proton VPN
If you are subscribed to a paid Proton VPN plan, you can watch your favorite shows on HBO Max, no matter where you are. You will need to connect to any Plus server located in your desired country (e.g., to watch the Australian version of HBO Max, you need to connect to a Plus server in Australia). You may notice that the available content you see changes depending on the country you connect to — this is expected as different HBO Max catalogs carry different content.
Note: If you do not use a Plus server, HBO Max may detect that you are using a VPN, which will alter the shows you can watch.
Proton VPN does not condone the use of our VPN service to bypass copyright regulations.
On your Android TV, connecting to a server will automatically connect you to a Plus server if you have the right subscription.Plus servers are available for Plus and Visionary Plan subscribers. For the fastest and most reliable connection, please connect to the server that is closest to your current location. To find the nearest servers to you, check the full list of our servers.