Accessing UK TV from overseas

Axotyl

Has anyone got any good tips on accessing UK TV via the Internet from abroad?

I've tried various VPN and proxy solutions, but I'm looking for a 100% reliable provider.

Thanks.

mluton

Google Slingbox

Axotyl

Thanks, I know about Slingbox. Unfortunately that means leaving a TV and computer running while I am away, unless I've misunderstood how it's used.

If I have to leave a computer running I could use one of the remote access services like GotoMyPC which wouldn't need any extra hardware.

mluton

Axotyl wrote: »

If I have to leave a computer running I could use one of the remote access services like GotoMyPC which wouldn't need any extra hardware.

Using on of these services would not give you the bandwidth to watch tv remotely.

Most tv channels have an "i player" to watch stuff, is that no good for you.

david39

I thought BBC i-player would not work abroad - needs a UK ISP - for copyright reasons.

mluton

david39 wrote: »

I thought BBC i-player would not work abroad - needs a UK ISP - for copyright reasons.

Very true! Got me.:o

Axotyl

Thanks, mluton.

I can see bandwidth would be a problem. Yes, most of the UK TV channels have a see-it-again type iPlayer service, and now most of them have a live service as well.

However, they have geographical restrictions, and they can't be accessed from abroad. I've tried proxies, but found them unreliable, so I'm experimenting with a VPN (Virtual Network), which gives the impression you're in the UK, even when you're not.

mluton

The problem is your relying on the upload speed from the VPN connection in the UK using their default gateway.

It won't be the best either due to low upload limits on bandwidth. Also you will need to networks cards in your PC to VPN to it, unless you have a server.

I'll keep thinking..................

donnac2558

I am the other way, many US tv shows I would love to watch. Most are online from the TV networks at $1 to view online. Trouble is you need a US IPS. I am willing to pay the $1 but won't let me do it or watch. I have use other means to view the shows I want.:rolleyes:

Axotyl

One of the VPNs I've been trying out in addition to the servers in the UK, has extra servers for the States and Canada, so it's no problem watching US content, both live and recorded. One thing I like about it is there's nothing to download, no software to install, and it only takes a minute to switch from one to another. It's fine for accessing Hulu, which is good for both US movies and TV.

I'll report back on it next week, but would be interested to hear from anyone else using a VPN.

Regarding legality, no-one gets too upset about the million or so Sky users throughout Europe.....

oneandonlyboy

Slingbox is all you need!!

Ive used it all over the world and no problems yet.
All you need to do is leave you sky box on and the modem. Ive been away 4 weeks at a time, so far no problem. If you feel that worried about leaving on that time get a friend/family member to check on your place whilst away.