HBO Max VPN Not Working? Try These Fixes (2024)
Reading time: 21 min
Updated on January 17, 2024
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![Kate Hawkins]()
Fact-Checked by Kate Hawkins Cybersecurity Specialist
Max (formerly known as HBO Max) often blocks VPN connections to prevent subscribers from accessing its geo-restricted content in unauthorized countries. This is to adhere to broadcasting rights and licensing agreements signed with content producers.
You can still use a VPN to stream Max, but many don’t work as the platform actively blocks VPN IP addresses. Before you decide to change your VPN, I recommend troubleshooting and trying a few easy fixes that have worked for me.
But if you’re not using a good VPN, there’s a big chance that the problem will reoccur. If you’re considering changing your provider, try ExpressVPN as it has high-speed servers and constantly refreshes its IP addresses to make sure you can always watch your favorite shows on Max. If you don’t like it, you won’t lose your money — you’re entitled to a refund if you ask for it within 30 days of purchase. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs That Work With HBO Max
- ExpressVPN — Stream Max in UHD without lags, thanks to 3,000+ high-speed servers in 105 countries.
- CyberGhost — Find working IP addresses reliably with streaming-optimized servers for Max, but expect long-distance connections to be slower.
- PIA — Huge server network helps avoid delays caused by congestion, but it doesn’t work with some streaming platforms.
Important! My team and I don’t condone using a VPN to go against terms or to break laws. Using a VPN to watch Max in an unlicensed region could be considered copyright infringement. While none of our recommended VPNs keeps logs of your online activity, you’re still responsible for what you do with it. Make sure you abide by Max’s Terms of Service.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Why Is Your VPN Not Working With HBO Max?
The following are some common reasons why you can’t watch Max with your VPN:
- The VPN server is blocked — technically, Max detects and blacklists entire blocks of IP addresses belonging to a VPN server. This makes the whole server incapable of working with the platform.
- Your IP address is leaking — if Max detects a difference between your device’s IP address and the VPN’s, it blocks your connection due to the discrepancy.
- Extremely slow connection — some VPNs affect your baseline speed too much for your data to move in a timely fashion, which can cause the connection to be halted.
HBO Max VPN Not Working: 8 Easy Fixes
1. Change to a Different Server
This is one of the easiest methods to fix Max not working with a VPN. If the streaming platform has blocked all the IP addresses of your chosen VPN server, try another one. A different server may have IP addresses that haven’t been blocked by Max.
2. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
Sometimes, data stored in your browser’s cache and cookies can trigger Max’s proxy detection. To avoid this, log off the streaming platform and delete your browser cache and cookies. After that, reconnect to a VPN server. It should work when you log into Max again through your browser.
3. Run a Leak Test
To make sure your connection to the VPN is working and encrypted, use this IP address lookup tool. If it shows the VPN server location you selected, there are no leaks. If you’re seeing a different location, try changing servers and enabling the kill switch to prevent future leaks.
4. Try a Different VPN Protocol
Some VPN protocols are not the best for certain online activities like streaming. If one doesn’t work with Max, try another one. With my Max account, I found ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol to be the most reliable (and the fastest). No matter which VPN you’re using, you’ll usually have at least 2 or 3 options in the settings.
5. Change Your Max Password
If you’ve been using your Max account for a while and frequently log in on different networks, the platform might assume that you’re not the same person and block your access. It associates a changing IP address with multiple people using your account or a sign it has been hacked.
Some users get a notification that their username and password are incorrect, although they’ve never changed them. If you’ve been locked out, all you have to do is reset your password to get back in.
6. Update Your VPN
VPN updates include important security patches and other elements that help the service work at an optimal level. If you haven’t updated your VPN app in a long time, do it now or reinstall it altogether. While you’re at it, also check if you need to update your Max app.
7. Contact Customer Support
If nothing else works, get in touch with your VPN provider’s support team. They might be able to recommend a server that works best with HBO Max. In some cases, they can help troubleshoot if there are other issues preventing streaming. The best VPNs in 2024 have 24/7 live chat support available.
8. Use a Tried-and-Tested VPN
If the support team is unable to help, consider changing to a VPN that’s known to work with HBO Max. Some VPNs, especially the free options, are just not equipped for streaming. Premium VPNs are a lot more reliable.
Although I’ve listed a few below, I recommend ExpressVPN for Max because it very rarely has any issues with Max. It’s also the fasted VPN I’ve ever used, so you can watch your favorite shows without interruptions. Plus, it constantly refreshes its pool of IP addresses, so you’ll always be able to rely on it.
Best VPNs for HBO Max in 2024 — Tried and Tested
1. ExpressVPN — High-Speed Servers to Stream HBO Max in UHD Without Lags
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in over 105 countries
- High-speed global servers with IP addresses that are constantly refreshed
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption, TrustedServer technology, and Lightway protocol
- Stream Max on up to 8 devices simultaneously
- 24/7 live chat and video tutorials for instant support
- Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN I’ve tested for streaming Max. Of all the protocols ExpressVPN provides, I found its proprietary Lightway connected to a server the quickest. It also kept my speed loss to a minimum 11% on average during tests, so my streams never lagged. With other VPNs, the decline was always higher than 17%.
Since most streaming services (including Max) constantly detect and block VPN IP addresses to protect their licenses, ExpressVPN refreshes its IP addresses frequently to stay ahead. As a result, every local server my teammates and I tested always had working IP addresses for Max. You can log into your account and watch your favorite shows without seeing error codes.
Although ExpressVPN has apps for all major devices, there are a few platforms that don’t support VPNs. If you’re in the US or UK, you can use MediaStreamer to watch Max on your smart TV or game console. It took about 10 minutes to set up on my smart TV with the help of a comprehensive online guide. However, it doesn’t encrypt your traffic like the VPN.
Whether you’re a pro user or a beginner to VPNs, ExpressVPN’s apps are easy to use. You can add up to 5 favorite websites to the app as shortcuts. Once you connect to a server, you can click the Max app icon in ExpressVPN’s app and it will open instantly.
If you use public WiFi to catch a few episodes of South Park on Max during commute or break times, ExpressVPN secures your traffic with 256-bit encryption. It’s trusted even by the US military and has never been compromised. Other security and privacy features ExpressVPN has include:
- Data leak protection — prevents DNS, WebRTC, and IP address leaks that could expose your identity.
- Split tunneling — lets you configure apps like Max to use the encrypted connection while other online traffic bypasses it, saving valuable data.
- TrustedServer technology — RAM-based servers cannot physically store data long-term, and all servers are wiped clean during regular reboots.
- Audited zero-log policy — independent third-party audits prove ExpressVPN never logs or stores identifiable user data.
ExpressVPN is a little more expensive than other services, with plans starting at $4.99 per month for a 2-year + 6 months free subscription. However, its high-speed servers and constantly refreshed IP addresses for Max are worth the price (and never having to troubleshoot!).
You can try ExpressVPN without worrying about losing money. If you don’t like it, you’re entitled to a full refund within 30 days. I tested the process and was surprised by how simple it was. It only took 5 minutes — I contacted ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat and requested a cancellation, which was processed with no questions asked. My money was returned in just 5 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works with: Max, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Discovery+, Now TV, Showtime, BBC iPlayer, BritBox, Starz, Crunchyroll, fuboTV, Sling TV, DirecTV, YouTube TV, Kodi, and more.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Get ExpressVPN's Black Friday Deal! You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for as low as $4.99 per month + get extra 6 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers for HBO Max Work Reliably
Key Features:
- 11,670+ servers in 100 countries
- Dedicated streaming servers for Max in multiple countries, including the US
- Military-grade encryption, leak protection, WiFi protection, and a kill switch
- Works simultaneously on up to 7 devices
- 24/7 live chat, online ticket, and email support
- 45-day money-back guarantee on all long-term plans
CyberGhost has optimized servers for streaming Max in 6 countries, including the US. These are tested and maintained regularly so that they work reliably with the platform. My teammates around the world tested the servers in the US, Spain, and Sweden to verify this. To find these servers, just click the ‘For streaming’ option and type ‘HBO Max’ or ‘Max’ to the search bar.
When you connect to public WiFi, your online activity can be exposed to hackers. To overcome this, you can set CyberGhost to automatically initiate a VPN connection whenever you use a public hotspot. This ensures your data remains secure when streaming Max on the go. CyberGhost also protects your data with:
- NoSpy servers — operated in-house independently by CyberGhost to reduce the risk of interference by third parties.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy — ensures each session has a unique encryption key — if one session is compromised, your past and future sessions remain secure.
- Headquarters outside the 14 Eyes Alliance — CyberGhost is less likely to be compelled to share your data, enhancing your privacy while streaming.
No matter which device you download the CyberGhost app to, its design is intuitive and easy to use. The search bar makes it easy to find the correct server and avoid scrolling endlessly. Advanced features like privacy settings and WiFi protection are clearly labeled if you want to adjust them for streaming Max.
My only concern is CyberGhost’s distant servers can be slow. However, its optimized servers for Max are fast and never lag. During testing, my colleagues confirmed its regular servers in several countries also worked with Max and offered speeds of at least 76Mbps. This is more than sufficient for streaming in UHD without lags.
Long-term plans start at $2.03 a month with the 2-year + 4 months subscription, and include a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try CyberGhost with HBO Max risk-free and get a full refund if you change your mind. When I tested this, my request was approved right away, and my money was returned within a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works with: Max, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Discovery+, BBC iPlayer, Canal+, Globo, Crunchyroll, Yle, Foxtel, fuboTV, YouTube TV, Kodi, and more.
CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Huge Server Network Prevents Congestion When Streaming Max at Peak Hours
Key Features:
- The largest network with 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Avoid overcrowded servers that often affect speed
- Customizable encryption, secure payments, and leak protection
- Watch Max on unlimited devices
- 24/7 live chat and email support
- 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
PIA’s large network of 35,000+ servers in 91 countries ensures your Max streaming is always supported and not interrupted by overcrowding. The load is distributed widely so users aren’t competing for bandwidth on any single server. This could’ve been an issue since PIA also supports unlimited devices — fortunately, I averaged 65Mbps despite connecting 8 at a time.
Besides the expected kill switch, leak protection, and no-log servers, PIA also has advanced privacy and security features:
- Customizable encryption — use the default 128-bit encryption for streaming Max without lags and switch to 256-bit when you need the tightest security for online banking.
- Private payment — accepts gift cards from major brands when subscribing so you can keep your personal information private.
To provide a clear picture of the performance right away, all servers are arranged by latency — from fastest to slowest. My local servers were always less than 50ms, which is very fast. Like CyberGhost, PIA has streaming servers in multiple locations, including the US and UK. All of them worked with Max when tested by my colleagues worldwide.
Unfortunately, PIA doesn’t work with some platforms like DAZN and 10 play. Still, it’s one of the best VPNs to watch Netflix US and Max. Even many of its regular servers have working IP addresses for major streaming platforms. It just might take a few tries to find a working connection where you are.
If you’re after VPNs with the best monthly plan, PIA is a good option to consider. If you want something long-term, its 2-year + 2 months plan starts at $2.19 a month. However, all plans include a 30-day refund period. I requested a refund via email and heard back the same day. A week later, I got my money back.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works with: Max, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, Discovery+, Canal+, Crunchyroll, Yle, Vudu, UKTV, 9Now, CBC, YouTube TV, and more.
PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Comparison Table: Best VPNs for HBO Max
| VPN | Streaming Speeds on Max | Server Number and Locations | Device Compatibility | Smart DNS | Lowest Price | Money-Back Guarantee |
| ExpressVPN | Very fast | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, Amazon Fire Stick, routers, and more | ✔ | $4.99 per month | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | Fast | 11,670+ servers in 100 countries | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, Amazon Fire Stick, routers, and more | ✔ | $2.03 per month | 45 days |
| PIA | Fast | 35,000+ servers in 91 countries | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, Amazon Fire Stick, routers, and more | ✔ | $2.19 per month | 30 days |
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How to Fix HBO Max Error Codes: 321, 420, 905
If you see an error message, check whether the problem is with Max (by using a site like downdetector.com) or your internet connection. You can then try these solutions based on the error codes you see:
| HBO Max Error Codes | Problem | Solution |
| 100 | Device or browser issue | Try watching Max on another device or update your browser |
| 321 | Connection issues between device and Max server | Check your internet connection or connect to another VPN server |
| 420 | Problems playing a video | Update video drivers and try changing VPN servers |
| 905 | Slow internet speed or poor WiFi connection | Check your internet connection, move closer to your router, and use ethernet cable |
| H | Max app or the device issues | Update the app and try watching with another device |
| 03-37-215 | Device issue that commonly occurs when streaming with PlayStation | Restart your gaming console |
How to Watch HBO Max on Your Devices
Windows and Mac
- Get a VPN and download it to your device. If you want working IP addresses and fast speeds, I recommend ExpressVPN as it’s the top VPN for both Windows and Mac.
![Screenshot of ExpressVPN's website home page with the]()
- Connect to a server in your country. Nearby servers are usually the fastest.
- Visit the Max website. Sign in to your account.
![Screenshot of Max homepage in the US while ExpressVPN is connected to a server in Los Angeles]()
- Start streaming! You can now continue watching Max without interruptions.
![Screenshot of The Gilded Age playing on Max while ExpressVPN is connected to a server in the US]()
Android, iPhone, & iPad
Make sure you subscribe to your VPN through its official website rather than an app store, as this is the only way to ensure you’re eligible for the money-back guarantee.
- Get a VPN and download it to your mobile device. ExpressVPN is a lightweight choice for Android and iOS, with an easy-to-use interface across devices.
- Connect to a server in your country. I recommend choosing the nearby server location to get the best speeds for streaming.
- Open Max and sign in. Visit the website in your browser or use the Max app.
- Start streaming! You can watch Max on your mobile devices.
Smart TVs & Amazon Fire Devices
There are several ways to set up a VPN with your smart TV — the most common is to configure your VPN with your router or set up a WiFi hotspot connection. However, some VPNs have apps available for Android TVs and Amazon Fire devices, making it even easier to get connected. Your VPN will have a full guide of available apps and configurations on its website.
- Get a VPN compatible with smart TVs. All of the recommended VPNs have native app support for Amazon Firestick, plus a Smart DNS feature for easy streaming.
- Configure your VPN with your smart TV. You may be able to use an app from the app store, create a WiFi hotspot from your computer, or set up the VPN with your router.
- Connect to a VPN server in your country. Go for a nearby server for the best speeds.
- Sign in to Max on your smart TV. You’re ready to start streaming!
Streaming Devices
Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire TV Stick can be tricky to set up with a VPN. While your VPN may have a native app, it’s likely you’ll have to configure your VPN with a compatible router — then you can connect your streaming device to your WiFi and stream Max. For example, while VPNs work natively on Firestick, they don’t on Chromecast or Apple TV, for example.
- Get a VPN with router compatibility. ExpressVPN supports several routers, including Linksys, Asus, and NetGear.
- Configure the VPN with your router. Your VPN will have detailed, step-by-step setup guides available on its help website.
- Connect to the nearest VPN server in your country.
- Connect your streaming device to your router. This way, your device will be using the encrypted VPN connection.
- Visit the Max website or app. Once you’ve signed in with your account details, just start streaming.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
FAQs: HBO Max and VPNs
What VPN is best for HBO Max?
All the VPNs on this list work with Max (formerly known as HBO Max). However, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Max because it refreshes its IP addresses constantly to make sure it always works with the platform. This way, you can continue to protect your connection while streaming Max without encountering streaming errors. Furthermore, it’s the fastest VPN I’ve tested, meaning you’ll be less troubled by lags and delays.
Why doesn’t my VPN work with HBO Max?
There are many reasons why your VPN isn’t working with HBO Max. The most common reason is that it’s leaking your data, although it could also be because you haven’t updated your VPN app. Fortunately, there are easy fixes to all these problems. But if nothing works, you might have to change to a VPN that’s proven to work with Max.
Can I watch HBO Max with a VPN legally?
Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN to watch Max without exposing your data to hackers. It’s also safe to use a VPN to boost speeds on slow networks. However, it goes against Max’s terms of service to use a VPN to watch content that isn’t licensed in your location. I don’t condone it as this could even be considered copyright infringement. If caught, your Max account could be terminated, although I’ve never heard of this happening.
How do I watch HBO Max on iPhone, iPad, Chromecast, and more?
The best VPNs for HBO Max have native apps that are easy to install on all major devices. You can find detailed steps to watch HBO Max on all devices on your VPN’s website. If you run into trouble, the VPNs I’ve listed provide assistance 24/7 via live chat. During my tests, I managed to get someone to help in less than 2 minutes.
Can I use a free VPN with HBO Max?
It might be possible, but I don’t recommend it. There are a few trustworthy free VPNs on the market, but they’re not comparable to premium VPNs when it comes to streaming quality. For example, free VPNs have limited servers that are usually overcrowded. Free VPNs also don’t have the means to regularly refresh IP addresses that have been blacklisted by Max.
Instead, I recommend you use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN to stream Max. While it’s not free, you’ll have fast streaming speeds and access to secure local servers. If you’re not satisfied or change your mind, it’s easy to get a full refund with ExpressVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee.
Watch HBO Max With a Working VPN!
Only a few VPNs have working IP addresses for streaming HBO Max while securing your connection, especially when you’re connected to an unsecured network. Also, most VPNs make your connection too slow to enjoy lag-free streaming.
All our recommended VPNs work perfectly with Max and let you enjoy uninterrupted streams. ExpressVPN is my #1 choice because it delivers the fastest speeds in my tests to enjoy seamless UHD streaming.
You can test ExpressVPN out completely risk-free with Max. It’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you don’t like it, you can easily get a full refund. I reached out to ExpressVPN’s customer service through live chat and had my money back in 3 days.
Summary: The Best VPNs for HBO Max in 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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