NOW TV Box Smart DNS Services Compared
The NOW TV Box is a TV media player, released by Sky, which allows users to stream content directly onto their television. The box is essentially a NOW TV-branded Roku box, offering limited access to the Roku Channel Store and an approved range of apps. Additionally, its 'Developer Mode' allows for third party apps to be side-loaded.
Some streaming media apps can only be accessed from certain countries, while others offer different content libraries from one region to another. Due to the fact that a user's region is automatically detected, based on their internet settings, it is seemingly impossible to switch regions.
However, Smart DNS provides a way to do so, increasing the amount of streaming media content available.
Best Smart DNS Services to use on NOW TV Box
» View the Step-by-Step Smart DNS Setup Tutorial for NOW TV Box
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- 1 Month: $4.90
- 3 Months: $12.90
- 12 Months: $39.90
- 24 Months: $49.90
- Life Time: $150
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Offers VPN and SmartDNS Plans
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7 Day Trial
- 7 Day Trial: $0.99
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- 1 Month: $4.95/Mo
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- Mac OS X,
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Smart DNS
Smart DNS technology works by feeding a user's DNS queries through a server owned by the Smart DNS provider. Usually, this proxy server will be in a different country from the user. As a result of the re-routing process, the customer's internet connection is made to appear as if it is originating from that proxy server.
When accessing a streaming media app, its automatic region detection will trace the internet connection to the server the user is connected to. Therefore, a user in Europe can connect to a server in North America and make it appear as if they are in America, gaining access to US-only content.
A major plus point of Smart DNS is its range of compatibility, as it can be used with most modern internet-enabled devices. Furthermore, the technology is ideal for use with streaming video apps, because it does not cause any significant slowing of a customer's internet connection.
When you sign up for a Smart DNS service, you will be provided with new DNS settings. Usually, these can be adjusted on the device you are using, but NOW TV Boxes do not allow access. Instead, to use Smart DNS, you will need to configure your router, which can be done by working through the steps below:
Note: This should be used as a general guide only, as the exact method may differ from one router to another. For more specific instructions, refer to the manual which came with your router.
- Using any device with a web browser, connect to your router. The address needed will depend on your router model. Common addresses to enter are: http://192.168.0.1, http://192.168.1.1 and http://10.0.1.1.
- If required, sign in using your login credentials. Examples of common usernames include 'root', 'admin' and 'default', while common passwords include '1234', 'password' and 'admin'.
- Find the 'DNS Settings' option. This will usually be located within 'Network Settings' or something similar.
- If possible, switch internet settings from 'Automatic' to 'Manual'. Then, in the 'DNS' field(s), enter the settings given to you by your Smart DNS provider.
- Click 'Save' and then exit the admin area.
After changing these settings, it is important to restart your router. You should also reboot any devices connected to the router, including your NOW TV Box. After successfully restarting the router and its connected devices, you are ready to proceed to the final stage of the setup process.
IP Address Entry
In order to complete the setup, you must add your IP address to your Smart DNS provider's database, or "white list". With some service providers, this can be accomplished by signing in using any device on the same network as your NOW TV Box, and clicking on an activation link. Others need the address to be added manually.
If your service requires manual entry, you will need to find your IP address. To do this, go to the main menu on your NOW TV Box, choose 'NOW TV Box Settings', then 'About'. Your box's IP address should be listed. Write the number down, go to your Smart DNS provider's website and follow their instructions for verifying it.
After the IP address has been added to the database, the setup process is complete. However, regardless of which IP address entry method you utilised, it will need to be repeated every time your address changes.
Additional Notes
Due to the fact that the NOW TV Box does not have its own built-in web browser, region settings need to be adjusted on a device which does have one. This can be achieved by signing in to your Smart DNS client area using any device connected to the same network as your NOW TV Box.
The NOW TV Box is marketed by Sky and is essentially a stripped down version of a Roku box. As a result, it has been ring-fenced and apps offered by some direct competitors to Sky, such as Netflix and Amazon Instant Video, are not be available to download. Unfortunately, this is the case regardless of which region you opt for.