If you’ve recently picked up a Freely Pleio device, or you’re thinking about using one outside the UK, you’ve probably already run into one major issue — geo-blocking.

Freely, like many UK TV platforms, is designed primarily for viewers within the United Kingdom. That means if you try to access live TV channels or on-demand content from abroad, you’ll often find yourself blocked from viewing.

In a previous test, we explored using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to bypass these restrictions, and looked at how routing your connection through a UK server can restore access to content.

But VPNs aren’t the only option.

In this video, we take a closer look at an alternative approach — using a Smart DNS service to try and access UK TV on the Freely Pleo from outside the UK.

Smart DNS services work differently from VPNs. Rather than encrypting and routing all of your internet traffic through another country, they selectively redirect parts of your connection. This can result in faster speeds and a more seamless streaming experience, making them a popular choice for users who want to access geo-restricted content.

The question is — does it actually work with the Freely Pleo?

To find out, we test two different setup methods.

First, we configure the Smart DNS settings directly on the Freely Pleo itself. This involves manually adjusting the network settings, switching from automatic (DHCP) to a static IP configuration, and entering the Smart DNS server details.

Next, we try a second method — applying the Smart DNS settings at the router level. This approach allows all connected devices, including the Freely Pleo, to benefit from the Smart DNS configuration without needing individual setup.

We then explore the channel list, test different regions, and see how the device responds under each setup.

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Throughout the video, we document the process step-by-step, showing exactly what happens when attempting to access UK TV channels from outside the UK using Smart DNS.

If you’re considering using a Freely Pleo abroad, or you’re looking for alternatives to a VPN, this test will give you a clear idea of what to expect and whether Smart DNS is a viable option for your setup.

Watch the video to see the results and decide which method works best for you.

👉 This video follows on from my Netgem Pleio unboxing video, where I explain what Freely is and what’s included in the box

👉 This video follows on from my Netgem Pleio Set Up and Installation with Demo where I give my thoughts on this legal UK TV streaming device.

👉 This video follows on from my Freely Netgem Pleio : Exploring the Freely TV Guide where I show how to use the Freely Electronic Programme Guide.

👉 This video follows on from my Freely Pleio from Netgem: Can you use Freely outside the UK video, where we use run tests with a VPN.