When Netflix burst on to the scene over two decades ago, it started out as a simple rental service for DVDs that could be sent through the mail. They changed the game by introducing a monthly subscription concept and the rest is largely history. No longer would you be fined for failing to return a DVD on time. Keep it as long as you want.

Then their streaming service exploded and it seemed everyone had an account or knew someone that had an account. Netflix isn’t alone in the streaming game any longer, as other services like Hulu and Crackle have popped up. Even media behemoth Disney is planning on launching their own streaming service soon. It gets harder and harder to follow what new shows are coming out where every day.

While we have been slowly moving away from cable, it seems we’re heading back to a cable-like plan. Soon it won’t be good enough to just have one streaming service, you’ll have to purchase many to be able to keep up with all the latest series.

How can you go about making sure you’re up to date? Below are some tips to send you down the right path.

Buy a Streaming Device

What exactly is a streaming device? The definition is in the name: it’s a device that lets you stream content. This could be anything from a phone to a gaming console. Your children have probably shown you that you can watch a video on just about any device these days.

These devices, however, can stream as part of one of their capabilities. You want a device that’s dedicated to streaming.

Some of these devices, however, lack the functionality to stream content from all the different services. That’s why you should look into something like an Amazon Firestick or Fire TV.

A Firestick is small device that gives you access to all the different streaming apps in one simple area. You can simply plug it in the back of your TV, connect it to the internet and voila! You’re ready and good to go. While your Smart TV or Xbox may be limited to only big name streaming services, the Firestick and similar devices give you much more freedom. You won’t just be limited by the big names.

Look Into Other Apps

Sure, it’s easier to find the big name streaming services and go from there. They’re proven, have been around for years and chances are your friends have similar apps.

But just because they’re the biggest doesn’t always mean they’re the best. The folks at Troypoint have a great list of other streaming services that you can install on your streaming device. Not only do they have a list, but there are helpful instructions and guides about how to easily install them onto your devices.

Many of these services are updated daily and give you access to all kinds of different shows and movies. They will give you all the high quality content you want in multiple languages. While they may not have the flash and sparkle that Hulu and Netflix do, they provide just the same content, and in many cases, more content.

Install a VPN

Chances are, you have heard of this acronym thrown around lately. With so much extra emphasis on privacy these days, smart users are installing VPNs on their computers and other devices.

VPN stands for virtual private network and it seemingly just that, your own private network. It helps you create a secure connection to another network through the power of the internet. A VPN helps add an extra layer of security to your already existing WiFi, keeping it safe from prying eyes and hackers.

It won’t protect you from viruses, so you’ll still need an antivirus program. Think of it more like a security guard instead of a doctor.

But, why should you install one? Many of these streaming apps require a VPN to function and installing one on your streaming device is a breeze. A VPN will allow you to access content that you might be hindered by with other apps. So many streaming services have certain geographical restrictions on their content.

This way, you will be able to access whatever content you want from just about anywhere in the world. You don’t have to be put inside a geographical box.