In today’s digital age, approximately a quarter of active Internet users depend on VPN services to enhance their online privacy and fortify themselves against cyber threats. VPNs are essential for safeguarding sensitive data or accessing geo-restricted content, offering a crucial layer of protection.
However, some websites and streaming platforms actively block VPN connections, leading to frustration and compromising security and anonymity. This comprehensive guide explores why VPNs face restrictions and unveils effective strategies to bypass these blocks seamlessly without sacrificing your secure connection. Discover expert insights and practical solutions to overcome VPN restrictions effortlessly.
Major reasons why VPNs are blocked
A VPN is a robust security solution that enables you to protect your online activities, minimize the potential for unauthorized monitoring, and boost your privacy. Nevertheless, despite its myriad advantages, numerous websites actively identify and prohibit VPN utilization. Let’s explore the main reasons behind VPN blocks:
1. Copyright Restrictions
Popular streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime implement geographical licensing restrictions. This limitation applies to sports streaming platforms too, including live NBA league games, meaning shows or events available domestically might not be accessible abroad. Circumventing these boundaries by utilizing a VPN to spoof your IP address and bypass restrictions could prompt detection and denial of access from streaming platforms. Despite aiming for privacy and security enhancement, violating a platform’s terms through such measures risks account blockage.
2. Fraud Prevention
Financial platforms sometimes block VPN usage to stop potential fraud, as bad people can use VPNs to hide their IP addresses and do illegal things. If your IP address is crucial to identify you, using certain services with a VPN may lead to a block. To solve this, consider splitting your traffic—allowing only part of the data to pass through an encrypted tunnel while connecting to trusted financial services via your local network. This approach gives you both privacy and access to services like PayPal, ensuring you can safely use them while protecting your online identity.
Additionally, it should be noted that specific websites blocking VPN services may contain restricted or prohibited content in certain nations. Examples encompass online casinos and sports wagering platforms. Nonetheless, utilizing a VPN for gambling activities remains permissible in most global regions. Remaining cognizant and adjusting your VPN usage appropriately enables effective navigation of such challenges.
3. Internet Censorship
Governments restricting citizens’ online access is a growing concern. Numerous countries impose restrictions on unbiased news resources, social media platforms, messaging apps, and human rights websites. Freedom House reported that in 2021, Internet freedom declined in 30 out of 70 surveyed nations. In response to this censorship, individuals living under heavy restrictions turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access information and regain their online freedom.
However, some governments regulate or completely ban VPNs to maintain control over online communication, with notable examples being China, North Korea, UAE, Oman, Russia, Turkmenistan, Belarus, and Iraq.
4. Workplace and Educational Controls
People often use VPNs or browser extensions to access websites that are restricted by their employers or educational institutions. These limitations typically target content deemed potentially distracting from students’ or employees’ primary responsibilities. Consequently, organizations implement specific blocks to prevent the usage of VPNs. However, despite these restrictions, individuals continue to seek ways to bypass them, ensuring their online activities remain shielded from potential monitoring or scrutiny.
How do VPN Blocks Work?
Websites and streaming platforms employ various techniques to block VPN usage. Some methods can be circumvented by simple actions like switching to a mobile network or changing servers, while others require more sophisticated approaches.
Here are the common ways VPNs get blocked:
1. Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
Deep packet inspection is perhaps the most sophisticated method of stopping VPNs. It is commonly used in countries with high levels of censorship that curtail the online freedom of their citizens. VPNs are detected through metadata, which encrypts user traffic. An in-depth analysis of all packet data components can identify and block VPNs. Nevertheless, once again, various security protocols might assist in bypassing these limitations by users.
2. Blocked IP Addresses
The most widely used variety of VPN blockers restricts access for Internet Protocol (IP) addresses associated with VPN services. These IP addresses are identified utilizing specific lists or due to their irregular activities. Essentially, a website or streaming platform may deny access if multiple devices utilize a single IP address. Nevertheless, connecting to another VPN server will likely assist you in overcoming this obstacle.
3. Blocked VPN Ports
A VPN port is a virtual port that enables tunneled traffic to run through encrypted VPN servers. Firewalls may block such ports to prevent users of VPN tools from entering specific websites. However, trustworthy VPN service providers, like ExpressVPN, use several protocols (including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, Shadowsocks, and Wireguard®) to ensure users can switch to another port if necessary.
Six Easy Methods to Bypass VPN Restrictions
VPN blocks are a common frustration for users seeking online privacy and security. However, there are effective strategies to bypass these blocks without sacrificing anonymity. Here are three of the most reliable methods:
1. Use Mobile Data
When you use mobile data, you surpass the limits established by local networks, such as those found in schools or offices. It may provide quick solutions for instant access, but you must ensure your internet service provider allows this function. Your mobile plan needs to support enough speed for streaming and gaming activities.
2. Alter Your IP Address
The first defense line to prevent VPN blocking is to alter your IP address. By connecting to a different server, you can dodge the blacklists targeting the identified VPN IPs. A service with a wide range of servers or using obfuscated servers can greatly increase your likelihood of being unnoticed on the internet.
3. Redirect Traffic through Different Tunnel
One effective way to bypass VPN blocks is by using alternative tunnels for your traffic. Two common options are SSH tunneling and SSL/TLS encryption.
- SSH Tunneling
SSH tunneling is an invisible way for your data to travel across the Internet. It encrypts your data, making it much harder for others to block it. Imagine you are sending a special letter that your friend can only open. That’s a little bit of what SSH does. However, it may make your internet connection slower a little bit.”
- SSL/TLS Encryption
SSL/TLS is like a special lock for your online information. It’s often used when you see “https” in your web address. This lock keeps your data safe while it travels. By using it, you can hide your VPN use, making it harder for others to block you.
4. Use a Dedicated IP Address for Connection
Another robust method is using a dedicated IP address, which is unique to you. Unlike shared IPs, a dedicated IP is less likely to be flagged as part of a VPN network, allowing for smoother access to restricted content while minimizing the risk of detection.
5. Switch VPN Port or Protocol
When you use a VPN, it’s very important to know the protocols that keep your data safe. ExpressVPN has many protocols each one is good for different needs.
ExpressVPN Protocols
- OpenVPN: ExpressVPN primarily relies on the robust OpenVPN protocol, renowned for its secure and versatile connections. This protocol is compatible with TCP and UDP ports, striking a harmonious equilibrium between robust security measures and optimal speed performance. Notably, the UDP port excels maintains seamless internet connectivity while ensuring the utmost confidentiality of your data transmissions.
- IPSec: The IPSec protocol suite is designed to secure data transmission between devices by establishing encrypted connections. It adds an extra layer of security to your sensitive information, ensuring it remains protected. When combined with IKEv2, a robust safeguard is implemented, shielding your confidential data from unauthorized access or interception.
- IKEv2: IKEv2, or Internet Key Exchange version 2, is a protocol that manages communication between networks by handling requests and responses securely. It establishes a Security Association (SA), which enhances connection security by defining attributes like encryption algorithms and authentication methods. IKEv2 ensures data integrity and confidentiality during the exchange of information across networks.
- Shadowsocks: ExpressVPN offers robust encryption and supports Shadowsocks, an open-source protocol rooted in the SOCKS5 server. This protocol excels at circumventing restrictions and granting access to censored or obscured content with remarkable efficiency.
- WireGuard®: When integrated with ExpressVPN, WireGuard® offers a highly secure solution against cyber threats. It enhances connection reliability and protects data from exposure.
Choosing the Right Protocol
Different protocols may be more stable or effective against VPN blocks, depending on their detection methods. Fortunately, with ExpressVPN, you can choose the protocol that best suits your requirements.
6. Manually Adjust DNS Server Configuration
Changing your DNS server can help bypass blocks set by your internet company. But be careful; it can be risky for your online safety. Only do this if you need to. If you want to stay safe and still get past blocks, using a VPN like ExpressVPN is a good idea.
If you need to change your DNS settings on a Mac computer, here’s a simple way to do it: Go to System Preferences, then Network. Pick your connection and click on DNS. Add new DNS servers by clicking “+.” You can use Google’s DNS, 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4, or Level3’s 4.2.2.1 and 4.2.2.2. Remember to save and restart!
A VPN like ExpressVPN usually means you don’t need to change your DNS settings. It has special features that let you visit any website without trouble and keep you safe while you enjoy your favorite sites. Check out what ExpressVPN offers and pick the best plan for you.
By implementing these strategies, you can outsmart VPN blocks and safeguard your online privacy.
Your VPN keeps getting blocked? Use ExpressVPN for continuous security and privacy!
If you’re tired of constant VPN blocks disrupting your online activities, ExpressVPN is a highly recommended option. It will extend accurate data access and keep your security in the process. With ExpressVPN, you can freely surf the internet without invisible digital marks or falling victim to virtual espionage. You will be 100% protected with ExpressVPN to provide risk-free and safe web browsing.
ExpressVPN has been one of the leading providers of VPN services for people interested in protecting their privacy over the Internet. It is loaded with a myriad of servers located across the globe, and it uses advanced security protocols and AES-256 encryption. With this combination, ExpressVPN is highly resistant to VPN locks, giving you the joy of getting complete internet privacy and security wherever you are.
Conclusion
Bypassing a VPN block is fundamental to safeguarding the privacy and security of a user online. To use these steps, anyone can effectively bypass the VPN blocks and surf the Internet online and anonymously. Users need to find VPN services of the highest quality, replace the used servers with those of another location, and set up their devices to cope as they want to. These means bring complete discretion and high privacy to your online activities. Always be careful and ensure your VPN connection remains secure because it preserves your online digital security.
FAQs
Why do websites block VPNs?
Websites often block VPNs to enforce regional restrictions on content or prevent malicious activities. VPNs may also be blocked to comply with licensing agreements or to mitigate against fraud.
Can I still access geo-blocked content with a VPN?
Yes, you can. A VPN masks your IP address, bypassing geo-restrictions and allowing you to access content from different regions. However, some services are becoming more sophisticated in detecting and blocking VPNs.
How can I bypass VPN blocks?
You can bypass VPN blocks using obfuscated servers, changing VPN protocols, or employing dedicated IP addresses. These methods help disguise VPN traffic, making it harder for websites to detect and block it.
Is it legal to bypass VPN blocks?
While using a VPN is legal in most countries, bypassing VPN blocks to access restricted content may violate the terms of service of some websites. Always check local laws and terms of use.
Can a VPN make me completely anonymous online?
While VPNs enhance privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, they don’t guarantee complete anonymity. Other factors like online behavior and data leaks can still compromise anonymity.
Will using a VPN slow down my internet speed?
VPNs can sometimes slow down internet speed due to encryption and routing processes. However, with a reliable VPN provider and proper configuration, the speed impact is often minimal, especially on high-speed connections.
