Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the best ways to beat internet censorship in normal circumstances. However, content censorship deploys a state-of-the-art anti-VPN system that detects and blocks your VPN. That is precisely how authorities around the world are blocking and banning the use of VPNs in their regions.
In this article, we will unveil how to bypass VPN blocks and enjoy your favorite content on the internet if you’re worried about internet censorship and VPN blocking.
Key tips for bypassing VPN blocks
You can apply some workarounds to evade VPN bans and access your desired websites. Here are some tips to avoid and bypass them:
Three best VPNs to avoid VPN blocks – Quick list
Are you in a rush to bypass the VPN ban quickly? Here, we list the three VPNs that can undoubtedly help you. You can start using any of them right now. If you’re interested in learning more about these services, read along.
- NordVPN — Can help get around even the sturdiest geo-blocks as it offers dedicated IPs alongside a large pool of servers (boasts 6,800 plus servers in 113 countries worldwide).
- Private Internet Access — It has servers in more than 90 countries, which gives plenty of options and makes bypassing geo-restrictions a breeze.
- Surfshark — Blasts through content censorship technology with servers in more than 100 countries and its double-VPN feature.
Ways to evade VPN blocks – Detailed analysis
Now that you are familiar with VPN blocks and their reasons. Let’s talk about the workarounds to eliminate this trouble.
Below you go with 7 most effective methods to overcome VPN blocking issues:
1. Obfuscated servers
As you might have an idea by now already, anyone who monitors your connection when you visit the web using a regular VPN will detect that you’re using a VPN.
Surveillance agencies, governments, and your ISP can see a digital signature associated with a VPN without seeing your actual traffic. That is where an obfuscated server comes in handy. It scrambles your internet traffic entirely and makes it look like it’s coming from regular internet traffic.
That way, it doesn’t only hide your traffic but also masks it. Besides, the server does not leave a digital signature behind for anyone to use and trace you. Furthermore, it obliterates your browsing metadata. By doing that, anyone surveilling you would think your traffic is regular internet traffic.
VPN services offering obfuscated servers add an extra layer of anonymity to your connection to mask your VPN and browsing traffic. This feature is ideal and highly efficient for websites with strong content censorship.
The problem is that not all VPNs offer obfuscated servers. The good news is that all our top 5 VPNs to evade VPN blocks we list in the next section (a little below) provide you with obfuscated servers.
2. Get a dedicated Internet Protocol address
It would be best to always opt for a VPN with dedicated IPs. With some VPNs, you can purchase a dedicated server on your regular subscription, while a few top VPNs offer dedicated servers with the subscription by default.
Therefore, get a VPN service that provides dedicated IP (or static IP) to save costs and reduce risk. VPN providers that do not offer dedicated IPs usually share the same IP address among thousands of users. That makes the provider more likely for censorship engines to detect and block it.
If, for example, multiple people are using the same IP address to visit Hulu, it would be easy to detect. But with the use of a dedicated IP, each VPN user will have a unique IP address. This strategy makes it far more difficult for a censorship system to detect that your IP is associated with a VPN. One VPN that we can recommend for static or dedicated IPs is NordVPN.
3. Switching VPN servers
Sometimes, switching to a different VPN or server can be all you need to bypass blocks. Anti-VPN technologies continuously scan the web to look for IP addresses associated with VPN servers. Therefore, a simple switch can help you to bypass censorship.
This will mostly work if the VPN has servers in various locations worldwide. You can simply disconnect from one and reconnect to a server in a different location. Top VPN services would regularly refresh their IPs and add fresh ones. That makes it more difficult for geo-blocking technologies to detect.
Therefore, opting for state-of-the-art VPN technology with a large pool of servers is imperative. That way, you can connect to numerous servers in different locations worldwide to escape VPN blocks.
4. Change ports
As covered above, web censorship technology also uses ports to monitor devices that connect through a VPN. You can overcome this by switching ports regularly. While some VPN services change ports automatically, others don’t.
So, you can manually adjust your port if your VPN service does not do it automatically. Here are the best ports you can switch to, which can help you evade detection and overcome VPN blocking problems:
- Port 443: This port is used to transmit unencrypted data to a secure version of a website. For example, shopping sites would usually redirect you to the HTTPS site when you are about to make a purchase. HTTPS sites protect your card and personal details from prying eyes. Changing your VPN port to 433 is wise if you have encountered a VPN block or want to stay safe from one. That’s because anti-VPN systems will more likely not block this particular port. Why? We hear you ask. Because exchanging important information or online shopping is not possible without this port. Also, port 443 is enormously more arduous for sites to discover by DPI (Deep Packet Inspection). Almost all VPN applications boast an option to change ports. If your provider does not allow changing port numbers, you can do it manually by editing the OpenVPN configuration file. Nevertheless, we recommend chatting with your VPN provider support before deploying any changes.
- Port 80: Port 80 is also used to route encrypted HTTPS traffic. So, anti-VPN technologies rarely block it because it is used to secure all HTTPS sites.
5. Switch to another VPN protocol
VPNs available today come with a broad range of VPN protocols. Each protocol is developed for a specific purpose. While some offer super-fast speeds, others put your security and privacy above everything and compromise speed.
You could easily switch to a new protocol, as all the quality VPNs can change encryption protocols. Often, a user simply needs to visit the VPN’s settings dashboard and pick a protocol of his liking. It is easy; hence, this is among the easiest methods to unblock VPN blocks. Below are some protocols we recommend you shift to:
- SSTP Protocol: SSTP is an acronym for secure socket tunneling protocol. It is very efficient, but not every VPN service allows it. The SSTP port uses port 443 by default, unlike OpenVPN, which uses port 1194. This port also secures website traffic, enabling you to evade anti-VPN systems effortlessly.
- WireGuard: WireGuard security protocol is a new technology and comes with state-of-the-art VPN systems. It will help if you seek VPN services offering the WireGuard protocol. WireGuard provides various connection options and protects you while browsing the internet. It uses OpenVPN security technology with the speed of IKEv2. Also, this VPN protocol offers a great security option for users and helps against VPN bypass proxy.
- PPTP: Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) is one of the oldest security protocols for VPN systems. It offers a high connection speed, but its security is not as strong as the WireGuard’s. It helps you evade blocks but then exposes you to IP leaks sometimes.
Aside from the security protocols mentioned above, some VPNs have customized protocols that offer security and speed. You should check them out and opt for a protocol that provides the best connection and censorship evasion.
6. Choose a reliable VPN
A dependable VPN can bypass any blocks put in its way. Some VPN features will enable it to operate undetectable while still bypassing geo-restrictions. These include obfuscation, military-grade encryption, leak protection, and kill switches. Moreover, a vast server network with automatic IP refreshing is desirable as it minimizes the chances of getting blocked.
Many VPN providers offer some of these features but don’t have specific advanced features that make a VPN invisible, like obfuscation. Also, some VPNs don’t keep up with the fast-paced VPN technology to prevent blocks.
For instance, while some VPNs can unblock Netflix and other websites with VPN blocks, only a few can do it reliably and consistently. Others can’t even bypass government or network firewalls. ExpressVPN is our top choice as it can evade VPN blocks consistently. Thankfully, you don’t have to configure anything – launch it and get maximum protection promptly.
7. Switch to mobile data
Switching to cellular data is one of the easiest ways to evade Wi-Fi network VPN blocks. Some workplaces and schools block VPNs to limit access to certain content. However, you can overcome this using your mobile data instead of Wi-Fi. But remember that this can’t bypass governmental censorship and Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).
Another essential factor to consider is that some activities like gaming, streaming, and torrenting are data-intensive, so your mobile data will run out quickly. Also, although the VPNs on this list offer unlimited bandwidth, some mobile plans are limited.
8. Change DNS settings
While changing your DNS settings can enable you to remove VPN blocks, we don’t recommend it. This method reroutes your traffic outside your ISP’s servers to prevent it from getting blocked. However, it is risky from a security standpoint.
Fortunately, you don’t have to use this method if you choose a VPN with private DNS servers. VPNs that don’t have this feature experience inconsistencies between DNS and IP address, making it easy for websites to block your connections. Conversely, private DNS directs your DNS requests through the VPN to avoid blocks.
VPN services like Private Internet Access (PIA) allow you to configure DNS settings inside the VPN app. Although this setting is also available on your device, it involves manual configuration, which can be complicated. However, changing your DNS settings won’t help you avoid DPI blocks.
Some of the most reliable DNS servers you can use to bypass ISP blocks include:
- Google: 8.8.4.4 and 8.8.8.8
- CloudFlare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
9. Install a VPN manually
Manual VPN installation helps to prevent websites from detecting and blocking your connections. This is because you have to install the VPN software privately through a downloadable link. Prying eyes can see your VPN usage if you download the VPN directly from the app store.
So, you should exercise caution with this method because you won’t access usual VPN settings like Kill switch or leak protection. Moreover, you will need another configuration file to switch servers.
The manual configuration works well with VPNs that support it – not all VPNs do. For example, ExpressVPN has configuration files for L2TP/IPSec and OpenVPN protocols, while many VPNs only support OpenVPN. Use the following steps to do it.
- Select a server – Go to the server list on the VPN’s website and connect to the location of your choice. Note the essential details like the supported protocol (usually WireGuard, IPSec, and OpenVPN). Then, download the matching protocol configuration file from the VPN’s manual configuration page.
- Input the server details – You can do it in your network settings or use a third-party setup app. ExpressVPN recommends OpenVPN GUI for Windows and TunnelBrick GUI for Mac.
- Connect your VPN – Enter your VPN login credentials and follow the on-screen prompts. This will make your device’s home screen the interface to connect to the VPN.
10. Redirect your VPN traffic
Another effective way to evade VPN blocks is by redirecting your traffic through SSL/TLS or SSH proxy tunnels. The extra encryption enables your VPN to bypass network firewalls easily.
- SSL/TLS tunnel: It is mainly used for HTTPS transactions and directs your traffic through it. This disguises your VPN traffic, making it hard to detect and block your connection.
- SSH tunnel: It helps connect two devices (like your laptop to your PC) via port forwarding. This can help you evade a network’s VPN blocks by rerouting your traffic through a different device. However, it can severely affect your connection speed, which isn’t ideal for data-intensive activities like gaming or streaming.
Shadowsocks/SOCKS5 helps you bypass network blocks by routing traffic through a proxy server. In fact, it can even circumvent the Chinese Great Firewall. Unfortunately, your VPN traffic isn’t encrypted and has to pass through two proxies, which isn’t the safest option.
Some VPNs like Private Internet Access (PIA) and Surfshark have a multi-hop feature that obscures your traffic and directs it through a VPN server and SOCKS5 or Shadowsocks proxy. However, although this feature can help you evade VPN blocks, it can significantly slow your connection speed.
Reasons behind VPN blocks
Starting from the ‘why’ for covering important details, some of the reasons for VPN blocks include the following:
1. Government censorship
Many Governments worldwide censor the internet for political, economic, and moral reasons.
A good example is the state censorship of Iran and the Great Firewall of China. Also, Russia and the UAE have always been in the headlines for criminalizing the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass internet restrictions.
Recently, the USA banned the Chinese-owned apps WeChat and TikTok. The White House’s order declared that the messaging app (WeChat) and the Viral Video App (TikTok) would be blocked in the US app stores.
Has WeChat been blocked since then? However, the US Federal Government announced that TikTok would be banned permanently if it didn’t sell to a US company.
On September 27, 2020, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction to TikTok against the Trump administration’s order to ban the viral video app from U.S. app stores. But, the injunction halts only the anticipated September 2020 TikTok ban in the USA. As per experts, the Chinese-owned app could be forced off app stores by firms like Google and Apple at any time.
Bans on websites, apps, and other content have become increasingly common in various countries. This aggressive censorship is prevalent in Europe, with Russia and the UK leading the charge.
2. Workplace censorship
Many organizations often prevent their employees from accessing certain content on the internet. Companies censor content they feel would distract the workforce, such as social media or content they see as toxic to the working environment. Some of the work-related restrictions are understandable, while others are not justified.
3. Restrictions in colleges and schools
Internet censorship is widespread among educational institutions. However, sometimes censorship is essential if the pupils are minors. However, many higher institutions today carry out censorship and unjustly restrict students from accessing certain websites.
Censorship in higher educational institutions is ironic and bad for internet freedom. These institutions do not only block content, but they also block VPNs, making it more difficult for students to access the services and apps they need. So is there a way to bypass the school VPN block? Yes. There is. This article also covers how to bypass school VPN blocks. Hold along.
4. Broadcast licensing limitations and media VPN blocks
A lot of content streaming sites have deployed technologies to block VPNs. They deploy anti-VPN systems to restrict IPs associated with a VPN provider and block them to enforce geo-content blocking. Prime examples here include BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix, and others.
The reasons for VPN/content blocks by the streaming sites are primarily due to copyright and economic reasons. But if you’ve been asking yourself questions like “How do I bypass Hulu VPN block,” this article shows you various ways to Bypass Hulu VPN blocks alongside the blocks imposed by any media or streaming service online.
5. ISP blocking
Some ISPs (Internet Service Providers) would also limit VPN use due to copyright infringements. That is because some people use VPNs for illegal piracy and “torrenting.” They download copyrighted software, songs, and videos, which leads to a VPN ban.
Moreover, ISPs sometimes also unjustly restrict VPN use as it stops them from throttling the user’s internet. Internet throttling is a scenario whereby your ISP cuts down on users’ bandwidth usage without their consent, which can dramatically reduce internet speed during certain activities.
How does a VPN get blocked?
Institutions and Government agencies deploy various technologies to block VPNs. Below are different ways used for VPN blocking today:
1. Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
Governments and corporations can use DPI techniques to examine the data that travels through their network and act depending on what they find.
Using DPI, they can determine if a VPN is being used and then either block, re-route, or log the data. DPI is an advanced/highly effective way of blocking the traffic that comes from a VPN. It checks the traffic type rather than where the traffic originates from.
Most of the VPNs out there use OpenVPN protocols, which makes them easily detected. The cryptography system of an open VPN cannot bypass DPI. This is why it’s tough to find a VPN that can be used to unblock Geo content restrictions in some countries.
For instance, the Great Firewall of China uses the deep packet inspection technique. This technology is so robust and advanced that only a strong VPN offering various connection protocols can bypass it.
2. IP blocks
Internet Protocol (IP) is a unique address associated with every internet-connected device. Connecting to the internet through a VPN would mask your device IP while displaying the VPN servers’ IP address to all third parties. This implies that whenever you connect to a streaming site such as Hulu (for example), it shows the IP address of a server that is based in the USA.
If you connect to a server in the UK to watch BBC iPlayer, it will reflect a UK-based IP address and vice versa. Theoretically, it implies that all VPNs should easily bypass streaming sites’ geo-blocking technology. But that’s not always the case, and it’s not as simple as that.
Many streaming sites, educational portals, and apps have a database of the IP addresses associated with VPNs. If you try to access a site with your VPN server IP database, they automatically detect and block you. That is why many virtual private servers cannot bypass the geo-blocking system of streaming websites such as Hulu, Amazon Prime, etc.
3. Port blocking
Virtual Private Networks use ports and tunnels to route internet traffic. The Anti-VPN systems quickly detect and block them. If your VPN offers various protocols, for example, and you choose the OpenVPN security protocol, it will send your internet traffic to port 1194.
Anti-VPN technology would continuously look for traffic routed through those ports and block you. Once the anti-VPN tech detects and blocks your port, you cannot access the contents blocked for you.
VPN port blocking is less common than Internet Protocol blocking (IP). But it’s one of the ways anti-VPN technology deploys to block VPNs. However, you can bypass this by regularly switching between ports and installing a VPN service that offers multiple connection protocols.
Quality VPNs offer multiple protocols such as PPTP, OpenVPN, IKEv2, SSTP, WireGuard, StealthVPN, and so much more. That said, switching ports alone would not always be sufficient for you to unblock VPN blocks. That’s why some VPNs fail to bypass geo-blocking technology.
4. GPS-based blocking
Another method that governments and firms deploy is GPS-based blocking. It uses information from your device data to determine your location and block you.
It doesn’t matter whether your IP originates from the USA, UK, or any other place. Once your GPS data location differs from your server location, the technology will block you.
Many VPN services automatically change your IP to a location of your choice. But they don’t adjust your GPS data accordingly. The good news is that you can find reputable and robust VPN services to change both the IP and GPS data (more on best VPNs to bypass VPN blocks later).
5. QoS filtering
Besides Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), the Chinese government can also use a filtering method known as Quality of Service (QoS). It works by slowing down unwanted traffic until the connection times out, leaving you with a blocked VPN.
How do I know a site has detected VPN use?
You can face VPN blocks on some websites, obstructing you from accessing their content. For example, depending on your geographical location, you cannot access popular streaming sites like BBC, iPlayer, or Hulu.
It’s straightforward to know if a site has blocked your VPN – usually, you’ll see an error message telling you that you are using an unblocker or proxy to bypass geo-restrictions.
Thankfully, things will turn back to normal if you disable your VPN. Remember that Netflix and other popular streaming services won’t ban your account for trying to change your location with a VPN or unblocker. Alternatively, you can pick a different VPN server in the same country. This might work if the website has blocked the server IP address you are using.
However, things might go south in particular instances. For example, some online wallets and online casinos might terminate your account entirely for using a VPN. So, you should be extremely careful and confirm the terms of service of such services.
Thankfully, some VPNs on the market are undetectable. For instance, our top recommendations, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN, will enable you to easily evade VPN blocks.
Moreover, here are tips to help you ensure your VPN connection is always undetected.
- Select a high-quality VPN service – Our top choice is NordVPN.
- Switch to another VPN server to change your IP address.
- Activate the obfuscation feature.
- Try different tunneling protocols.
- Use TCP Port 443 to bypass port blocking.
- Choose a dedicated IP feature, if available.
- Switch to mobile data instead of a Wi-Fi network.
- Use Tor over VPN feature to mask your VPN traffic.
Other ways to unblock content
If you don’t want to use a VPN, there are other ways to unblock content worldwide, including the following options.
SOCKS5 proxy (Shadowsocks)
Although they are more limited than VPNs, you can use proxies to unblock the content you want from anywhere worldwide. However, one major downside of proxies is poor security since they don’t use encryption. Also, it might be unable to unblock everything you want – for example, a proxy cannot help you stream Netflix geo-blocked content.
Remember that the SOCKS5 proxy is better than the HTTP proxy as it is much more flexible regarding types of traffic. SOCKS5 can be helpful when torrenting, whereas HTTP is only used for web traffic.
In fact, Shadowsocks is powerful enough to bypass the Great Firewall of China, which many VPN services cannot. Thankfully, some VPNs have a SOCKS5 feature, allowing you to use the proxy without manual configurations.
Tor browser
Tor cannot bypass VPN ban, but it’s an excellent alternative to hide your privacy and unblock your favorite content. An extensive infrastructure of volunteer servers serves this open-source browser and helps to protect your privacy by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address.
Although Tor will come in handy to unblock some websites, it’s slow compared to some fast-speed VPNs. Moreover, you cannot choose a server in whichever country you want as you would with a VPN.
SmartDNS
Some VPN providers like Surfshark and NordVPN offer SmartDNS (DNS proxy) as a feature. It enables you to access streaming services like HBO and Netflix on devices that don’t support VPNs, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
5 best VPNs to help you evade VPN blocks – Detailed list
It is essential to point out that not every VPN service can beat the anti-VPN technology that governments and organizations use today.
Also, using a VPN alone does not guarantee security. Some malicious programs also work as VPN providers, while others cannot keep you anonymous enough and evade blocks.
You would need a state-of-the-art VPN service with multiple servers worldwide, numerous connection protocols, and obfuscated servers to escape VPN blocks.
Here are the top 5 VPNs to help you achieve complete internet freedom.
1. NordVPN
Web browsing doesn’t have to expose you to malicious programs and VPN blocks. NordVPN would keep you safe, whether you are accessing blocked content, shopping online, using public Wi-Fi, etc. This top VPN hides your IP address and uses obfuscated servers to maneuver VPN blocks worldwide. Feel free to review our detailed NordVPN review to know more about it.
2. Private Internet Access
PIA boasts high-speed connection rates, provides adequate security, and helps you avoid a VPN ban on every portal online, including Amazon Prime VPN blocking and Netflix’s aggressive anti-VPN system.
Many people globally trust this service because of its unmatched efficiency. That is something we came to an agreement on in our extensive PIA review.
3. Surfshark
It is one of the few VPNs providing users with a one-click install and secure mechanism. You can use this VPN on every device for maximum security and encryption against anti-VPN blocks, as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
Surfshark provides more robust data protection to take charge of your online security and privacy all the time. It has one of the best data encryption mechanisms alongside ultra-fast internet connectivity. Read our complete Surfshark VPN review if you want to know its details.
4. Perfect Privacy
Perfect Privacy comes to mind when you want speed, reliability, and flexibility. Very few VPN services do it as perfectly as Perfect Privacy when it comes to setting you free from VPN-blocking technologies.
It has many servers worldwide; hence, you can get numerous options. Also, it doesn’t log your files or have a traffic limit.
5. IPVanish
Last but not least, IPVanish is among the best VPN solutions to let you bypass restrictions and use the web without limitations. It meets the personal connection requirement and offers faster web surfing speed without compromising safety.
It takes more than deploying any VPN to remain anonymous and free from VPN blocks. Also, only the incognito mode does not help you stay safe online. But you can confidently consider IPVanish VPN if you’re looking for a reliable solution against VPN blocks.
Legal considerations
Most countries have laws banning the use of VPNs that are not compliant with their regulations. The reason is to prevent criminal activities, especially by individuals. The UAE was recently in the headlines when the Government announced that anyone caught using a Virtual Private Network risks being fined up to 2 Million Dirham ($545,000, €495,000, £415,000).
If the offender cannot pay the fine, he or she will serve a prison term. So, it is essential to properly analyze how your region enforces VPN laws so that you can stay out of trouble.
Safety considerations
Some Virtual Private Network blocks are put in to protect minors from unlawful content or extremist materials. So, the owners of a LAN or Wi-Fi have every right to restrict what you can do on their network, including networks in homes, offices, schools, hotels, cafés, etc. Therefore, you should exercise caution while bypassing VPN restrictions on such networks.
We know the potential of getting caught and prosecuted in such scenarios is exceptionally slim. However, it can potentially result in the suspension of your device altogether or other forms of punishment. It is, therefore, necessary to weigh the pros and cons adequately before evading VPN blocks.
FAQs
Your VPN will work if you can access restricted content that you couldn’t access without the VPN. Another way to see whether your VPN works is by checking your device IP after activating a VPN.
Your ISP can see your IP address but cannot link it to a VPN server. However, it cannot access your browsing activities even when they know you’re using a VPN.
Although using a VPN is against Netflix’s Terms of Service, the streaming platform cannot ban your account. Nonetheless, the company might change its ToS in the future (though highly unlikely), so be on the lookout.
Yes, a firewall can block a VPN. Fortunately, you can evade this block with obfuscated servers. However, remember that firewalls don’t block VPNs by default but are configured to do so. Therefore, you should use a reliable VPN, like ExpressVPN, to connect to an obfuscated server if a firewall tries to block your connection.
Depending on your type, several methods exist to bypass blocks on your mobile phone. Unfortunately, many VPN mobile apps have limited features and customization options. Thankfully, the mobile apps recommended on this list have adjustable features, enabling you to avoid different block types easily.
