How to Use a VPN if It’s Blocked: A 2024 Guide
Navigating the murky waters of internet restrictions can be frustrating, especially when VPNs, your trusted allies, are blocked. But fret not, as we’re here to guide you through the labyrinth. Whether you’re aiming to access geo-restricted content, bypass censorship, or simply maintain your online privacy, this article will equip you with the tools you need to outsmart those pesky VPN blockers.
Understanding VPN Blocks
VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, provide a secure and private internet connection by encrypting your data. However, some websites, ISPs, and even governments employ VPN blockers to prevent their use. But why?
Why Are VPNs Blocked?
- Censorship: Countries like China and Iran block VPNs to control the flow of information.
- Copyright Protection: Streaming services such as Netflix block VPNs to enforce regional content restrictions.
- School and Work Policies: Institutions may block VPNs to prevent access to non-educational or non-work-related content.
- Fraud Prevention: Banks block VPNs to prevent potential fraud.
How to Bypass VPN Blocks
Here are ten effective ways to bypass VPN blocks:
1. Choose a Quality VPN Provider
Not all VPNs are created equal. ForestVPN, for instance, offers robust features like obfuscated servers and dedicated IP addresses, which can help bypass VPN blocks. Ensure your chosen VPN has:
- Obfuscated Servers: These disguise VPN traffic as regular traffic.
- Dedicated IP Addresses: Unique IPs that aren’t shared with other users.
- Proxy Tunnels: Additional layers of security to dodge network barriers.
2. Switch VPN Servers
Sometimes, a different server location can help you bypass VPN blockers. ForestVPN offers over 50 locations across 30+ countries, giving you plenty of options to try.
3. Change Your VPN Protocol
Experimenting with different VPN protocols (e.g., OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec) can help. Some protocols are less likely to be blocked than others.
4. Use Obfuscated Servers
Obfuscated servers, available with ForestVPN, disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for VPN blockers to detect.
5. Get a Dedicated IP Address
Using a dedicated IP address can make it harder for websites to detect your VPN connection. ForestVPN offers this feature for an additional layer of security.
6. Change Ports
If a network blocks VPNs by targeting specific ports, switching to a different port (e.g., port 443) can help you bypass these restrictions.
7. Change Your DNS Settings
Changing your DNS settings can help you bypass VPN blockers, although it’s not the safest option. Consider using private DNS servers provided by your VPN.
8. Send Your VPN Traffic Through a Proxy Tunnel
Using SSL/TLS or SSH proxy tunnels can add an extra layer of security, making it harder for VPN blockers to detect your VPN traffic.
9. Swap to Mobile Data
Switching to mobile data can help you bypass network restrictions that block VPNs.
10. Try Different Tools
If all else fails, consider using proxy servers or the Tor Browser. These tools can often bypass content blocks that VPNs can’t.
Additional Tips for Using ForestVPN
Enabling Split Tunneling
Split tunneling allows you to use the VPN connection with only certain apps, reducing the hassle of manually turning it on and off.
- Open ForestVPN, then tap on Mode in the bottom menu bar.
- In Additional settings, tap on Split tunneling.
- Pick Use for all selected apps and choose the apps you want the VPN to work with.
- Tap Save and you’re done!
Using the Ad Blocker
ForestVPN’s Ad blocker improves your browsing experience by reducing unwanted content.
- From the bottom menu, go to Mode.
- Turn on the Ad blocker feature by pressing the nearby switch.
Activating Tor Over VPN
Tor over VPN combines the encryption of VPN with the anonymity of Tor for extra security.
- From the bottom menu, go to Mode.
- Turn on Tor over VPN by pressing the nearby switch.
Testimonials
Real User Experiences
“ForestVPN has been a game-changer for me. The obfuscated servers and dedicated IP options have made bypassing VPN blocks a breeze.” – Sarah J.
“I travel frequently for work, and ForestVPN’s global server network ensures I always have a reliable and secure connection.” – Mark T.
UAE Licensed VPN
ForestVPN is licensed in the UAE, making it a safe and legal option for users in the United Arab Emirates.
Conclusion
VPN blocks can be a hassle, but with the right tools and techniques, you can bypass them and regain access to the content you want. ForestVPN offers a variety of features and options to help you navigate these challenges, ensuring your online freedom and security.
Remember, internet freedom is worth the effort. Stay safe and happy browsing!
FAQs on Bypassing VPN Blocks with ForestVPN
How can ForestVPN help me bypass VPN blocks?
ForestVPN offers obfuscated servers, dedicated IP addresses, and a global server network, making it easier to bypass VPN blocks. Additionally, it provides features like split tunneling and Tor over VPN for enhanced security and flexibility.
What are the advantages of using obfuscated servers?
Obfuscated servers disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for VPN blockers to detect and block your connection. This feature is crucial for bypassing strict VPN blocks, especially in countries with heavy internet restrictions.
Why should I consider getting a dedicated IP address with ForestVPN?
A dedicated IP address from ForestVPN can make it harder for websites to detect and block your VPN connection. It provides a consistent IP each time you connect, reducing the chances of being flagged as suspicious activity by VPN blockers.
How does split tunneling help in bypassing VPN blocks?
Split tunneling allows you to choose specific apps to route through the VPN connection, while others use the regular internet connection. This can help bypass VPN blocks on certain apps or websites while maintaining a secure connection for others.