A virtual private network (VPN) is a useful tool that allows you to hide your IP address and create a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the Internet. This means you can browse the web more privately, especially when connected to a device Public Wi-Fi network. Another use case for VPNs is to access websites blocked in your region. For example, you could be sitting in New York and access content on Chinese social media platforms (although I wouldn't recommend doing that). However, a VPN can sometimes have the opposite effect, preventing you from accessing content you were once able to watch.
I recently received an email from Carol in Douglasville, Georgia, who asked me:
“Why am I blocked from seeing a site when I use a VPN? I'm blocked from responding to emails I receive from the VA, Social Security, and government sites I need to contact regarding my benefits.”
She says she tried changing servers, and even switched to different cities Within the United Statesbut she is still unable to access the sites. Carol, this sounds like a serious issue. It's understandable that you might want to use a VPN when visiting websites, and not being able to access them can be very frustrating. This situation may force you to disable your VPN, which could put you at risk. Below, I will discuss why this happens and how you can work around this issue.
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VPN on smartphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) It is a secure connection method used to add privacy and security to private and public networks, such as the Internet and Wi-Fi hotspots. VPNs are often used to protect sensitive data and to ensure that online activities are safe from cyber threats. By encrypting your internet traffic and anonymizing you online, a VPN provides anonymity and protects against hackers, snoopers, and data breaches. It also allows you to access content that may be restricted based on your geographic location, making it a great tool for enhancing your privacy and freedom online. Here are 10 reasons you need a VPN at home.
Why can't you access certain sites when using a VPN?
Website owners can decide who can access their site and who cannot. Many sites block IP addresses from known VPNs or data centers, especially if their content is restricted to certain countries or regions.
What is artificial intelligence (AI)?
Large platforms like Netflix or banking sites are often used VPN detection Tools to prevent people from accessing their services anonymously. Government websites do this as well, often to prevent people from bypassing regional or national restrictions. For example, in countries with strict content rules, VPN blocking helps prevent people from accessing content the government doesn't want them to see.
But even setting your VPN to a different location in the same country doesn't always work. Why? Because some sites try to keep cybercriminals away. VPNs can hide your identity and location, which is great for privacy but can also be abused for fraud. Government websites that handle things like taxes, voting, or benefits need to verify your identity and where you're signing in from to prevent abuse. Allowing VPNs may make it easier for scammers to infiltrate.
Another reason to block VPNs is to keep bots at bay. Bots can use VPNs to delete government websites or overload their systems. Blocking VPN traffic helps protect sensitive information and makes it easier to track and authenticate real users.
VPN is used on a laptop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
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6 ways to bypass VPN blockers
If you're having trouble accessing certain sites with your VPN, try the steps below. Start from the first step and continue until the problem is resolved.
1. Use a reliable VPN provider
Using a reliable VPN service is one of the best ways to get around VPN blocks. Not all VPNs are created equal, and choosing a high-quality provider can make a big difference. Look for a VPN that offers obfuscated or “stealth” servers, which disguise VPN traffic to appear as normal internet usage, making it harder for detection systems to block you.
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A good VPN should also have a large server network with plenty of options across different locations so you can easily switch if one server gets blocked. Some services also offer dedicated IP addresses, which are less likely to be flagged than shared addresses. For the best VPNs, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your device Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
A woman uses a VPN on her mobile phone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
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2. Switch to a different server
If one server is not working, try connecting to another server in the same country or region. VPN providers usually have multiple servers, and switching may help you bypass the block. If this doesn't work, use obfuscated servers. These servers are designed to hide the fact that you are using a VPN. They can bypass strict VPN detection systems, especially on government websites or streaming sites.
3. Change VPN protocols
To bypass VPN blocks, you can change the connection protocol your device uses. VPN protocols determine how devices link to servers, and some protocols are more adept at avoiding detection than others.
If you're having problems accessing certain websites, switching to a different protocol may help. For example, some protocols provide a good balance between speed and security, while others prioritize faster performance or efficiency, which may improve your ability to bypass limitations.
To obtain more detailed information, it is important to research which protocols are best suited for specific use cases, as the effectiveness of different protocols can vary.
Will a VPN prevent apps from tracking me?
4. Enable split tunneling
If you only need a VPN for specific apps or websites, enable split tunneling in your VPN settings. This allows you to access blocked sites using your regular connection while keeping the VPN active for other purposes. For example, you can enable split tunneling to watch a movie on Netflix using your regular internet connection while keeping your banking app secure with a VPN.
5. Try a different VPN provider
Not all VPNs are created equal. Some are better at getting past blocks than others. If your current VPN isn't working, consider switching to one that specializes in avoiding detection.
6. Use mobile data or another network
If all else fails, switch to a different mobile data connection or network. Sometimes, the issue is with your current Internet Service Provider (ISP) and not the VPN.
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Key takeaway for Kurt
VPNs are great for getting around restrictions, but some websites have blockers to stop VPN traffic. There are several ways to get around these blockers, and sometimes, it's as easy as switching servers. You will have the best chance of unblocking your VPN if you use a reliable service. They monitor their servers to make sure everything is running smoothly and offer additional features like dedicated IP addresses.
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