How to Bypass VPN Blocks & Remain Undetectable in 2024
- Quick Guide: How to Make Your VPN Undetectable in 3 Easy Steps
- How to Bypass VPN Blocks — 10 Best Ways to Make Your VPN Undetectable
- Best VPNs to Bypass Network VPN Blocks in 2024
- What Is VPN Blocking, and Why Do VPNs Get Blocked?
- Types of VPN Blocks
- How Can I Tell If a Site Has Detected VPN Use?
- FAQs on How to Bypass VPN Detection
- Make Your VPN Undetectable in Minutes
Bypassing network blocks on public WiFis to visit certain online platforms and sites can be frustrating — but not impossible. The truth is that not all VPNs have the technical capabilities to bypass increasingly powerful detection tools and network blocks. Some service providers have even given up trying, which is quite disappointing.
However, with the right VPN, simply connecting to a server is enough to avoid these public network blocks. This can also enable access from anywhere to streaming sites or shows that might otherwise be unavailable due to regional restrictions.
My top recommendation for bypassing public network blocks is ExpressVPN. It offers automatic obfuscation on every server to mask your VPN use. Plus, it regularly refreshes its IPs and provides advanced security features to keep you safe. It has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Stay Undetected With ExpressVPN >>
Quick Guide: How to Make Your VPN Undetectable in 3 Easy Steps
- Get a highly secure VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN since it has automatic obfuscation on all of its servers that can detect and evade network blocks.
- Switch servers. If the first server you use doesn’t do the trick, the IP may have been blocked. Switching the server will give you a new IP that (hopefully) hasn’t been flagged.
- Change your port. Many VPN restrictions are enforced by blocking ports commonly used by VPN protocols. Some VPNs let you manually select the port you use — if so, I recommend trying port 443 or 80.
How to Bypass VPN Blocks — 10 Best Ways to Make Your VPN Undetectable
1. Choose a Secure and Reliable VPN
To get past VPN blocks on restrictive networks, you need to start with a provider offering advanced security. Look for features like obfuscation, multi-hop, IP/DNS leak protection, multiple protocol options, and a kill switch. These help ensure your VPN usage stays under the radar so you can bypass those frustrating blocks.
I also recommend choosing a VPN that frequently updates its IP addresses and maintains a large global server network. This makes it much harder for firewalls to detect and block the VPN. It also allows VPNs to access streaming platforms from anywhere without hassle.
All in all, only a few VPNs can bypass these blocks consistently. Even some reputable VPNs aren’t designed to reliably bypass tough VPN blocks. Some lack the robust security features needed, while others fail to keep their server infrastructure updated to stay ahead of evolving blocking techniques. In my tests, ExpressVPN could overcome all sorts of network restrictions without requiring any configuration on your part.
2. Use Obfuscation
Obfuscation disguises your VPN use to make it look like a regular internet connection. Many standard VPN protocols (like OpenVPN) add distinct metadata to your internet traffic that can alert firewalls and content filters that you’re using a VPN. When you use obfuscation, it scrambles this tell-tale VPN metadata.
There are various obfuscation techniques, but the common thread is wrapping the VPN protocol and encryption within another protocol to obscure its true nature. You can also achieve obfuscation through a double VPN or multi-hop feature, which routes your traffic through a VPN server plus either a secondary VPN server or a proxy connection. For instance, PIA offers this with Multi-Hop.
Some advanced obfuscated servers even take it a step further, actively scanning for and cycling through open ports to stay ahead of blocks. This is especially helpful in heavily censored regions like China, where deep packet inspection (DPI) is used to identify and restrict VPN usage.
The easiest way to use obfuscation is with a VPN that offers it automatically on every server, like ExpressVPN. Alternatively, some VPNs have an obfuscation setting in their app that you can enable — it's most commonly called "Stealth" or "Scramble."
3. Switch Servers to Change IP
When a website detects several users on the same IP address, it may flag it as a VPN and block it. This VPN block is common and implemented by various websites and online services.
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Max also use IP-based blocks to limit access to certain content based on location. However, if one server is blocked, VPNs offer multiple others within the same country that can access these services from anywhere.
The more servers available, the better chance you have of finding one that isn’t blocked. For instance, Private Internet Access (PIA) gives you access to 29,650 servers in 91 countries. Almost every country covered by its network has more than one connection available, so there’s usually a backup server you can use if your current connection doesn’t work.
4. Change Your Port
Another way to get around network blocks is to change the port your VPN connection is using. Many common VPN protocols, like OpenVPN, typically operate on well-known ports that firewalls and content filters are on the lookout for, like port 1194.
However, ports 443 and 80 are great for overcoming blocks, as they're used for standard HTTPS web traffic, which networks are much less likely to block. After all, restricting access to these ports would also interfere with essential online activities like banking and e-commerce.
Some VPN providers (like PIA) make it easy to manually adjust your connection port right within their app. This allows you to experiment until you find a port that successfully bypasses the specific block you're up against.
If your VPN service doesn't offer port customization, you could try using the SSTP protocol instead. SSTP uses port 443 by default, which helps it fly under the radar. Just keep in mind that SSTP has known security vulnerabilities, so I'd only recommend it for basic, low-risk browsing activities.
5. Change Your Security Protocol
The security protocol you use can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding VPN blocks on restrictive networks. These protocols manage how your VPN connection is established, and your data is transmitted between your device and the VPN server. Choosing the right one can help you remain undetected.
- OpenVPN. This is the most widely used protocol, known for its strong security. However, its widespread adoption also makes it more easily detectable by network filters. Some VPNs offer the option to use OpenVPN over TCP or UDP, with TCP generally being better at overcoming blocks, though UDP is faster.
- WireGuard. This protocol is another popular open-source option, favored for its speed. But it only supports UDP connections, which can make it easier for networks to identify and block.
- Lightway. ExpressVPN's proprietary protocol offers an alternative to WireGuard. Like WireGuard, it's optimized for high speeds, but its unique, less common design may give you an edge in evading detection.
- SSTP. This protocol routes your traffic through port 443, the same port used for regular HTTPS connections. This can help it fly under the radar of network blocks. However, SSTP is only available on Windows and has known security vulnerabilities, so I wouldn't recommend it for anything beyond basic browsing.
- L2TP/IPSec. This is a fairly reliable choice for bypassing blocks, as the combined protocol provides strong 256-bit encryption. But it tends to be much slower than other options.
- IKEv2. This is a fast, lightweight protocol well-suited for mobile use, but it's limited to port 500, making it easy for networks to identify and restrict.
- PPTP. This is an outdated protocol that offers very weak security, and it’s easily detectable and blockable by network administrators.
6. Switch to Mobile Data
You can easily bypass VPN blocks set on WiFi networks by switching to mobile data. Schools and workplaces often block VPNs to restrict the content you can access. You can overcome this by switching WiFi off and using mobile data so you can use your VPN as usual. However, this won't help you avoid DPI.
Another point to keep in mind is that some activities, such as streaming and gaming, run through data quickly. While all of my recommended VPNs offer unlimited bandwidth, not all mobile plans do. So, if you don’t have an unlimited plan, be sure to track your usage, or you could face a hefty bill.
7. Get a Dedicated VPN IP Address
Since a dedicated VPN IP address is exclusively yours, it’s highly unlikely to be blocked.
Normally, when you connect to a VPN server, you share an IP with other people who are connected. With so many users simultaneously using the same IP, it can look suspicious to firewalls and network admins. A dedicated IP makes it easier to bypass network blocks, plus it also prevents CAPTCHA security challenges, which are common with frequent IP address switching.
In most cases, you’ll have to pay an extra monthly fee to get a dedicated IP. CyberGhost offers dedicated IP addresses for only a few dollars extra each month, which is great value if you’re regularly using networks that use IP-based VPN blocks.
8. Change DNS Settings
Changing your device's DNS settings can help bypass some ISP-level content blocks by routing your traffic through alternative servers. However, this comes with security risks, as you rely on potentially untrustworthy third-party DNS services.
For a more secure option, choose a VPN that runs its own private, encrypted DNS infrastructure, like ExpressVPN. This allows you to bypass DNS-based restrictions without having to change your device's settings directly.
Some VPNs, including PIA, give you the manual option to configure custom DNS servers. For most users, though, this added complexity may not be worth the potential risks. It's generally simpler and safer to rely on your VPN provider's built-in private DNS capabilities.
Keep in mind that changing your DNS won't necessarily help with more advanced blocking techniques, like deep packet inspection. For those types of blocks, you'll need to use other tactics (like obfuscated servers).
Here are some of the most effective DNS servers to connect to if you want to evade ISP blocking:
- CloudFlare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
- Google: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
9. Set Up Your Own VPN
Setting up your own VPN can potentially help bypass network blocks because it allows you to have full control over the configuration and setup of the VPN. This means you can use customized protocols, port configurations, encryption, and IP address control. This makes it harder for network filters to detect and block your VPN traffic.
But it’s worth noting that setting up your VPN can be complicated and challenging. And while it does offer more control, it’s not a guaranteed solution to bypass network blocks.
I advise caution with this method. You won’t have access to your usual VPN security features, such as leak protection or a kill switch. Furthermore, if you want to switch servers, you’ll have to download another configuration file and manually set it up again.
For manual installation to work, you’ll need a VPN that supports this — a lot of VPNs do, but not all. ExpressVPN offers config files for both OpenVPN and L2TP/IPSec, while many VPNs only have OpenVPN options. This can be done by following these steps:
- Choose a server. Check your VPN’s website for a list of locations and select the one you want to connect to. Note the details, including which protocols they support (usually OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IPsec). Go to your VPN’s manual configuration page and download the corresponding protocol configuration file.
- Enter the server details. You may be able to do this in your network settings or preferences, or you may need a third-party setup app. ExpressVPN recommends TunnelBlick GUI for Mac and OpenVPN GUI for Windows.
- Connect your VPN. Confirm your VPN email/username and password and follow the on-screen prompts. You can now connect your VPN from your device’s home screen — on Mac, it will be on your menu bar. On Windows, you can connect via the OpenVPN GUI app.
10. Use a VPN Browser Extension
Many VPN extensions work as proxies that simply change your IP address without encrypting data. This makes them different from full VPN apps that encrypt all your device's traffic. Because they don’t encrypt, it is less likely to trigger network blocks since they don't show the usual signs of VPN use.
That said, choosing extensions from reputable VPN providers is essential to ensure that even without encryption, your online activities remain as private as possible.
Best VPNs to Bypass Network VPN Blocks in 2024
1. ExpressVPN — Automatic Obfuscation to Keep Your VPN Use Undetected
Tested October 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Automatic obfuscation on every server hides your VPN use |
Speeds | Fastest VPN on the list (5% speed loss on local UK servers) — ideal for data-heavy tasks |
Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries gives you plenty of connection options |
Works With | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, (HBO) Max, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more |
ExpressVPN is the most reliable choice for bypassing VPN blocks on restrictive networks. That’s largely because its advanced obfuscation technology automatically kicks in to conceal VPN use whenever the app detects restrictions, like deep packet inspection (DPI). This makes it difficult for even the most vigilant network administrators to identify and restrict your connection. It is even known to work in strictly censored countries like the UAE and China.
In addition, it stays one step ahead of IP-based blocks by regularly updating its server IP addresses, making it reliable for accessing streaming platforms from anywhere. If an IP gets flagged and blocked, there are plenty of alternate IPs ready to use. I tested it from my local public library that blocks streaming sites as well as VPN connections, but ExpressVPN let me use my licensed platforms with ease.
ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol also helps in bypassing VPN detection. Since it’s a relatively new and lesser-known protocol, many network filtering systems may not yet have implemented specific measures to identify and block it. That said, you can always try switching between OpenVPN and IKEv2 if Lightway doesn’t work for you.
My only problem with ExpressVPN is that it’s a bit more expensive than other VPNs on this list. But you can usually find great deals and offers on its sites — I got 3 months of service free when I signed up for its yearly plan. Plus, every plan covers 8 simultaneous device connections. And since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it risk-free.
Useful Features
- Strong security. ExpressVPN’s IP/DNS leak protection, private DNS servers, and kill switch all help to protect your connections, so you’re less likely to come up against stubborn network blocks.
- Privacy protection. This VPN is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands and has a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently verified. Plus, it uses RAM-only servers, which wipe your data clean after every reboot.
- Port optimization. ExpressVPN's OpenVPN TCP protocol option is pre-configured to use port 443, which is very rarely blocked as it's the same port used by standard HTTPS traffic. This can help you avoid port-based network blocks.
- Threat Manager. This feature prevents your device from communicating with sites known to host malware or to contain intrusive trackers. This adds an additional layer of security on restrictive networks.
- APK download. If your network restricts access to the Google Play Store or you just don't like using it, you can download the.apk file from ExpressVPN's website to install it on your Android device.
- Fastest speeds of the VPNs we've tested
- Works reliably with global platforms
- Industry-leading privacy protection
- More expensive than some VPNs
2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Evade Media Blocks on Public Networks
Best Feature | Dedicated streaming servers to easily stream shows in HD |
Speeds | Fast (only 7% speed loss on nearby servers) |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries for reliable global connections |
Works With | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, (HBO) Max, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more |
CyberGhost offers streaming-optimized servers, making it possible to access popular platforms from anywhere by evading IP-based blocks. The service has dedicated servers for popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more. CyberGhost's staff regularly tests these servers to ensure they consistently work with the intended services.
You can use its regular servers if you can’t find a streaming server for a specific platform. For example, it doesn’t have an optimized server for Disney+ UK, but a server in Manchester worked well during my tests from London. My base speeds dropped a little with the regular servers, but it was more than enough to stream in UHD without lag.
I liked that CyberGhost also offers dedicated IPs for a small additional fee. Websites can detect if multiple users have the same IP, which can result in the server being blocked. However, with your own exclusive IP, this is much less likely to happen.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t provide obfuscation like ExpressVPN. So, it is known to not work in China, for example. However, it can easily bypass work and college network firewalls and media blocks. Besides, it’s backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can try CyberGhost for free.
Useful Features
- NoSpy servers. These are CyberGhost's own ultra-secure servers. They are accessible only by CyberGhost staff, which greatly reduces the risk of data interference from third parties.
- Strong focus on privacy and security. It has a strict no-logs policy and is based in privacy-friendly Romania, so your online activity is private. Plus, it offers all essential features, like a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection.
- Multiple connections. With any CyberGhost subscription, you can have up to 7 devices connected simultaneously, allowing you to cover your go-to gadgets.
- Specialty servers based on activity
- Security essentials; plus bonus options
- Intuitive and user-friendly apps
- Expensive short-term plan
- Can't get past the strongest firewalls
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Multi-Hop to Obfuscate Your Traffic and Get Around Network VPN Blocks
Best Feature | Multi-hop to obfuscate VPN traffic and stay under the radar |
Speeds | Decent speeds (9% speed drop on nearby servers); good for streaming and torrenting |
Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries — the largest network in this list to avoid server overcrowding |
Works With | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, (HBO) Max, BBC iPlayer, Vudu, and more |
PIA’s Multi-hop is another great choice for bypassing network restrictions. This first routes your traffic through a VPN server and then onward through a specialized Shadowsocks server, which effectively disguises your connection as ordinary HTTPS traffic to evade detection. I tested it on a library WiFi in London that won’t let me watch BBC iPlayer. As soon as I enabled Multi-hop, I could stream shows on the platform without issues.
PIA is also one of the most customizable VPNs that I’ve tested. For instance, you can choose between OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPsec (for iOS devices). By trying different protocols, you may be able to find one that can more effectively bypass the network restrictions in place. You can also manually adjust the connection port by typing the desired port number into the Local Port field before reconnecting.
With so many advanced settings, the app can be a bit tricky to navigate. However, these settings are what make PIA so effective for overcoming network blocks. Plus, if you have questions about how to use a feature, PIA offers 24/7 live support and helpful guides on its site.
You can try PIA risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you find it’s not for you, it’s easy to get a full refund.
Useful Features
- Streaming servers. Unlike CyberGhost, PIA’s streaming servers are location-based instead of platform-based. They’re placed in over half a dozen countries, including the US. Its streaming servers can access platforms like Netflix, Max, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more in HD from anywhere.
- Value for money. PIA’s long-term plans start at $2.19/month, so they’re great value if you regularly need to get around network blocks. Plus, since you get an unlimited number of device connections, it’s a budget-friendly option for large households.
- Massive network of servers worldwide
- Many customizable security settings
- Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Tricky for beginners to navigate
- Based in the US
What Is VPN Blocking, and Why Do VPNs Get Blocked?
VPN blocking refers to the process of detecting and restricting access to VPN services by network administrators, content providers, or internet service providers (ISPs). When a VPN is blocked, users are prevented from establishing a secure, encrypted connection through the VPN, effectively cutting off access to the benefits a VPN provides.
Here are a few reasons why VPNs get blocked:
Government Censorship
A few countries with strict online censorship ban (or heavily restrict) the use of VPNs altogether. Citizens in countries such as China, the UAE, Iran, Russia, and Turkey have limited access to the internet.
The most notable example of government censorship is The Great Firewall of China. It restricts access to Google, YouTube, social media platforms, independent news sources, and more. VPNs are banned there to maintain control over what can be viewed online.
Licensing and Distribution Protection
Streaming platforms block VPNs to adhere to distribution rights under copyright law. VPNs could hypothetically be used to bypass location restrictions, so in response, platforms use detection tools to block them. These platforms also maintain “blocklists” of known VPN-related IP addresses.
This is why you may encounter error messages even when you’re using a VPN to watch a platform licensed in your country. It will usually say something along the lines of “This site can’t be reached” or “Turn off your VPN or proxy before accessing this site.”
School and Workplace Restrictions
Schools and workplaces sometimes block users from accessing certain content using firewalls. They can ban specific URLs, or they can issue blanket bans on gambling sites, for example. They may even ban VPNs so that administrators can monitor their users’ browsing.
Using a VPN with obfuscation can prevent this by making the VPN traffic undetectable. Another simple solution is to switch to mobile data since this type of block extends only as far as the WiFi network.
Fraud Prevention
Many financial services block VPNs to prevent fraud since VPNs hide your IP address and personal information. Your IP address serves as a form of identification that verifies it’s really you accessing your account. However, attempting to access your account without this verification looks suspicious, so you’re likely to face a VPN block.
A solution to this is to use split tunneling. With this method, you select which sites you want sent through the VPN’s encrypted tunnel while the rest of your traffic goes through your local connection.
To Block Dishonest Activity
Some online companies and organizations block VPNs to prevent unlawful activities. For example, online gambling is illegal in certain countries and some US states, so casinos block connections from these areas.
Casino sites sometimes even block VPNs to stop people from using them to cheat or commit fraud. If they detect the use of a VPN to access their site, they might shut down your account and seize any money you had in it.
Some gaming platforms (such as Steam) block VPNs to prevent people from taking advantage of foreign markets to access geo-restricted content, games at a lower price, or get around anti-cheat software. However, using a VPN while playing online is also a common safety precaution — it prevents your private data from being visible on a shared server.
Types of VPN Blocks
IP-Based Blocking
This involves detecting and restricting access from specific IP addresses or ranges of IP addresses associated with VPN servers. For instance, if a user is found to be cheating in an online game, the platform may block their IP address. Similarly, streaming services employ IP-based blocking to prevent users from circumventing geo-restrictions.
On a larger scale, some countries like China have implemented comprehensive IP-blocking measures to curtail the use of VPNs across their networks. By targeting the IP addresses of known VPN servers, this method prevents users from bypassing censorship and accessing restricted sites.
Port-Based Blocking
Many VPN protocols secure their connections with specific network ports, such as the commonly used OpenVPN port 1194. Websites or network administrators that wish to block VPNs can simply refuse connections on these well-known VPN ports, effectively shutting down access.
Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
Deep packet inspection (DPI) is a more advanced technique used to detect and block VPN connections. DPI analyzes the metadata within internet data packets to identify patterns associated with encrypted VPN traffic. If this VPN-specific metadata is recognized, DPI-enabled firewalls and network filters can block VPN connections.
Overcoming DPI-based blocking can be challenging, and only the best VPNs can get past these restrictions by means of advanced security features (like obfuscation). That said, the team and I don’t recommend attempting to bypass governmental DPI blocks, as this may be considered illegal.
Quality of Service (QoS) Filtering
Network administrators may also use Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms to intentionally deprioritize and throttle VPN traffic, leading to slower speeds and unreliable connections. A VPN with advanced obfuscation features can help you bypass QoS network blocks.
How Can I Tell If a Site Has Detected VPN Use?
There are a few tell-tale signs that can indicate a website or online service has detected your VPN connection. Let’s take a look at some of the most common indications:
- Error message. One of the most obvious signs is if you're suddenly presented with a message or error stating that VPN or proxy usage is not allowed. This is a clear indication the site has identified your connection as coming through a virtual private network.
- Unable to access the site with a VPN. Another red flag is if you're able to access a website without the VPN enabled but then get blocked or encounter playback/streaming issues when you try to connect through the VPN. This suggests the site has mechanisms in place to identify and restrict VPN traffic.
- Slower speeds or higher latency. You may also notice slower connection speeds or increased latency when using a VPN, even if you're connected to a geographically close server. This could signify the site is throttling or deprioritizing VPN traffic through techniques like QoS filtering.
FAQs on How to Bypass VPN Detection
Is there a truly undetectable VPN?
No VPN can be considered truly undetectable because VPN detection and blocking techniques are constantly evolving, as are the methods these providers use to evade detection. However, the VPNs on this list offer features that can help them remain largely undetected, even in restrictive online environments.
That said, the most reliable choice for bypassing the most restrictive network blocks and remaining undetected is the #1 VPN on this list. This is due to its well-managed server network and advanced obfuscation, which automatically activates when the app detects the presence of VPN restrictions.
Can my ISP see that I’m using a VPN?
Yes, but you can avoid detection by using a premium VPN that obfuscates your connection. Some VPNs even offer automatic obfuscation that kicks in whenever it’s needed to bypass a tough block.
Although a VPN encrypts your data to prevent your ISP from seeing your online activities, they can still see that you’re using a VPN. This may flag unwanted attention or result in your ISP enforcing a VPN block — even if you’re not doing anything illegal.
That’s why I recommend using a VPN with advanced security features (like obfuscation) so you can increase your privacy and mask your VPN use.
What to do if Netflix blocks a VPN?
First, it's important to use a VPN that consistently works with Netflix. Not all VPNs have the technical capabilities to access Netflix reliably from anywhere.
If the VPN still doesn't work, here are a few things to try:
- Switch servers. The specific server being used may have been blocked by Netflix. Some VPNs offer multiple servers in each country, so switching to a different server in the same Netflix region may resolve the issue.
- Connect to a dedicated IP address. Some VPN providers offer the option of using a dedicated IP address, which is less likely to be blocked by Netflix than shared IP addresses.
What other tools can I use to bypass blocks on restrictive networks?
Aside from a VPN, there are several other methods you can explore to bypass network blocks. Each has its own advantages and considerations, so it's worth understanding the options to determine the best fit for your needs.
- Tor. The Tor browser is designed to provide enhanced online anonymity by routing your internet traffic through a network of volunteer relays. This can help bypass network restrictions, though Tor may not offer the same level of performance as a VPN, especially for bandwidth-intensive tasks. If you want to use a VPN in conjunction with Tor, I recommend ExpressVPN because it offers some of the fastest speeds I've tested.
- Smart DNS service. Smart DNS services reroute only the DNS requests without encrypting your entire internet connection like a VPN. This can provide a speed boost but may be less effective against advanced network blocking techniques.
- A VPS (Virtual Private Server). Renting a virtual private server and configuring it as a personal proxy or VPN can give you more control and customization options. However, this typically requires more technical expertise to set up and maintain.
How do I bypass a network firewall at work or school?
There are many things you can do to bypass a network firewall at work or school. However, one of the best ways to get past firewall blocks is to use a VPN that offers obfuscation. Obfuscation is an advanced security feature that disguises your VPN traffic as a regular internet connection. This makes it easier for the VPN to avoid detection and slip past firewalls.
Not every VPN offers this, but you can check your app’s settings or website to see if it has this feature. Obfuscation could be referred to as Scramble, Stealth VPN, or something else, depending on your provider.
Can a free VPN bypass VPN blocks?
Not usually — they lack key features that help you bypass VPN blockers. It’s easier to bypass blockers with a low-cost premium VPN with strong security features, like obfuscation, a large server network, and port switching. This way, if you run into a block, you’ll have more settings and options that you can tweak to overcome it.
Free VPNs rarely refresh their IP addresses and often come pre-configured, so you don’t have the option to try different settings to get around blocks. Plus, they usually make money by bombarding you with intrusive advertising, tracking your browsing, and selling your data to third parties. In other words, they’re not the best option if you’re looking for privacy protection.
Is it legal to bypass VPN blocks?
It depends. For example, bypassing VPN blocks on streaming sites may infringe copyright law and violate the platform’s terms of use. The team and I are against this. However, bypassing media blocks on public WiFi or content blocks on work or college networks isn’t illegal, but the latter could have repercussions for your employment or education.
However, it's crucial to be aware of your country's laws regarding VPN use. Some countries have restrictions or even outright bans on VPNs. Using a VPN in such places might be illegal. To stay on the safe side, take some time to research and understand the local regulations surrounding VPN usage in your area.
Make Your VPN Undetectable in Minutes
There are several ways to keep your VPN usage hidden. Features like obfuscation, data leak protection, and IP address cycling can help mask the fact that you're using a VPN. However, only the most capable VPNs with strong security and a reliable server network can effectively bypass network restrictions.
My top choice for bypassing network blocks is ExpressVPN. It offers automatic obfuscation on every single server, making your VPN undetectable. Plus, its strong security and privacy features keep your information secure. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not fully satisfied, you can easily get a refund.
To summarize, the best VPNs for bypassing network blocks are…
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 48% off.
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