Unblocking websites: The Complete Guide through 2022

Apr 7, 2022
Small figures learning how to unblock websites

Blocking websites is an opportune event in internet-based communication. It is so prevalent that virtually every person will experience blockages at one point or another. Thankfully, there are tons of effective tools and techniques for bypassing blocks and accessing blocked websites.

If you're experiencing difficulty accessing the site you like it's not the only one. There are more than 75 percent of Internet users are located in countries with limitations on internet access. And, even if aren't in a country with censorship there's a chance you've encountered blocks at your work place or school, among other locations.

In this blog in this article, we'll look at the various tools and methods available to block websites on any device. For that, you'll need to know why (and how) your preferred websites are blocked. Learn more about this and then work to remove it.

Why have been blocked from accessing the website?

A screenshot of a blocked website
An investigation into blocked websites

The majority of blocked websites fall under the three major categories. The restrictions are imposed by the internet provider that is connected to (such as the WiFi at work or at college) or is imposed by the website itself. In the third, your Internet service provider (ISP) or the government could block your access to the internet.

Any block is a problem however typically able to find an answer. This is based on the kind of block used as well as the block type that you're trying to access. Discover more about the many types of blocks available, as well as the different strategies you'll have in order to bypass these blocks.

The work you do is blocked by the school.

A majority of people were blocked content from their workplaces or schools. But, what is the reason for these blocks placed initially? Why do they work?

It's quite simple to grasp. This is because employers and schools want to ensure the effectiveness of students and employees. This is why they place restriction on certain categories of websites such as social networking sites along with online games.

One solution to circumvent the blockages is to redirect your internet browsing to a third party like proxy or VPN. (VPN).

It's blocked by the government

In the beginning of this article, that nearly all of the planet's people are subject to the blockade that is imposed by the government. Why is this?

The precise answer could differ according to the circumstances, however, there is an overall pattern. Government organizations are required to maintain their reputation with their constituents. In the end, the majority of authorities block access to websites that provide the most scandalous or damaging information concerning the past.

The most well-known examples of a blockade by the state is of the "Great Firewall" of China, which was quickly implemented after the Internet was first introduced to China in the late 1990s. The goal of the firewall is was to block access to websites that are based on the internet from outside and services that go against China's constitution and the censorship goals.

Because of the Great Firewall, China's population that is close to 1.5 billion is unable to connect to popular websites including Google and Facebook. However, this does not hinder users from making use of VPNs: 29 percent of Internet users in China have the ability to bypass the firewall with VPNs. VPN.

Naturally, China isn't alone in the world that restricts its users' Internet access. Whichever nation it is, the general regulations apply to all countries in that they allow government-owned networks to restrict website traffic on the basis of URLs as well as host IP addresses.

It is not allowed by your ISP

Although not as widespread than the various types of block that we've been discussing until now, a lot of users are confronted with blockages because of their Internet service provider (ISP).

A majority of Internet users don't realize the fact that they're restricted through their Internet services. The majority of the time, it's that the restriction could be another important option that's intended to protect the user's experience when browsing. However, some ISPs could also limit access for security reasons to safeguard the interests of their clients.

What can you do to determine if your ISP blocks you? It can be difficult to determine however you'll generally be able to conclude that a block has been due to an ISP when you're unable to connect to the site via an internet connection that isn't blocked. Also, if you're in the region without restrictions on censorship as long as you're using the network at school or your workplace or at school and you don't have any restrictions on the websites encountered are probably directly connected to your ISP.

It's Geo-Restricted

Some websites block traffic from certain countries or regions. Sometimes, they call it by the name "geo-restriction," this type of blocking is common of streaming service providers such as Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video and others.

YouTube video unavailable due to geo-restrictions
YouTube video unavailable due to geo-restrictions

What is the reason we should restrict the flow of traffic from abroad? Services streaming, specifically have to adhere to distribution laws that dictate what countries and regions can access certain streaming services. The laws that govern the Netflix service could be changed if you relocate to another nation, and possibly even with an account that is identical.

Perhaps you've realized that the way to bypass geo-restrictions involves accessing the website through an "approved" place. Although it may be difficult to travel without VPNs using VPNs, VPNs and proxy servers can assist in redirecting internet data through remote servers.

Another reason for other sites is the fact that a large amount of foreign website activity could overload servers with resources.

Your account is banned

The blockages may originate directly from the site itself. Websites that are popular, such as Omegle and Twitter are able to ban users who violate their rules of conduct or promote unlawful activities.

It's pretty easy to determine if you're banned. However, how do you avoid the ban?

It is a matter of the website and how they enforce the ban. Websites with their roots within accounts such as Twitter are able to ban accounts, meaning you'll not be able to bypass it by simply using the VPN. In order to get around this then, you'll have to sign up your account from scratch.

Are there ways to unblock a site?

It's true, however it is contingent on the rules. VPNs and proxy service providers generally override restrictions on a large scale, however they're never 100% certain.

In the following section. blocking capabilities can differ between different providers and apps. Making the process more difficult, a variety of internet providers constantly search to find VPN (or proxy server) IP addresses that leads to a constant fight for a wide range of operational IP addresses.

It's likely that should you be capable of determining that the VPN or proxy isn't working with a particular website, there are plenty of options to overcome blocks. Learn more about VPNs and proxy services, and some effective alternatives to bypassing blocked websites.

The Top 4 Methods for getting rid of websites

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

VPNs are the most widely-used device for opening blocked websites. But, their ability to bypass blocks can be due to their purpose.

The title suggests. an online private network can transfer the information of its users to its set of safe servers, expanding the private network at your home, school and work on a virtual public network. In other words, when the traffic of your computer typically goes directly to the site the VPN acts as an "middleman" that receives your data and redirects your information to a different server.

A diagram of how a VPN works
What are the steps to make VPN function? ( Source: Yellowstone Computing)

This process might sound as if that it's complicated, however, the procedure is rather simple.

  1. The VPN client is able to encrypt information that is coming in. This is contingent on the service you pick, however, it's possible to specify which applications you would like to connect with VPN (this decision is also known by the term "split tunneling").
  2. The encrypted information is then transmitted through the VPN's network of secure servers. Similar to any other connection, the data that you transmit is divided into "packets," each of comprising source and destination IP addresses. The primary IP address of origin is that of the private network you use at home, office or school network.
  3. The VPN server removes your source IP address from each packet, replacing it with its own. If it happens, then the receiver will assume that the information came via the VPN server and not from your personal device.
  4. Your traffic is decrypted and then is received by the receiver that doesn't know the origin.

Okay, maybe not exactly simple. But, it's likely that you'll never have to worry about what exactly the procedure involves. After it's set up and you're able to move around as normal since the VPN will be encrypting and redirecting your data behind-the-scenes.

Everything is great and all, however, how do you unblock websites?

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All it takes is your IP. Because a large number of blockages and restrictions depend on IP (websites utilize it to determine the precise location of your PC) altering your IP address during rerouting could generally allow you to bypass through the limitations. Since the vast majority of major websites seek to restrict access to well-known VPN servers, VPN companies must maintain huge network of servers distributed for security reasons.

The amount of servers as well as their capacities are different for VPN firms, however. Just a simple lookup for the word VPN provides a wide range of options with every provider with different types of servers.

Costs vary based on efficiency, with many of the most popular businesses charging $10 or more per month to use VPNs which have thousands of reliable VPN servers. Although there are some no-cost VPNs, they generally lack the necessary features and many users prefer proxies for blocked.

2. Proxy

Like the VPN is that it redirects internet traffic through its servers but with some key differentiators.

The main difference lies in the fact that proxy services do not employ encryption for storing data as VPNs use encryption to store data as VPNs. The information that you share is accessible to everyone else who may create security risks if you're using a service that's not reputable. It's important to remain mindful when you enter the passwords or other information that is sensitive when using proxy services.

Diagram of how a proxy works
What is a proxy exactly? How does it work? ( Source: Medium)

A lot of proxies are less than your typical VPN service. While you'll have the ability to unlock websites however, they're unlikely to offer the same features as VPNs. VPN.

3. VPN/Proxy Extension for Browsers

NordVPN browser extension
By using this extension, you can utilize the NordVPN browser extension

This is a fantastic solution to enable access to restricted websites. The traditional VPN can redirect the entire internet's connection, instead of the information generated by particular applications. While certain VPN providers allow users to select which apps utilize their VPN connection, you could have to pay fees to access the service.

It's not that important for proxy services However. As proxies are typically utilized for no cost, and are often used well above the limit and there's no difference in speed of connection in the event that the browser extension gives access to the top proxy servers.

4. Tor

The abbreviation stands for "The Onion Router."" Tor is a completely free and open-source platform committed to protecting internet users' privacy. While the primary objective is concealing your identity but it also offers the advantages of rerouting the flow of traffic through its massive system of relays.

The Tor browser home page
The Tor page for the Tor browser.

Although it may appear identical to VPN or proxy services, it's completely different. While VPNs as well as proxy services have dedicated server, Tor has a completely different circumstance. Tor network is built upon an immense overlay network, which is entirely run by volunteers.

If you're connected to Tor on the internet, the information that you submit is routed to at least three volunteers until there's no identifiable information left. In 2022, which is in 2022. Tor network includes over 6000relays.

Utilizing the Tor network is simple and is free. It is possible to join the network by installing Tor or it's Tor browser by selecting the option to connect. Although some countries restrict Tor it's internal network however, users are in a situation to circumvent these limitations through allowing Tor to connect to its own network during the download process. After installation, you'll be all set.

Tor is not without disadvantages. However, however, it has some drawbacks. To protect your personal information, you can use Tor. The Tor browser. It will usually stop using media plugins (such like Flash) that can be used to reveal identifying data. Additionally, it deletes any software that is installed, which results in boring browsing.

Alternatives for blocking websites

While VPNs and proxies and also using the Tor network are great ways to bypass websites, they're definitely not the sole option. In reality some might not be necessary in some situations.

Before purchasing the most expensive VPN as well as changing the web browser you are using most through Tor take a look at these alternatives to find the most efficient solution.

The change from HTTP in to HTTPS is a simple one.

Using HTTPS in an address bar
HTTPS is an element of address bars.

Nowadays, it's not the sole option, as HTTPS is now the norm for many websites. But it is still effective to avoid restrictions in schools or in workplace network.

In these cases, administrators usually specify a complete URL (e.g., http://www.blocked-website.com/) when adding a site to their network's blocklist. Sometimes, administrators do not add the HTTPS option. It gives customers the possibility of solving their issue.

Make use of the IP address shown on the website.

Similar to changing to HTTPS You can try using the website's IP address instead of the URL.

To find the URL of an internet site, utilize any of the methods that are listed here. You can enter the IP address into your browser and then you'll be able to access the website in the event that your network administrator has performed the appropriate diligence to block the IP.

For instance an example is that one of the IP addresses of the Google Homepage can be found at 172.217.204.102. You can try entering the address in your browser instead of google.com The result will be exactly the same address.

URL Shorteners

URL shorteners like TinyURL are a way to circumvent certain limitations.

The service will use an existing URL to provide an alternate version, which automatically redirects users to the primary site. By doing this, you're connecting only to the URL that is short instead of the real URL. The latter could be restricted by your administrator. That's why URL shorteners may be the trick of blocking list or blocking blocks that are based on URLs subject to the method in which they're used.

Change Your DNS Server

Moving to a brand new Domain Name System (DNS) server is an excellent way to get rid of blocked websites in the event that you've had your IP blocked.

Switching to Google’s public DNS
Converting to Google's DNS public

Switch to an alternative DNS server just by entering an IP address within the network settings of your personal computer. The most popular (and easily remembered) options is Google's public DNS server. It's situated in the United States and has an IP address of 8.8.8.8.

Online Translators

You can submit a URL using online translators like Google Translate provides an alternative URL which can get around many block filters. Simply type the URL into the translator field, then select your language, and then let the translator create magic.

Caches and archives of websites

To view an archived copy of a website webpage, Google search the URL to gain access to the cache using the results or opting to access the Wayback Machine.

Opera Browser

The Opera browser is equipped with an integrated VPN which makes it a simple and fast method to block websites without purchasing an expensive subscription. Be aware that, in the opinion of some, it's not the best option to protect your privacy when accessing streaming services like Netflix.

Summary

There are plenty of ways to gain access to sites blocked. VPNs proved to be an effective and widely-known option. With top providers offering many server locations across all over the world, VPNs are the ideal choice. VPNs can be a great option for accessing the content you are not allowed to access as well as protect your security.

However, proxy servers, Tor, and the different methods have also done fantastic work for a broad variety of situations. No matter which method you use, you must know that the most important way to get rid of blocked websites is changing your IP address, or try to use a different address.

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