Are you tired of not being able to access your favorite content or websites? Do you feel like you’re missing out due to your location? So, how to unblock websites anywhere? This blog is your guide to accessing the unrestricted internet. From VPN to Tor, we’ll discuss 10 efficient ways to unblock websites anywhere. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why Are Some Websites Blocked?
Before we dive into the details of each method, let’s take a moment to understand what makes a website blocked or restricted in the first place. Some common reasons are:
- Government censorship: Some governments may block or filter certain websites that they deem harmful, illegal, or contrary to their political or moral agenda. For example, Iran blocks access to many foreign websites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
- Corporate firewalls: Some workplaces or schools may restrict access to certain websites that they consider distracting, inappropriate, or irrelevant to their work or study. For example, some companies may block social media, streaming, or gaming sites to prevent employees from wasting time or bandwidth.
- Geo-restrictions: Some websites may limit access to their content based on the user’s location or IP address. For example, some streaming services, such as Netflix or Hulu, may offer different libraries of shows and movies depending on the country or region.
These are just some of the scenarios where you may encounter blocked or restricted websites. Next, we will present 10 of the best methods to unblock websites anywhere, each with its own strengths and weaknesses and instructions on how to use them.
How to Unblock Websites Anywhere? 10 Easy Ways!
Way 1: Using a VPN (The Best Overall)
A VPN is the easiest and most efficient way to access unblocked websites. A VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in a different location, masking your IP address. This makes it look like you’re browsing from another place, helping you bypass geo-restrictions and access blocked content.
How to unblock websites with a VPN?
- Download a reliable VPN. X-VPN is perfect for free. It has 1,000+ free servers in 17 countries. Users also love it for its strong security, fast speeds, and other benefits.
- Open the X-VPN app and sign in.
- Choose a server based on any geo-specific content you want to access. For better performance and faster, pick a server close to you.
- Free users: cannot select server location by themselves
- Paid users: can manually select the server location
- Turn the connection on. You will be able to access any blocked content without leaving an online trail.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Secures your data by encrypting your internet traffic, making it difficult for third parties to intercept and read your information. | Slower internet speed due to the encryption process and the distance your data travels to the VPN server. |
| Protects your online privacy by masking your IP address and location, preventing websites and ISPs from tracking your online activities. | Costs money for premium VPN services, which are generally more reliable and faster than free options. |
| Protection against DDoS attacks and other cyber threats. This is especially important for activists and journalists in hostile environments. | Legal restrictions in some countries where VPNs are banned or heavily regulated. |
| Avoids ISP tracking and data logging, ensuring that your browsing habits and history remain private. |
Use VPNs legally and check if they are allowed in your area.
Way 2: Automated Web Unlocker Platforms
Automated Web Unlocker Platforms are advanced tools designed to navigate around web restrictions imposed by various websites. They employ a range of techniques such as IP rotation, CAPTCHA solving, and dynamic browser fingerprinting to mimic genuine user behavior and avoid detection by anti-bot mechanisms.
How to unblock websites using automated web unlocker platforms?
- Choose a reliable one that suits your needs. Consider factors like success rates, pricing, and the level of support offered.
- Register for an account with the platform and choose the appropriate subscription plan based on your data needs.
- Prepare your request by specifying the target URL and any additional parameters required by the platform.
- Use the platform’s API or the tools provided to send your request to the unlocker service.
- The platform will process your request, bypass restrictions, and return the data to you, typically in HTML or JSON format.
- Check the received data for accuracy and completeness. Some platforms offer verification based on criteria like timing and request patterns.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unblock sites automatically | Most require a subscription fee |
| High success rates in bypassing restrictions and CAPTCHAs | Technical knowledge required |
| Platforms often verify the data to ensure reliability |
Way 3: Proxy Servers
A proxy server acts as a middleman between your device and the internet. It routes your traffic through the proxy server, masking your IP address with its own. This makes it look like you’re browsing from a different location, helping you access blocked content.
How to unblock websites using proxy servers?
- Choose a Proxy Type. Proxy servers come in four types: public, private, residential, and anonymous.
- Public: Free but less secure.
- Private: Dedicated IPs for better performance.
- Residential: Real residential IPs to avoid detection.
- Anonymous: Hides your IP without revealing proxy use.
- Find a Proxy Server. You can find proxy servers online through proxy lists or by subscribing to a proxy service provider. Make sure the server is reliable and has good reviews.
- Configure Your Device or Browser. After selecting a proxy server, enter its IP address and port number into your device’s or browser’s network settings.
- For Windows 10, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy and enter the proxy details under Manual proxy setup.
- On Mac, navigate to System Preferences > Network, select your network, click Advanced, and then go to the Proxies tab to enter the proxy details.
- Access Blocked Websites: With the proxy server set up, try accessing the blocked website. If done correctly, you should be able to browse without restrictions.
- Disconnect When Done. Remember to disable the proxy settings when you’re finished to return to your direct internet connection.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easily bypass | No data encryption |
| Free to use | Maybe low speed |
| Unstable for the free service |
Be cautious with proxy servers, especially free ones, as they can be risky. Use proxies from reputable sources and prefer encrypted connections (HTTPS) for better security. For higher security and anonymity, consider using a VPN or specialized proxy services.
Way 4: The Onion Router (Tor)
Tor is a free privacy network that lets you browse the web anonymously. It routes your internet traffic through multiple volunteer servers, encrypting the data at each step. This makes it hard for websites, ISPs, and others to track your online activities.
How to unblock websites using Tor?
- Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser for your operating system.
- Follow the installation prompts. For added security, verify the file’s signature to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with.
- Open the browser. For the first time, you’ll be prompted to either connect directly to the Tor network or configure settings if you’re in a country that censors Tor.
- Click “Connect” to automatically establish a connection through the Tor network. This process may take a few moments.
- Once connected, you can start browsing. Use the search engine provided by Tor for enhanced privacy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Avoid being tracked | Low speed |
| Easily bypass | While Tor provides anonymity, it’s not immune to security threats. |
| Tor’s association with the dark web and illegal activities can cause misconceptions about its legitimate uses. |
Way 5: Changing DNS Servers
DNS servers act like the internet’s phonebook, converting domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses that computers use. Your ISP usually assigns your DNS servers, which might have restrictions. Switching to third-party DNS servers can help you bypass these limits.
How to unblock websites by changing DNS Servers?
- Select a DNS Service. Choose a third-party DNS service like Google Public DNS, OpenDNS, or Cloudflare. These services often provide faster and more secure DNS resolution without the restrictions imposed by ISP DNS servers.
- Access Network Settings. Go to your device’s network settings. This will vary depending on your operating system.
- Windows: Open Control Panel, go to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center, and click on ‘Change adapter settings’.
- Mac: Go to System Preferences > Network, select your network connection, and click ‘Advanced’.
- For Google Public DNS, use 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
- For OpenDNS, use 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220.
- For Cloudflare, use 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1.
4. Save and Restart. Save the changes and restart your network connection to ensure the new DNS settings take effect.
5. Test the Configuration. After changing the DNS servers, try accessing the previously blocked website to see if the restriction has been bypassed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Changing DNS servers can help you access content blocked by your ISP’s default DNS. | Only works for DNS filtering. |
| Faster DNS request | Privacy concerns on browsing data. |
| Some DNS services provide additional security features like phishing protection and content filtering. | Some users may find changing DNS settings intimidating or confusing. |
This method does not encrypt your traffic like a VPN does, so it should not be considered a complete privacy solution.
Way 6: Smart DNS Services.
Smart DNS reroutes your device’s DNS queries through a server in another location. This makes websites think you’re accessing them from a different place, helping you bypass geo-restrictions. It’s commonly used for streaming blocked content like TV shows, movies, and sports events.
How to unblock websites using Smart DNS Services?
- Choose a Smart DNS Provider. Research and select a reliable Smart DNS service that supports the content you want to access.
- Sign Up and Activate. Create an account with your chosen provider. You’ll receive a DNS server address and may need to activate your IP address on their website.
- Configure Your Device. Go to your device’s network settings and manually input the DNS server addresses provided by the Smart DNS service. This can be done on a wide range of devices, from computers to smart TVs to gaming consoles.
- For Windows, navigate to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. Right-click your connection, select Properties, and then Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) to enter the DNS settings.
- On Mac, go to System Preferences > Network, select your connection, click Advanced, and then the DNS tab to add the new DNS server.
- Restart Your Device. Restart your device to apply the new DNS settings.
- Access Blocked Content. Visit the website or service that was previously blocked. If set up correctly, you should now have access.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Faster streaming speed | No data encryption |
| Easy to set up | Only works with specific websites and services |
| Works on smart TVs and gaming consoles | If your ISP changes your IP address, you may need to update this with your Smart DNS provider manually. |
Way 7: Browser Extensions
Some extensions can function as proxies or VPNs, rerouting your connection to make it appear as if you’re browsing from a different location.
How to unblock websites using a browser extension?
- Choose an Extension: Find a reputable extension like Hola, ZenMate, or Browsec.
- Install the Extension.
- Activate the Extension. Click the extension icon in your browser’s toolbar.
- Follow any setup instructions if prompted.
- Select a Server Location. Choose a server location from the list provided by the extension. This will route your traffic through that server, bypassing restrictions.
- Access Blocked Websites. With the extension active, visit the website you want to unblock.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to install and use | Possible to compromise your privacy or security. |
| Basic function is free to use | Only works with the web traffic. |
| Sometimes slow down your browser. |
It’s worth noting that while browser extensions can be a quick solution for bypassing restricted content, they may not provide the same level of privacy and security as a comprehensive VPN service.
Way 8: URL Shorteners
URL shorteners convert long web addresses into shorter links. They make sharing easier and can help access blocked websites. Some network filters don’t recognize the shortened URL, allowing you to bypass restrictions.
How to unblock websites using URL Shorteners?
- Choose a URL shortening service. Popular options include bit.ly, TinyURL, and goo.gl (though some may no longer be active).
- Visit the URL shortener’s website and paste the blocked website’s URL into the provided field. Click the button to shorten the URL.
- Copy the newly created short link and paste it into your browser’s address bar. Hit enter to navigate to the website.
- If the method works, the short link will redirect you to the blocked website, bypassing the restriction.
- If successful, save the shortened URL for future access.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No technical knowledge required | Not always work. |
| No need to install any software | Potentially leading to malicious sites. |
| Most are free to use | Known URL shorteners are easily blocked. |
Way 9: Crawl History
Crawl history consists of snapshots of web pages taken by search engines and archiving services. These snapshots can be accessed later, even if the page is blocked or changed. The Wayback Machine by the Internet Archive is a popular tool for viewing archived web pages.
How to unblock websites using Crawl History?
- Find a web archiving service like the Wayback Machine, which stores historical versions of web pages.
- Go to the archiving service’s website and enter the URL of the blocked site into the search bar.
- The web archiving service will display a calendar or list of the dates when the website was archived. Select a date from that time to view the stored version of the site.
- Use the links and navigation within the archived page as you would on the live site. Keep in mind that some functionality, like forms or dynamic content, may not work in archived versions.
- If the method proves successful, bookmark the archiving service for easy future access to other blocked sites.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No software installation or configuration required. | Archived pages may not have full functionality, and dynamic content may not be accessible. |
| Bypass basic website blocks. | The information retrieved may be outdated, as it reflects the state of the website at the time of archiving. |
| Free services are available. | Not all websites or pages will be archived, and the frequency of archiving can vary. |
Way 10: Portable Browsers
Portable browsers are web browsers that run from a USB drive or other portable storage. They don’t need installation and can carry your bookmarks, extensions, and settings. This makes them perfect for bypassing restrictions without leaving traces on the computer.
How to unblock websites using Portable Browsers?
- Select a portable version of your preferred browser. Popular options include Portable Firefox and Portable Google Chrome.
- Visit the official site or a trusted source to download the portable browser. Install it on your USB drive or portable storage device.
- Before heading to a restricted environment, customize your portable browser with necessary privacy extensions or settings while still in an unrestricted network.
- Insert your USB drive into the computer with restricted internet access. Run the portable browser directly from the drive.
- Navigate to the blocked website using the portable browser. The site should now be accessible if the block was specific to the computer or network’s installed browsers.
- Once you’re done, close the browser and eject the USB drive, leaving no personal data behind on the host machine.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Carry your browser and all its settings with you wherever you go. | May not work if restrictions are at the network level, such as those using advanced firewalls or deep packet inspection. |
| Leaves no personal information on the host computer. | You need to have your portable storage device with you to use the browser. |
| Pre-load your browser with extensions and bookmarks for a personalized experience. | Running from a USB drive may be slower than an installed browser, depending on the speed of the USB drive. |
Portable browsers can help bypass some blocks, but they aren’t always effective. Advanced filters that analyze traffic can still block content. In these cases, using a VPN or proxy along with a portable browser may be necessary to access restricted sites.
Key Takeaways
| Methods | Suitable for | Level of Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| VPN | Privacy-conscious users, streamers, travelers | ⭐️ |
| Automated Web Unlocker Platforms | Data analysts, researchers, businesses | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Proxy Servers | Casual users, those needing quick access | ⭐️⭐️ |
| The Onion Router (Tor) | Privacy-focused users, journalists, activists | ⭐️⭐️ |
| Smart DNS Services | Streamers, users looking to bypass geo-restrictions | ⭐️ |
| Browser Extension | Casual users, those looking for convenience | ⭐️ |
| URL Shorteners | Users facing basic URL blocks, quick fixes | ⭐️ |
| Access Through Crawl History | Researchers, accessing archived content | ⭐️ |
| Changing DNS Servers | Users facing DNS-based filtering, general browsing | ⭐️⭐️ |
| Portable Browsers | Users on shared or public computers, privacy-conscious individuals | ⭐️ |
Each method has its own set of pros and cons, and the choice largely depends on the user’s specific needs, technical expertise, and the type of restrictions they are facing.
Conclusion
How to unblock websites anywhere? That’s all! To efficiently access blocked websites while ensuring safety and privacy, a VPN is your best choice. Try the free X-VPN with unlimited data. Try it and see!
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- Best Free VPN for Windows 2024: TOP 5!
FAQs
Why are websites blocked?
Websites are often blocked due to geo-restrictions (content only available in certain countries), network restrictions (like at work or school), or government censorship.
What’s the best way to unblock websites?
The most reliable method is using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). VPNs encrypt your traffic and route it through a server in a different location, masking your IP address and making it seem like you’re accessing the website from somewhere it’s not blocked.
Are there any free ways to unblock websites?
Yes, there are a few options. Free web proxies let you browse through their servers but can be slow and unreliable. Browser extensions designed for unblocking might work for some sites but offer less comprehensive protection than VPNs.
Is it safe to use tools to unblock websites?
It depends. Stick to reputable VPN providers with strong privacy policies. Avoid shady free proxies or browser extensions, which may compromise your security or privacy.
Can I unblock websites on my phone?
Absolutely! Most popular VPN services have mobile apps for both Android and iOS devices, allowing you to protect and unblock content on the go.
