That said, a support rep told me its best to use theAutomaticprotocol setting in China.
it’s possible for you to get one by emailing ExpressVPNs customer support team.
ExpressVPNs security is also really good.
One of my favorite features for China connections is ShuffleIP.
With a changing IP, you cant be tracked around the internet.
For browsing, ExpressVPN provides secure extensions for Firefox and Chrome, which also works on Edge and Brave.
ExpressVPN accesses 100+ streaming sites, making it possible to securely and privately stream from China.
It works with Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, as well as Max and BBC iPlayer.
you could combine this with Shadowsocks for a more stable connection in China.
Private Internet Access is a highly customizable VPN for China.
It can access plenty of popular streaming sites, too.
It accesses Netflix and Amazon Prime, too.
For example, there are only 3 steps to complete the process on Windows.
PrivateVPN offers flexible payment options (including paying with cryptocurrency).
PrivateVPN has simple apps to use in China.
It has an app-based kill switch thats convenient for sensitive apps in China, and its great for streaming.
Astrill VPN has servers in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Japan.
While it accesses most top streaming services,ExpressVPNis a better pick, as it works with 100+ sites.
Astrill VPN accepts UnionPay, PayPal, credit/debit card, and even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Monero.
GhostBear makes it hard for the Chinese governments DPI technology to detect and block your traffic.
Its pretty good for streaming and accesses Netflix and Amazon Prime.
TunnelBear is very user-friendly and intuitive to use in China, making it a particularly good option for beginners.
TunnelBear has a free option with a 2 GB limit per month.
I like how Smart IP is automatically enabled, likeExpressVPNs obfuscation.
Its servers can access 45+ streaming sites, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and DAZN.
VyprVPN accepts UnionPay and AliPay.
VyprVPN is a decent option for securely browsing and streaming in China.
To do this, I ran several real-life scenario tests.
see to it You Have the Obfuscation Feature Enabled
Different VPNs use different obfuscation features.
Some, like ExpressVPN, automatically obfuscate your servers when they detect VPN blocks and restrictions.
With others, however, you have to find the feature that obfuscates your traffic and enable it.
Most VPNs also require you to use the OpenVPN protocol for the obfuscation to work.
The kill switch halts all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops, avoiding any data leaks.
Reconnecting to your VPN can assign you a new IP, often circumventing the immediate block.
Note that you may need to attempt multiple connections or switch between different servers to find one that works.
The kill switch halts all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops, avoiding any data leaks.
Clearing these before connecting to the VPN can help keep your real location hidden.
Reach Out to Customer Support
If all else fails, contact your VPNs customer support.
To avoid blocks and leaks, you gotta take extra precautions when setting up and using your VPN.
Many premium VPNs offer this feature under names like Stealth VPN or Camouflage Mode.
Always enable it to make your VPN connection harder to detect and block.
A kill switch prevents this by instantly cutting off your internet connection until the VPN reconnects.
ensure this feature is turned on in your VPN options to avoid accidental leaks.
Choose a Secure Protocol
Not all VPN protocols work well in China.
Avoid outdated options like PPTP or L2TP, as they are insecure and easily detected.
Instead, use WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 for strong encryption and better reliability.
Worse, some log and sell your data.
Stick to paid, trusted VPNs that are known to bypass the Great Firewall.
This adds an extra layer of security, making it even harder for surveillance systems to track you.
Install your VPN and any backup options before you arrive.
Consider a Backup VPN
Even the best VPNs can get blocked at times.
A VPN provides a secure, encrypted tunnel for your internet connection, shielding you from these cyber threats.
This is particularly useful if youre handling sensitive data or conducting important online transactions.
Free Speech
Chinas tight internet regulations make it risky to voice dissenting opinions online.
Private Conversations
In China, you may have concerns about the privacy of your conversations online.
Download Torrented Files Safely
Torrenting and Tor networks are subject to scrutiny and restrictions in China.
This offers a layer of anonymity that can be especially valuable for downloading torrents or accessing restricted networks.
Most VPNs dont work in China.
Fortunately, there are still some secure VPNs that work in the country, such asExpressVPN.
What is the best VPN for China?
ExpressVPNis my top pick for bypassing Chinas firewall in 2025 for both mobile and desktop use.
How do I use a VPN in China?
Even if you do, free VPNs are typically slow and usually set a limit on your data.
Which country should I connect to in China?
If your VPN is busted properly,follow these troubleshooting steps.
Is it legal to use a VPN in China?
The legality of VPNs in China is a gray area.
Can I download a VPN in China?
Yes, but youll have to jump through hoops, as many VPN providers websites are blocked in China.
This is why its best to download and set up your VPN before you visit China.
What should I do if my VPN connection is unstable in China?
China blocks thousands of websites and services, including popular platforms used worldwide.
If youre traveling to China, its best to check a current blocklist and prepare accordingly.
Quick Overview of My Top Recommendations:
