You may have noticed that some sites treat you differently because you’re using a VPN.
So, why do some websites block VPN users?
Why Do Websites Block VPNs?
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Streaming services often block VPNs due to contract and licensing issues.
Because streaming services do not own the non-original content they host, they’re often restricted by distribution licenses.
Non-streaming websites can block VPNs for an array of reasons.
How Websites Detect and Block Your VPN
Wondering how websites detect whether you’re using a VPN?
There are several methods used to detect if you’re using a VPN.
IP Blacklists
Anti-VPN mechanisms primarily work by checking visitors' IP addresses against blacklists of known VPN addresses.
Services likeIPHubandipinfo.iocollect this information and make it available to customers for a price.
However, at times, even if you enter the correct CAPTCHA information, the VPN block may remain.
Many VPNs offer DNS leak tests to ensure your data is being leaked to your ISP.
So, if you’re concerned about this, peek if your VPN provider offers a leak test.
Sites That Completely Block VPN Users
Some website owners attempt to block VPNs altogether.
By switching to a different server, you change your internet-facing IP address.
If you get blocked, cycle through the available servers.
If you’re lucky, you could find one that isn’t on the site’s blacklist.
Inform Sites of Your VPN Use
It may be beneficial to notify certain sites that you use a VPN.
Having your own private IP address makes it much easier for your VPN to go undetected.
Other handyVPN features can help you bypass blocksif you’d like to maximize your chances.
Use a Less Common VPN
Another way to avoid crowded servers is to use a less-known VPN provider.
A more obscure VPN may be less likely to get blocked or trigger a CAPTCHA.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you should use the cheapest, shadiest provider you might find.
You especially want to avoid free VPN services.
Sites have a strong incentive to target them for blocking.
Change Your DNS Servers
Another handy way to attempt to unblock your VPN is to change your DNS servers.
TheDomain Name System (DNS)translates human-readable domain names to IP addresses.
It can be annoying to face CAPTCHAs or other roadblocks while innocently surfing the web.
