Unblocking Websites: A Guide to Bypassing Restrictions
Navigating the digital world can be frustrating when websites you want to access are blocked. While we discourage illegal activities, it’s important to understand that "blanket bans" often impede access to legitimate websites as well. This guide will equip you with the tools and techniques to overcome website restrictions and regain unfettered access to the online world. Before diving in, ensure the website you’re trying to access isn’t simply down. Websites like Is It Down Right Now (isitdownrightnow.com) can help you quickly determine if the issue is localized or a wider outage.
Simple URL Changes: A Starting Point
Sometimes, the simplest solution is also the most effective. Before resorting to more complex methods, try changing the website’s URL from http to https.
- Navigate to your browser’s address bar.
- Change the URL from "http://blockedwebsite123.com" to "https://blockedwebsite123.com" and reload the page.
This method doesn’t always work, but many users have reported success regaining access to blocked websites this way.
Tweaking Your DNS Settings: Accessing Blocked Websites
If switching to https doesn’t work, you can often bypass the blocks by changing your Domain Name Server (DNS) settings. This approach involves replacing your ISP’s DNS settings with those of trusted providers like Google DNS or Open DNS.
Follow these instructions for Windows Vista, 7, and 8:
- Windows Vista and 7: Click Start >> Control Panel >> Network and Internet >> Network and Sharing Center.
Windows 8: Press Windows key + C >> click Search >> type "Control Panel" >> select Control Panel >> Network and Internet >> Network and Sharing Center. - Click "Change adapter settings" on the left sidebar.
- Right-click your internet connection (like MTNL, Airtel, BSNL) and choose "Properties".
- Select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP)" and click "Properties".
- Select "Use the following DNS Server addresses".
- Google DNS: Enter 8.8.8.8 as the Preferred DNS Server and 8.8.4.4 as the Alternate DNS Server.
- OpenDNS: Enter 202.67.220.220 and 202.67.222.222 respectively. Click OK.
For Windows XP users, follow these steps:
- Click Start >> Control Panel >> Network Connections.
- Select your internet connection experiencing access issues, right-click, and choose "Properties".
- Click "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)" and select "Properties".
- Follow the instructions in Step 5 above for Google or OpenDNS setup.
To change DNS on an iOS device connected to Wi-Fi:
- Open Settings >> tap Wi-Fi >> tap your connected Wi-Fi network.
- Tap DNS and enter the Google or OpenDNS values (separated by a comma and a space) from Step 5 above.
On Android devices:
- Open Settings >> tap Wi-Fi.
- Long press your connected Wi-Fi network >> tap "Modify Network".
- Tap the box next to "Show advanced options".
- Tap DHCP >> select Static IP >> scroll down and modify DNS 1 and DNS 2 as explained in Step 5 above.
For BlackBerry 10 devices:
- Settings >> Network and Connections >> tap Wi-Fi. Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Long-press your connection >> tap Edit.
- Scroll down and turn off "Auto Obtain IP".
- Switch to OpenDNS or Google DNS in the IP address, DNS, and gateway fields as outlined in Step 5 above.
While Windows Phone 8 users can’t change the DNS manually, the other methods discussed here might still help.
Unlocking Websites through Proxy Servers
If changing DNS doesn’t work, consider using a web proxy. These websites route your traffic through servers in other countries, allowing access to websites not blocked in those locations.
Popular options include:
- Hidemyass (hidemyass.com/proxy): Look for the free proxy towards the bottom of the page after the paid version links.
- NewIPNow (newipnow.com): Choose your server location (US, UK, or Canada) for a potentially more targeted experience.
Simply enter the website address you want to access into the form on these proxy websites, and click "enter" or submit.
VPN: The Ultimate Solution for Secure and Unrestricted Browsing
For true online privacy and unrestricted access, virtual private networks (VPNs) offer the most comprehensive solution. While the best VPN services usually come with a subscription fee, they provide increased security, anonymity, and a way to bypass geographical restrictions.
Popular VPN options include:
- Private Internet Access (privateinternetaccess.com): $7 per month (around Rs. 420)
- TorGuard (torguard.net): $10 per month (around Rs. 600)
VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it difficult to track your online activity and location. This can be especially valuable for those who want to access restricted content or protect their privacy when browsing public Wi-Fi networks.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Methods to Unlock Websites
While the techniques mentioned above cover a vast range of scenarios, it’s worth exploring a few additional methods depending on your specific needs and network configuration.
1. Using a Tor Browser: Tor (torproject.org) offers a special browser designed to enhance privacy and security. It uses a network of relays to route your traffic, making it difficult to track your location and online activity. While Tor can help you access blocked websites, keep in mind it may be slower than other methods due to the added layers of anonymity.
2. Changing Web Browser: Experimenting with different web browsers can sometimes create a workaround for blocked websites. Some websites may not be designed to work effectively with every browser, leading to access issues. Try using alternative browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Opera to see if the blockage is browser-specific.
3. Restart Your Devices and Router: Sometimes, the simplest troubleshooting steps can lead to unexpected resolutions. Restarting your computer, mobile device, and network router can refresh connections and potentially resolve blocking issues related to temporary network hiccups or configurations.
4. Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP): If you’ve exhausted all other options, contact your ISP to get their assistance in resolving the blockage. While they might not be willing to remove all restrictions, they may be able to offer alternative solutions or provide insights into the specific technical causes of the blocking.
5. Utilize a Different Network: If the website blockage seems to be tied to your specific network, consider using a different network for access. Use a public network, like a coffee shop’s Wi-Fi, or connect to a mobile hotspot as a temporary workaround.
Moving Forward: A World of Unrestricted Access
Understanding the different methods to bypass website restrictions empowers you to navigate the online world with greater freedom. Remember to use these techniques responsibly and ethically. While bypassing blocks can be beneficial for accessing important or legitimate content, it’s crucial to respect the law and avoid activities that could harm others.
As the digital landscape evolves, new methods and technologies will emerge to both restrict and overcome internet access restrictions. By staying informed about the latest tools and techniques, you can ensure your continued access to the vast resources and information available online.
If you have any questions or additional tactics to share, let us know in the comments below!
