Geo-blocking is a technology that blocks you from viewing certain online content based on your geographical location. This location can be determined by the IP address of your device. Since a VPN masks your IP, it allows you to bypass geo-blocking. However, if you only need access to content that is restricted in your area, there is no need to pay for a VPN service. Because VPNs are not your only option, there are many other ways to access geo-restricted content.
Let’s take a look at how this is done when.
How to access geo-restricted content without a VPN
1. Use SmartDNS
SmartDNS is for those who just want to bypass geo-blocking and don’t want to add security features. This technology works by transferring DNS queries through a remote server, it does not block your IP, and it does not encrypt all your Internet traffic as a VPN does.
Instead, SmartDNS hides your DNS address and allows you to access any available content based on location. In addition, SmartDNS typically provides faster Internet connections than VPNs.
You can use SmartDNS through your VPN provider, as many VPN providers offer SmartDNS as an add-on feature. However, VPNs and SmartDNS cannot be used together, as the two protocols can interfere with each other. Alternatively, you can use a SmartDNS provider that does not offer a VPN. This is because it is often cheaper, but you must make sure that the SmartDNS provider is legitimate and fully vetted before signing up.
2. Use The Tor Browser
Tor Browser is known for its anonymity and security and is used by over 2 million people every day. Whenever you use the Tor Browser to access the Internet, it masks your IP address, as well as your geographic location.
This makes the Tor browser perfect for bypassing geo-blocking. tor is free to download and use and is available for Windows, iOS, Android and Linux. in addition, Tor redirects your Internet traffic through three remote servers, which makes it harder for cybercriminals to access your sensitive data.
Because of this, the Tor browser can become quite slow. Because of this, it takes time to route traffic through three separate servers, which can cause loading problems and at some point video buffering. If you are not focused on increased security and just want to access geo-restricted content with faster connection speeds, then SmartDNS may be a better option for you.
3. Use A Proxy Server
Before VPNs took off in a big way, proxy servers were the most popular means by which individuals could mask their IP addresses. A proxy server acts as an intermediary between you and the Internet, sending your traffic through a remote server so that your ISP cannot determine your geographic location. This is why a proxy server can provide you with a way to access geo-restricted content without having to pay a dime.
But that’s not all a proxy server can do. Today, a proxy server can even act as a firewall, providing you with an extra layer of protection when you’re online. However, using a proxy server can result in slower connections depending on how many people are using a server at any given time. Be wary of the proxy servers you choose to use as well, as some are less secure than others.
Conclusion
VPNs can provide an extra layer of security and privacy, but if you just want to access some of your favorite TV shows and movies and can’t break through the geographical restrictions, try the solutions above, which can easily open up a whole new world of entertainment for you.
