Work around VPN blocks and bypass 404 errors on websites (2024)

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Let’s say you’re browsing the web with a VPN. You’re protecting privacy, so you’re confident hackers and advertisers can’t track you. Then you try to go to a site, and it just won’t load.

This can throw a wrench into productivity when working. Or it can ruin your mood when trying to have fun online.

If you want to bypass those infuriating errors that say, “The page you are looking for can’t be found,” we can help. Here’s what to do when a VPN stops site access.

Why you can’t access certain content with a VPN

You can’t access certain apps or websites when your VPN is on for a few reasons. First, you may be dealing with connectivity issues. Perhaps the VPN you’re using is having server issues.

Some sites go out of their way to block connections from VPN servers. The site owners aren’t trying to make your life harder. They block VPNs to cover their backsides. (Legally, not literally.)

Many websites block VPNs because they don’t want to break their contracts. Simply put, many VPN users want to bypass geo-blocking features.

Say you want to watch content that isn’t available in the U.S. If your favorite show is available in the U.K., you can connect to a server there so your internet can access that show. Tap or click here to unlock international Netflix to access more movies and shows.

Streaming sites don’t like this. It lands them in hot water with the production companies they team up with. Here’s why:

  • Streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu have long and complicated contracts with production companies.
  • Those contracts may involve location limits as part of licensing contracts. Production companies often have stipulations like, “You can stream this show, but only in Canada since we don’t want it in the U.S.”
  • Certain websites/services, like PayPal, Venmo and CashApp, identify users for legal purposes through their IP addresses. This is used to resolve problems such as fraud.

Streaming sites don’t want to violate the clauses in their contracts. They want to cover themselves and avoid legal trouble. Thus, they block VPNs.

RELATED: Watch free movies online from these streaming services

Let’s look into some other possibilities. Perhaps a site you’re visiting has outdated security certificates, which a VPN may interpret as malicious.

Don’t disable your VPN; you need it for safety and privacy protection. If you’re dealing with issues like this, there are a few fixes you can try first.

How to work around VPN blocks

Tech issues are a common culprit. Here are a few tech tips to try:

  • Switch servers: Maybe you’re connected to an international server the site doesn’t like. Before you do anything else, you should switch between various servers. The issue may be as simple as the site not wanting traffic from that country.
  • Turn off threat detection: Only do this if you’re sure the site you’re trying to connect to is trustworthy. Go into your VPN and turn off cybersecurity features designed to stop you from accessing dangerous sites.
  • Add exceptions: Sometimes, false alarms cause errors. For example, maybe the domain owner didn’t upgrade its certificates. This can raise red flags for your VPN, which then blocks the site.
  • Restart your device: Maybe your computer needs a restart. Tech issues running in the background can block sites. Resetting your device can fix the issue.
  • Clear your browser cache: Maybe some cookies are getting in the way. You can also update your browser — a good practice regardless.
  • Switch to a different browser: If you’re using Google Chrome, give Edge or Firefox a try. Sometimes, websites and browsers don’t get along well.
  • Use an incognito window: It’s worth a try. Tap or click here for ways incognito mode can save you.

Maybe the VPN you’re using isn’t the best. We can help with that.

Our top VPN pick

Now that you know how to work around VPN blocks let’s see if you need to upgrade. When looking for VPNs, you’ll find many options. Our pick is our sponsor ExpressVPN. Kim trusts it and so should you.

Aside from helping you bypass geo-blocks, VPNs protect your privacy. Big Tech companies want your data. They can match your internet activity to your identity or location using your public IP address.

With ExpressVPN, no one sees your IP address. No one.

Protect your privacy. Get three months free when you sign up for one year at ExpressVPN.com/Kim.

Work around VPN blocks and bypass 404 errors on websites (2024)

FAQs

Will a VPN get around blocked sites at work? â€ș

They do this by checking to see if your IP address has the right permissions. So when you find your access blocked, one way to get around the restrictions is to hide your IP address using either a VPN, a Proxy, or Tor.

Can a VPN bypass work restrictions? â€ș

Can a VPN bypass Internet restrictions? Yes — a VPN hides your real IP address, allowing you to browse anonymously and avoid any restrictions you may stumble upon online. How do I remove Internet restrictions from my Wi-Fi? The easiest way to do this is to set up a VPN on your router.

Why is my VPN blocking a website? â€ș

The most widely used type of a VPN blocker is limiting access for IP addresses related to VPN services. They are detected with the help of specific lists or due to their uncommon activities. Simply put, a website or streaming platform may deny access if multiple devices use a single IP address.

Can my employer see what websites I visit if I use a VPN? â€ș

Your employer won't know what you are doing online since all your online traffic passes through the consumer VPN servers. However, be aware of your organization's Mobile Device Management (MDM) policy. Some companies require employees to use MDM software even on their devices.

How do I bypass network restrictions without VPN? â€ș

Another tool you can use to bypass restrictions is proxies. A proxy works almost the same as a VPN server; only proxies (except for HTTPS ones) don't provide end-to-end encryption. Instead, a proxy works as an intermediary between your PC and the internet.

Is bypassing geo blocking illegal? â€ș

Using a VPN to access geo-blocked content isn't illegal -- unless using a VPN is illegal in your country -- but it could lead to other ramifications. Using a VPN to access geo-blocked content could violate a streaming service's user agreement, and your account could be terminated or suspended.

Does a VPN bypass an IP ban? â€ș

Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, provide a reliable way to bypass IP bans by masking your real IP address. Peer-to-peer VPNs are especially noteworthy as they route your internet traffic through the network of another user, effectively hiding your original IP.

How do I get around a VPN block? â€ș

One of the easiest ways to get around a VPN block is to use a dedicated IP VPN. A dedicated IP VPN can give you an IP address only you can use. Unlike share IP addresses, your dedicated IP address is unlikely to appear on any IP blocklists unless you're directly responsible for causing an issue.

How do I remove VPN restrictions? â€ș

Go to the settings of your router app or access the router's settings via a web interface. Locate the VPN settings. Turn off the VPN connection.

What is a stealth VPN? â€ș

StealthVPN is a proprietary protocol developed by Astrill. It is inspired by OpenVPN and performs an additional obfuscation of traffic which makes it undetectable for automated firewall systems. StealthVPN is very stable and it can work with both UDP and TCP modes.

Why can't i access a website through VPN? â€ș

Resetting your device can fix the issue. Clear your browser cache: Maybe some cookies are getting in the way. You can also update your browser — a good practice regardless. Switch to a different browser: If you're using Google Chrome, give Edge or Firefox a try.

Can you get in trouble for using a VPN at work? â€ș

While no specific law banning VPNs exists, the government is known to hack and eliminate content that it deems a threat to national security or public order. Individuals caught using VPNs to access restricted content may face severe penalties, such as fines worth $1,300.

Will a VPN get around blocked ports? â€ș

It is possible for a firewall to block certain ports, specifically ones that VPNs use. If your data travels through one of the blocked ports, the firewall will not allow it to pass through, preventing you from communicating using your VPN.

Can a network block you from using VPN? â€ș

VPN bans are restrictions that governments, organizations, and internet service providers (ISPs) impose against the usage of a VPN. These entities ban VPNs in specific environments to prevent users from circumventing censorship or hiding their online activity.

Can a VPN get around a device ban? â€ș

One of the best options will presumably be to use a VPN. Laura Tyrylytė, Head of Public Relations at NordVPN told me, “Usually, users circumvent bans of certain applications by changing locations with a VPN and reaching restricted websites.”

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