Times have changed and the way we consume content has changed too. People now consume online content more than the so-called “traditional way” of consuming content. Datareportal says there were 4.95 billion internet users in 2022. However, not everyone can get access to all kinds of content. If you are living in a country and want to watch content catered to another country, you would mostly see this on your screen – “This content is not available in your region.” Do you know why this happens? The reason is it is geo-restricted content.
We have found some top ways to bypass these kinds of content and help you access geo-restricted content. So stick with us till the end.
What is Geo-Blocking?
Geo-blocking is a process of restricting access to content, websites, and services based on where the user is residing. This is done by identifying the user’s IP address and comparing it with a list of locations that are allowed or blocked.
There are a lot of reasons when it comes to geo-blocking. Unfair pricing, licensing and copyright restrictions, compilation with local laws, etc. could be some of these potential reasons.
5 Best Ways to Access Geo-Restricted Content
1. Browser extensions
There are several browser extensions you can use to bypass geo-blocks. These extensions change your browser’s configuration to make it appear that you’re in another country.
Browser extensions work by changing your browser code. The code tells your browser how to connect to websites. It’s easy to make it look like you’re in a different location by tweaking this code.
2. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
VPN is a service that protects your private information and data and directs it through a server in another location. What this does is, it makes you look like you are in another country/ region which lets you access the content blocked in your location.
Basically, a VPN creates a safe channel between your computer and the VPN server. This tunnel protects all your traffic and doesn’t let anyone track or read it.
Your traffic then goes through the VPN server’s network to the destination website. In this way, it looks like you are connecting to the website or service from the VPN server location.
For example, let us consider you have a Fire TV Stick 4K in your house and want to use a VPN like IPVanish app on your FireStick. All you have to do is subscribe to a plan and download the IPVanish app on your Fire TV device. That’s it. It’s that simple!
3. Using Proxy Server
A proxy server is a server that acts as a bridge between your computer and the website or service that you’re trying to access. Even though it seems like the proxy server is quite similar to a VPN, that’s not the case.
A proxy server doesn’t protect your data nor does it provide added security. They aren’t as secure as VPNs but are cheaper than them.
The biggest drawback of using a proxy server is that it works only on browsers. You can bypass a geo-restricted site at times but you can’t use it for watching content on an app. So for you to successfully bypass restricted sites, always opt for advanced proxy options such as Smartproxy, Nimble, Bright Data, etc.
4. Using the Tor Browser
Tor is a free and open-source software that lets you browse the internet anonymously. It works by directing your traffic via a network of volunteer-operated servers. This makes it hard for websites to track your location. However, Tor is not the best option for bypassing geo-blocking.
Speaking of its usage, you can use it completely for free, but the problem is that you don’t have the option of choosing a server or a particular location of your choice. So, you don’t get a chance to access location-specific content.
5. Smart DNS
Smart DNS is a technology that lets you bypass geographical restrictions by changing your DNS server’s location. They translate domain names into IP addresses.
Smart DNS is not as secure as VPNs or proxy servers, but it is easier to use. They work by changing DNS settings on your device and dictate how your device translates domain names into IP addresses.
Final Thoughts
With the internet, we have everything at our fingertips. So all these factors like geo-restrictions should never stop us from exploring online content. The tips and tricks that we have shared should be more than enough. You’ll surely be able to bypass the geo-restricted content and stream your favorite content to the fullest.
We also need to be responsible and only view content in an ethical way. Choose those services that are legal and would offer you a lot of options as compared to those that are illegal.
Lastly, what do you feel about the tips we have shared regarding geo-restricted content? Do you have anything else to add to this? Please let us know in the comment section. We’d love to hear from you!
