In certain instances, we may earn revenue when a reader makes a purchase or completes a form through our pages or on a partner’s website. We adhere to a strict Learning how to unblock websites is key when facing online restrictions at home, school, or work. These barriers come in many forms – from geo-blocks that limit streaming services to workplace filters blocking social media or school networks preventing access to educational resources.
While some websites are blocked for valid security reasons, many restrictions arise from overly cautious filtering systems or regional licensing agreements. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the most reliable solution for safely and reliably bypassing these restrictions. Through encrypted connections that mask your real location and personal data, VPNs let you seamlessly access blocked content while maintaining privacy and security.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through several proven methods to bypass website restrictions safely and effectively.
Best VPNs for Accessing Restricted Sites in 2025
- NordVPN – Best VPN to Unblock Websites Overall
- Surfshark – Fastest VPN to Bypass Website Blocks
- ExpressVPN – Most Secure VPN for Website Unblocking Content
- Show Full Guide
How to Unblock Websites With a VPN
- Choose a reliable VPN. I recommend NordVPN for its strong security features and unblocking capabilities.
- Download and install the VPN on your device.
- Open the NordVPN app and connect to a server location where your desired website is available.
- Open your browser and access previously blocked websites.
Why Are Websites Blocked?
Websites are blocked for various reasons, ranging from office and school policies to governmental regulations.
The type of block often depends on who implements it and their specific concerns about content, security, or resource usage. Common reasons for website blocks include:
- Network-level Restrictions – Schools and workplaces often block social media, gaming sites, and streaming platforms to maintain productivity and reduce the risk of cyber threats. These blocks use firewall rules and content-filtering systems to limit access to specific domains.
- Geographical restrictions – Streaming services and online stores often restrict access based on location due to licensing agreements and regional rights.
- Government Censorship – Some countries implement nationwide blocks on social media, news sites, and communication platforms. These restrictions often aim to control information flow or enforce local regulations.
- Internet Service Provider (ISP) Blocks – ISPs may block certain websites due to court orders, copyright infringement claims, or local regulations. They might also throttle or restrict access to bandwidth-intensive services like gaming or streaming platforms.
How to Unblock Websites With a VPN
A VPN is the most effective and secure method for accessing blocked websites. It creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, routing your traffic through servers in different locations while masking your real IP address.
This makes it nearly impossible for network administrators, ISPs, or websites to detect and block your access. Here’s a detailed guide to unblock websites using a VPN:
Set up your VPN service
Choose and subscribe to a reliable VPN provider like NordVPN, then download and install the application on your device.
Launch and sign in
Open NordVPN and sign in to your account using your credentials.
Select your server
From the server list, choose a location where your desired website is accessible and click Connect.
Access blocked content
Open your preferred web browser and visit the previously blocked website.
Best VPNs to Unblock Websites
While the market has no shortage of VPN services, not all of them can effectively deal with stringent website restrictions. To help you find the best option for your needs, I tested over a dozen of the leading providers following our comprehensive methodology to give you the three best:
1. NordVPN – Best VPN to Unblock Websites Overall
If you want access to virtually any blocked website or service, NordVPN is the best option. It has a global network of over 6,800 servers and uses the fast and highly secure NordLynx protocol to tunnel your traffic and mask your location. In addition, NordVPN offers Onion over VPN servers, which lets you bypass restrictions via the Tor network without having to download and install a separate browser.
2. Surshark – Fastest VPN to Bypass Website Blocks
Surfshark is the fastest VPN I’ve tested, making it an excellent choice for unblocking gaming and streaming websites. The provider also operates under a strict no-logs policy, so your privacy is always guaranteed. Plus, you get the Camoflague Mode feature, which hides the fact that you’re using a VPN and makes quick work of network restrictions.
3. ExpressVPN – Most Secure VPN for Website Unblocking
As arguably the most secure VPN on this list, ExpressVPN employs military-grade encryption to secure your traffic, plus advanced location and IP masking features to bypass any website block on any network. It also uses a proprietary Lighway protocol, which is based on WireGuard and ensures great performance for bandwidth-intensive activities without sacrificing security.
How to Use a Proxy to Unblock Websites
A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet, routing your traffic through a different location to bypass geo-restrictions and network blocks.
While proxies are often free and don’t require software installation, they lack encryption and can expose your data to security risks. They also tend to be slower and less reliable than VPNs, with frequent connection drops and limited server options.
If you decide to take this route, here’s how to set up a proxy:
- Find a reliable proxy. Visit established proxy services like KProxy through their official website or install their browser extension for easier access.
- Access and configure. If using an extension, click the icon and select your server location. For web-based proxies, enter your blocked website’s URL into the proxy service’s address bar, choose a server location, and adjust available privacy settings like cookie blocking.
- Connect and browse. Start browsing through your chosen proxy connection.
However, for a more secure and reliable solution, consider using proxy browser extensions from trusted VPN providers like NordVPN and Surfshark. These add-ons offer better security, faster speeds, and more reliable connections while maintaining the simplicity of a proxy service.
How to Unblock Websites With The Tor Browser
The Tor Browser provides anonymous web access by routing your traffic through a network of volunteer-operated servers, effectively bypassing website blocks and hiding your identity.
While Tor offers strong privacy features and is free to use, it has some drawbacks, like notably slower connection speeds and potential blocks by websites that restrict Tor traffic.
Here’s how to get started with the Tor Browser:
- Download and install the Tor browser. Visit the official Tor Project website and download the appropriate version for your operating system. Follow the standard installation process to set up the browser.
- Launch and connect. Launch the browser and connect to the Tor network – this initial connection may take a few moments while it establishes secure routing.
- Start browsing. Once connected, enter the URL of the blocked website you want to visit. The Tor Browser will automatically route your traffic through its secure network to access the site.
Can I Unblock Websites on a School Chromebook?
School Chromebooks typically have administrator restrictions that prevent installing unauthorized software and changing network settings. Additionally, school networks often employ multiple layers of content filtering and security measures.
However, there are still ways to access blocked websites safely and responsibly. The most reliable method is using a VPN that offers Chrome browser extensions.
Based on my testing, NordVPN stands out as the best option for school environments due to its strong security features and ability to work with Chrome OS restrictions. Its browser extension is particularly effective since it doesn’t require software installation.
For more detailed information, check out our comprehensive guide on the best VPNs for school.
Other Ways to Bypass Basic Website Blocks
While VPNs remain the most reliable method for unblocking websites, you can go for alternative approaches if dealing with basic website blockers.
Here are the main ones:
- Use IP Address Instead of Domain Name – Every website has a numerical IP address alongside its domain name. Enter the site’s IP address in your browser’s address bar instead of the domain name. For example, use 216.58.223.78 instead of google.com. You can find the IP using Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac) by typing “ping website.com”.
- Switch to HTTPS – Some networks only block the HTTP versions of websites. Simply add “s” to the “http://” in the website address to try accessing the secure version of the site.
- Access Cached Versions – View a saved version of the website through Google Cache or the Wayback Machine. Simply add “cache:” before the URL in Google search or visit archive.org to access older versions of websites.
- Use URL Shorteners – Services like TinyURL and Bitly can sometimes bypass basic URL filters. Create a shortened version of the blocked website’s address and try accessing it through the new link.
- Mobile Hotspot – If available, use your phone’s mobile hotspot instead of the restricted network. This bypasses network-level restrictions and is a good workaround for school networks, but it may use significant mobile data. If you want to add extra security measures to this method, check out our guide to the best VPNs for mobile.
Is It Legal to Unblock Websites?
The legality of unblocking websites depends on your location, the type of content you’re accessing, and the context of the restriction. While using tools like VPNs and proxies is generally legal in most countries, how you use them determines their legality.
Using unblocking tools for accessing geo-restricted services, bypassing ISP restrictions, protecting online privacy, or accessing educational resources falls within legal boundaries.
However, these tools become illegal when used to access copyrighted content without permission or circumvent government censorship in countries where VPNs are banned, such as China.
You should also be careful when using these tools on school and workplace networks. Bypassing network restrictions in these environments might violate acceptable use policies, terms of service agreements, employment contracts, or school regulations.
Conclusion
Website restrictions limit your access to important online resources and content, but there are several effective solutions for bypassing these blocks safely and legally. While alternative methods like proxy servers and basic URL modifications can work for simple restrictions, a VPN remains the most reliable and secure option for accessing blocked websites.
VPNs provide comprehensive protection through encrypted connections while unblocking restricted content. NordVPN stands out for its robust security features, extensive server network, and user-friendly applications. Whether dealing with geo-restrictions, network blocks, or content filtering, it offers a reliable solution that ensures both access and privacy.
