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How to unblock websites: 8 simple ways

Sometimes the internet isn't as open as it should be. Some websites get blocked by school or work networks, some are restricted by governments, and others may be off-limits depending on where you are. But whether you're trying to read the news, access educational resources, or find online communities, you should have the right to browse freely. In this guide, we'll cover safe, legal ways to unblock websites to access paid home subscriptions while traveling or legal local sources while at home.

Rustė Tervydytė | NordVPN

Rustė Tervydytė

Jun 19, 2025

10 min read

How to unblock websites 

Luckily, you can choose from several reliable methods to get around blocks. Find a full rundown below.

Disclaimer: We do not support or encourage any illegal activities (including accessing copyrighted material) when using NordVPN or any other means mentioned below. Please also ensure that your use of NordVPN complies with all applicable laws, agreements, and network policies.

1. Use a VPN

One of the safest ways to unblock websites restricted due to government censorship or technical issues is by using a VPN (virtual private network). A VPN reroutes your internet traffic through an encrypted server, masking your virtual location and IP address. The website you're visiting thinks your connection is coming from the VPN server, not your computer. That way, restrictions based on your IP address or network policies don't apply.

It works just as easily on your phone as it does on your computer. You can switch your virtual location in a few taps or clicks and get back to browsing freely.

Benefits:

  • Encrypts your traffic for better privacy and digital security
  • Bypasses most network blocks at school, work, or home
  • Works across mobile, desktop, and even through browser extensions

Keep in mind that quality VPNs are usually paid, and for a good reason. Free VPNs often come with slow speeds, limited features, or shady privacy practices. You can learn more by taking a look at our guide on the differences between free VPNs and paid VPNs.

2. Use a proxy server

If you need a fast way to unblock a site, especially while you’re not in your home country, a proxy server can get the job done. It acts as an intermediary between you and the website you want to visit. When you connect through a proxy, the website sees the proxy's IP, not yours. 

Benefits:

  • Easy to set up
  • Plenty of free options available

What to watch out for:

  • Most free proxies don't encrypt your traffic, so they're less secure.
  • Free proxies are slower and less reliable than a good VPN.

You can also take a look at our guide to learn more about differences between proxies and a VPN.

3. Use Tor Browser

Tor is a browser that routes your traffic through multiple volunteer-run servers, making it extremely difficult to track you. It is commonly used to access websites blocked due to government censorship or technical restrictions. Additionally, Tor can help users check sensitive information safely, such as verifying if their personal details have been leaked, without revealing their identity.

Benefits:

  • Strong privacy
  • Lets you access heavily restricted content

What to watch out for:

  • Browsing is much slower.
  • Some websites block Tor traffic altogether.
  • If you're on a school or work network, you may be blocked from downloading Tor.

4. Use a URL shortener

Sometimes, simply shortening the URL with services like Bitly can trick basic filters that block certain website addresses.

Benefits:

  • Fast and easy — no software needed

What to watch out for:

  • It only works if the block is based on simple URL detection.

5. Access with mobile data

If a Wi-Fi network (like at school or work) blocks certain websites, switching to your phone's mobile data can help you bypass local network restrictions. You can also set up a mobile hotspot if you need access on your computer.

Benefits:

  • Instant access — no apps or tools needed

What to watch out for:

  • This option eats into your data plan.
  • Your internet connection may be slower if your signal is weak.

6. Change your DNS servers

Sometimes blocks happen at the DNS level. Switching to a public DNS server like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS can help you get around it.

Benefits:

  • Can speed up your browsing
  • Can get past some ISP blocks

What to watch out for:

  • It won't work against all types of blocks.

How to do it:

  1. 1.Go to your device's network settings.
  2. 2.Find your DNS settings.
  3. 3.Manually set DNS to 8.8.8.8 (Google) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare).

7. Use Google Translate

It sounds weird, but it often works. Just drop a website URL into Google Translate, "translate" it, and you may sneak past the filter. It basically acts like a free, lightweight proxy.

Benefits:

  • A super simple trick with no apps or downloads needed

What to watch out for:

  • This trick doesn't always work.
  • The website layout may break.

8. Visit the website's IP address directly

Sometimes, filters block the domain name but not the actual IP address. If you access the site through its IP, you may dodge the block completely.

Benefits:

  • Quick workaround

What to watch out for:

  • It won't work if the server hosts multiple sites on one IP.

How to find a website's IP:

  1. 1.Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac).
  2. 2.Type "ping website.com"
  3. 3.Copy the IP address that pops up.

What is the best way to access a blocked website?

One of the best ways to unblock a website is by using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN unblocks websites quickly and encrypts your connection, protecting your personal data from snoopers, whether that’s your school’s IT admin or your internet service provider. A VPN is especially useful in countries with strict government censorship or technical restrictions that limit internet freedom. Additionally, if you want to access your usual content while abroad, a VPN can help you connect securely and maintain access from legal local sources while traveling.

How to choose the best VPN to unblock websites

Not all VPNs are the same. If you want to unblock websites restricted by government censorship or technical issues or to maintain secure access to your paid home subscription while traveling, look for:

  • Speed. No one likes a slow connection. Top VPNs keep your browsing fast.
  • Server variety. More servers in different countries mean more options for unblocking.
  • Privacy and security. Make sure the VPN keeps no logs of your web activity.
  • Paid over free. Keep in mind that free VPNs might log your data or have serious speed limitations.
  • Compatibility. Make sure it works across your devices: computers, phones, browsers.

NordVPN may be the best choice if you want a fast, secure, and easy way to access restricted websites. It ticks all the boxes above and offers specialty features for extra protection when you need it.

Access blocked sites safely with NordVPN.

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Why are websites blocked?

Websites get blocked for all kinds of reasons — some of these reasons make sense, while others are less logical. Here's what may be stopping you.

Government censorship

Some governments block access to news outlets, social media platforms, or political sites to control information flow. In places with tight media control, this can severely restrict human rights like freedom of expression.

Work or school policies

Many workplaces and schools restrict access to social media, gaming sites, and even news platforms. While sometimes this restriction is justified for productivity reasons, it can also overreach and block access to valuable resources.

If you're using your own PC for work or at school, a VPN is usually your best bet. If you're stuck on a shared machine and can't install software, try a browser-based workaround like a proxy or extension.

Technical issues

Not every block is intentional. DNS errors, misconfigured firewalls, or proxy mistakes can make websites inaccessible even if they aren't actually restricted.

It's also worth noting that some blocks happen for an entirely legitimate reason, and no VPN or other workaround will help:

  • Payment or subscription issues. If you haven't paid, the site won’t let you in. You'll need to renew or update your subscription.
  • Violation of terms of service. If you've been banned or blocked for policy violations, the methods above won't help.

Commonly blocked websites and services 

From social platforms to search engines, plenty of big-name websites and services get blocked around the world — sometimes by governments, sometimes by networks.

Pro tip: Service availability may vary depending on your country and the platform's own rules.

Commonly blocked websites 

Need access to a specific site? These guides walk you through how to unblock some of the most commonly restricted websites — a good starting point if you're hitting a wall:

Commonly blocked services 

It's not just websites — entire services can be restricted, especially streaming platforms and apps. These guides show you how to unblock paid home subscriptions while traveling or content from legal local sources while at home. 

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Rustė Tervydytė | NordVPN

Rustė Tervydytė

A certified geek, Ruste approaches every cybersecurity topic with curiosity and a knack for breaking down complex concepts. She's on a mission to make cybersecurity accessible, practical, and even a bit fun for readers.

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