How to unblock Spotify: 5 easy methods

Why can’t you access Spotify?

When you're in the mood for your favorite music, finding Spotify blocked can be a really frustrating experience. But it’s not always Spotify’s or your fault. In fact, two big reasons exist why Spotify might be blocked for you:

• School or work restrictions. Many institutions block streaming services to save bandwidth or minimize distractions. If, for example, you're struggling to access Spotify on a school Chromebook or your work computer, chances are your administration has put network restrictions in place.
• Regional limitations. In some countries, Spotify isn’t available at all. It’s not because of Spotify’s choices, but due to national internet restriction policies. These restrictions can completely block access to streaming platforms like Spotify, either by limiting access to the app or preventing the site from loading altogether. If you're in a region with these kinds of limitations, it might seem like Spotify just doesn’t exist. However, with the right tools, you can still find a way to download Spotify and tune into your favorite playlist.

Either way, it doesn’t mean you have to live in silence. The methods below can help you get Spotify unblocked responsibly and quickly tune back in.

How to unblock Spotify

Here are five proven methods to get Spotify unblocked and start streaming your favorite songs right away.

Use a VPN

A VPN (virtual private network) is by far the most effective tool for getting Spotify unblocked. It routes your internet traffic through a secure tunnel and connects you to a remote VPN server. This way, it helps mask your IP address and encrypts your internet requests, making it appear as though you're browsing from a different place. 

It’s especially useful if you're travelling and still want to access your paid Spotify account at home. You can connect to a server in your home country, open Spotify, and continue using the service as usual. Most modern VPN apps are easy to install and let you choose a server location with just one click.

A good VPN also keeps your browsing safer on public Wi-Fi, making it an excellent option for students, travellers, or remote workers who want to keep their connection more secure. 

Use a proxy server

A proxy server is another way to route your connection through a different location. Unlike a VPN, it doesn’t encrypt your internet traffic, meaning it’s less secure. However, it can still help you get unrestricted access to Spotify, especially in schools or offices where network restrictions are in place.

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the Spotify website. When you connect through a proxy server, the proxy server sends the web request to Spotify on your behalf. Many proxy servers can be configured through your browser’s proxy settings, a browser extension, or you can use a manual proxy setup if you're more tech-savvy. Keep in mind, though, that proxy servers only route your browser’s traffic, not the entire device’s connection, so they only allow access to Spotify’s web player, not the desktop or mobile apps.

Some proxies may also not be capable of handling all Spotify features or high-quality streaming. But for quick access to your favourite songs during a study break, this method can work just fine, especially if you can’t or don’t want to install software, though VPN browser extensions are also available for this reason.

Use a mobile data hotspot

Sometimes the simplest solution can be just as effective. If your school or workplace Wi-Fi blocks Spotify, switching to mobile data can be one of the fastest and easiest ways to access the app. 

Just create a personal hotspot from your phone and connect your other device to it. And since your phone’s data connection doesn’t use the school or work network, you’ll avoid all blocks or filters in place. Keep an eye on your data usage, though, because streaming music can add up quickly, especially with high-quality audio settings.

Use a DNS server

Problems accessing the Spotify app can also be related to DNS (domain name system) network restrictions that prevent Spotify’s domain from resolving correctly. Schools and workplaces may block Spotify by redirecting or filtering DNS requests. Switching to a different DNS server can help get Spotify unblocked if certain network configurations restrict access to it.

Some smart DNS services are even specifically optimised for streaming services like Spotify. However, while this method can help with Spotify, it doesn’t offer the encryption benefits of a VPN.

Use a Spotify web player

Sometimes network filters only target apps or specific ports. If the Spotify app is blocked, try the Spotify web player in your browser instead. The browser-based version works just the same as the app version, except you won’t need to download anything. Simply visit the Spotify website, complete your Spotify login, and start streaming. It’s a good first step before trying more involved methods.

How can a VPN help keep you safer online when using Spotify? 

Beyond helping you unblock websites and apps like Spotify, a VPN can seriously improve your online safety, especially when using public or unsecured networks. These networks, such as those in cafes, airports, or hotels, are often targets for cybercriminals who try to intercept your browsing activity or steal your data.

A VPN protects you by routing all your internet traffic through one of many secure, remote VPN servers, encrypting it along the way. So even if someone manages to intercept it, they won't be able to read it.

Usually, when you visit a website, your internet service provider (ISP) sends your request straight to that site. But when you use a VPN, your request first goes through a secure VPN server, which then sends it to the website.

A VPN also masks your IP address and changes your virtual location to match the VPN server, making browsing more secure and reducing the risk of tracking or cyber threats. 

Plus, NordVPN’s additional Threat Protection Pro™ features, integrated directly into the app, take your cybersecurity a step higher. It blocks access to dangerous websites, scans downloads for malware, stops annoying ads, and prevents web trackers from collecting your personal information.