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Obfuscated servers

Bypass internet restrictions with NordVPN.

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obfuscated servers

What are obfuscated servers?

hiding from isp

Obfuscated servers are specialized VPN servers that hide the fact that you’re using a VPN to reroute your traffic. They allow users to connect to a VPN even in heavily restrictive environments.

When you connect to a regular VPN server, your ISP can’t see where you go online. But it knows that you’re using a VPN from the way your data looks. However, if you connect to an obfuscated server, it changes your data packets. Therefore, tools that are meant to block VPN traffic let it pass. No one notices you’re using a VPN, unless they inspect your data packets manually.

How do obfuscated servers work?

jump over firewall

Obfuscated servers are used to bypass VPN-blocking firewalls. To do that, a VPN provider must remove all information related to a VPN from your data so that it looks like regular data packets.

VPN providers can obfuscate data in a few different ways. For example, data packets can be hidden using additional SSL/SSH encryption so that all the VPN metadata is out of sight. Think of it as encryption to conceal your encryption.

Data can also be scrambled, hiding the metadata from the packet header. This way, it looks like regular HTTPS traffic filled with meaningless information. Firewalls can’t recognize it, so they let it pass.

Who should use obfuscated servers?

Obfuscated servers are not intended for casual use. So when and why should you use them?

firewall

To bypass VPN blocks


Some internal networks, ISPs, and even countries might ban VPN usage. Obfuscated servers will help you bypass these restrictions. Once you connect, firewalls and VPN blocks won’t be able to recognize that your traffic is coming from a VPN server.
security shield

To protect yourself


Journalists and political activists often depend on a safe internet connection. If you’re dealing with delicate information while working in a heavily restricted area, using obfuscated servers will help you connect and stay safe.

How to connect to NordVPN’s obfuscated servers

1

First, open the NordVPN app, go to Settings, select Auto-connect, and make sure that you’re using the OpenVPN protocol.

2

Then, select Advanced and toggle the button next to Obfuscated servers.

3

Finally, go back to the world map, click Quick connect, and you’ll be connected to the best server for you.

If you decide to use obfuscated servers, you might also want to set up the automatic Kill Switch to stay safe no matter what. It will block a specific app or your entire device from accessing the web in case your VPN connection drops. Learn more about it.

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