How to Watch Blocked YouTube
YouTube is one of the most popular video platforms worldwide. However, in recent times, many users worldwide have encountered issues: the site might not load at all, or videos may take forever to buffer.
This article explores the best ways to access YouTube without a VPN or with a VPN and offers some alternatives to the platform.
How to Watch YouTube Without a VPN
1. Using a Proxy
A proxy server redirects your internet traffic, masking your IP address with the server's IP. This makes it appear like you're accessing the internet from the server's location, such as the US or Australia.
Proxies allow you to bypass restrictions and access YouTube without a VPN. However, they lack VPNs' robust encryption protocols and offer limited data security.
2. Using DNS Services
DNS (Domain Name System) translates a website's domain name into the IP address required to connect to its server. Internet providers can block access to YouTube by redirecting DNS requests to a page showing a restriction notice. Switching to third-party DNS servers can bypass this.
DNS services are simple to configure and don't require extra software. However, they may not support encryption and are generally less effective than VPNs or proxies.
3. Using Tor
Tor (The Onion Router) is a network of volunteer-run servers that encrypt and reroute your internet traffic through multiple nodes. This ensures anonymity and protects against surveillance.
Tor is not beginner-friendly and significantly slows down your connection. Additionally, the Tor Browser doesn't save login sessions, so you must log in to YouTube every time you use it.
How to Watch YouTube With a VPN
A VPN is one of the most effective tools for accessing YouTube and protecting online data. It hides your IP address, replacing it with the IP of the VPN server you connect to while encrypting all traffic. BlancVPN uses four advanced encrypting protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, V2Ray, and Outline (Shadowsocks).
Steps to Enable VPN for YouTube
- Subscribe to a Reliable VPN Service. Choose a fast and stable VPN. For instance, BlancVPN offers speeds up to 2 Gbps, perfect for streaming YouTube in 4K without buffering. Free VPNs often lack speed, impose traffic limits, and provide weaker security.
- Install the VPN Client. Download and set up the VPN app on your preferred device. BlancVPN works on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can also set it up on Smart TVs or routers to cover all devices on your home Wi-Fi network.
- Select a Server Location. BlancVPN has 35 servers across the US, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Pick a location that works best for you.
Contact BlancVPN's support team if needed via Telegram bot or online chat on our website. We are ready to assist you if you encounter issues with installation, configuration, or payments.
Other popular VPN options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost. BlancVPN stands out for its affordable price.
What to Do if YouTube Doesn't Work With a VPN
Sometimes YouTube does not work even with an enabled VPN. What are the reasons for this, and what to do about it:
- VPN Server or Protocol is Blocked. Blocking VPN servers is a standard method of restricting VPN services, but it requires much effort. It is more effective to block the whole protocol. For example, in 2022, the Russian government disabled the IPSec, L2TP, and IKEv2 protocols and, thus, all the services that use them. BlancVPN works with modern alternatives like V2Ray, Outline, WireGuard, and OpenVPN.
Solution: Switch to a server in another country or change the protocol.
- Incorrect location. YouTube won't work if you connect to a server in a country where it's blocked too (e.g., China).
Solution: Choose a server in Europe or the US.
- Cache and Cookies Issues. If you want to watch a YouTube web version, your browsers may store cached data or cookies that interfere with access.
Solution: Clear your browser's cache and cookies, or try incognito mode.
- Slow Internet Speed. VPNs reduce connection speed due to encryption and rerouting. If it slows down too much, videos will take longer to load, and YouTube may seem frozen.
Solution: Use a high-speed VPN and ensure your internet connection is stable.
Alternatives to YouTube
Dailymotion
Dailymotion is a global video platform that allows users to upload, share, and view videos. It offers various content in multiple languages, including news, entertainment, and sports. Dailymotion can be accessed in regions where YouTube is blocked.
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Odysee
Odysee is a decentralized video platform built on blockchain technology. It provides a censorship-resistant space for creators and viewers, making it especially popular in regions with restrictive internet policies.
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Vimeo
Vimeo is a platform tailored for professional content creators, such as filmmakers, animators, and designers. Known for its high-quality streaming and ad-free experience, Vimeo is a top choice for those seeking a polished video-sharing environment.
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FAQ
How Do I Watch YouTube Without a VPN?
- Proxy: Easy to use but offers limited security.
- DNS Services: Simple to set up but less effective for bypassing restrictions.
- Tor: Provides anonymity but slows your connection significantly.
How Do I Watch YouTube With a VPN?
- Choose a reliable VPN service.
- Install the app on your device.
- Select the nearest server.
- Contact support if you encounter issues.
What If YouTube Doesn't Work With a VPN?
- Switch servers or encrypting protocols.
- Clear your browser's cache and cookies.
- Ensure your internet speed is sufficient and your VPN server uses high-speed protocols.
What Are the Best Alternatives to YouTube?
- Dailymotion: Global content available in multiple languages.
- Odysee: Decentralized platform for uncensored video sharing.
- Vimeo: High-quality, ad-free video streaming by filmmakers and animators.