Although YouTube is one of the most popular websites in the world, occasionally users are unable to access it. Schools, companies, and in certain countries, internet restrictions may ban it. Many strategies work well to unblock YouTube so you may see your favourite videos. This post will outline 7 simple methods for unblocking YouTube.
Table of Contents
1. Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is among the most effective methods for unblocking YouTube. By rerouting your internet traffic through a new location, a VPN establishes a secure connection. Your device receives a new IP address from a different region when you connect to a VPN. This gives the impression that you are viewing YouTube from a location where it is not prohibited.
Steps to Use a VPN:
- On your smartphone, download and install a VPN program.
- Launch the application and choose a server located in a nation where YouTube is available.
- After making the VPN connection, go to YouTube. You ought to be able to access it now.
By encrypting your data and shielding your online activities from prying eyes, VPNs also provide privacy.
2. Proxy Websites
A proxy works similarly to a VPN but is often simpler to use. Proxy websites act as a middleman between you and YouTube. When you visit a proxy website, you can enter the URL for YouTube, and the proxy will load it for you. This allows you to bypass blocks on YouTube.
Steps to Use a Proxy:
- Search for a reliable proxy website (many are free).
- Go to the proxy site and enter “www.youtube.com” in the search bar.
- The proxy will load YouTube for you, letting you browse and watch videos.
However, proxies may not offer the same level of security as VPNs, and they can be slower.
3. Browser Extensions
There are browser extensions made to unblock websites like YouTube. These extensions are simple to install and activate. Once installed, they work by routing your browser traffic through servers where YouTube is accessible.
Steps to Use a Browser Extension:
- Search for an unblocking extension in your browser’s extension store.
- After installing it, turn on the extension on your browser.
- Once it’s active, go to YouTube and enjoy your videos.
Many of these extensions work like a mini-VPN, but only for your browser traffic.
4. Using TOR Browser
Through the use of several servers located all over the world, TOR (The Onion Router) is a unique web browser that allows you to conceal your identity and location. It permits access to YouTube and other restricted websites. Although TOR is renowned for its anonymity qualities, it occasionally lags behind competing approaches.
Steps to Use TOR:
- Install the TOR browser by downloading it from the official website.
- The moment you launch the browser, the TOR network will be automatically accessible.
- You should be able to access YouTube by using the TOR browser to navigate there.
TOR is frequently used to see websites that are restricted in some nations.
5. Use a Mobile Hotspot
If YouTube is prohibited on the Wi-Fi at your place of employment or school, you can use your mobile data to get around the restriction. You can set up a personal hotspot on most smartphones so that your computer and other devices may connect to it. If the restriction is specific to your Wi-Fi network, this solution will function.
Steps to Use a Mobile Hotspot:
- Turn on the mobile hotspot option on your smartphone.
- Use the hotspot Wi-Fi on your phone to connect your PC or tablet.
- To view YouTube, use the data on your phone.
While this method is straightforward, it makes use of your mobile data, which is subject to limitations based on your data plan.
6. Change DNS Settings
The DNS (Domain Name System) of the network occasionally blocks YouTube. You can get around these bans by switching the DNS settings on your device to a public DNS, such as Google’s DNS. Your computer uses the DNS to determine where to access websites like YouTube, and you can circumvent restrictions by altering it.
Steps to Change DNS:
- Access the network settings on your device.
- Switch to 8.8.8.8, which is Google’s public DNS server, or another public DNS server.
- Try accessing YouTube once more after saving your settings.
Changing your DNS can be a useful way to get around basic YouTube bans.
7. Use a Different Browser
Sometimes, YouTube may be blocked in certain browsers but not others. Changing to an alternative browser can enable you to get around the barrier. For example, if YouTube is blocked in Chrome, you might still be able to access it through Firefox, Opera, or Microsoft Edge.
Steps to Use a Different Browser:
- Download and install an alternate browser.
- Launch the updated browser and attempt to access YouTube.
Even though it’s not always effective, this strategy is worth attempting if the block appears to be browser-specific.
Conclusion
It turns out to be quite simple to unblock YouTube. There are numerous methods for getting around restrictions and accessing YouTube, including utilizing a VPN, proxy, browser extension, TOR, or adjusting your DNS settings. Pick the approach that best suits your needs as each offers advantages.
Though unblocking YouTube is generally legal, always make sure you’re not breaking any laws in your area or at work. You can enjoy YouTube material anywhere and at any time now that you are aware of these techniques.
FAQs
1. Is it legal to unblock YouTube?
In most cases, it’s legal to unblock YouTube, but it depends on the country and network you’re using. Always check local laws and network policies before unblocking YouTube.
2. Which method is the fastest for unblocking YouTube?
Using a VPN or browser extension is usually the fastest way to unblock YouTube, as they are easy to set up and provide quick access.
3. Can using a VPN slow down YouTube?
Yes, the additional step of passing your traffic through a different server while utilizing a VPN can occasionally cause your connection to lag. Still, fast speeds are typically maintained using a top-notch VPN.
4. Is it Safe to Use Free Proxies?
Not every free proxy is secure. Some might reveal your information to others or cybercriminals. For increased security, it is preferable to use reputable, paid services.
5. Can I unblock YouTube on my school Wi-Fi?
Yes, using methods like VPNs, proxies, or mobile hotspots can help you bypass restrictions on school Wi-Fi and access YouTube. However, be mindful of school rules and policies.