what is Geo-blocking and how to bypass it

We live in a world where almost every digital platform is just a few clicks away. 

But here’s the catch: some websites and platforms are blocked depending on where you live. 

This is called geo-blocking. 

But why? Most of the time, it comes down to licensing restrictions. 

Take BBC iPlayer, for example – it’s only available in the UK.

But don’t worry, there’s a way around it. One simple trick is using SuperFree VPN to unblock any site – but we’ll get to that later. 

Let’s try to understand what is geo-blocking as well as the methods to bypass it.

What is Geo-Blocking/Geo-Restriction of Content?

Let’s start with the definition first – promise I won’t bore you!

Geo-blocking is when websites or online services stop people in certain countries, or even specific states, from seeing their content.

So, when you try to visit one of these sites, you might get an error message instead of the page you were hoping for – frustrating, isn’t it?

Here’s a real-life example of geo-blocking:

Disney+ Hotstar is a well-known streaming platform, but only users in India can watch its content – it does not have the license to show content in any other region

This means that if you live in Australia – just for reference – you’ll just see an error message like this:

Hotstar + Disney Access Denied Error

Source: Hotstar

Watch Disney+ Hotstar in Australia

How Does Geo-Blocking Work?

The next question in your mind must be: How does geo-blocking actually work?

Or in other words, what happens when you try to access a service blocked in your region?

I will explain this process in three steps – just stick with me and you will get the idea.

Suppose you live in Australia and want to access content on the BBC iPlayer. 

Unfortunately, its content is only available in the UK.

Here’s what will happen once you visit the link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer.

  • Your device (laptop/smartphone) sends a request to the server hosting this service.
  • The server detects your IP address and figures out your location.
  • Since your IP shows you’re in Australia, access is blocked – you will receive an error message instead.
BBC iPlayer Error Message because of geo-blocking

Source: BBC iPlayer

Unblock BBC iPlayer in Australia

The following image will provide a clearer picture for you:

How geo-blocking works

How Can You Bypass Geo-Restrictions?

Suppose there is a new TV season released on Hulu that you were desperately waiting for.

But there’s a big problem: you cannot stream the content since your IP address will prove you are not in the USA.

This brings us to the most pressing question: how can you bypass such geo-restrictions? 

I will explain three common methods to make life easier for you.

1. Proxy Servers

Acting as a kind of middleman between the website’s server and your device, Proxy servers hide your actual IP address.

It hides your real IP address, which helps protect your privacy and lets you get around geo-restrictions.

But compared to a VPN, proxies are a bit basic – they offer fewer features and aren’t as secure.

Key AttributesProsCons
IP MaskingAccess to Restricted ContentOffer Limited Security
Access ControlFaster Internet SpeedNot Completely Foolproof
Content FilteringEnhanced PrivacyLack of Data Encryption

2. Tor Browser

Another way of bypassing geo-restrictions is by using the Tor browser. 

Its multiplatform support means you can install it on your laptop, smartphone, or tablet, etc. 

The principle remains the same – it encrypts the traffic and hides the actual IP address of your device.

The goal? Ensuring online anonymity to help you access services blocked in your region.

Keep in mind, however, that the Tor network is slower in comparison to proxy servers and VPNs.

So, if you are planning on performing tasks requiring high speeds, it might not be the perfect solution for you.

Tor Browser

Source: Tor

And this brings us to the next method: Virtual Private Network – stick with me and I will explain in detail in the next section.

3.  Virtual Private Network (VPN)

What if there were a simple and effective application to mask your device’s IP address?

Well, this is exactly what VPNs do: they change your IP address to make the server believe you are accessing the website from a different location.

Installing a VPN is the easiest and simplest way to access services blocked in your region.

Key AttributesProsCons
IP MaskingOnline Data ProtectionIllegal in some countries
Data EncryptionAccess to Location-Specific ContentThe device’s battery drains faster
Automatic DisconnectionBandwidth SavingsMany free VPNs offer a false sense of security
GeoSpooingSecure Public WiFi UsageCompatibility Issues

Based on my experience, I recommend downloading a premium VPN – such as SuperFree VPN – for bypassing geo-restrictions.

Want to Bypass Geo-Blocking?

Bypassing Geo-Restrictions Using SuperFree VPN: A Simple Guide

Suppose you live in Canada and want to watch your favorite Indian TV show on JioCinema. Unfortunately for you, this streaming platform is only available in India.

But don’t worry! I will show you how to access JioCinema without any additional cost.

how to use SuperFree VPN

Follow these five steps to access JioCinema with SuperFree VPN.

1. Download the SuperFree VPN. 

[Internal Link to Download Page Here]

2. After the download is complete, open the file for installation.

3. Sign up using your email address. 

4. Connect to an Indian server.

5. To complete the process, visit JioCinema’s official website, using this link https://h5.jiocinema.com/, and you are set to watch content of your choice.

JioCinema Main Page

Source: JioCinema

Is It Legal To Bypass Geo-Blocking? [Short Answer: Yes]

Yes, it’s legal to use a proxy service or VPN to bypass geo-blocking in most countries.

However, a few countries have strict laws regarding the use of VPN to access blocked content.

The list of these countries includes China, Russia, Iran, UAE, and North Koreawell, no surprises here!

Also, keep in mind this practice goes against the terms and conditions of most streaming platforms – but at least you are not breaking the law!

Why SuperFree VPN is the Best Choice to Bypass Geo-Restrictions?

There are literally hundreds of VPNs out there, so now the question is: what makes SuperFree VPN stand out from the rest?

Keep on reading, and you will get the answer:

Features of SuperFree VPNDescription
Fast Connection SpeedWith no buffering, it keeps things fast, simple, and smooth
Free of CostUnlike other VPNs, it offers premium services without costing you a dollar.
User-Friendly InterfaceWith one click, you can connect to any server of your choice
Focus on User SecurityWant strong encryption and zero data tracking? You can trust this tool
Servers of 40+ CountriesIt has got servers in more than 40 countries – connect to any server from anywhere.
No AdsEnjoy an ad-free experience and avoid distractions

Final Words

Sometimes, you just can’t access your favorite site because of geo-restrictions – yeah, it’s very frustrating.

But the good news? There are ways to get around it – installing VPNs is one such method.

And honestly, SuperFree VPN is the best option out there. It’s simple, reliable, and totally free.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a proxy and a VPN?

The main purpose of a proxy server is to hide your IP address. VPN goes one step further and also protects your data with encryption.

2. Can I watch Hulu using SuperFree VPN?

Absolutely! Just open the application, connect to a USA server, and stream any content you like.

3. Why can’t I watch BBC iPlayer in Canada?

Licensing restrictions mean BBC iPlayer is only available to the UK audience. If you are in Canada, you can connect to a UK server using SuperFree VPN and unblock this streaming platform.

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