The internet might seem wide open, but it certainly has ways of keeping some websites or services out of users’ reach. But fret not! You can always get around these restrictions — no matter if you’re dealing with a forum ban, a game server ban, or a block from streaming services. Below you’ll find how to bypass IP bans and navigate the web smoothly and hassle-free.
What Does IP Ban Mean?
In short, getting an IP ban means that a website or an online service has blocked your IP address and denied you access. This may happen for one or numerous reasons, the most common being:
- Violating a website’s terms of service
- Spamming or abusive behavior
- Exceeding access limits
- Geographic restrictions
How to Bypass an IP Ban
For many, the reality of an IP ban is quite frustrating when it hits, especially if it happens on a site or internet service that you really need to use. However, as mentioned earlier, you can work your way around these restrictions. Some effective ways to do so include the following:
1. Reboot Your Router To Get a New IP
Most ISPs assign dynamic IP addresses to their customers. This may mean that you simply need to restart your router to get assigned a new one. Here’s how:
- Switch your modem/ router off
- Pull the plug out and wait for 10-15 minutes (although it might take a little longer in some cases)
- Plug it back in and reboot
- Check if your IP address has changed using sites like whatismyip.com.
2. Use a VPN
The easiest method to use to bypass a ban would be a virtual private metwork. This tool reroutes the user’s traffic from another server, changing the user’s actual IP address. This way, the user can manage to access blocked websites without detection.
With a VPN, a user can change their IP and also encrypt their data for better privacy and security. This often involves frequent server switches, though, since some websites in turn block known VPN IPs.
3. Use a Proxy Server
A proxy server acts as a middle man between the user and the internet. It’s capable of hiding or masking a user’s actual IP address. There are several types of proxies you could use, which include:
- Residential Proxies
- Datacenter Proxies
- Mobile proxies
- ISP proxies
- Rotating proxies
Some websites block VPN and proxy traffic but allow residential IPs. Fortunately, residential proxies will assign you an IP that looks like a regular home internet connection. This makes it much harder for websites to detect and block your traffic.
4. Use Tor (The Onion Router)
Fortunately, Tor network is free, anonymous access to the web where you hide your IP address from others. Once you go into the Tor browser, it takes you to every connection via various nodes, thus it’s not easy for a website to keep track of it. However, some services block known Tor exit nodes, and Tor can be slower than VPNs or proxies due to multiple relays.
5. Connect to a Different Network
If possible, switching to a different network can help bypass an IP ban. This technique assigns you a different IP address without the need for additional software. For example:
- Instead of using Wi-Fi, hotspot your phone’s mobile data
- Connect via a public Wi-Fi network, for instance, a coffee shop
- Ask your friend or neighbor if you can use their internet for some time
6. Contact the Website or Service
If you find that a ban was unfair or a mistake, reaching out to the website’s support team may prove helpful. Other websites do have an appeals process where you can request a review of your ban.
Things to Avoid When Bypassing an IP Ban
While you actually can bypass an IP ban, there are some risks and things to bear in mind:
- Avoid shady or free VPNs/Proxies: Many free services log your data or inject malware/ads
- Respect website rules: If you were banned for breaking terms of service, bypassing the ban could result in a harsher penalty
- Don’t engage in illegal activities: Bypassing an IP ban should be for ethical and legal reasons, such as accessing region-locked content or overcoming unjust restrictions.
Final Thoughts
An IP ban may be infuriating for many users, but it doesn’t mean loss of access forever. The same can be lifted through a variety of ways including restarting your router, using a VPN, or using a proxy. What is most appropriate depends on the user’s needs. A VPN provides perfect security and privacy, however, changing the network or using a proxy could be faster ways of accessing it just as easily.
