Having trouble accessing the content on a popular streaming platform even after using a VPN? Well, streaming services use several methods to block your access even if you install VPN and use it to stream the content. In this article, we will learn about the ways they detect and block the VPN and how to bypass the restrictions. So, stay tuned till the end the get all the details
Top 5 Ways To Detect VPN
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Using GPS Data
When you try to access the content on streaming services that have geo-location restrictions, then you should opt for a PC/ laptop rather than a tablet or smartphone. Smartphones access and store a lot of personal data which includes your current GPS location which is not recorded by your PC or laptop.
So, the streaming platform checks and verifies your IP address with the GPS address to check whether you are using a VPN service or not. If both the addresses match then they will conclude that you are in the current region. However, if the IP address location is different from the GPS location then they will probably know that you are using a VPN and block you from accessing their content.
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Port Blocking
When you try to find anything on the internet, you are basically sending data to the server of that particular website. For example, if you are searching for movies on Netflix, then you are sending data to the Netflix server from your device.
The server of the website has different ports that accept specific data that is predefined with proper protocols. For example, most of the websites accept the HTTP data on port number 80 while port 443 is used to accept the data for HTTPS.
So, if a streaming platform wants to block and avoid the access of users using a VPN, they can block port 1723 on their server. However, there are several ways to bypass this restriction, and using a VPN is one of the top options. Decent VPN services scramble the data from your device and disguise it as HTTP traffic to bypass this restriction.
Besides all this, streaming platforms have to block several ports to prevent VPN users from accessing the site which can block legitimate users from accessing their content.
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Deep Packet Inspection
Deep Packet Inspection(DPI) is a more advanced method used by some streaming services and ISPs (Internet Service Providers) to detect VPN traffic. DPI involves analyzing the data packets passing through the network to identify characteristics that are typical of VPN traffic. If your traffic exhibits these patterns, it can raise red flags and lead to access restrictions.
For example, if you are using the HTTP port to send the VPN traffic, the ISP or streaming platform can detect it and stop it. One of the best methods to avoid this situation and bypass this advanced verification method is to opt for a decent VPN service that comes with excellent clocking technology. Surfshark is a safe option that has servers in 100+ countries and encrypts your data so that the ISP and other streaming platforms cannot detect you by decrypting the data.
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Checking And Verifying The DNS Information
When you are using a VPN to access a platform that comes with geo-location restrictions, you are changing your DNS information with the IP address. However, some streaming services are able to override the DNS settings and get the actual information.
Nevertheless, Surfshark offers a safe option with DNS blocking. It uses a private DNS to bypass the block and allow you to gain access to the content on the streaming sites. Moreover, it even hides your online activities and offers excellent speed while streaming the content on the popular options.
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IP Blacklisting
Another common way to block VPN users by streaming services is by blocklisting the IP addresses that are used by several VPN services. Popular streaming platforms maintain extensive lists of IP addresses that are associated with the VPN providers. Moreover, the lists are constantly updated as VPN providers add or change their server locations. If a streaming service identifies that your IP address matches one on its blacklist, it will block your access. However, this is pretty common with the free VPN options available on the internet.
One of the easiest ways to get around this block is by using a good and paid VPN service like Surfshark. The VPN services update the IP address frequently which further makes it pretty hard for the streaming platforms to identify the IP address of the VPN and block it.
The Final Verdict
The battle between streaming services and VPN users continues to evolve, with each side employing increasingly sophisticated methods. If you are relying on free VPNs, then you may not be able to bypass these blocks and gain access to the content of the streaming platform with geographically based restrictions. However, with a premium option like Surfshark, you can mask your IP address, enjoy robust encryption, and several other perks.
