YouTube is the most popular video sharing platform on the internet. But sometimes you may encounter the dreaded “This video is not available in your country” message when trying to access certain videos.
Getting around these frustrating geographic restrictions is thankfully straightforward with the right tools and techniques.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the main methods for unblocking videos on YouTube from anywhere in the world.
YouTube video blocking occurs for a variety of reasons:
Copyright issues – Media companies can request that YouTube block certain videos in specific countries due to licensing or copyright grounds.
Censorship – Some governments block videos that are deemed offensive or inappropriate. China and Iran are examples of countries that censor a lot of YouTube content.
Companies and Institutions – Schools, colleges, workplaces often restrict access to YouTube through their network firewalls and filters.
Video Owners – Uploaders sometimes geo-restrict their videos to only be viewable in certain countries.
Internet Service Providers – ISPs can throttle or block access to YouTube altogether in some instances.
The good news is there are multiple proven techniques you can use to bypass these restrictions and unblock YouTube from anywhere. The main methods include:
Using a VPN
Changing DNS settings
Proxy sites and tools
Browser extensions
Let’s explore each of these in more detail.
Method 1: Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the most reliable way to unblock blocked videos and access YouTube from anywhere. Here’s a quick overview of how to use a VPN for YouTube access:
Choose a stable VPN service – Look for VPNs that offer consistent fast speeds, unlimited bandwidth and a large server network. Top options include ExpressVPN, NordVPN and CyberGhost.
Create an account – Download the VPN app, create an account and subscribe to the service.
Connect to a server in another country – Connect to a server location that allows access to YouTube. The US and UK are good choices.
Ensure your internet traffic routes through the VPN – Configure your device to have all online activity routed through the encrypted VPN tunnel.
Access the blocked YouTube video – You can now search for and watch blocked videos as your IP address appears to be coming from the country of the selected VPN server.
The key strengths of using a VPN for unblocking YouTube are:
It works consistently across all devices like desktop, phones, smart TVs etc.
VPNs encrypt your browsing activity to keep it private and secure.
You can bypass geographic blocks for many other streaming sites and services too.
When choosing a VPN for unblocking YouTube, look for ones that offer fast connection speeds. This ensures smooth HD video playback. Also check that the VPN offers strong encryption and doesn’t keep usage logs.
Popular top-rated VPNs include:
ExpressVPN: This provider ensures swift internet connections, with a vast network extending to 160 cities in 105 countries. It’s a formidable option for accessing YouTube from any location.
NordVPN: Flaunting impressive speed, NordVPN’s service is spread across more than 6000 servers in 60 countries, offering consistent access to YouTube wherever you are.
CyberGhost: With a focus on simplicity and an expansive network featuring over 10,000 servers in 100 countries, CyberGhost navigates around regional restrictions on YouTube with ease.
Method 2: Using Proxy Servers
A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. When you connect via a proxy server, websites will see the proxy’s IP address instead of your own real IP address. This allows you to browse the web more anonymously and access blocked content.
Here are the main types of proxy servers:
Browser proxy add-ons – These configure your web browser to route its traffic through a proxy server. They are quick and easy to set up.
Web-based proxies – You connect by entering the proxy URL in your browser. No software install needed, but can be slow.
SOCKS proxies – Route all your device’s traffic through the proxy. Fast speeds but more complex to configure.
The advantage of proxies is they are free options for accessing geo-restricted YouTube videos. However, many public proxies can be slow, unreliable, insecure, and get blocked by YouTube quickly. For best results, look for reputable private/paid proxy services.
Method 3: Use Browser Extensions
There are various browser extensions and add-ons designed specifically for unblocking YouTube. These work by modifying the browser’s default geolocation settings and routing your traffic through proxy servers.
Some popular options include:
TubeUnblock: A Chrome extension that allows users to watch YouTube videos embedded on any webpage, though specific global unblocking capabilities and a 1-click feature were not confirmed from available sources.
ZenMate: Available as an extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera, it is described as fast and lightweight, with a one-click installation offering quick proxy connections.
Hola: Although Hola’s paid version can unblock popular streaming sites, its free version is not recommended due to security concerns. Furthermore, Google has removed its Chrome extension and Android app for containing malware.
The benefit of using browser extensions to unblock YouTube is that it requires no VPN subscription. The extensions are free and easy to toggle on and off as needed. However, performance can sometimes be inconsistent, and they offer little encryption.
Conclusion
There are several effective methods you can use to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock blocked videos on YouTube:
Using a VPN is the most reliable and secure option. It works on all devices and encrypts your browsing activity.
Proxy servers offer free but slower and less secure YouTube access. Look for paid private proxies for best performance.
Browser extensions are quick and free. However, be aware they route your traffic through public proxies with minimal encryption.
With all these handy tools and techniques, getting around annoying YouTube blocking is thankfully straightforward. A little effort goes a long way towards being able to seamlessly watch any blocked video or clip on YouTube from anywhere worldwide. Just choose the unblocking method that best suits your needs and enjoy YouTube without borders once again!
