Troubleshooting Access to Sites While Connected to TheHatVPN
In this digital era, the use of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) has become almost indispensable. They provide a secured pathway for your data to travel, ensuring your online privacy and security. However, there could be instances when you may face issues in accessing certain websites while connected to a VPN. In this substantial guide, we'll be
troubleshooting VPN
issues, providing practical solutions, and helping you to navigate the cyber world smoothly.
Why Certain Websites Are Inaccessible Via VPN
While you may be sipping your coffee and comfortably browsing your favorite websites, there could be moments when a particular website just won't load. Your VPN might be the culprit. But why does this happen?
The Role of Geo-blocking
One of the primary reasons is Geo-blocking, where some websites restrict access based on the geographical location of the user. This is mainly due to legal agreements or licensing contracts these websites have with their content providers. Some streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu are classic examples of this, they offer different content based on the location of the user.
IP Blocking by Websites
Another cause could be that the website you are trying to access is blocking VPN connections. Some websites block IP ranges suspected to be from VPNs to curb illegal activities or circumvent their policies. This is common with financial services like PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp, which use IP addresses for identifying users for legal purposes.
Technical Issues
Lastly, technical hitches like outdated security certificates, connectivity issues with the VPN server, or even issues running in the background of your device can also prevent website access.
Ways to Overcome VPN Blocks
There are several ways to work around VPN blocks, ensuring you have a smooth browsing experience.
Switch Servers
The first and easiest thing to do is to switch to another VPN server. The issue could be as simple as the website not wanting traffic from the server location you're currently connected to.
Turn Off Threat Detection
If you trust the website, you can turn off your VPN's cybersecurity features designed to prevent access to potentially harmful sites.
Add Exceptions
Adding exceptions for trustworthy sites that raise false alarms, like those with outdated certificates, can also help.
Restart Your Device
Sometimes, restarting your device can fix tech issues that are blocking website access.
Clear Browser Cache
Clearing your browser cache or updating your browser can also help, as some cookies might be obstructing the way.
Change Browser
Switching to a different browser can also resolve the issue, some websites and browsers don't go well together.
Use Incognito Window
Another workaround is to use an incognito window. This can sometimes help if there are issues with the browser cache or cookies.
DNS Configurations
DNS (Domain Name System) issues are one of the most common causes of inability to browse the internet while connected to a VPN.
Check Your Internet Connectivity
First, check your internet connectivity by pinging an external IP like 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8. If you see replies, your connection is working, and the issue is likely DNS related.
Reset DNS Settings
If you suspect it's a DNS issue, start by resetting your DNS settings. You can follow the steps of your respective operating system to do this.
Configure OpenDNS
If the problem persists, you can configure OpenDNS to resolve your DNS. However, please be aware that configuring OpenDNS servers may lead your DNS requests to OpenDNS, which can be considered a DNS leak.
Other Browsing Issues
There can be other reasons why you can't browse a website while connected to a VPN.
Proxy Settings
If you have configured a proxy, ensure that it is disabled.
Browser Issues
Try another browser if you have one installed. Also, attempt to start your browser in 'safe mode' with all addons/plugins disabled.
Use Split Tunneling
Split tunneling is a feature that allows specific apps or websites to bypass the VPN. You can whitelist the website you are having trouble accessing, so it uses your regular connection instead of the VPN.
Ad/Tracker Blocking
Some websites might block access if they can't display their ads or load their trackers. Disabling the ad/tracker blocking in your VPN settings can allow you to access these sites.
DNS Filtering Issues
Sometimes, the VPN's DNS filter might be blocking the domain. In this case, whitelisting the domain in your VPN's DNS filter settings can resolve the issue.
IP Blocking
In rare cases, the VPN service itself might have blocked the IP of the website you're trying to access. This usually happens when an IP associated with abusive activities is later used by a legitimate website.
If you've tried all the above steps and still can't access a website, it might be worth contacting your VPN's support team for assistance.