The Internet is a cornerstone of today’s online gaming landscape, making it especially troubling when Internet Service Providers (ISPs) impose restrictions on access. ISPs have employed such measures to curtail users from engaging with services like crypto casino sites or accessing specific platforms. However, gamers are not without recourse. Many strategies exist to circumvent these limitations, ensuring unfettered internet usage. This article explores various methods by which gamers can overcome these barriers and enjoy a seamless online experience.
How Do ISP Restrictions Occur?
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) often employ tactics such as blacklisting specific IP addresses to limit access for certain users. This action effectively bars the user from accessing the internet on the affected device, which can severely hamper their gaming activities.
In addition to IP address restrictions, ISPs might also use Domain Name Systems (DNS) to block access to certain services or websites on their network. This means that particular websites, apps, or services become unreachable for anyone using their service. Contrary to the targeted nature of IP address restrictions, which usually impact individual users, DNS restrictions have a broader reach, potentially affecting all ISP users.
Five Ways to Escape ISP Restriction
The restrictions imposed by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operate primarily through control over IP addresses and Domain Name Systems (DNS). Consequently, strategies to circumvent these limitations focus on altering or concealing the user’s DNS or IP address. There are several methods capable of achieving this, including:
1. Changing the DNS
Since ISPs employ DNS blocking to restrict access to specific services or platforms, players can override this constraint by changing their DNS settings. While ISPs typically provide the default DNS for home networks, users can modify this within their computer’s settings. Numerous public DNS options are available for gamers to substitute for their ISP’s domain name system, offering a straightforward solution to bypass these restrictions. Some of these public DNS options include:
- Open DNS
- Google Public DNS
- FreeDNS
- Yandex DNS
- Quad9 DNS
2. Mobile Internet
Many gamers rely on a home network setup, utilizing Ethernet cables or routers for internet access. When access via these home networks faces restrictions, turning to mobile internet emerges as a viable alternative.
It’s important to note that mobile internet connections typically experience higher latency than wired or home-based wireless connections. Additionally, mobile data plans often impose caps on data usage, which varies according to the specific plan chosen. Consequently, using mobile internet is most suitable for games that do not require high bandwidth, making it a practical, albeit limited, solution for circumventing home network restrictions.
3. Virtual Private Network
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the most favored solutions for accessing location-restricted services. This cloud-based service establishes an encrypted online connection that conceals the user’s IP address, making it appear as though they are accessing the internet from an alternate location.
Beyond facilitating access to restricted content, VPNs offer an additional layer of security for gamers seeking to protect their online activities. The encrypted connection provided by VPNs safeguards users against potential threats and can also counteract any bandwidth throttling imposed by Internet Service Providers, ensuring a smoother and safer gaming experience.
4. Proxy Server
Utilizing a proxy server is another effective strategy for obscuring a user’s IP address. Positioned as an intermediary between the gamer’s device and the broader internet, the proxy server reroutes incoming online data, effectively hiding the user’s IP address in the process.
Proxy servers come in two main varieties:
- SOCKS Proxy: While it creates a more secure gaming environment, its downside is reduced speed.
- HTTP Proxy: It provides faster connections but needs more for online gaming due to security limitations.
Players need to understand that proxy servers and VPNs serve similar but distinct functions. While both can mask a user’s IP address, proxy servers differ in operation and often offer quicker speeds than VPNs. However, VPNs provide more comprehensive security features, making them a more robust option for privacy and access.
5. Tor Browser
This browser is one of the best ways to browse the web anonymously. That’s why many people use it to access the dark web. When players use the Tor browser, their information gets rerouted through a network of global relays, which keeps their information hidden.
Conclusion
ISP restrictions block a player’s IP address or block access to certain services using their DNS. Some of the methods that can bypass these restrictions include changing the DNS and using a mobile internet connection. Gamers can also use the Tor browser, a proxy server, or a VPN.
