If you can’t use a VPN, try these 5 alternatives

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become a common solution for online privacy and access to geo-restricted content. However, they are not always the most suitable for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective option, faster speeds, or simply an alternative, there are several VPN alternatives.

1 Try Smart DNS

Smart DNS is a popular alternative for those who want to access geo-restricted content without encryption. This service works by redirecting your Domain Name Server (DNS) queries through its own servers. While it doesn’t provide the same level of security as a VPN, Smart DNS allows you to access websites that might otherwise be blocked in your location.

One of the key benefits of Smart DNS is its speed. Because it doesn’t encrypt your internet traffic, it can often provide a faster connection than a VPN. This makes it particularly appealing for streaming videos or playing games where buffering can be quite a nuisance.

To use Smart DNS, you typically sign up with a service provider like Unlocator or Smart DNS Proxy and then configure your device’s DNS settings to the provided Smart DNS servers. Most services offer simple setup guides for different devices and platforms.

However, it is important to note that Smart DNS does not hide your IP address. This means that it is not suitable for those who prioritize security and privacy. If your primary goal is to access restricted content, Smart DNS can be a great option without the added cost of a VPN.

2 Route your traffic through a proxy server

Proxy servers are another option for those who want to hide their IP addresses and access restricted websites. They act as intermediaries between your device and the Internet, routing your Internet traffic through their IP addresses and making it difficult for others to trace your online activities back to you.

Using a proxy server has several advantages. First, many of them are often free, making them an attractive option for users on a budget. HideMyAss and KProxy are popular free options that can help bypass geo-restrictions effectively.

You can set up a proxy server either at the application level – by adjusting individual browser or application settings – or at the system level, where all your device traffic is routed through the proxy. You can do this by configuring your computer’s proxy settings in your operating system, such as through the Windows or macOS network settings. Browser extensions are also available for easier access.

3 Browsing with Tor

Tor, short for The Onion Router, is another option for staying anonymous online. It routes your Internet connection through a network of volunteer-run servers, masks your IP address, and encrypts your traffic in multiple layers—much like peeling an onion.

The primary benefit of using Tor is its focus on privacy. It is extremely difficult for anyone to trace your online activities back to you. This is particularly useful for individuals interested in surveillance or censorship.

That said, Tor comes with a few trade-offs. Due to multiple layers of encryption and routing, your connection speed may be significantly slower than other methods. This makes it less ideal for activities like streaming or gaming. In addition, Tor provides strong anonymity but is not foolproof – a vulnerability in your settings or behavior can still reveal your identity.

To access the Tor network, simply download the Tor browser, specially designed to route your traffic through the Tor network. Install it and you can start browsing anonymously without any further setup. In this case, we actually recommend that you leave the Tor Browser configuration alone unless you know what you’re doing. Tweaking the settings could render the privacy settings useless.

4 Use remote desktop

A remote desktop solution allows you to control your computer at the desired location through cloud computing. Providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud or Microsoft Azure make it easy to rent virtual machines (VMs) in almost any region around the world.

Setting up a remote desktop requires running a virtual machine in the desired location via your chosen cloud provider. You can then connect to this virtual machine using remote desktop software such as Microsoft Remote Desktop, TeamViewer, or Chrome Remote Desktop.

This approach can be more effective than a VPN for accessing region-restricted servicesbecause you are using a real computer in the target location. However, it requires some technical setup and maintaining remote desktop connection security. Make sure you use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and keep your virtual machine updated to avoid security vulnerabilities.

5 Use SSH tunneling

SSH Tunneling or Secure Shell tunneling is a method for establishing a secure connection between your device and a remote server. Tunneling your internet traffic through an SSH connection encrypts your data and hides your IP address, providing a VPN-like layer of security.

This method is popular among tech-savvy users and system administrators. It’s an efficient way to securely access remote services, transfer files, and browse the web. Because SSH is widely supported on various operating systems, it can be a universal tool for secure communication.

While SSH tunneling offers robust security, it presents some challenges. Setting up an SSH tunnel can be tricky for those unfamiliar with the technology. Additionally, it usually requires access to a remote server, which may not be possible for everyone.