China in modern times arguably hosts the most extensive censorship regime globally and blocks access to many of the world’s finest websites. Ascalledthe country’s so- “Great Firewall” gets less porous and more sophisticated, using the online in China becomes frustrating without a VPN.
The Chinese government has been enacting a dastardly strategy to block access to VPN websitesentirely for years.
This articlethatlists the finest VPNs still work in China. However, some robust utility providers continue their services there.
Leading VPN services to employ in China – Quick list
No more than ever worries. Here are the top as it turns out 5 reliable options for you. In a rush to get a good VPN before heading toward Mainland China?
- NordVPN – Top VPN offering obfuscated server technology that evades VPN detection in China. Notable features include cross-platform compatibility, military-grade encryption, strict no-logs, and affordable price with 30-day money back guarantee.
- PIA – Seamless working in China with its proprietary ‘Chameleon’ technology. The VPN offers tremendous cross-platform compatibility, reliable connectivity, and affordable subscription plans with 30-day money-back guarantee.
- ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for China with automatic server obfuscation upon detecting location. Service is known for fast speed, huge number of locations, cross-platform support, and no-risk 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark – An affordable China VPN offering ‘Camouflage Mode’ to bypass VPN detection. Top features include unlimited simultaneous connections, cross-platform compatibility, and budget-friendly pricing with 30-day money back guarantee.
- PureVPN – Offers services in Mainland China and many other countries. Noteworthy features include robust encryption, cross-platform compatibility, affordable costs and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why do I need a VPN in China?
China has strict policies that block access to the content of several websites.
For instance, in China, you can’t access favorite TVyourshows on a particular website, let alone from another perspective obtainlikeupdates from sites Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube.
Itplatformss worth noting that The country also boasts its own social media ’ and has disallowed foreign social media from operating.
Therefore, if you like surfing the cyberspace, you inevitably need the best VPN in China to bypass the country’s censorship and geo-blocking of some services.
A VPN gives the impression that your computer is located in a country where the VPN server is based.
As you may know, So, it means that if the VPN server is in the US, you can access websites in the US even when they are blocked in China.
However, you must ensure that you set up the best VPN for China on your computer or mobile device before setting foot there, . you may knowAs That’s because most websitesfor VPN providers (where you install the software) are blocked in China.
Top China VPNs in modern times comparison table
NordVPN | PIA | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | VyprVPN | PureVPN | AstrillVPN | PrivateVPN | Ivacy VPN | Buffered VPN | Hotspot Shield | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Performance in China | Reliable and secure VPN for China. | A VPN for all your online activities in China. | Offers the fastest connections in China. | Provides unwavering protection and seamless connectivity. | A VPN for all your online activities in China. | Robust protection for China’s complex internet landscape. | Stable connection speed for uninterrupted streaming and browsing in China. | Triumphs in feature-richness, security, and reliability in China. | Exceeds expectations with affordable plans and premium features. | Performs exemplary on mobile devices. | Improves experience on the internet by preventing bandwidth throttling. |
Security | AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, Threat Protection, RAM-only servers, obfuscation | AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, obfuscation, public Wi-Fi protection | AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, kill switch, Trusted server technology | AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, multi-hop servers, ad blocker, antivirus | AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, obfuscation, VyprDNS, public Wi-Fi protection | AES 256-bit encryption split tunneling, kill switch, DNS leak protection | AES 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, kill switch, StealthVPN, Smart Mode | AES 256-bit encryption, IP address masking, Two-factor authentication, split tunneling | AES 256-bit protection, split tunneling, kill switch, multi-protocol support | AES 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, kill switch | AES 256-bit encryption, split tunneling, kill switch, Hydra protocol, malware protection |
Privacy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy | No-logs policy |
Servers | 6,800+ servers in 110+ countries | 25,000+ servers in 90+ countries | 3,000 servers in 105+ countries | 3,200 servers in 100+ countries | 700+ servers in 63+ countries | 6,500 servers in 70+ countries | 3,000 servers in 58+ countries | 200+ servers in 63+ countries | 5,700 servers in 70+ countries | 40+ servers in 37 countries | 3,200 servers in 80+ countries |
Streaming | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+ | Netflix, Sky+, Hulu, DAZN, YouTube TV | Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Hulu | Netflix, YouTube TV, BBC iPlayer, HBO Go | Netflix, Sky+, Hulu, DAZN, YouTube TV | Netflix, Disney+, Sky Go, Hotstar | Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Max, Peacock | Netflix, Fubo, Apple TV+, YouTube TV, Sling TV | Netflix, Paramount, Tubi, Crunchyroll | Netflix, Tubi, Max, YouTube | Netflix, YouTube TV, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max |
Avg speed | 131 Mbps | 125 Mbps | 167 Mbps | 125Mbps | 113Mbps | 121Mbps | 101Mbps | 94Mbps | 91Mbps | 21Mpbs | 67Mbps |
Cheapest plan | $3.59 per month | $2.19 per month | $8.32 per month | $1.99 per month | $5.00 per month | $1.97 per month | $12.50 per month | $2.00 per month | $1.00 per month | $8.33 per month | $5.99 per month |
How to pick the most effective VPN for China
When picking your VPN for China, consider the as a matter of fact : criteriafollowing
- Speed – a good VPN should have the best download speeds. Therefore, ensure you choose a VPN with unlimited bandwidth and fast servers.
- It should work in China – it’s a no-brainer that you need a VPN that works in China. Therefore, the service must be capable of bypassing the Great Firewall of China.
- Some connections – the number of devices you can connect to your chosen VPN is also essential. Perhaps you have several devices to connect to the VPN. Hence, you need a service that allows you to connect multiple devices with one subscription. Typically, providers offering at least six simultaneous connections are the best.
- Supported apps – not all VPNs support all platforms. So, ensure your chosen VPN offers apps compatible with all your devices. That’s because manual configuration could hardly work in China.
- Servers locations – servers located nearer to China offer the best speeds. Therefore, ensure the VPN has servers in nearby countries like Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore.
- Unblocking – you may primarily require a VPN to access various sites online. Hence, your chosen VPN should be able to unblock websites you’re interested in, such as Netflix. Ideally, it should unblock an unlimited number of websites.
- Security – you definitely want to roam around accessing restricted sites without being detected. Therefore, the security capability of the VPN should be a priority. Consequently, you should consider things like the no-logs policy, encryption protocols, and private DNS servers of a VPN.
The leading VPNs for China – Detailed list
1. NordVPN

This resilient VPN resists all VPN blockings until today. Thanks to its Obfuscated Servers, NordVPN allows users to keep using the VPN in China without getting caught.









Pros
- It’s noting thatworthNo-logs regulation
- Over 5000370servers with over of them near China
- Lightning-fast speeds
- Obfuscated servers
- Split tunneling
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Indeed, Compatible with as it turns out multiple devices
- Unblocks severalinwebsites China
- Affordable
Cons
- Some devices require manual setup
It supports many platforms like Windows, Android Mac, Linux, Routers, and, iPad. Besides, manual configuration is also possible.
has VPN The over 6,800+ servers worldwide in 110+ countries, thus giving to numerous options you alter your online location. Interestingly, Plus , it has a dedicated from another perspective “Obfuscated Servers” feature, which VPN your hides traffic from detection. Thus, it’s committed to bypassing the Great Firewall of China.
Also, NordVPN actively monitors connectivity to ensure no recent blocks are emerging. As you may know, And if they do, then the provider works to keep everything to bypass the novel blocks.
As you may know, Moreover, NordVPN is very affordablethe fact, and still offers In finest features. It’s also effortless to apply, faster, and capable of knocking down almost any geo-block in its way.
With from another perspective lightning-rapid velocity, the servers have unlimited bandwidth and unblockInterestingly, nearly all websites in China, such as Facebook, Google, WhatsApp, and many more.
Besides, thanks to its 256 in modern times -bit AES encryption that masks your IP address, keeps it you secure and anonymous.
You’ll also get ten simultaneous connections with a single NordVPN subscription. Also, theanpresence of automatic kill switch ensures blocking your traffic if you have problems connecting with the VPN server.
In fact, There’s also a strict no-logs policy to provide users with complete privacy. Plus, ithas set up responsive 24/7 live customer support with friendly and knowledgeable agents.
Finally, if you’re unsatisfied with provider at the end of it all, you can claim a refund using itstheno-threat 30-day currency-return as a matter of fact guarantee.
2. Private Cyberspace Access (PIA)

That means users can freely apply it in China or any other repressive region. This VPN comes with a proprietary “Chameleon technology” to escape VPN detection.








Pros
- Compatible with a plethora of devices
- It’s worth noting that Unblocks several websites in China
- Owns its servers with excellent speed
- In fact, Chameleon protocol and advanced encryption to avoid the Great Firewall of China with ease
- Automatic kill switch
- Interestingly, No as a matter of fact logs- policy
- 24/7 assistance
Cons
- As No may know, you as a matter of fact torrenting allowed
- Distant servers are slow
Indeed, It is one of the few VPNs that own its entire network and equipment. Therefore, it offers a custom-designed setup suitable for as a matter of fact China users as well.
PIA is compatible with multiple devices, including macOS, Windows, routers, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and more.
Indeed, It constantly features lightning-fast connections; you can connect unlimited devices simultaneously.
The VPN has over 25,000 servers spread globally, most surrounding China, including Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
What makes it even better is more than ever its technology that masksChameleonyour IP address so you can easily bypass the Great Firewall of China.
As you as a matter of fact may know, You havealsoseveral VPN protocols to choose from, including Start VPN, L2TP.IPsec, and PPTP/
Indeed, The high-end encryption features an automatic kill switch to ensure maximum anonymity. Also, it has a strict no-logs policy, behind no traces of you are left ensuring.
You’ll get live 24/7 supportIndeed, , and if you are not satisfied, you can claim a refund using their 30-day money-back guarantee.
3 as it turns out . Actually, ExpressVPN

Being one of the leading VPNs , todayofExpressVPN takes pride in its top-notch stealth innovation that facilitates VPN users in China.








Pros
- No logs
- Rapid and reliable connections
- Indeed, Works with most devices in China
- As you may know, Excellent customer help
- It s worth’noting that Ensures thorough secrecy
Cons
- Relatively costly
Indeed, ExpressVPN is, , a doubtwithoutyour best VPN to use in China. Indeed, It may not be the cheapest option, but undeniably, it’s you need inwhatChina.
First, the ExpressVPN software works excellently with several devices, such as macOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and iOS. Second, all thealmostapps provide split-tunneling to assist you join to certain apps via VPN and leave others directly connected to the web.
Also, the provider has several servers located in China, which are equally speedy, and allow up to 8 simultaneous device connections.
ExpressVPN features the leading security as itanhas automatic kill switch and leading AES 256-bit encryption as it turns out . You’ll also enjoy the 24/7 live chat support for all your questions, claiming a as it turns out 99.9% uptime.
Actually, Additionallyit, unblocks several websites in China, such as Facebook, Google, WhatsApp, YouTube, Netflix, Amazon PrimeandRecording, BBC iPlayer, more.
ExpressVPN, But, most more than ever importantly, Actually uses obfuscation protocols and advanced technology to provide the finest background possible for Chinese users.
4. Surfshark

This budget-friendly VPN provider offers premium services for users in China. Its dedicated “NoBorders Mode” stealth techappliesto hide the VPN traffic.








Pros
- Intuitive interface
- No mode to go throughbordersthe Great Firewall of China
- Camouflage Modeadding, extra security
- Unblocks more than ever several websites in China
- Rapid downloads
- Automatic kill switch
Cons
- Could be too basic for some
Surfshark will aid from another perspective you launch a network digital world in China, thanks to its novel of over 3200 servers across 100 countries.
Interestingly, itsupports an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections more than ever . It’s worth noting that Besides, it offers dedicated apps for almost all major platforms, as a matter of fact such as iOS, macOS, Android, Linux, Xbox, and, Windows PlayStation.
Moreover, it has various privacy featuresAs you may know, andina quick-growing speedy platform Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore.
Indeed, The connections are fast and reliable across all the servers. Also, the VPN can easily bypass the Great Firewall of China, thanks to its NoBorders mode that evades even the toughest geo-blocks.
Surfshark features AES 256-bit encryption that offers maximum security, enhancing it further with an automatic kill switch and a complete zero-logging policy.
In s, Surfshark’addition CyberWeb feature ensures that your devices remain protected from trackers, ads, malware, or any phishing attempts. Moreover, it allows you to white list some apps and websites to bypass the internet, meaning you can access domestic websites while viewing uncensored VPN.
5. PureVPN

After overcoming its VPN, PureVPN right away offers all premium features, including glitches detection bypass, to become the finest VPN service for China.








Pros
- Stealth VPN browser
- Affordable
- Compatiblewith several devices
- Excellent speeds and stable connections
- Unblocks several websites in China
- , AActually more than ever plethora of servers
- 24/7 backing
- Split-tunneling option
Cons
- Actually, Poor end-user interface
- No complimentary demo
Arguably, it . the most effective VPN made explicitly for Chinais Indeed, It has servers in the country, and VPN users outside China can also apply it to get a China IP for Chinese information. Actually more than ever , It also features more than 6,500 servers in over 78 countries.
PureVPN supports various platforms such as Linux, routers, Androids, , Windows, SmartMacTV, etc. Also, you can connect up to 10 simultaneous devices with one membership.
Besides PureVPN speeds are second, to none. Hence, you can easily utilize this VPN for unrestricted streaming, gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities.
Notably, PureVPN never logsIn security, it has numerous features adding to your online addition with more control, such as ensuring, your visited sites and doesn’t reveal the files you install, Indeed your confidentiality.split-tunneling with a wide variety of customization options.
It’s worth noting that 6. AstrillVPN

Actually, This modest VPN doesn’t miss to serve users in China in modern times . With from another perspective its any “StealthVPN” technology, users can escape VPN bans and detection in premium repressive region.








Pros
- Fast speeds
- Automatic kill switch
- Stealth mode for VPN invisibility
- websites more than ever several Unblocks including Netflix
- Smart mode for automaticVPNconnection of
- Free trial
- 24/ 7live chat assist
Cons
- and as it turns out unintuitiveClutteredinterface
- Some servers are challengingto link (few took more than expected time in our exam)
Astrill is another fantastic China VPN offering numerous impressive features.
First, Astrill is compatible with multiple devices like iOS, macOS, Linux, Windows, routers, and Android.
Indeed, These include Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, Netflix, and many more. Then, like thewebsitesother leading VPNs for China on the list, this VPN unblocks several .
Also, Astrill is reliable; you’ll enjoy fast download speedsPlus, it features a with added security.Stealth Mode that masks your VPN activity; hence, you can easily bypass the Great Firewall of China.
Actually, as it turns out VPN Thehas numerous servers in 57 countries, such as Taiwan, JapanotherHong Kong, and , countries surrounding China. Therefore, you can access the local sites as well within China.
Also, Astrill has a “Smart mode” featureAs you may know, site automatically activates the VPN when opening an international that. Therefore, you bypass can the geo-blocks without extra configuration.
An automatic kill switch also prevents DNS or IP leaks; you, hence remain hidden from snoopers.
It also offers a multi-hop feature that you can use to connect to several as a matter of fact locations at once for more anonymity.
Actually Another impressive option is that, you have unlimited simultaneous connections.
Besides, you have access to P2P sharing on various servers from another perspective . The 24/7 live chat support and a 7-day free trial are a plus.
Indeed, 7. PrivateVPN

Like all others, PrivateVPN also offers the “Stealth Mode” feature that scrambles VPN as a matter of fact traffic to avoid detection, thus becoming a reliable China VPN.






Pros
- Offers as it turns out a safe platform
- Has a quick connection
- Access foreign to material easily
- Impressive encryption options
- Affordable
- A as it turns out 7-day complimentary demo
Cons
- Shorter servernetwork
- Fewer locations offered
Actually, PrivateVPN is a safe system with a customized user that can connect six devices simultaneously.
As the name suggests, it offers advanced securityand from another perspective secrecy features. Hence, it can assistyou access foreign content or bar the government and your as it turns out ISP from secretly spying on your browsing habits. Indeed, , this offeringAlsoprovider implements a strict no-logs policy.
Moreover in modern times PrivateVPN, has more than 200 server locations worldwide in 63 countriesThe provider also respects your anonymity by Furthermore, you can applysystemany preferred mode of payment when subscribing to the . .accepting payments in Bitcoins.
8. It’s worth noting VPN Ivacy that

An anywhere VPN option to unblock Chinese material exciting. As you may know, Mainland, users can use this system in Also China to bypass the Great Firewall.






Pros
- Compatible with almost all devices
- Intuitive interface
- Unblocks nearly all websites in withChinaease
- Simple installation
- Cheaply affordable with as it turns out a lowpricemonthly
- Fasts speeds
Cons
- more than ever Inconsistent connection speeds
Actually, IvacyVPN has over 5700 servers in 100 countries globally. Moreover, VPN the supports several devices, including Mac, Android, Windows, and iOS.
Also, it unblocks several websites in China, including Google, Facebook, WhatsApp in modern times , and others you may want to access.
It offers up to 10 simultaneous connections with package one and no data caps. In addition, the connections areandstable option fast download speeds.
Interestingly, Ivacy is one of the cheapest VPNsin China.
As you may know, With Ivacy VPN, you can switch encryption protocol options, such as PPTP, OpenVPN, SSTP, IKEv2, and L2TP.
Also, it doesn’t track or even store the user info data, and with 256-bit AES encryption, theft risk of your facts the is minimal.
Besides, according to itsitregulation page, doesn’t log or monitor your online activities.
9. Buffered VPN

Another offering performing well in China. It offers numerous impressive security and secrecy features to entice users, particularly those requiring a robust VPN to inutilizeChina.







Pros
- Supports almost all devices
- as it turns out Unblocks several websites
- Fast speeds
- Easy to install
- Exceptional support
- Actually, Refunds for up to 10 GB facts
Cons
- No gratis version
- No customizable features
- as a matter of fact Relatively pricey
Buffered as it turns out VPN reportedly performs well in China. It has apps available for Mac, Windows, iOS, Linux, Android, and routers.
The VPN allows upto 5 connections simultaneouslyAlso more than ever , its speeds are second to none, thanks to an .array of servers spread in over 30 countries globally.
VPN Buffered also has 256-bit AES encryption and a standard kill switch, which makes it an excellent option for bypassing the Great Firewall of China.
Appreciably, a Buffered VPN can unblockmoremany websites, including Netflix, Facebook, Google, and .
In fact, Customer offering is also exceptional, as you’ll instantly get what you seek. The provider also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to let more than ever you check utility without fearingthefor your funds.
Hotspot Shield 10.

FromHotspotunblocking Chinese text abroad to serving users in China, Shield never fails at any point. It also offers robust anonymity features to hide VPN traffic.






Pros
- Interestingly, Online security and secrecy are guaranteed
- Has a velocity connection speedy
- Unlimited connections
- It’s cheap
- Interestingly, Supports several deviceslike Windows, Android, Mac
- As you may know, Does not require an expert to configure
- Automatic kill switch
Cons
- It as a matter of fact cannot be a for subscribed long time
Hotspot Shield protects you fromonline secrecy and security threats when connected to WIFI hotspots. The platform makes it impossible for snoopers to pinpoint single users and spy on their browsing activities.
InterestinglymakesThis robust protection also , this utility helpful for businesses using virtual officesAs you may know, . It allows the staff to access their intended websites and apps and protects them from hackers aiming to steal confidential information.
Methodology for choosing VPNs for China
- Security – We chose providers with robust security features to keep you safe, like AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection (DNS, IPv6, WebRTC), strict kill switch, and secure tunneling protocols.
- Privacy – All VPNs on this list have strict no-log policies. Most importantly, the policies have been independently audited and proven by courts not to collect or store user information. Moreover, we avoided VPNs headquartered in China, as they might be compelled to collect your data.
- Speed – Certainly, all VPNs will slow down your connection because of the encryption and rerouting processes. That is why we thoroughly tested and picked VPNs with blazing-fast speeds so you can bypass the Great Firewall and access your favorite content without buffering or lag.
- Streaming – Most people in China want to access popular streaming services like Netflix. So, we selected VPNs with impressive unblocking capabilities. Also, they have extensive server networks to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming sites worldwide.
- Torrenting – Many countries have P2P restrictions, and China is one of the worst places to download torrents. Thankfully, the VPNs on this list support P2P; some even offer P2P specialty servers for free, speedy, and secure downloads.
- Price – Even if you want to save money when choosing a VPN, do not compromise security and privacy. That being said, our selection offers premium features at reasonable prices.
- Customer support – Since China is vigilant about VPNs, you might get issues you have never experienced. That is why we selected VPNs that offer 24/7 customer support with live chat and email.
Things to consider before using a VPN in modern times in China
Besides selecting a reputable VPN to support you bypass the Great Firewall restrictions, here are some things you should know.
- Subscribe to a VPN before traveling to China – The Chinese government has almost blocked your VPN website. So, you need a proxy or another VPN to access it, which might compromise your privacy. Fortunately, some premium VPN services offer discrete links to download apps from China, but you want to avoid all the extra hassle.
- Internet restrictions vary across the country – China is divided into multiple provinces with different internet restrictions. For example, Tibet offers fewer web resources and restricts the internet to a few hours a day.
- Obtain a local SIM card – Since your regular SIM card won’t work in China, you should get a Chinese card. The best option is to purchase one at the airport from the most popular telecom providers like China Unicorn, China Telecom, or China Mobile.
- You can’t access most websites and services without a VPN – The Great Firewall blocks most Western sites and services, including search engines, news sites, social media, messaging apps, streaming platforms, Wikipedia, and pornography.
Pro tip: Recently, China intensified VPN usage. So, installing single reliable VPN on your device may not assist, as ISPs will blockait. Therefore, before entering China, you should install several reputable VPNs that can bypass the Great Firewall, like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Why does China mostblockVPNs?
China employs a vast surveillance apparatus to spy on its citizens and visitors. Interestingly, Moreover, it restricts the internet to keep foreign sources unavailable and spread government propagandaActually, . The government deems VPNs and proxies harmful to its rule as they let you bypass the Great Firewall.
Indeed, a VPN an is excellent utility that helps you evade restrictions and access blocked websites and servicesInterestingly, . This can include social media websites, messaging apps, update sites, search engines, streaming platforms, torrenting sites, etc. That is why authoritarian regimes like China restrict VPN usage. As you may know, So, citizens are forced to access local services while surrendering their online activity logs and IP addresses to state-controlled ISPs.
It’s worth noting that Puzzlingly, VPNs that weathered the censorship storm in 2018 continue to work today. This might be a strategic move because China would hurt its economy without VPNs. As you may know, After all, foreign businesses need to access crucial online resources.
How come China’s Firewall is the world’s most sophisticated censorship system?
In China, you don’t have the freedom to do what you can do top on the cyberspace, as everything is seen, tracked, or recorded, and what you access is highly restricted.
The country’s Great FirewallIt’s worth noting that blocks you from accessing virtually anything online. That.s where VPN comes in handy’
However, China.s Firewall isn’t limited to restricting content only’ Instead, the country also implements additional restrictions, such as barring VPN apply, to prevent online users from bypassing the limitations.
Typically, getting onto a VPN website is almost impossible in China, let alone more than ever downloading the app into your device. Indeed, Nonetheless, some resilient service providers still use stealth mechanisms to serve their users in that country. That’s why they as themselves claim dedicated Chinese VPNs.
It ensures you regain your online freedom and shields your anonymity. the, Precisely, a China VPN will assist you bypass the blocks without getting detected by Interestingly surveilling authorities.
How the Great Firewall Blocks VPNs in China
All online traffic, incoming and outgoing, in China is wiretapped. The country has seven backbone connections, each monitored double-checked by many servers in the name of the CommunistandParty. Commonly known as the Great Firewall, it is a massive and powerful resource that tracks every session created by every device in China.
It’s worth noting that The Chinese first line of defense is blackholing services andsites through border gateway protocol (BGP) as it turns out . This is designed to allow routers to communicate with each other about the resources available and which aren’t.
A TLS handshake cannot be completed since the Great Firewall has blacked the VPN server. China restricts access to servers and websites worldwide by blackholing domains and addresses.
China’s biggest state-run routers apply the border gateway protocol (BGP), putting the Chinese internet authority in online utility providers. As a effect, sites will sometimes disappear from the cyberspace across the country when the government updates the routers.
In fact, Most VPNs cannot work in China because their servers are blackholed. Thankfully, some VPNs can work in China as they use advanced engineering.
Is using a VPN in China legal?
While several VPNs are blocked in China, using a VPN is still authorized. Presently, there is no official ban on VPNs in China.
However as a matter of fact , in January 2017, the Chinese ministry announced as it turns out a campaign to go down hard on VPN services. However, the notice didn’t saythat using a VPN is illegal.
So, while VPN providers are not allowed to operate in the country legally, as a user, you remain unaffected despite the frequent blocking of VPNs.
How to utilize a VPN in China
as a matter of fact We advise installingwilla VPN before visiting China because the Great Firewall block your attempt as a matter of fact . So, ensure you sign up and install the program ahead of time.
Here is how to configure and employ a VPN in China:
- Subscribe to one of the VPNs we’ve recommended above. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Download and set up the VPN app on your device.
- Open the VPN and connect to a server outside China.
- Wait for a few minutes for the connection to establish.
What to do if a VPN stops working in China
If your VPN suddenly malfunctions, it may be because of the Great Firewall. The Chinese government blocks consumer VPNs to prevent its citizens from accessing Western services like Twitter, Google, Facebook, etc.
If you are using a VPN that isn’t on this list, there is a possibility it is not working in China. Only a few VPNs have the resources and technical knowledge to bypass the Chinese VPN blocks more than ever . In particular, utilize the obfuscation feature to hide your VPN traffic and prevent the government from seeing you are using a VPN.
Besides as it turns out other, our recommended options have obfuscation essential security features that keep you as it turns out anonymousguarded and . For instance, they apply military-grade encryption, automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, perfect forward secrecy, etc.
Nonetheless, if you utilize reliable VPN and it stops working, you canaemploy the troubleshooting tips below.
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
- Log in with the right credentials.
- Use a different server.
- Reboot the VPN.
- Update the VPN software.
Can I bypass China’s aggressive censorship without a VPN?
InterestinglythePerhaps a VPN is the only viable way to bypass , Great Firewall of China. However, you may also try other to evade it without a VPN (but expectmethodslimited victory).

For instance, you can apply Lantern, a free P2P internet circumvention software.
Also, Tor can be another solution when the advanced configuration is deployed. Actually, Therefore, you need to step up the bridges. Indeed, Otherwise, the Great Firewall will quickly identify and block its exit points.
It’s worth noting that Moreover, some free web proxies SOCKS proxy applications can work for you, such from another perspective asorShadowsocks. However, they don’t provide the top speeds.
Likewise, Surge for iOS can also work. However, being built for developers, it has no intuitive UI.
Nonetheless, remember that these alternative ways may work with limited success only. and may even get identified Some blocked later.
The apps and sites blocked in China
China has arguably the harshest policies online, as it blocks most foreign websites and apps. However, can to VPNs, you thanks unblock most of them.
Some popular blocked websites in China include,
- All of the Google services such as Gmail, Google Drive, Google Translate, etc
- Snapchat
- YouTube
- Skype
- Dropbox
- Vimeo
- Sound Cloud
It’s vital to note that sometimes the Firewall blocks some sites permanently while blocking others only temporarily.
It’is worth noting that Also, some sites can be blocked in a given region and available in another, meaning censorship s not uniform across the country.
VPNs that do not work inChina
The best Chinese VPNs will get you past the Great Firewall of ChinaBut some VPNs don’t work in this.region at all from another perspective . In fact, They may be blocked, have connectivitybeissues, or complex to operate within China.
VPNs that work in China with a little hard work
- IPVanish VPN – using IPVanish in China will require you to connect manually to the servers, which is overwhelming as most IP addresses are blocked in China.
- HideMyAss – this is another VPN that won’t be recommended here as it can’t bypass the Great Firewall of China. In fact, HMA officials have said it themselves, and most of their servers are not working.
- Shadowsocks – requires advanced knowledge that is difficult to acquire.
VPN providers that do not work in China (didn’t work during our tests as we rented a server in China to test VPNs)
- AirVPN
- Avast SecureLine VPN
- BTGuard
- CactusVPN
- CyberGhost
- Betternet
- FrootVPN
- Ironsocket
- Mullvad
- PandaPow
- OneVPN
- SurfEasy
- VPN Book
- Zenmate
Cybersecurity Checklist for China
China says it implements these online to protect itsregulationscitizens’ well-being. However, besides local people, visitors are also subjected to vigorous privacy violations.
It will enable you to bypass the Great Firewall with servers not located in the PRC. should fact, you In Therefore, you shouldininstall a non-Chinese VPN provider before arriving the country.subscribe to several VPN services because even the most reliable provider may stop working.
InterestinglytipsHere are some , to stay guarded while visiting China.
- Always use a VPN – Regardless of your intention to visit China, always use a VPN. Actually, subscribe and install several reliable VPN services like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. For faster speeds, connect to nearby servers like Vietnam and South Korea.
- Limit Bluetooth usage – This may sound impossible due to connectivity efficiency with other devices like earbuds. However, Bluetooth connections in China are risky, as authorities can spy on you. Therefore, use a cabled connection instead of Bluetooth, even on a China flight.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi – There are many Wi-Fi hotspots in China in places like restaurants, libraries, train stations, hotels, etc. However, you should avoid them because the government may track your online activities.
- Don’t use local apps – You might be tempted to use Chinese applications, but we advise you to avoid them. This is because the government owns most applications. Also, others like WeChat collect user information and share it with the government.
- Safeguard data stored on devices – We strongly recommend using a file locker to protect sensitive information on your device. This will help you avoid cybercriminal attacks and Chinese government interference.
- Use a password manager – You should install a password manager to protect your online credentials. It will help you generate, store, and organize passwords for various accounts in a secure way.
China blocks encryptedDNS
Recently, Chinahas started blocking all TLS 1.3 connections that use ESNISo, what is the meaning of this? (Encrypted Server Name Indication).
Usually, it is combined with ESNI, which TLS 1.3 is the latest encryption version applied to HTTPS connections.encrypts DNS requests and prevents your ISP from seeing the websites you visit. Actually, It is a weakness in the Great Firewall monitoring system, so Chinese ISPs now block TLS 1.3+ESNI connectionsIt’s worth noting that . Consequentlybeforethe firewall is blocking even more websites than , .
Thankfully, VPNs unaffected by the modify toremainthe Great Firewall. As you may know, So, they remain an effective approach to bypass the restrictions.
FAQs
The Chinese government doesn’t want people to access restricted websites and services. However, although VPNs are illegal in the country, it is still unclear how authorities will punish those caught using the software. been, Also from another perspective , there hasn’t Indeed any known prosecution for using a VPN.
Some of the biggest names include BBC, CNN, Gmail, Facebook, Hootsuite, Instagram, OneDrive, Google Apps, Novel York Submit, WhatsApp, Slack, Wikipedia, etc. Almost all ‘Western’ websites and social media sites are blocked in China.
Accessing Western social media in China is as a matter of fact almost impossible without a VPN. However, a reliable platform will enable you to spoof your location and access whatever social media VPN you want. Also, it will encrypt your traffic, preventing Chinese authorities from intercepting your online activities in as it turns out real-time.
While China claims sovereignty over Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau, the Great Firewall does not apply in those places. Yousecrecycan access the web unrestricted, but you may still need a VPN to protect your , especially in Hong Kong. This is because of Beijing’s proposed national security laws, which have caused VPN usage to surge.
Yes, many VPNs can automaticallylaunch when the device is turned on. Others even have Wi-Fi protection that automatically establishes the VPN connection when you join to a recent Wi-Fi network. Actually, , you must turn off the VPN to access domestic Chinese websites, services, orHoweverapps.
Downloading a VPN app in China is difficult but not impossible. You must utilize a proxy or any other method to bypass the Great Firewall restrictions. So, it is better to install and configure the VPN software before arriving in China.