How to bypass country restrictions on video sites

It is possible to bypass region-specific website restrictions

We're spoilt with high-quality film and television nowadays, and there are an increasing number of websites on which you can watch the content you're after. Sometimes, however, websites and content are restricted based on the country in which you live. This article explains how you can bypass these restrictions.

The very fact that video content on websites is often restricted by region demonstrates a discrepancy between the principles of the open, distributed Web and the ingrained licensing models of the TV and movie industries. As ever, though, demand coupled with the capabilities of the technology means that where there's a will there's a way. If you're inclined to try any of the below methods, be sure to familiarize yourself with the relevant legislation in your country.

Proxy browser extensions

The quickest and easiest approach to accessing region-restricted videos is to install a browser extension, although proxies can be unreliable, insecure and slow. There are a number of browser extensions available that allow the user to access websites via a proxy server based in another country or region.

Hola is a popular choice and has extensions for Chrome and Firefox (as well as apps for Windows, Mac and Android). Users simply need to install the the relevant extension and Hola should be begin unblocking sites automatically without the need to restart your browser. Users can click on the extension button in their browser to manually adjust the settings.

Another well-regarded option is Proxmate, which also has extensions for both Chrome and Firefox. The installation process for Chrome is a little more complicated, with users having to download the file from the Proxmate website and install it via Chrome's extension gallery, but it still works well. Proxmate also serves ads, but these can be turned off in the settings.

DNS tunneling services

DNS tunneling services provide a faster, more reliable and more secure means of accessing region-restricted content, but they they tend to come with a price tag. In short, the services work by simply telling the destination website that the user is accessing it from within the site's regional restrictions, saving the effort of using proxy servers.

Of some of the more popular options, Unblock-Us offers over 70 channels and Unlocator over 80. UnoTelly appears to offer in the region of 100. All three start at about US$5 per month, with free trials and longer term plans also offered.