How to Set Up a VPN and Proxy for Stable Access to Videos on YouTube
YouTube is a platform that many of us can no longer imagine life without. Here, we watch educational videos, favorite shows, streams, and entertaining content. But what should you do if access to YouTube is suddenly blocked? The reasons can vary: from corporate restrictions in the office to government censorship.
In this article, we will explore how to set up a proxy for YouTube, the types of proxies that exist, and their advantages and disadvantages. You will also learn about alternative methods that can be used to bypass restrictions.
The Main Idea of a Proxy Server
A proxy server is an intermediary between your device and the internet. When you use it, your request to YouTube is routed through the server, which replaces your IP address with its own.
For example:
Without a proxy: You access YouTube, and your real IP address is recorded by the site. If your IP is blocked, access to YouTube will be impossible.
With a proxy: Your request goes through the proxy server, which acts as an "intermediary." YouTube only sees the proxy's IP address, not yours.
Key Functions of a Proxy Server for YouTube
Bypassing Geographical Restrictions
If YouTube is unavailable in your country, a proxy server located in a different region allows you to bypass this restriction.Maintaining Privacy
Your data (e.g., IP address) is hidden from prying eyes, making your internet activity more secure.Optimizing Speed
Some proxy servers cache data, which speeds up video loading.Access in the Workplace
If access to YouTube is blocked on corporate computers, a proxy helps bypass these restrictions.
HTTP Proxy
This type of proxy handles only HTTP requests. It is ideal for working with web pages, including YouTube. However, HTTP proxies do not support encryption, making them less secure.
HTTPS Proxy
Provides data encryption, which is especially important when using YouTube for viewing or uploading personal data. This is a more secure option compared to HTTP proxies.
SOCKS Proxy
A versatile option that supports not only HTTP but also other types of traffic, including video and audio. SOCKS proxies are recommended for working with YouTube, especially if you are using applications.
Rotating Proxies
These servers automatically change the IP address at regular intervals. They are ideal for users who need to remain anonymous at all times.
Residential Proxies
This type of proxy uses IP addresses of real users, making them almost indistinguishable from a regular internet connection. They minimize the risk of being blocked.
Mobile Proxies
Ideal for users who work via mobile devices. These proxies use IP addresses from mobile carriers, making them very reliable for bypassing complex blocks.
1. Setting Up on Windows
Go to Start → Settings → Network & Internet.
Navigate to the Proxy section.
Select Use a proxy server.
Enter the proxy server's IP address and port.
Click Save and restart your browser.
2. Setting Up on macOS
Open System Preferences → Network.
Select your active Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
Click Advanced → Proxies tab.
Enter the proxy details (HTTP, HTTPS, or SOCKS).
Save the changes.
3. Setting Up on Android
Go to Wi-Fi settings.
Long-press the active connection and select Modify network.
Tap Advanced → Proxy.
Enter the proxy server details.
4. Setting Up on iOS
Open Wi-Fi settings.
Select the active connection and tap Proxy settings.
Enter the IP address, port, and credentials if required.
5. Setting Up in Google Chrome
Open Chrome settings → Network section.
Select Change proxy settings.
Enter the proxy details.
Pros
Anonymity: Hides your real IP address.
Bypassing Blocks: Access YouTube from any country.
Faster Connection: Data caching on the server.
Flexibility: Ability to choose servers in different countries.
Cons
Risk of Blocking: Free proxies are often blocked.
Low Speed: Depends on the quality of the server.
Limited Functionality: Not all proxies support applications.
When choosing a proxy for YouTube, pay attention to:
Geographical location of the server – the closer, the better.
Connection speed – important for watching videos in high quality.
HTTPS support – to ensure security.
Reviews – read recommendations from other users.
If the proxy setup is not suitable or causes difficulties, there are several other effective solutions that can help you access YouTube. Let's go over each method in detail.
What is a VPN and how does it work?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a virtual private network that creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server in another country. Connecting via a VPN replaces your real IP address with the IP address of the selected server, allowing you to bypass YouTube blocks.
Advantages of VPN for Accessing YouTube:
- Data encryption: All information transmitted through the VPN is protected, making it inaccessible to hackers and providers.
- Wide selection of servers: Many VPN services offer servers in different countries, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions.
- Speed and quality: Paid VPNs provide high connection speeds, which is important for streaming videos in HD or 4K.
Popular VPN Services:
- NordVPN: A reliable service with high speeds and a wide selection of servers.
- ExpressVPN: Fast and easy to use, perfect for streaming.
- Surfshark: A budget-friendly option with good functionality.
- ProtonVPN: A free VPN with limited features, but sufficient for watching YouTube.
How to Set Up a VPN for YouTube:
- Install the chosen VPN app on your device (available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
- Launch the program and select a server in a country where YouTube is not blocked.
- Connect to the server, open YouTube, and enjoy unrestricted access.
Disadvantages of Using a VPN:
- Paid VPNs require a subscription fee.
- Free versions may be slow or unreliable.
How does DNS work?
DNS (Domain Name System) is responsible for converting domain names (such as youtube.com) into IP addresses. Sometimes, a provider blocks access to YouTube through its DNS servers. Replacing these servers with third-party ones allows you to bypass such restrictions.
Recommended DNS Servers:
- Google Public DNS:
- Address: 8.8.8.8 и 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS:
- Address: 1.1.1.1 и 1.0.0.1
How to Change DNS Servers?
On Windows:
- Open the "Control Panel" → "Network Connections."
- Select the active connection, right-click, and choose "Properties."
- Find "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" and click "Properties."
- Enter an alternative DNS (e.g., 8.8.8.8).
On Android and iOS:
- Go to Wi-Fi settings and select the current connection.
- Manually enter the DNS in the "Proxy" or "Network" section.
Advantages of Changing DNS Servers:
- Easy to set up.
- Does not require installing third-party software.
- Free solution.
Disadvantages:
- In some cases, the provider blocks not only DNS but also YouTube's IP addresses, making this method ineffective.
What are these extensions?
Extensions are small add-ons for browsers that automatically redirect traffic through a proxy or VPN. They are easy to install and do not require complex setup.
Popular Extensions for Bypassing YouTube Blocks:
- Hola VPN: A free extension for Chrome and Firefox that allows you to bypass restrictions.
- ZenMate: A paid, but reliable extension with high-level encryption.
- Browsec VPN: Free and easy to use.
How to Install an Extension?
- Go to your browser's extension store (e.g., Chrome Web Store).
- Find the desired extension (e.g., Hola VPN).
- Install it and enable it.
- Select the country from which you want to access YouTube.
Advantages of Using Extensions:
- Quick installation and setup.
- Instant access to blocked websites.
Disadvantages:
- Free extensions may be unsafe.
- Only suitable for the browser version of YouTube.
What is Tor?
Tor (The Onion Router) is a special browser that ensures complete anonymity on the internet. It redirects traffic through a network of servers (nodes), which helps hide your location.
How does Tor work?
- Your traffic passes through several servers, each of which encrypts the data.
- YouTube sees the IP address of the last server, not your real one.
How to Use Tor to Access YouTube?
- Download and install Tor Browser from the official website.
- Launch the browser and wait for the connection to the Tor network.
- Enter the YouTube address in the search bar.
Advantages of Tor:
- Complete anonymity.
- Free to use.
- Ability to bypass complex blocks.
Disadvantages:
- Slow connection speed, especially when streaming videos in high quality.
- Inconvenience for regular access.
- If you need high speed and security, a paid VPN is the best option.
- For one-time access, you can use browser extensions or change DNS servers.
- If anonymity is important, choose the Tor browser.
A proxy is a convenient tool to gain access to YouTube without restrictions. Choosing and setting up the right proxy server will allow you to forget about blocks, enjoy high-quality videos, and stay anonymous.
If YouTube is blocked in your region, don’t despair. Proxy servers, VPNs, and DNS changes are reliable ways to bypass blocks and access your favorite videos. Choose the right tool based on your needs – proxy for simplicity and speed, VPN for security and reliability, or DNS servers for easy setup. Use these methods to enjoy YouTube content without limitations and in comfort.
NB: As a reminder, the product is used to automate testing on your own sites and on sites to which you have legal access.