Discussions about the possible blocking of video hosting in Russia are gaining popularity on the Internet. Is this true?
At the moment, it is known that Google has encountered technical problems in the operation of its equipment, which is used to operate YouTube. This was reported by Rostelecom. The problems are related to the Google Global Cache equipment, which accelerates the loading of Google services content. Due to these problems and the inability to expand the equipment, serious overloads are observed, which may affect the download speed and quality of video playback on YouTube for users of all Russian operators.
"The Kremlin's official representative Dmitry Peskov stated at a briefing on July 12 that the Russian authorities do not plan to restrict access to YouTube for Russians, but the country has problems with the video hosting equipment." Such data was provided by Gazeta.ru.
But what if YouTube is blocked anyway?
How can YouTube be blocked?
YouTube blocking can occur at different levels: from a country to a single device. Let's look at each of them.
-
Blocking at the national level
This type of blocking is usually done by government agencies or internet service providers. They can use various methods such as DNS filtering, IP blocking or URL blocking. As a result, users cannot access YouTube from their country. -
Blocking within one local network (school, office, hospital)
Such blocking is usually set up by network administrators to restrict access to certain resources. This can be done using firewalls, proxy servers or other network management tools. -
Lock on device (mostly parental control)
Parents or others responsible for the device can use parental control software to block access to YouTube. Such programs allow you to restrict access to certain sites or applications.
How to bypass YouTube blocking?
The most convenient way to overcome YouTube blocking is to use VPN services. Such as our VPN service Zama. What are its advantages?
-
Wide choice of servers
Zama offers multiple servers around the world, allowing users to choose the most suitable server for them based on their location and needs. -
High speed
The service provides high connection speed, which is important for watching high-quality videos without delays and buffering. -
Safety
Zama uses military-grade encryption to protect user data. -
Ease of use
The service is very easy to use, even for beginners.
What about free VPNs?
Free VPN services are not always the best choice to use. Here are some reasons why free VPNs may not be suitable:
-
Low speed
Free VPNs often have limited bandwidth, resulting in slow connection speeds. This can make watching high-quality video nearly impossible. -
Selling users' personal information
Some free VPN providers collect and sell their users' personal data, including browsing history and other sensitive information. -
Limited choice of servers
Free VPN services often offer a limited number of servers, which can limit your ability to choose the best server to bypass blocking. -
Restrictions on use
Some free VPN services limit the amount of data a user can use in a given period of time, or limit the amount of time a user can stay connected to the VPN.
Therefore, whenever possible, use paid VPN services that provide more features and better protection for users.
What other benefits does a VPN provide?
-
Save money when shopping
Some VPN services offer a "geo-switching" feature that allows you to connect to servers in different countries. This is useful for those who want to buy goods or services at a lower price than in their home country. For example, some companies may offer different prices for their products depending on the country where the buyer is located. Using a VPN, you can connect to a server in a country with lower prices and thus save money. -
Secure connection to an open WiFi network
When you connect to an open WiFi network in a cafe, airport, or other public place, your traffic can be intercepted by hackers. A VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server, encrypting all traffic. This makes your connection more secure and protects your data from being stolen or intercepted. -
Ensuring anonymity
A VPN hides your real IP address and replaces it with the IP address of the VPN server. This makes you anonymous on the Internet, as your real IP address is not visible to other users or websites. -
Ad blocking
Some VPNs, like Zama, include a built-in ad blocker that helps you get rid of annoying ads on websites and apps. Blocking ads will improve page loading speeds and reduce distractions while you browse.