How to bypass a 4chan IP ban with a VPN

Users are banned from 4chan for various reasons. In some cases, these bans are deserved, but in some instances, users may be banned for no fault of their own.

For example, they may be using a shared IP address with someone who commits an infringement, which can lead to a ban. Some countries may even have internet service providers (ISPs) that ban 4chan.

Regardless of the reason for the ban, you can use a VPN to bypass any potential bans on 4chan. When you connect to a VPN server, your internet connection is rerouted through a secure third-party server. You are then assigned an IP address that corresponds to this third-party server, meaning that you will no longer have the IP address that was banned.

In addition to bypassing restrictions like a 4chan ban, VPNs also protect users’ private information from the prying eyes of governments and ISPs and safeguard users from some cyber threats.

In this article, I have reviewed the best VPNs for bypassing a 4chan IP ban in detail. Before that, let’s take a look at how to bypass a 4chan IP ban.

How to bypass 4chan bans with a VPN

Ready to get started? Here’s how you can navigate a 4chan ban.

5 steps to bypass a 4chan ban with a VPN:

1. First, you will need to sign up for a top-tier VPN that can unblock services like 4chan. I recommend NordVPN because it offers strong unblocking capabilities, a large global server network, and fast connection speeds. Plus, it comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Download and install the VPN app on the device(s) you will be using to access 4chan. Some of the providers in this guide offer unlimited simultaneous connections.
3. Open the VPN app and connect to a VPN server. Connecting to a VPN server closer to your current location will result in faster connection speeds.
4. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. Skipping this step can result in your unblocking attempt being unsuccessful.
5. Head to 4chan. You should be able to access it without being blocked, no matter your location in the world.

If you still can’t unblock 4chan, try contacting your VPN’s customer service team for help.

So, now you know how to access 4chan and avoid blocks, let’s explore the best VPNs for the job. Here’s a quick summary if you’re in a rush.

The best VPNs for bypassing a 4chan IP ban:

1. NordVPN: My number one choice for bypassing a 4chan IP ban. Offers thousands of servers worldwide, fast connection speeds, and strong security measures. Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: The best budget choice for avoiding a 4chan IP ban. Has a large global server network and offers users an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.
3. Total VPN: A solid choice, with servers in locations around the world and great unblocking abilities. Strong security measures are in place.
4. Proton VPN: Offers the largest server network on this list and boasts a wide range of security and privacy features.
5. ExpressVPN: A premium VPN with many privacy-conscious features. One of the best VPNs in the business for unblocking geo-restricted services.
6. IPVanish: Gives users an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. Popular with the Kodi community and a reliable choice for streaming.
7. CyberGhost VPN: Has a large server network and is suitable for beginners. Optimized servers for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.
8. PureVPN: A top choice for users based in highly restrictive countries. Comes with plenty of advanced security features.
9. Hotspot Shield: Offers users dedicated servers to enhance their online performance. High level of security and above-average speeds.
10. PrivateVPN: A privacy-centric option for users who prioritize security. Strong encryption and a solid no-logs policy.

While looking for the best VPNs for getting past a 4chan IP ban, I considered a number of different factors. These include:

• A large global server network
• Fast connection speeds
• Excellent unblocking ability
• Strong security and privacy features
• Easy to use
• Value for money

For more information about the criteria I used, check out the testing methodology section later in this article.

Best VPNs for bypassing a 4chan IP ban

Having considered all of the above, here are my in-depth reviews of the best VPNs for bypassing 4chan bans:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is my number one choice for working around 4chan IP bans. It has an extensive server network with over 8,500 servers across more than 127 countries. It has great unblocking ability and can grant users secure access to a wide range of geo-restricted services, such as 4chan and streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and Netflix.

It provides fast speeds and lets users connect up to 10 devices with a single subscription. It also offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, so you can get assistance with the app at any time.

Security and privacy measures include 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and an app-specific kill switch. No logs are stored and there is an ad-blocker in place, too. There are also specialty servers provided that are optimized for purposes such as beating censorship, torrenting, and even Tor over VPN.

NordVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. This service can also be manually installed on some routers.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Large server network
• Advanced security and privacy features
• No logs are stored
• 24/7 customer support

Cons:

• Desktop app can be slow at times

BEST VPN FOR BEATING 4CHAN IP BANS:NordVPN has a large global server network, is fast, and has strong security features to keep users safe. It can also unblock a wide variety of geo-restricted services. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a great budget VPN for 4chan. It offers its users access to more than 4,500 servers in 100+ countries, delivers fast speeds, and can unblock many different geo-restricted services, all for an affordable price.

Security features include 256-bit AES encryption, protection from DNS leaks, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. There is also a traffic scrambling option in place, which masks the fact that users are using a VPN. This can be an important factor in bypassing VPN blocks. Surfshark accepts cryptocurrency payments as well.

Apps are available for macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux. Users can connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously and have access to 24/7 live chat support.

Pros:

• Supports an unlimited number of connections
• Budget friendly
• Advanced security features
• Fast connection speeds

Cons:

• Some servers can be slow occasionally

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR 4CHAN:Surfshark is an affordable VPN that doesn’t hold back on performance. It has a strong server network, decent security features, and users get an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. Total VPN

Total VPN is a solid option with around 1,800+ servers in more than 90 countries. It unblocks a wide range of services, including most major streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and Disney+, and discussion boards like 4chan. Speeds are fast, too.

Security features include 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a built-in kill switch. Total VPN’s stealth protocol, called Hydra, lets users pass through certain websites even when connected to a VPN server. This provider also provides subscribers with a bundle consisting of an antivirus and a password manager.

Total VPN provides apps for Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS. Users can connect five devices at the same time, and 24/7 live chat support is provided.

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly option
• Fast connection speeds
• Bundled with an antivirus and a password manager
• 24/7 live chat support

Cons:

• Only supports five simultaneous connections

SAFE, EASY TO USE OPTION:Total VPN comes with strong security features and is suitable for VPN beginners. It can unblock a wide variety of geo-restricted services as well. Subscribers to long-term plans get a 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. Proton VPN

Proton VPN has the largest server network on this list, with 14,800+ servers in over 126 countries, so you can access 4chan no matter your location. It also offers fast streaming speeds, so you can stream without lag or buffering. Users can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.

Proton VPN has strong security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, an automatic ad tracker and blocker, and a kill switch. Secure Core servers also route user data through multiple countries, adding even more protection. It provides a strict no-logs policy and accepts cryptocurrency payments.

This provider’s apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It can also be installed on some routers. 24/7 live chat support is available.

Pros:

• Strong security measures
• Accepts cryptocurrency payments
• Good option for torrenting
• Works on several different platforms

Cons:

• Can be intimidating for beginner users

HUGE SERVER NETWORK:Proton VPN is a solid option for users needing a fast, safe VPN with a large network of servers globally. It is secure and offers a CLI app for Linux users. Subscribers get a 30-day money-back guarantee.

5. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs in the business for streaming. Offering fast speeds and excellent unblocking ability, you’ll have no issues accessing 4chan and geo-restricted streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. Provides 3,000+ servers in more than 105 countries.

ExpressVPN also has strong security measures in place. These include 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and automatic protection against malicious websites and trackers. There is also a strict no-logs policy in place.

This provider’s apps are available for Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and macOS. It can also be installed on some routers. The customer support team is available 24/7 via live chat, and you can connect up to 14 simultaneous devices depending on the plan you choose.

Pros:

• Fast connection speeds
• Easy-to-use app (approachable for beginners)
• Strong security measures
• .onion site and accepts cryptocurrency payments

Cons:

•  More expensive than some other options

FAST AND SECURE:ExpressVPN is very fast and is a great pick for users who stream a lot. Works well on routers and offers decent security features. Live chat support is available 24/7. Subscribers get a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. IPVanish

IPVanish is a solid choice for streaming and has excellent unblocking capabilities. For these reasons, it has long been a trusted option for Kodi users. It is also a top choice for unblocking 4chan and other online content that is subject to bans. Plus, it’s a decent beginner-friendly VPN.

Strong security measures include a strict no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling. Users can also connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.

IPVanish apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It can also be manually set up on routers and Linux devices. The live chat support is available 24/7, giving users access to any help they may need with the VPN.

Pros

• Fast connection speeds
• Strong security measures
• Obfuscation is available
• Unlimited device connections

Cons:

• Some servers don’t work with Netflix
• Based in the US

UNLIMITED DEVICE CONNECTIONS:IPVanish lets users connect as many devices as they want. In addition, it is fast and has great unblocking capabilities, making it an excellent option for 4chan. 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is a fantastic pick for those who travel a lot. With 11,500+ servers in more than 100 countries, users have plenty of choice when trying to bypass a 4chan IP ban. Servers are optimized for streaming, gaming, and torrenting, so you can pick the best server for your chosen online activity. It can also easily bypass blocks on streaming platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

This provider has strong security measures in place, including a strict no-logs policy, 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and leak protection. There are even MultiHop servers that give users an extra layer of encryption.

CyberGhost apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Plus, Linux devices and routers can be manually configured to work with this service. The customer support team is available 24/7, and seven simultaneous connections are available.

Pros:

• Very large server network
• Strict no-logs policy
• Generous 45-day money-back guarantee
• Strong security measures

Cons:

• Blocked in China
• Can be too basic for more advanced users

OPTIMIZED SERVERS:CyberGhost provides optimized servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. It also offers fast speeds and can reliably bypass a 4chan IP ban. A generous 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

8. PureVPN

PureVPN offers over 6,000 servers in more than 70 countries. It is fast and is an excellent option for bypassing restrictions on 4chan. It’s also a good choice for streaming and torrenting. Users can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is a decent number for households with multiple devices.

Security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a tracker blocker. There is also a no-logs policy in place.

PureVPN provides apps for Android, Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS. It can also be set up manually on routers. The apps are beginner-friendly, and customer support is also available 24/7.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Strong encryption protocol
• Allows torrenting

Cons:

• Speeds can be unpredictable
• Can’t unblock Netflix

RELIABLE 4CHAN ACCESS:PureVPN is easy to use and has decent unblocking credentials. Not only is it good for 4chan, but users who stream and torrent will also be pleased with its performance. Comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee.

9. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield has a network of more than 1,800 servers in 80+ countries. This gives users several options for bypassing an IP ban on a 4chan account. There are dedicated streaming servers in the UK, US, and Canada, which makes it a solid choice for watching Amazon Prime Video, BBC Player, Hulu, Crave, and other popular platforms.

Hotspot Shield’s security features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. No logs are stored. 10 simultaneous connections are allowed.

Apps are available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. In addition, this service can be manually configured on routers. Live chat support is available 24/7.

Pros:

• Lightweight apps
• Decent streaming speeds
• Generous 45-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Doesn’t accept crypto payments
• Doesn’t work well in highly censored countries

DECENT UNBLOCKING CAPABILITIES:Hotspot Shield has thousands of servers across the globe, including dedicated streaming servers in the UK, US, and Canada. A generous 45-day money-back guarantee is offered.

10. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a privacy-centric option with around 200 servers in 63+ countries. It is fast, secure, and can bypass IP bans on 4chan with ease. In addition, it can unblock other services, including streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock, and Netflix. It also works in China.

Strong security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a strict no-logs policy, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Users can also pay with Bitcoin.

PrivateVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Linux is supported as well, but manual setup is required. The same is true for routers. 10 simultaneous connections are allowed, and while live chat is provided, it isn’t available 24/7.

Pros:

• Privacy-focused option
• Simple to use
• Great unblocking capabilities

Cons:

• Smaller server network
• Customer support is not available 24/7

PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN offers excellent security features, with strong encryption in place and a strict no-logs policy. Unblocks many different services, including 4chan, with ease. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for bypassing a 4chan IP ban

While looking for the top VPNs to bypass 4chan IP bans, I used a strict set of criteria to ensure I chose the best options. Here are some of the factors that I considered:

• Strong server network: 4chan is popular all around the world, but especially in the US. This means I selected VPNs with many US servers, allowing Americans to easily connect using an alternative US IP address. The VPNs in this list also offer large global server networks, so 4chan users can connect from anywhere.
• Fast connection speeds: Although VPNs can slow your internet connection slightly, this is usually negligible with top-tier options like those reviewed above. This means that you can use 4chan and stream without experiencing lag or buffering. It’s also important for gaming and torrenting.
• Excellent unblocking credentials: Not only should a VPN be able to bypass bans on 4chan, but it should also reliably unblock geo-restricted services. This includes streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Paramount+, ESPN, and BBC iPlayer.
• Security and privacy measures: In addition to bypassing blocks, VPNs should also protect users in the online environment, so their private information is shielded from the prying eyes of governments and ISPs. All of the VPNs in this list offer superb security and privacy features.
• Ease of use: There shouldn’t be a technical barrier for people who aren’t highly skilled VPN users. I ensured all the VPNs in this list allow anyone to connect and bypass blocks on services like 4chan, whether they’re an expert or beginner.
• Value for money: A VPN subscription shouldn’t be overly expensive, so all of these VPNs offer plenty of bang for your buck. This includes discounted subscriptions and generous money-back guarantees.

You can read more information about the criteria I used in my full VPN testing guide.

FAQs: How to bypass a 4chan IP ban with a VPN