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If you travel often or if you live in certain countries, you may run into the problem of not being able to access the internet or a VOIP service such as Skype. A number of countries either block internet connections or only go through a single carrier. For example, in Belize you can only connect to the internet through Belize Telecommunications. While this problem may seem limited to the Middle East and China right now it is important that you consider how to overcome these blocks since many individual internet providers in the United States are also starting to block VOIP services.

How Your Connection Is Blocked

When it comes to online connections there is always a manual process involved even though you may not easily notice it. Often the internet provider has set up a firewall that will restrict access from certain websites or data ports. Since all information has to go through a firewall before being transferred to the outside world it can effectively block anyone from gaining access to a VOIP program or the internet directly in countries that restrict access.

How to Avoid Blocks

The key to getting around these blocks is to connect with a VPN. The VPN is responsible for bypassing the firewall because you form a private connection between your computer and the VPN server once you make your initial internet connection. Therefore, you can use the internet to access websites or programs such as Skype without having to go through a firewall. A VPN allows you to do anything you like no matter where you are in the world.

The main issue with VPNs that you need to consider is the whole initial connection issue. Some VPNs have become so popular over the years that they are also being blocked. If you can't connect to your VPN service then you can't create your private tunnel that allows you to access the internet and VOIP programs. As a result, some VPNs change their IP address routinely in order to stay ahead of the telecoms that are attempting to block their connections. Therefore, when you choose a VPN it is important to look for one that has been in business longer since they have obviously perfected the way to avoid telecoms.

How to Get a VPN

There are many websites available today that offer VPN services free. It is a good idea to try a few free versions first to see which work in your location. Once you find one that works in your location you can switch from the free version to the paid full version to enjoy the complete freedom of internet and VOIP programs.

Why It Is Important

It is important that people take notice of these internet blocks and find ways around them. These blocks are imposed simply because of money. If countries start to realize that blocking internet connections and VOIP systems doesn't work because traffic is switching to VPNs then things can change. It is important to start changing the ability to access the internet now before it becomes too difficult to do so in the future.