How to bypass the 4chan IP ban with a VPN

4chan bans aren’t uncommon. While many bans are understandably deserved, others might not make much sense. It may be that you’re using a shared IP address with another person committing the bannable offense. Alternatively, you may live in a country in which ISPs are blocking access to 4chan. Whatever the case, we’ll explain how to bypass your 4chan ban by using a VPN.

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) hide your real IP address and shield your online activities from snoopers, so they’re a great way to beat 4chan bans and gain an extra layer of security as you browse. Below, we’ll cover the best VPNs for bypassing the 4chan IP ban in more detail. We’ll explain how to use them and answer some common VPN questions. But, in case you’re short on time, we’ll start with a quick summary.

Best VPNs for bypassing a 4chan ban:

1. NordVPN The best VPN for 4chan. Vast server network, excellent speeds and unblocking abilities, a proven zero-logs policy, and a wide range of privacy features. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can try it risk-free.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for 4chan.
2. Surfshark The best budget VPN for 4chan. Boasts lots of advanced security features, impressive speeds, servers in 100+ countries, and no connection limits.
3. Total VPN This easy to use service boasts high speeds and the ability to bypass most online restrictions, from 4chan IP bans to major streaming sites.
4. ProtonVPN Vast server network and lots of security features. Provides speedy connections and works well with 4chan and a range of geo-restricted services.
5. ExpressVPN An easy-to-use VPN with excellent security features and high-speed connections. Provides 24/7 support over live chat. Works well with 4chan.
6. IPVanish No-logs VPN that easily beats bans on 4chan and other anonymous forums. Lightning-fast and permits any number of simultaneous connections.
7. CyberGhost Novice-friendly provider with an extensive server network and outstanding average speeds. Highly secure with a strict no-logs policy.
   
8. PureVPN Fast and effective way to get around bans on 4chan and similar platforms. Delivers first-class performance and a high level of security. Excels at beating regional restrictions, too.
9. Hotspot Shield Offers a high level of security and steady speeds. Works almost anywhere, so it’s great for accessing 4chan abroad.
10. PrivateVPN This zero-logs service provides strong encryption and the ability to beat almost any online restrictions, including 4chan bans.

How to beat 4chan bans with a VPN

If your IP address has been blocked by 4chan, don’t worry. You can bypass the 4chan ban by connecting to a Virtual Private Network. Better still, this is surprisingly quick and easy to do. Just follow the simple steps below.

Here’s how to bypass a 4chan (IP address) ban with a VPN:

1. The first step is to choose a VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Next, you’ll need to download and install the VPN on your device.
3. Open the VPN app and connect to a server. This hides your actual IP address and replaces it with one of your VPN provider’s. Remember, the closer the server is to your location, the faster the connection is likely to be.
4. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. In our experience, old cookies are responsible for most unblocking-related issues, so don’t skip this step.
5. Go to 4chan. You should now be able to use it as normal. If not, simply connect to another server in case the IP address you’ve been provided has also been blacklisted.

How we selected the top 4chan VPNs

While there are plenty of VPNs to choose from, not all are good enough for bypassing 4chan’s IP bans. Additionally, we’ve seen plenty that are underwhelming in terms of security or speed. To save you some time, we found the best VPNs for 4chan by objectively testing providers in the following key areas:

• Network suitability: As 4chan is most popular in the US, we looked for providers with lots of US server locations. To cater to non-US users, we also looked for providers with a large global spread of servers. Finally, we tested each VPN’s unblocking ability with 4chan and other platforms.
• Speed: We looked for the fastest VPNs by carrying out multiple speed tests while connected to their US servers.
• Security and privacy: We’ve only recommended VPNs that can protect 4chan users’ identity. Each provider was evaluated using 16 different security and privacy criteria.
• Ease of use: To find the most user-friendly services, we scored each VPN against 10 metrics that covered everything from the quality of their interfaces to the responsiveness of their customer support teams.
• Value for money: We used eight criteria to gauge which providers were worth what they charged. We looked at monthly fees as well as any discounts and free trials.

This is just a summary, but you can read more about how we test and rank the VPNs we recommend in the methodology section below.

Best VPNs for bypassing the 4chan IP ban compared

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for 4chan.

Best VPNs for unblocking 4chan

At Comparitech, we use and rigorously test every VPN before recommending it to you. The following reviews are based on our first-hand experiences.

Here are the best VPNs for unblocking 4chan from anywhere:

1. NordVPN

Sep 2025 unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

NordVPN is our top VPN recommendation for beating 4chan bans. It has a large network, with over 7,700 servers in around 118 countries, and delivers far higher speeds than most of its rivals.

In our tests for this article, its average download speed was an impressive 198.40 Mbps. This was more than 60 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other tested providers.

Not only that, but it also allows torrenting, works in China, and unblocks a vast range of streaming services, including Disney+ and BBC iPlayer. Users can secure up to 10 devices at a time, and 24/7 live chat is on hand — just in case.

This VPN keeps your internet connection secure using 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and an app-specific kill switch. Additional features include specialty servers (optimized for beating censorship, P2P traffic, and Tor over VPN), Meshnet (which connects devices on multiple networks), and a tool that can block ads for you. NordVPN is a no-logs provider and has proven this many times with third-party audits.

You can bypass the 4chan IP ban via NordVPN’s apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. There are also Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. You can manually configure router connections. Doing so will protect every device on your network.

BEST VPN FOR 4CHAN:NordVPN is our top choice. Has 7,700 servers worldwide, with almost 2,000 in the US. Plenty of options for unblocking 4chan and similar platforms. Highly secure service with 24/7 live chat support. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

Surfshark is the best low-cost VPN for evading a 4chan ban. Despite its low price, this service is exceptionally fast. It averaged 189.91 Mbps in our tests, which makes it suitable for everything from multiplayer gaming to video calling and torrenting.

The provider has 100 server locations to choose from, and no simultaneous connection limit. In other words, it’s a solid choice for just about any day-to-day task. Best of all, this provider works well with stubborn platforms like Netflix and Hulu.

If you have a Surfshark account, you’ll have access to 24/7 live chat and email support. You’ll also be able to connect to this VPN’s MultiHop (Double VPN) servers which effectively encrypt your internet traffic twice for extra security. Speaking of, Surfshark keeps you safe using 256-bit encryption, protection from DNS leaks, and a kill switch. It’s worth noting that this VPN can swap your IP address regularly, and keeps no logs (something verified by its most recent audit results).

Surfshark has beginner-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. There are also browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. You’ll need to follow manual setup instructions to use it with routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is an affordable no-logs VPN with servers in 100+ countries and 22 US cities. Works with 4chan and Netflix. Unlimited simultaneous connections and 24/7 support. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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3. Total VPN

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

Total VPN has a great reputation, having been in the industry for more than a decade. Users can choose from around 1,800 servers in 80+ countries and access a wide range of geo-blocked platforms, from Netflix to BBC iPlayer. It has a five-device limit, which is slightly lower than its rivals but still more than enough for most situations. Additionally, you can get support via the 24/7 ticket system in the unlikely event that anything goes wrong.

Even if your goal is to beat a 4chan IP ban, that’s probably not the only thing you want to do online. For that reason, our team makes sure that we only recommend services that are fast enough for a variety of tasks. Below, you can see how quick Total VPN’s American servers were in the morning, at noon, and in the afternoon. Bear in mind these tests were run on a 250 Mbps connection (the average US broadband speed).

Total VPN delivered an average speed of 182.03 Mbps, which is a phenomenal result, second only to NordVPN and Surfshark. For context, this is quick enough to download more than 1GB per minute, so you shouldn’t have any issues live streaming, playing fast-paced online games, or torrenting.

This provider won’t let your browsing history fall into the wrong hands. It uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is considered the gold standard and protects against DNS and IPv6 leaks by default. The built-in kill switch ensures you won’t accidentally browse unprotected after a connection outage, and the special Hydra protocol can help you bypass VPN-blocking systems on public networks. There’s even split tunneling support in case you want to let some sites pass through unencrypted.

Total VPN apps are available for Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS.

BROWSE WITHOUT LIMITS:Total VPN can help you get around a 4chan ban, access your favorite streaming apps abroad, or torrent anonymously. Fast and secure, with a 30-day money-back guarantee on long-term plans (or a 14-day guarantee on short-term subscriptions).

Take a look at our full Total VPN review.

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4. Proton VPN

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025  

Proton VPN operates servers in more than 117 countries and excels at getting around regional restrictions. You can beat 4chan bans using the free plan, but to access streaming platforms abroad, you’ll have to upgrade. Doing so boosts your speeds significantly, lets you secure 10 devices at once, provides access to 24/7 customer support, and lets you choose a server location rather than being assigned one randomly, so we’d say it’s worth thinking about.

While connected to ProtonVPN’s US servers, we measured speeds ranging from 163.36 Mbps to 151.35 Mbps. While these results weren’t quite as consistent as some of the above providers, they’re nevertheless fast enough for streaming 4K video or playing multiplayer games. 

Security is one of ProtonVPN’s biggest strengths. For starters, it boasts uncrackable encryption and an independently verified zero-logs policy. There’s also DNS and IPv6 leak protection, automatic ad and tracker-blocking, and a kill switch that stops sending data if you disconnect unexpectedly.

For even greater anonymity, you can connect to its Secure Core servers – these route your traffic through multiple countries and are kept in underground data centers, far from the reach of oppressive governments. Finally, ProtonVPN accepts multiple cryptocurrencies as well as cash, which makes it nice and easy to pay anonymously.

ProtonVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The provider also supports a wide range of routers, although you’ll have to follow manual configuration instructions to get it working.

SPEEDY, RELIABLE SERVERS:Proton VPN delivers top-tier speeds and the ability to access just about any site. Makes it as easy as possible to sidestep a wrongful 4chan ban. Powerful security features and a 30-day money-back guarantee with every paid subscription.

Read our full ProtonVPN review for more details.

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5. ExpressVPN

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

ExpressVPN has servers in 105+ countries, providing thousands of IP addresses capable of unblocking 4chan.

While connected to its US servers, we recorded remarkably consistent speeds of between 136.93 Mbps and 142.21 Mbps. This makes it a strong choice for browsing 4chan, torrenting, gaming, or streaming Netflix.

ExpressVPN can bypass even the toughest online censorship and works flawlessly in China, with no manual configuration required. We’ve always found support staff to be knowledgeable and quick to reply via the 24/7 live chat service.

This provider doesn’t offer as many advanced security features as its competitors, but it nails the basics. There’s 256-bit encryption, IPv6, and DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and automatic protection against malicious websites and trackers.

What’s more, ExpressVPN has its own protocol, Lightway, that can keep you safe even when switching from mobile data to Wi-Fi or vice versa. It has a strict no-logging policy in place and has been repeatedly audited to prove it.

ExpressVPN apps are available for the following operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. There’s also custom firmware for routers and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

HIGHLY SECURE:ExpressVPN is a privacy-conscious provider. Quick and reliable servers in 105+ countries, allowing you to bypass the 4chan IP ban with ease. 24/7 support and a 30-day money-back guarantee with every subscription.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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6. IPVanish

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

IPVanish is a rare find: a beginner-friendly VPN service with no simultaneous connection limit, unlimited bandwidth, and speedy, reliable servers in 140+ locations. Better still, it works with a large range of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video.

Speed-wise, the provider is very quick. In our tests, it averaged 166.69 Mbps, with a range of just 6 Mbps between its slowest and fastest speeds. Safe to say you’ll have no problems streaming, video calling, gaming, or browsing with this VPN at any time of day. 

This VPN operates a no-logging policy and includes all of the essential security features that you’ll need to browse the web anonymously. These include 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. Users can also block local traffic, obfuscate their data, and use the split tunneling feature.

Subscribers to the slightly more expensive Advanced plan will also get access to a secure browser and 1 TB of cloud storage.

You can secure your devices via the IPVanish apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. It’s also possible to use this VPN with Linux and routers, but manual configuration is required. Live chat is available around the clock in the unlikely event that you run into any difficulty.

SECURE EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish works well with 4chan, has no connection cap, and is better at streaming than ever before. Zero-logs VPN with easy-to-use apps and 24/7 live chat support. Annual plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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7. CyberGhost

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

CyberGhost has plenty to offer. For starters, it has one of the largest networks around, with over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries. It also boasts fast speeds, together with unlimited bandwidth. In our tests, it averaged 132.98 Mbps — which is more than fast enough for everyday activities like streaming or gaming. 

We particularly like that CyberGhost has task-specific servers for streaming, enhancing your privacy, gaming, and torrenting. We tried out its streaming servers for Netflix US and BBC iPlayer, and they worked perfectly.

This VPN is packed with security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and leak protection, plus a smart rules tab that lets you choose exactly when the service should connect. There are even multi-hop servers for anyone looking for an extra layer of security. CyberGhost has a no-logging policy, has been audited multiple times, and is one of the only major providers to publish regular transparency reports.

CyberGhost has apps for Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV. Up to seven devices can be secured at the same time, and support staff are on hand 24/7. You can also download browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Manual configuration is required for use with routers and Linux.

10,000+ SERVERS:CyberGhost makes it easy to bypass the 4chan IP ban and is a solid choice for just about any task. Lots of security features, including a strict no-logs policy and encryption. Includes a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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8. PureVPN

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025  

PureVPN operates thousands of servers across 65+ countries, and as a result, getting an IP address that 4chan hasn’t banned is nice and simple. Further, this provider is an equally strong choice for users hoping to stream, torrent, or play online games thanks to fast connection speeds that averaged 134.11 Mbps in our tests and had less than 1 Mbps of difference between the three results. That’s a seriously impressive level of consistency.

There’s a 10-device limit, and unlike most of its rivals, this VPN even works in places like China. While the apps are very beginner-friendly and easy to use, customer support is available 24 hours per day, just in case you need it.

More importantly, can PureVPN keep you safe? In a word, yes. It supports multiple protocols, uses powerful encryption, and follows a true zero-logs policy. There are plenty of safeguards built-in too, such as a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a tracker-blocker.

We’d prefer if there were at least one anonymous payment method, but that’s not a deal-breaker, especially if you’re just trying to beat a wrongful ban.

PureVPN has its own Android, Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS apps. Alternatively, you can follow manual setup instructions to get it running on just about any router.

GREAT EVERYDAY VPN:PureVPN is speedy, reliable, and great at beating online limitations. A solid choice for streaming, beating 4chan IP bans, or evading censorship. Every subscription includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and access to 24/7 customer support.

Check out our in-depth review of PureVPN.

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9. Hotspot Shield

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

Disclaimer: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.

Hotspot Shield has a growing network of more than 1,800 servers, which you can find in 80+ countries around the world. It has dedicated streaming servers in the UK, US, and Canada. As such, you’ll be able to use this VPN to access 4chan as well as stream Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.

Speeds were consistent during testing. With only minor fluctuations, the provider achieved an average download speed of 70.56 Mbps. This makes it suitable for smoothly streaming 4K video on two devices at the same time.

Using Hotspot Shield couldn’t be easier, making it a particularly suitable choice if you’re using a VPN for the first time. Indeed, you can connect to a server in a single click.

Online anonymity is possible thanks to Hotspot Shield’s security features. There’s 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. It doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified as a user. Furthermore, you can secure as many as 10 devices at once.

Hotspot Shield provides apps for the following: Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. You’ll have to manually configure it for routers, though. Should you have any questions about Hotspot Shield, live chat support is available to you, 24/7.

SERVERS IN 27 US CITIES:Hotspot Shield has a large server network for accessing 4chan. Beginner-friendly VPN service with 24/7 live chat support. Keeps your data secure with high-end encryption. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

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10. PrivateVPN

unblocks 4chanTested Sep 2025

PrivateVPN is a smaller VPN provider that offers roughly 200 servers in 63+ countries. This might not sound like much, but this provider is able to securely access platforms that many of its rivals can’t — including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus.

In fact, it even works in China, making it a strong choice for anyone looking to beat repressive online censorship. As if that wasn’t enough, PrivateVPN offers unlimited bandwidth and a generous 10-device limit.

Speeds weren’t as quick as the other tested providers, with an overall average of 50.39 Mbps. If you need a few more Mbps, it’s possible to reduce the level of encryption to speed connections up.

While the apps are simple to navigate, live chat support and remote help and installation are available just in case. There’s also strong security, in part thanks to this VPN’s strict zero-logs policy. Your data and identity are further safeguarded by 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. For maximum anonymity, you can sign up for a PrivateVPN account by using a throwaway email address and paying in Bitcoin.

Unblock 4chan from anywhere via the PrivateVPN apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. You can also use this VPN with Linux and routers but this requires manual setup.

STRESS-FREE STREAMING:PrivateVPN offers servers in 63+ countries and works well with 4chan, Netflix, and more. Beginner-friendly apps and live chat support. Protects your privacy with encryption and a no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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Beating a 4chan ban with a VPN: FAQs

See also: Overall best VPN providers