5 Indications That Your VPN Is Restricted in China – And What Actions to Take (2026)

As of 2026, even the most dependable VPN can occasionally encounter issues in China. This does NOT imply that the service is malfunctioning — more often than not, it indicates that: the Great Firewall (GFW) has temporarily blocked your server, IP, or protocol.

Here are five unmistakable indicators that your VPN is being hindered, along with actionable solutions for swiftly regaining access.

Indicator 1: “Connecting…” is stuck for longer than 20 seconds

This typically suggests:

  • The server IP has been restricted;
  • The protocol has been identified;
  • The connection port is undergoing filtering.

Solution:

  • Change to another region (Japan, Korea, Singapore);
  • Alter the protocol (TLS, WS, TCP/443);
  • Restart the application.

Indicator 2: Connection established, but international websites won’t load

This indicates possible DNS interference or routing issues.

  • Google isn’t accessible;
  • YouTube is frozen;
  • ChatGPT is unreachable;
  • Local sites operate without issues.

Solution:

  • Activate built-in DNS (DoH/DoT);
  • Turn off ISP DNS;
  • Utilize SmartDNS mode;

Indicator 3: Slow performance between 8–11 PM

This indicates that the network is overloaded AND that the firewall becomes more aggressive during peak times.

Solution:

  • Switch nodes prior to peak periods;
  • Adopt low-latency routes in Asia;
  • Activate obfuscation.

Indicator 4: Functions on 4G/5G but fails on WiFi

Public and hotel WiFi networks often restrict encrypted protocols.

Solution:

  • Use your mobile hotspot;
  • Enable WebSocket/TLS mode;
  • Steer clear of public networks.

Indicator 5: An previously reliable server suddenly ceases to function

The GFW updates its block lists frequently. It’s typical for certain IPs to be blocked unexpectedly.

Solution:

  • Shift to alternate nodes;
  • Experiment with different protocols;
  • Re-establish the connection.

Additional Indicator: Significant packet loss

Signs include:

  • Webpages load in over 10 seconds;
  • Images fail to load fully;
  • Videos are stuck at very low resolutions.

Solution:

  • Implement load-balancing routes;
  • Choose Asian nodes;
  • Enable smart routing.

Ways to minimize the likelihood of being blocked

  • Utilize obfuscation;
  • Avoid sticking with one server for extended periods;
  • Regularly update the server list;
  • Steer clear of free tools;
  • Do not maintain idle connections for hours on end.

Final Thoughts

When your VPN stops functioning in China, it generally signifies that the IP or protocol was temporarily blocked. With appropriate measures, you can quickly restore access. For reliable stability, Free VPN List provides effective obfuscation and routing optimized for China.

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