Is VPN Available in China?

For anyone traveling to or living in China, one question constantly pops up: Can you use a VPN in China? The simple answer is: Yes, but it's complicated. China has some of the most advanced and stringent internet censorship systems in the world, commonly referred to as the Great Firewall of China. This system blocks numerous international websites and services, including major social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, as well as Google services like Gmail and YouTube. So, to access these, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) have become a crucial tool for many.

However, China doesn't take this circumvention of its internet policies lightly. VPN services are technically illegal in China, but the reality is more nuanced. The Chinese government blocks many VPN providers, but some still operate successfully. Individuals using VPNs within the country often do so at a level of risk, as the government continues to crack down on both users and providers.

Why the Need for a VPN in China?

The demand for VPNs in China stems from the extensive censorship imposed by the Chinese government. Many websites and services that are commonly used around the world are blocked in China. These include social media platforms, news websites, and certain messaging services. Here's a breakdown of why people in China often turn to VPNs:

• Accessing Blocked Websites: Social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are inaccessible without a VPN. Even Western news outlets like the New York Times or BBC are often blocked.

• Work and Collaboration Tools: Many international business professionals find VPNs essential for work, especially when relying on tools like Google Drive, Gmail, and Slack, which are all blocked in China.

• Streaming Services: For those wanting to stream content from Netflix, Hulu, or any other international platform, a VPN is a necessity. Most of these platforms are geo-restricted and unavailable in China.

The Great Firewall was originally designed to protect the government and its citizens from unwanted foreign influence. It selectively allows approved content while blocking unapproved international websites and apps. But with VPNs, people can circumvent the blocks and continue accessing the open internet.

How Does China Block VPNs?

China employs sophisticated technologies to detect and block VPN usage. They use deep packet inspection (DPI) to detect VPN traffic, and they have even blocked access to the websites of many well-known VPN providers. However, not all VPNs are created equal, and some manage to evade the detection methods used by the Chinese government.

Legal Status of VPNs in China

Although China hasn't entirely banned the use of VPNs for individuals, they’ve created a legal grey area. Officially, only VPNs approved by the government are legal to use. In practice, this means that the majority of available VPNs are considered illegal.

Several high-profile cases have highlighted the consequences of using VPNs in China:

• In 2017, a Chinese citizen was fined and sentenced to jail time for setting up a VPN service for personal use.

• In 2019, Apple removed over 800 VPN apps from its Chinese app store following demands from the Chinese government.

These examples emphasize that using an unapproved VPN in China carries risks. The crackdown has largely targeted VPN service providers and local businesses, rather than individual users, but it's important to remain cautious.

Top VPNs Still Working in China

Despite China's best efforts, some VPN services continue to function, allowing users to bypass the Great Firewall. Here are some of the most popular VPNs that work in China:

1. ExpressVPN: Widely regarded as one of the best VPNs for China, ExpressVPN consistently evades detection with its advanced encryption and obfuscation techniques.

2. NordVPN: Known for its strong security protocols, NordVPN offers a reliable option for users in China. It uses obfuscated servers designed specifically for countries with heavy censorship.

3. Surfshark: This is a newer VPN service but has quickly gained a reputation for working well in China. It offers a high-speed connection, making it suitable for streaming.

4. Astrill VPN: This is often the go-to VPN for expats living in China, as it has a high success rate at bypassing the Great Firewall.

These VPNs employ various technologies, such as obfuscation and stealth protocols, to make VPN traffic appear like regular internet traffic, thus avoiding detection. However, even these VPNs face sporadic blocks during times of increased censorship, such as during major political events or conferences in China.

Corporate VPN Use in China

It's important to note that corporate VPNs are typically exempt from many of the restrictions applied to personal VPNs. Multinational companies often use VPNs to ensure secure communication and data transfer across borders. These VPNs are often registered and licensed with the Chinese government. Thus, while an individual might face issues using a VPN, corporate users often have an easier time.

VPN Alternatives: Are There Any?

For those concerned about the risks of using a VPN in China, there are some alternatives to consider, though they come with limitations:

• Shadowsocks: Originally designed as a proxy tool, Shadowsocks works by diverting traffic to circumvent the Great Firewall. It’s more difficult for the Chinese government to detect than traditional VPNs, but it also requires more technical knowledge to set up.

• Tor: Another option is Tor, which is a free software that enables anonymous communication. However, the Chinese government has made significant efforts to block access to Tor as well. It is also slower than VPNs, making it less ideal for streaming or other data-heavy activities.

• L2TP/IPSec or IKEv2/IPSec: These VPN protocols are sometimes used in China because they can disguise VPN traffic more effectively than the more common OpenVPN protocol.

However, all of these options come with potential risks, and none are as widely used or as user-friendly as traditional VPNs.

VPN Usage Trends in China: A Look at the Numbers

To understand how prevalent VPN use is in China, consider the following table, which breaks down the percentage of internet users who rely on VPNs or proxy services to bypass the Great Firewall:

These numbers indicate that VPN usage is on the rise in China, despite the government’s efforts to crack down on its use. This trend is particularly notable among expats, foreign businesspeople, and young Chinese professionals who are eager to stay connected with the outside world.

Final Thoughts

While VPNs are technically illegal in China, they remain a vital tool for many individuals looking to access the uncensored internet. The risk of punishment exists, but it seems to be largely focused on those providing VPN services rather than the individual users themselves. With the right precautions and by choosing a reliable VPN, it's still possible to navigate the challenges of the Great Firewall and maintain access to the open web.

If you are planning to visit or move to China, it is strongly recommended that you download and set up a VPN before entering the country. Once inside China, it can be difficult to access VPN provider websites to download the necessary software.

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