For a number of reasons China has blocked access to a whole host of foreign websites, including Google, Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, and Gmail. With a VPN you can get around the "Great Firewall" and surf just like you would back home. Here's how to choose your VPN.
Why do I need a VPN?
The government's “Great Firewall” means that you from the moment you touchdown in China many of the sites you use every day back home.
A VPN (virtual private network) establishes a private server overseas, allowing you to bypass the firewall and directly access these sites. Essentially you connect to a non-blocked computer and surf the web using the other computer's internet connection.
Hold up, hold up,
is it even legal?
Although it is illegal to operate a VPN business in China, there is no law (yet) against individuals using an international VPN.
As long as you’re not caught plotting the downfall of the Chinese government, using a VPN to browse, tweet, and Instagram is #totallyfine.
Which VPN should I use then?
We highly recommend you download and set-up your VPN before coming to China. To save you the trouble, we’ve broken down the specifications behind some of the most popular and recommended VPNs used here in the Middle Kingdom:
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is one of the most widely used VPNs among foreigners in China. Although it’s a little on the pricey end it does offer you a speedy, reliable service.
Features
US$12.95/month, or $8.32/month on a one-year plan
Unlimited Data Usage
Connect up to 3 devices simultaneously
Our recommendation: Try out the ExpressVPN 30-day free trial. Even if you do end up cancelling your subscription, at least you will have saved yourself a month’s worth of VPN fees.
Astrill
Astrill is a slightly cheaper option, and continues to be a popular choice for foreigners. It is slightly cheaper than ExpressVPN, although it only allows you to connect to 2 separate devices at once. You can buy a home sharing upgrade which allows you to use 5 devices at once, however this does cost extra.
Features
US$9.98/month on a 3-month plan; US$5.83/month on a one-year plan
Unlimited Data Usage
Connect up to 2 devices simultaneously (one laptop + one mobile)
If you are already in China, you’ll need a VPN to access the Astrill website (oh, the irony.) Here are some alternate, China-friendly links to sign-up and download:
https://getastrill.com
https://astrill4u.com
Vyprvpn
Rounding off the top 3 most recommended VPNs is Vyprvpn. Although this isn’t as widely-known, it is the cheapest of the three, and claims to be the “world’s fastest VPN.”
Specs
US$9.95/month; or US$5.00/month on a one-year plan
Unlimited Data Usage
3 Simultaneous Connections
Vypr also offers a swanky Premium option, allowing you to connect 5 devices at once. It costs US$12.95/month; or US$6.67/month on a one-year plan.
Do I have to buy one?
Nope. Lucky for you there are several free options out there (which certainly aren’t as fast or reliable). We suggest:
Lantern
Free
800MB High-speed internet a month then the connection speed is lowered
Available on Mac, PC, and Android (iOS supposedly coming soon)
Betternet
Free (with ads)
Unlimited Data Usage
Available on all devices
Windscribe
Free
10GB/Month Data Usage
1 Device
We also recommend searching out less well-known VPNs, as they're less likely to be in the virtual Gulag. PC mag recommends NordVPN and Private Internet Access, though we haven't battle-tested them yet.
Source: SZExpat
Are You Qualified For China Z-visa!
This 1 Minute Test Can Tell!
HACOS,Business Services Solutions Master