A VPN is already very safe as it encrypts data and masks the IP address, but sometimes, it is not enough so is there something that can be done? Well yes! That is why VPN obfuscation comes in. You can use it to avoid workplace restrictions, unblock content censored in some parts of the world, or mask from ISPs that user is using a VPN. VPN obfuscation is vital to keep the VPN usage hidden.
But what’s the key to why you need VPN obfuscation? What does it do, and how is it different from everyday VPN use as most people apply it? Now let’s go deeper into VPN obfuscation free, its benefits, disadvantages, and when it can be helpful.
What is Obfuscation, and How Does It Work?
VPN obfuscation is a method to hide that a user uses a VPN. However, in some circumstances, the networks or governments can identify and throttle VPN connections. However, by using obfuscation techniques, they alter traffic to the VPN with regular internet connections.
VPN obfuscation is generally adopted through further encryption or altering the data flow to be indistinguishable from HTTP/HTTPS connections.
Obfuscation’s function is to hide the patterns of VPN traffic that firewalls or DPI devices typically recognize. That is why most VPN obfuscation techniques are based on obfuscated servers or stealth protocols to conceal VPN usage.
Important!!
If you don’t know how to set up a VPN, and can I set up a VPN on my router, then I suggest you to read my guides.
Since you now know what is VPN obfuscation, let’s check out its advantages.
What are the Advantages of VPN Obfuscation?
1. Enhanced Privacy
The benefit of using a VPN is that people can be prevented from knowing your connection because of the obscuration of your network. This can be particularly useful for users worldwide experiencing VPN use limitations, such as internet freedom restrictions, censorship, and surveillance.
2. Bypassing Restrictions
If you want to watch content that is restricted by your workplace, school, or in your country, VPN obfuscation is an excellent way to remove these restrictions. This is beneficial to journalists, political activists, and anyone who is in the process of looking for information that could potentially be banned.
3. Prevent VPN From Throttling
Some ISPs even slow down the VPN usage. With VPN obfuscation, your VPN traffic is disguised as usual so you don’t face throttling.
What are the Drawbacks of VPN Obfuscation?
1. Slower Speeds
Since obfuscation involves higher processing to mask your traffic, it will likely slow down your internet.
2. Complexity in Setup
Sometimes, it becomes difficult to configure the VPN obfuscation’s best protocols. Although it is a common feature of most premium VPNs, enabling these might not be easy.
3. Complex Code
Sometimes, the threats entertain vendor-specific approaches to its practice. The second effect of obfuscation is that the code is much harder to read, increasing the time it will take to debug if there are errors. As an example, code that implements the string encryption obfuscation method has to decrypt the strings during execution, which negatively affects the code’s runtime performance.
Now that you have learned all the drawbacks, including what are the disadvantages of obfuscated code, let’s move forward.
When to Use VPN Obfuscation?
Although VPN obfuscation is not very relevant to everyone, there are some conditions under which this technology becomes extremely valuable. According to this theory, the following are some of the situations where obfuscation is most valuable:
For Increased Privacy and Security
VPN access is more important for any journalist, political activist, or diplomat with sensitive information, mostly in countries where the internet is restricted. With the best, it is safe to surf the internet, exchange information, and type desired messages without being detected automatically by a VPN.
To Bypass Online Censorship
Some countries, such as China and Iran, regulate VPNs, which challenges users and travelers within these countries and territories to access the internet freely. Fortunately, there is such a thing as VPN obfuscation, which helps you overcome these firewalls and get the result you need without government censorship.
For example, during Russia’s protest and ban on the internet in 2021, people searched for VPNs much more than earlier, as you know.
For Torrenting & P2P Activity
If you are in a country where torrenting is prohibited, it works to avoid detection by use of VPN obfuscation. Many VPNs have obfuscated servers for P2P, and it’s a plus for those who need to torrent safely without any restrictions.
When Not to Use VPN Obfuscation?
In a few situations, obfuscation doesn’t make sense, though it brings some advantages.
If Your Internet Speeds Are Slow
VPN obfuscation is pretty good as it adds a layer of security. However, is obfuscated VPN slower? Yes, it slows down your connection. If the user is already forced to work with a slow internet connection, then obfuscation creates the problem and can significantly deny a good experience online.
To Bypass Geo-Restrictions on Streaming Services
Most of the streaming providers, notably Netflix, work to blacklist VPN connections. Although this hides VPN use, it does not always increase the ability to bypass geo-restrictions on these platforms. Using obfuscation can never really guarantee users anonymity because, in most cases, streaming services have a way of identifying VPN traffic.
Which VPN Services Offer Obfuscation?
Several VPN services provide obfuscated servers or stealth modes for enhanced privacy:
- ExpressVPN: It offers stealth protocols to bypass firewalls. Those stealth protocols ensure that the VPN gets past the firewall in case a user is in a country with such restrictions.
- Surfshark: It has a feature “Camouflage Mode” which can be understood as the VPN obfuscation that helps to hide the VPN usage from the ISPs.
- NordVPN: Obfuscated servers in NordVPN are specifically the fight against censorship and DPI.
But if you are looking for a free VPN with obfuscation feature, you are in trouble because most VPN services do not offer obfuscated servers. Most premium services, such as those listed above, are usually advised regarding the ability to VPN obfuscate.
The Future of Obfuscation VPN and Internet Privacy
Based on the present progression of surveillance technologies, it will not be surprising to find VPN obfuscation working hard to make new detection techniques irrelevant.
VPN tools are crucial because they will be needed with the obscured Internet around the corner. As firewalls and other DPI tools advance, the need for strong VPN obfuscation will continue to climb.
FAQs
An obfuscated VPN alters VPN traffic as regular traffic for bypassing network blocks. A double VPN routes traffic through two separate VPN servers for extra security, adding a layer of encryption.
VPN obfuscation means making VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic. It hides traces of important information about a VPN protocol in the data packets. So, the raw data stays encrypted, an the DPI won’t be able to detect VPN usage unless the data packet is inspected manually.
Yes, obfuscation is essential for those residing in countries that censor internet use. You will need it to encrypt your data, as obfuscation will allow you to avoid VPN blocks.
Every VPN has its settings. However, mainly in the Protocol tab, you must select OpenVPN (UDP) or OpenVPN (TCP). Choose the globe icon to return to the main screen, then Specialty servers. Tap Obfuscated servers — and the application will automatically choose the best server.
Yes, we can read it by using some advanced debugging tools. While obfuscation can make reading a program complex and hectic, it will not necessarily make it impossible.
A VPN’s traffic as regular HTTPS traffic to avoid detection is an example of obfuscation.
No, considering the security concerns, encryption is generally more robust than obfuscation.
Security through obfuscation is good, but it’s not as powerful without encryption.
Conclusion
VPN obfuscation is essential to preserve internet privacy in active censorship or surveillance areas. However, it is not beneficial for every user. Still, VPN obfuscation is extremely helpful for those involved in some businesses requiring sensitive information or struggling with a very tight firewall.
For whatever reason, be it for a particular location for work, using torrents, or bypassing censorship, it is comforting to know you have a reliable VPN with obfuscation to keep your business safe.