Accessing via VPN

[jamescarruthers]

I’m trying to access FCF and BX Club forums but cannot get connected when connected to my VPN. I don’t think it has been an issue until now. Has something changed on the forum side recently that would block this.

I’m using NordVPN and a UK server.

[jamescarruthers]

Just noticed that this is only true on my iPhone and connecting via VPN on my windows laptop is absolutely fine. Weird!

[GiveMeABreak]

I tried them and dumped them within a week. Too many delays and crashes with sites, plus crippled my speed to an unacceptable level. I got so fed up with constantly changing configurations to access some sites it became counter productive James. I had a similar experience with several other sites, so aborted the whole idea now.

[mickthemaverick]

Me too James, I've tried 4 different VPN services and never come close to a seamless system. Like Marc I don't use one at all unless very occasionally I am abroad and want to access a protected UK site, to watch TV for example, but most decent UK sites now block access from VPN servers so not really worth having at all!!

[xantia_v6]

I am not aware of any reason that this site would not work through a VPN. There has not been any significant change in configuration in the last 18 months. I disabled ipv6 access about 9 months ago, but that should not be an issue.

Can you ping the server via the VPN?
Can you determine your vpn'd ip address with a site like https://whatismyipaddress.com and send it to me in a PM so that I can check it against our spam block list?

[jamescarruthers]

After a few days of no access, it seems to be working on VPN now. Some magic their end maybe? Could be that they know people in oppressed countries need access to civilised Citroen information as a matter of urgency!

I’m not quite a full tinfoil hat wearer but I consider a VPN essential these days— I wouldn’t probably have gotten in to them if I didn’t work abroad a lot but now I’m sold on the idea. I’m currently in Saudi Arabia and don’t want anything non-encrypted going through their systems if I can’t help it. Plus, iPlayer when I’m away is a godsend.

I’ve found NordVPN to be very good with speed and reliability and have used them for about 5 years. These guys and Express VPN are highly rated amongst my colleagues as we travel about. I think Express worked better in China though.

I did like the sound of Blokada VPN and paid for a yearly subscription but that was a great idea but was very limited on download speed and constantly connecting. That’s annoying as I can’t get my £60 back.

All resolved then. Thanks everyone.

[jamescarruthers]

Regarding the IP address, I suspect this changes as I switch between the UK and nearest safe country usually, so probably not so useful? Also to Spain yesterday to check some shopping prices for a Spanish colleague while we are stuck out here!

If I get blocked again I’ll make a note and let you know.