Why do I need a VPN to access The Internet Archive on mobile but not on desktop?

a year ago by Mothra to c/asklemmy

Same wifi network. On my laptop I can access the website, no issues without VPN. On my phone, there's just no way unless I activate my VPN.

I tried searching about it but the closest results I found say it's an ISP issue, some apparently block the Archive. If that was the case then I'd need VPN for both devices, right? So it's got to be another reason, yes?

I didn't find anyone saying they experience the same as I am, I suppose because I suck at searching I guess.

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JoeDyrt 9 points a year ago

My VPN , Private Internet Access, uses its own DNS server, which translates urls to actual IP addresses. Your phone may be using your mobile provider’s DNS server, which may be blocking access to that IP adresss, while your VPN’s DNS does not block it. Your desktop system is likely using another DNS server, setup by your internet service provider.

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baduhai 2 points a year ago

If the issue truly is the DNS, then the solution should be to just change your DNS, @Mothra@mander.xyz

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Mothra 1 point a year ago

Will look into it, thanks for the answers :)

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JoeDyrt 1 point a year ago

So, what to do it? I think you have found the best solution; use your VPN on mobile all the time. This means you will do more captchas, but you will have more access to sites.

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Paid_in_cheese 1 point a year ago

If it is the DNS, I'd say OP should change DNS on their phone to point to something else. I can (and do) on iPhone. I'd be shocked if Android couldn't. Easier than leaving your VPN on all the time. Although there are benefits to leaving VPN on too. Kind of a personal choice for the most part.

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