How to Unblock Crunchyroll Using SmartDNS
Introduction to Using SmartDNS to Unblock Crunchyroll
If you’re an anime or manga enthusiast, you probably know that Crunchyroll is a goldmine for Japanese content. However, some shows on Crunchyroll are not accessible in every country due to regional restrictions. Even if you’re paying for a subscription, you might not have access to the full library available in other regions. This is where SmartDNS comes in handy. SmartDNS allows you to bypass these geographical restrictions, giving you full access to Crunchyroll’s content from anywhere in the world.
What is SmartDNS?
SmartDNS is a technology that helps you bypass geographical restrictions by redirecting the DNS queries generated by your device through a server in the geographical area where the content is available. This makes it appear as though your internet traffic originates from within that region, thus unblocking restricted content such as that on Crunchyroll. Unlike VPNs, SmartDNS does not encrypt your traffic, which can result in faster streaming speeds.
How SmartDNS Works
When you connect to the internet, your device performs a DNS lookup to convert the website URL into an IP address that it can connect to. SmartDNS replaces the DNS address provided by your ISP with a DNS provided by a SmartDNS service. This DNS server, located in a region where your desired content is available, receives and responds to your queries. Essentially, SmartDNS ‚tricks‘ the service into thinking you’re accessing it from a different location.
Setting Up SmartDNS to Unblock Crunchyroll
Setting up SmartDNS is straightforward and doesn’t require any special software installation. Here are the general steps to set it up:
Step 1: Choose a SmartDNS Provider
Not all SmartDNS providers support Crunchyroll, so it’s important to choose one that does. Look for providers who expressly mention Crunchyroll and other streaming services on their list of unblocked websites.
Step 2: Register and Set Up the SmartDNS Service
Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to register and then modify the DNS settings on your device. Most providers will give you a new DNS address to replace the existing one in your device’s network settings.
Step 3: Change DNS Settings
This setting varies from one device to another. Here’s a quick guide on how you can change DNS settings on various devices:
- On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. Right-click your active connection, select Properties, then highlight ‚Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)‘, and click Properties. Then, enter the DNS settings provided.
- On Mac: Open System Preferences > Network. Select your active connection, then click Advanced, and go to the DNS tab where you can add the new DNS address.
- On iOS and Android devices: Go into your Wi-Fi settings, find your connection, and then modify the DNS server to the one provided by your SmartDNS provider.
- On routers: This applies if you want all devices on your network to have access. Log into your router, find DNS settings, and replace them with those provided by your SmartDNS service.
Step 4: Enjoy Crunchyroll without Restrictions
Once you have changed your DNS settings, restart your device. You should now be able to access all Crunchyroll content as if you were in an unrestricted region.
Choosing the Right SmartDNS Provider
Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a SmartDNS provider:
- Compatibility: Ensure the service supports Crunchyroll and is compatible with your streaming device.
- Speed: Since SmartDNS does not encrypt data, the service should offer fast connection speeds suitable for streaming.
- Price: Compare the prices and choose one that offers good value for the services provided.
- Customer Support: Good customer support is crucial in case you run into any setup issues.
- User Reviews: Check online reviews to see what current and past users have to say about the service.
Noteworthy Providers to Consider
Some popular SmartDNS services that are known for unblocking Crunchyroll efficiently include Unlocator, Smart DNS Proxy, and OverPlay. Each of these services has different plans and pricing, so be sure to choose one that meets your needs.
Conclusion: Summing Up Your Options
Using SmartDNS is an excellent way to watch Crunchyroll from anywhere in the world without facing the barrier of regional restrictions. The setup process is generally quick and straightforward, and upon completion, it grants you access to a vast array of Crunchyroll’s content that may not readily be available in your area.
Here are suggested solutions for various use cases:
- For the Avid Anime Viewer: Choose a reliable SmartDNS service that prioritizes speed and has specific support for Crunchyroll to keep up with the latest releases in real-time.
- For Families: Set up SmartDNS on your router to ensure that everyone in the household can access diverse content on Crunchyroll without any extra setup on individual devices.
- For the Budget-Conscious: Compare different SmartDNS providers for a balance between cost and performance, ensuring you do not sacrifice streaming quality for price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between SmartDNS and VPN?
SmartDNS is mainly used for bypassing geographical restrictions and typically provides faster streaming speeds because it does not encrypt data. On the other hand, a VPN provides security and anonymity by encrypting your data, which may slow down your connection.
Can I use SmartDNS on multiple devices?
Yes, most SmartDNS services allow you to use one subscription on multiple devices. However, you may need to set up each device separately unless you configure SmartDNS settings on your router.
Will using SmartDNS slow down my internet connection?
Generally, using SmartDNS does not slow down your internet connection as it does not encrypt your data. It might even offer faster streaming speeds compared to VPN services.
Is SmartDNS legal?
Using SmartDNS is legal in most countries. However, bypassing geographically imposed restrictions could violate the terms of service of some streaming services, including Crunchyroll.
How do I know if my SmartDNS setup is working?
After setting up SmartDNS, try accessing content on Crunchyroll that was previously not available in your region. If you can view it, the SmartDNS is working correctly.
Engage With Us
We’d love to hear your experiences with using SmartDNS to access Crunchyroll, and we’re here to help if you have any questions or encounter any issues. Please share your thoughts, corrections to the guide, or any queries you might have in the comments below. Your input makes our community stronger!