How to Apply for Unblocking a Domain That Has Been Blocked?

How to Apply for Unblocking a Domain That Has Been Blocked?

April 25, 2025
Related Knowledge
Domain Block, GFW, Unblock

What Does It Mean When a Domain Is Blocked? #

A domain being blocked usually refers to it being restricted by the Great Firewall (GFW), which results in certain users being unable to access it. The approach to unblocking depends on the cause and context, and here are some general steps and recommendations:

1. Confirm the Domain Is Blocked #

First, you need to verify that the domain is indeed blocked rather than experiencing a server failure or network issue. You can check this in the following ways:

  • Try accessing the website from within China. If it fails to load but the server status is normal (e.g., you can ping the IP), it might be blocked.
  • Test it using a foreign network or VPN. If it’s accessible from abroad but not domestically, it’s likely blocked.

2. Analyze the Reason for the Block #

A domain may be blocked for several reasons:

  • Non-Compliant Content: The site contains sensitive or illegal material (e.g., politically sensitive topics, pornography, gambling, etc.).
  • Lack of ICP Filing: Using a domestic server without completing the required filing with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
  • IP Blacklisting: The IP address the domain resolves to is blacklisted, possibly due to other websites on the same IP.
  • DNS Issues: The DNS server used by the domain has been blocked.

3. Solutions and Unblocking Steps #

Take action based on the cause:

  • Remove Non-Compliant Content: If the site includes sensitive material, delete it immediately and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
  • Complete ICP Filing: If using a domestic server, submit a filing application through your domain registrar or server provider. This typically requires identity proof, domain certificate, and other documents for MIIT review.
  • Change IP Address: If the IP is blocked, contact your server provider to switch to a clean IP, then update your domain’s DNS records.
  • Switch DNS: Try using reliable domestic DNS services (e.g., Alibaba Cloud DNS, Baidu DNS) instead of foreign ones.
  • Pause Resolution and Wait: If immediate resolution isn’t possible, suspend domain resolution and leave it inactive for a while (usually over a year). This might lead to automatic unblocking, though success isn’t guaranteed.

4. Appealing to Unblock #

There’s no official “domain unblocking” appeal channel, as the GFW’s operations lack transparency. However, you can try these indirect approaches:

  • Contact Your Domain Registrar or Server Provider: Explain the situation and seek technical support or advice.
  • Monitor After Filing: Complete the ICP filing and ensure compliance, then wait a while—some domains may regain access.
  • Switch Domains: If unblocking seems unlikely, consider registering a new domain and redirecting traffic via a 301 redirect.

5. Preventive Measures #

  • Use a domestic server and complete the ICP filing, avoiding sensitive keywords.
  • Regularly review website content to ensure compliance.
  • Use CDN services (e.g., Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud) to boost speed and stability.

Note that there’s no standardized process for unblocking a domain, and success depends on the specific situation. For complex cases, it’s recommended to consult technical staff at Feige Jump for more tailored assistance.