PeerBlock has been around for over a decade now. While older is better in cases like this, it seems to have diverged from the original open-source path it used to be on. Don’t get me wrong; PeerBlock is free, but many of its IP lists aren’t. Because of that, opting for a PeerBlock alternative may make more sense for you.
Instead of using such a specialized service that you’ll need to pay for (for specific IP lists), why not opt for a Virtual Private Network (VPN) instead? Regardless of your choice, here are some services that can also keep you safe while you P2P.
1. NordVPN
With my penchant for VPNs, you can bet that I’m going to start with these. NordVPN is one of the best in the business and combines solid performance, security, and excellent pricing. It also boasts a range of P2P optimized servers that will keep you torrenting all day long.
It also boasts superb coverage thanks to a massive number of servers spread across the world. If there’s anything you can’t do with NordVPN, I haven’t found it yet. I’ve run it for over two years, and it’s never clashed with any websites I found so far.
Get NordVPN for as low as $3.67/mo
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is my “Plan B” for a PeerBlock alternative, especially when I’m feeling lazy. It offers similar performance to NordVPN but hasn’t been in the market as long. There’s greater convenience, though, since you can run torrents and P2P off all their servers.
Prices at Surfshark are also great, and I find they have one of the best value propositions in the market. Security-wise, there’s been nothing to complain about so far. It’s convenient, and with their recent WireGuard implementation, so fast.
Get Surfshark for as little as $2.49/mo
3. ExpressVPN
The third on my list of VPN suggestions as a PeerBlock alternative is ExpressVPN. Among all the VPNs I’ve tested, these guys offer the most stable and highly compatible service. The only problem is that ExpressVPN is a bit pricier than most other VPN brands.
ExpressVPN is one of the most established brands around and has proven integrity and security many times. It runs an audited service and has implemented its next-gen protocol. Lightway is fast and no slouch compared to WireGuard.
ExpressVPN Prices Start from $8.32/mo.
4. PeerGuardian
If you don’t want to use a VPN, there are other more similar software to PeerGuard. One obvious case is PeerGuardian, the Linux-based version of PeerBlock. It came out before PeerBlock and still exists to this day.
Unfortunately, you may find it a little outdated since PeerGuardian isn’t actively developed anymore. Still, it’s an option for those who love old-school firewall applications. Honestly, though, you can do much better. Finding IP lists will still give you a headache, though.
5. Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton offers decent device-based security, and if you work your way past their antivirus, the Internet Security version comes with a software firewall built-in. It’s an established name in the business and helps protect against ransomware and all modern cyber threats.
The only problem with using Norton as a PeerBlock alternative is that it’s from an official source. That means we can’t (or at least, I can’t) trust it to know the stuff I’m grabbing off P2P networks. I’ll leave what that may be to your imagination.
Norton Internet Security starts from $19.99/year
Why Use a PeerBlock Alternative
Peerblock has its fan base for sure but if your main reason for using it is P2P, think again. The reality is that PeerBlock used to be a good idea; it could wall off a list of IP addresses that are known to be monitoring your P2P activities.
PeerBlock Uses Outdated Methods
However, this behavior is highly rudimentary. The fact is that in the context of modern-day privacy and security solutions like VPNs, PeerBlock is a caveman. It’s hard to keep up with the evolving lists of monitoring IP addresses, and PeerBlock relies on that to keep you safe.
There’s No Encryption in PeerBlock
In case anyone works its way past PeerBlock, everything you’re transferring is open in plain sight. There’s no encryption to speak off, unlike when you connect to a VPN server. No matter what you’re doing online, encryption should always be a priority to safeguard your data.
VPNs Mask Your Origin IP Address
A VPN helps keep you safer by allowing you to adopt the IP address of their secure servers. With this method, you don’t have to worry about monitoring since you aren’t broadcasting your IP address. Well, not your real IP address anyway.
Conclusion
PeerBlock has had its day, and sadly, that day has long passed. Unfortunately, cyber threats from hackers and governments alike are increasing. The spirit of PeerBlock lives on, just in a different shape and form. Get a VPN today; your privacy will thank you.