Guides

Restrictive networks and AmneziaWG: a field guide for FollowNet

How DPI-shaped networks behave, when to try AmneziaWG or Hysteria2, and how Smart Connect fits without magic claims.

December 2, 2025 7 min read

What “restrictive” usually looks like

Symptoms include WireGuard that never handshakes, sudden speed collapses on one protocol, or VPN that works on LTE but dies on a specific Wi‑Fi. Deep packet inspection and crude blocking are common causes — not always a FollowNet outage.

AmneziaWG’s job

AmneziaWG keeps a WireGuard-like experience with obfuscation aimed at networks that classify plain WireGuard. In FollowNet you can select it manually or let Smart Connect fall back when signals say vanilla WireGuard is a bad bet.

Hysteria2 and IKEv2 in the same toolkit

If AmneziaWG still fails, try Hysteria2 or IKEv2 depending on the path. IKEv2 often helps on messy mobile handoffs; Hysteria2 can help on lossy or hostile links. Speed Test after each change; leave working settings pinned for that location.

Stay honest about outcomes

No conventional VPN — FollowNet included — can promise connectivity on every filtered network. Comply with local law, keep the app updated, and treat Smart Connect as best-effort automation. When nothing connects, switch networks or report the failure with protocol and region details.