Administrators often restrict school Chromebooks to prevent students from accessing certain websites. Usually, the network filters, browser policies, and Google Workspace settings will enforce such restrictions. On the other hand, it is possible to bypass such restrictions for reasonable purposes. Below, we discuss some ways to do it while reminding that school policies must be upheld and the internet used ethically.
Understanding School Restrictions
To get around restricted school websites, it is important to know how schools block them first. Some common methods include:
Network Firewalls: Schools use firewalls to block certain domains and IP addresses.
Chromebook Admin Controls: Limiting website access as well as app and software installations by IT administrators via Google Workspace policies is enforced through Chromebook Admin Controls.
DNS Filtering: Schools can block access to certain sites by using some DNS servers.
Extension Blocking: Schools often block Chrome Web Store, so they do not allow users to install VPNs and proxies.
Laying down the understanding of these methods will allow you to choose the correct way of handling order restrictions while abiding by reasonable borders.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Unblock Websites on a School Chromebook Responsibly
Here are some detailed steps on How to Unblock Websites on a School Chromebook :
1. Use a Proxy Website
The proxy will act as an intermediary between your Chromebook and the website you want to access. It sends your request to another server instead of the original one and thus bypasses school network restrictions.
Steps to Use a Proxy:
- Open the Chrome browser.
- Search for a free proxy website (e.g., Hide.me, Kproxy, ProxySite).
- Enter the blocked website’s URL.
- Access the website by clicking “Go” or “Start”.
Limitations:
- Many schools block the known proxy sites.
- Does not work with encrypted (HTTPS) websites.
- Can be slow and unreliable.
2. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN encrypts your internet connection and reroutes it through a single server, enabling you to bypass the limitations of your connection.
Steps to Use a VPN:
- If permitted, download a VPN extension through the Chrome Web Store.
- Get a VPN service up (ProtonVPN, NordVPN, Windscribe).
- Run the VPN and then connect to a remote server.
- Try accessing the blocked website.
Alternative VPN Options:
- Browser-based VPNs: Some browsers like Opera have built-in VPNs that don’t require installations.
- Cloudflare Warp: A mobile VPN that sometimes works with Chromebooks.
Limitations:
- As soon as schools find out that there are VPN websites and extensions, we know that they will usually block them.
- Many VPNs are unable to be installed onto school Chromebooks because they require administrator access, which is typically restricted.
- Free VPNs offer limited access and slow speeds.
3. Use a Different DNS Server
If website blocks are enforced by the school network, changing the DNS (Domain Name System) can sometimes bypass the blocks.
Steps to Change DNS on Chromebook:
- Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the bottom-right corner.
- Now choose your connected Wi-Fi network and select Network.
- Go down to Name Servers and select Custom Name Servers.
You’ll have to enter one of the following DNS addresses:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
- Try accessing the website, after saving the settings.
Limitations:
- However, DNS filtering in some school networks overrides manual changes as well.
- Not all blocked websites can be accessed with this method.
4. Google Translate as a Proxy.
Google Translate can sometimes translate a blocked website to bypass it.
Steps to Use Google Translate:
- Go to Google Translate.
- Change the language to “Translate from English to Spanish” (or any other language).
- Type the URL of the blocked website in the text box.
- Open the site from the translated link.
Limitations:
- Not all sites may function correctly.
- Google Translate’s proxy function may be blocked from being used in schools.
5. Use a Portable Browser (If Allowed)
Try running a portable browser if your school allows for use of USB devices.
Steps to Use a Portable Browser:
- Get a portable browser (such as Firefox Portable) on a personal device and download.
- Transfer it to a USB drive.
- Connect it to the Chromebook with the USB.
- Open and browse unrestricted websites.
Limitations:
- Most school Chromebooks disable using USB like USB flash drives, USB drives, or printers hookups.
- Not always effective due to network-level restrictions.
6. Use a Mobile Hotspot
Typically, restrictions are enforced in school Wi-Fi. Mobile Hotspot allows you to be connected to an unrestricted network.
Steps to Use a Mobile Hotspot:
- Start hotspot mode from your smartphone.
- Connect your Chromebook to the mobile hotspot.
- Access blocked websites.
Limitations:
- Needs a data plan, which may be limited.
- Hotspot usage may be monitored and recorded by schools.
7. Ask for Permission
In the case where you need to access a blocked site for some educational reason, the best thing to do is approach your teacher or the IT admin.
How to Request Access:
- Write a reason as to why the website would be needed.
- Include valid reasons like a research or a project requirement.
- IT staff should be followed up for access approval.
Benefits:
- The most ethical and safest method.
- Avoids potential consequences for bypassing restrictions.
Troubleshooting Tips
In case a method isn’t working, then do these:
Clear Browser Cache: Sometimes restrictions are cached, preventing access.
Restart Your Chromebook: This will reset the temporary network settings and restart the Chromebook.
Try Incognito Mode: Certain restrictions apply only in normal browsing mode.
Test Multiple Methods: If one method fails, another might work.
Final Thoughts
However, there are many ways to unblock websites on a school Chromebook, which must be done responsibly. Do not try to gain access to another company’s computers or materials that are not permitted in this situation, as it could result in disciplinary action. If you truly want to visit the site, the simplest way is to ask for permission from school authorities.
