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How To Unblock Websites At School On Android
Part of the Mega Guide: How To Unblock Anything At School
Unblocking Websites on Android using a VPN
The tool that can aid you in this situation is called a VPN, which stands for Virtual Private Network. Think of a VPN as a secret tunnel through the internet. It scrambles your online activity and makes it seem like you're accessing the web from a different location. This way, it can bypass the restrictions set by your school and grant you access to sites like YouTube that you might otherwise be restricted from.One VPN I'd like to advise is ProtonVPN. They provide a free version that might be just what you need. It's a effective tool because it protects your privacy - no activity logs, no speed limits, and it can overcome censorship without a hitch. Plus, it operates under Swiss privacy laws, which are some of the strongest in the world. The assurance of security this provides, knowing your data isn't being tracked, can be a minor yet reassuring relief amidst the drudgery of school life.
Now, there's one note: you'll need to have the ability to install software on your device. If you're using a school-issued computer or tablet, this might be a hurdle. In such cases, check if you have administrative rights or if there's a way to request them. If you're using a personal device, the process is much easier.
To install ProtonVPN, simply go to the app store on your device and search for ProtonVPN. Download the app - it's free. Once it's installed, open the app, and follow the setup instructions. You'll be able to connect to their servers and start browsing as if you're anywhere other than the confines of your school's network.
The free version of ProtonVPN is quite generous, but if you find you need more features - such as faster speeds or access to more servers - you can consider upgrading to the paid version. If you choose to use our affiliate link, we'll earn a small commission, but more importantly, you'll get a tool that might just make those long school days a little more bearable.
Other ways to unblock Websites on Android
Schools block websites for reasons that often seem as oppressive as they are nonsensical. They want to maintain uniformity, keep diversions at bay, and ensure a semblance of order. In the process, they stifle curiosity and creativity, making us into mere recipients of their agenda.
The sites that might offer a bit of relief, a moment of reprieve, or even a glimmer of understanding, are often unreachable. These aren't just minor interruptions; they're sometimes the only sources of solace and connection for those of us feeling alienated and separated. Here is a list of commonly blocked sites and our instructions to unblock them:
[Facebook] [Spotify] [Pinterest] [YouTube] [Google] [TikTok] [Instagram] [Reddit] [Discord] [Telegram] [WhatsApp] [Snapchat] [LinkedIn] [Twitter]
Unblocking Websites On Android using Free DNS Servers
What Are DNS Servers?
Think of you need to locate a friend's house, but you just know their identity, not their address. You’d probably consult someone who knows where they reside, right?
In the online world, DNS servers (Domain Name System servers) are like those knowledgeable friends. When you enter a website's address (like www.example.com) into your browser, DNS servers translate that name into an IP address (a numeric address) that your computer can recognize and employ to access the website.
How Changing DNS Servers Can Help Bypass Censorship
Sometimes, some websites might be restricted by your ISP or your school. They do this by forcing your DNS queries (requests to access a website) go through servers that either block or redirect them.
Here's how changing your DNS servers can help:
Different DNS Servers: By changing to a new DNS server (like Google's public DNS or Cloudflare's DNS), you might bypass these restrictions. These other servers might not have the same exact restrictions or might allow access to the website you wish to access.
Accessing Restricted Sites: If a particular DNS server is known for not blocking certain websites, using that server can help you get around the restrictions imposed by your school.
There are several free DNS providers. This guide show how to set up OpenDNS, but you may substitute the IP addresses using alternative options if you choose.
There is a big list of DNS servers here: https://public-dns.info/
Here are some of the popular ones:
Google: 8.8.8.8 and/or 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1
How to Change DNS Settings on Android
Step 1: Open Settings
- Access the Settings Menu:
- Locate the "Settings" app on your Android device. This app typically looks like a gear icon.
- Tap the "Settings" app to open it.
Step 2: Access Network Settings
Navigate to Network & Internet:
- In the Settings menu, find and tap on "Network & Internet" (the exact wording may vary depending on your device and Android version).
Select Wi-Fi:
- In the Network & Internet section, tap on "Wi-Fi" to view available wireless networks.
Step 3: Modify Wi-Fi Network Settings
Select Your Network:
- Find the Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to and tap on it. If you are not connected to a Wi-Fi network, connect to one first.
Open Network Details:
- After tapping on your connected Wi-Fi network, look for an option to modify or manage the network settings. This is usually represented by a gear icon or three-dot menu (⋮). Tap on this to access more options.
Modify Network Settings:
- Tap on "Modify network" or "Advanced" (depending on your device, this option may be located in a submenu).
Step 4: Change DNS Settings
Switch to Static IP:
- In the network settings, look for "IP settings" or a similar option. It is typically set to "DHCP" by default.
- Change the setting from "DHCP" to "Static". This will allow you to manually enter DNS addresses.
Enter DNS Addresses:
- Scroll down to the "DNS 1" and "DNS 2" fields.
- In the "DNS 1" field, enter 208.67.222.222.
- In the "DNS 2" field, enter 208.67.220.220.
Save Your Changes:
- Tap "Save" or "Apply" to save your new DNS settings.
Step 5: Restart Your Connection (Optional)
- To ensure the new DNS settings take effect, you might need to disconnect and then reconnect to the Wi-Fi network. You can do this by toggling the Wi-Fi switch off and then on again or by turning your device’s Wi-Fi off and then on.
Your Android device is now configured to use OpenDNS for the selected Wi-Fi network. This can help enhance your browsing security and performance. If you switch to a different Wi-Fi network, you will need to repeat these steps for each network where you want to use custom DNS settings.
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