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How To Unblock Websites At School On Linux

Unblocking Websites on Linux using a VPN

One VPN I'd like to suggest is ProtonVPN. They provide a free version that might be just what you need. It's a effective tool because it respects your privacy - no activity logs, unlimited speed, and it can overcome censorship without a hitch. Plus, it functions under Swiss privacy laws, which are considered top-notch worldwide. The assurance of security this provides, knowing your data isn't being tracked, can be a small but comforting relief amidst the monotony of school life.

Now, there's one caveat: you'll need to have the permission to install software on your device. If you're using a school-issued computer or tablet, this might be a barrier. In such cases, check if you have admin 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 Linux

Schools block websites for reasons that often seem as restrictive as they are nonsensical. They want to maintain uniformity, keep diversions at bay, and maintain a appearance of order. In the process, they quash curiosity and creativity, turning us into unquestioning followers of their agenda.

The platforms that might offer a bit of respite, a moment of comfort, or even a ray of understanding, are often unreachable. These aren't just insignificant diversions; they're sometimes the only sources of support and interaction 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 Linux using Free DNS Servers

What Are DNS Servers?

Think of you need to find a friend's home, but you just know their name, not their address. You’d probably ask someone who is aware of where they reside, right?

In the online world, DNS servers (Domain Name System servers) are similar to those helpful friends. When you type a website's name (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 use to find the website.

How Changing DNS Servers Can Help Bypass Censorship

Sometimes, some websites might be blocked by your ISP or your school's authorities. They do this by forcing your DNS queries (requests to access a website) pass through servers that either send them.

Here's how changing your DNS servers can assist:

1. Different DNS Servers: By switching 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 restrictions or might not block the website you want to access.

2. Accessing Restricted Sites: If a particular DNS server is known for allowing access to certain websites, using that server can assist you circumvent the restrictions put in place by your school.

You can find a lot of no-cost DNS providers. This guide demonstrate how to set up OpenDNS, however you are able to replace the IP addresses for other providers if you prefer.

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 Servers on Linux

Changing DNS servers on Linux can be done via the command line by editing configuration files or using network management tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide for several methods:

Method 1: Using resolv.conf File

1. Open Terminal: Open your terminal.

2. Edit the resolv.conf File:

   • Use a text editor to open the /etc/resolv.conf file. For example:

     sudo nano /etc/resolv.conf
     

   • Add or change the nameserver lines to your desired DNS servers. For instance:

     nameserver 8.8.8.8
     nameserver 8.8.4.4
     

     These addresses are Google's public DNS servers. You can replace them with the IP addresses of your preferred DNS servers.

3. Save and Exit:

   • If you’re using nano, press Ctrl+X, then Y to confirm changes, and Enter to save.

4. Check the Changes:

   • You can verify the changes by using:

     cat /etc/resolv.conf
     

Method 2: Using NetworkManager

If you’re using a system with NetworkManager (common in many desktop distributions), you can change DNS settings via the nmcli command:

1. List Connections:

   nmcli connection show
   

2. Modify the Connection:

   • Replace <connection-name> with the name of your connection. For example, if your connection is called Wired connection 1, the command might look like:

     sudo nmcli connection modify "Wired connection 1" ipv4.dns "8.8.8.8,8.8.4.4"
     

   • You can also specify DNS servers for IPv6 if needed:

     sudo nmcli connection modify "Wired connection 1" ipv6.dns "2001:4860:4860::8888,2001:4860:4860::8844"
     

3. Restart NetworkManager:

   sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager
   

Method 3: Using systemd-resolved (if applicable)

Some distributions use systemd-resolved for DNS resolution.

1. Check the Status:

   systemctl status systemd-resolved
   

2. Edit the Resolved Configuration:

   • Open the /etc/systemd/resolved.conf file:

     sudo nano /etc/systemd/resolved.conf
     

   • Under the [Resolve] section, add or modify the DNS line. For example:

     [Resolve]
     DNS=8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4
     

   • Optionally, you can also set FallbackDNS for fallback servers.

3. Restart systemd-resolved:

   sudo systemctl restart systemd-resolved
   

4. Ensure /etc/resolv.conf Points to systemd-resolved:

   sudo ln -sf /run/systemd/resolve/stub-resolv.conf /etc/resolv.conf
   

Notes

• NetworkManager and systemd-resolved might override manual changes to /etc/resolv.conf, so adjusting settings through these tools is often preferable.
• Permissions: Most of these commands require sudo or root permissions.
• Restarting Services: After making changes, restarting network services or the computer might be necessary for the changes to take effect.

Choose the method that matches your system’s configuration and network management tools.

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