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How To Unblock Websites At School On MacOS

Unblocking Websites on MacOS using a VPN

One VPN I'd like to suggest is ProtonVPN. They provide a free version that might be exactly what you're looking for. It's a powerful tool because it values your privacy - no activity logs, no throttling, and it can circumvent censorship without a hitch. Plus, it works under Swiss privacy laws, which are among the most robust globally. The feeling of security this provides, knowing your data isn't being tracked, can be a modest but welcome relief amidst the tedium 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 challenge. In such cases, check if you have admin rights or if there's a way to get 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 MacOS

Schools restrict websites for reasons that often seem as oppressive as they are nonsensical. They want to enforce conformity, keep distractions at bay, and ensure a semblance of order. In the process, they suppress curiosity and creativity, making us into passive recipients of their agenda.

The websites that might offer a bit of relief, a moment of relief, or even a ray of understanding, are often inaccessible. These aren't just trivial distractions; they're sometimes the only sources of solace and engagement for those of us feeling alienated and out of touch. 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 MacOS using Free DNS Servers

What Are DNS Servers?

Think of you need to find a friend's house, but you only know their identity, not their location. You’d probably consult someone who knows where they reside, right?

In the online world, DNS servers (Domain Name System servers) are similar to those knowledgeable friends. When you enter a website's address (like www.example.com) into your web browser, DNS servers translate that name into an IP address (a set of numbers) that your computer can recognize and employ to find the website.

How Changing DNS Servers Can Help Bypass Censorship

Sometimes, some websites might be restricted by your internet service provider or your school. They do this by making your DNS queries (requests to find a website) go through servers that either redirect them.

Here's how changing your DNS servers can assist:

1. Different DNS Servers: By switching to a different DNS server (like Google's public DNS or Cloudflare's DNS), you might avoid these blocks. These other servers might not have the same exact restrictions or might allow access to the website you wish to access.

2. Accessing Restricted Sites: If a particular DNS server is known for not blocking certain websites, using that server can assist you circumvent the restrictions imposed by your school.

You can find many free DNS providers. This guide explain how to set up OpenDNS, however you can swap the IP addresses using 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 macOS

Here’s a step-by-step guide for changing DNS servers on macOS, designed to be easy to follow for beginners:

1. Open System Preferences:

   • Click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen.
   • From the dropdown menu, select System Preferences.

2. Go to Network Settings:

   • In the System Preferences window, click on the Network icon. It looks like a silver globe.

3. Select Your Network Connection:

   • On the left side of the Network window, you’ll see a list of network connections (such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Click on the network you are currently using. For Wi-Fi, click on Wi-Fi. For a wired connection, click on Ethernet.

4. Open Advanced Settings:

   • With your network selected, click on the Advanced button in the lower-right corner of the window.

5. Go to DNS Tab:

   • In the Advanced settings window, click on the DNS tab. This tab is where you can change your DNS server addresses.

6. Add New DNS Servers:

   • You’ll see a list of DNS servers on the left side of the window. To add new DNS servers:
     • Click the + button below the list of DNS servers.
     • Enter the DNS server addresses you want to use. For example, to use OpenDNS, enter:
       • 208.67.222.222
       • 208.67.220.220
   • You can enter these addresses one by one, pressing the + button each time.

7. Remove Old DNS Servers (Optional):

   • If you want to remove existing DNS servers, select them in the list and click the – button below.

8. Apply Changes:

   • Once you’ve added the new DNS servers, click the OK button to close the Advanced settings window.
   • Back in the main Network window, click Apply to save your changes.

9. Close System Preferences:

   • You can now close the System Preferences window.

That’s it! Your Mac will now use the new DNS servers you’ve set. This should help with faster and potentially more secure browsing.

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