How to Get Rid of Securly
Securly is a widely used web filtering and monitoring software in educational institutions. It helps schools keep students safe by blocking inappropriate content and monitoring online activity. However, some students may find it restrictive when accessing educational resources or personal websites.
In this guide, we’ll explore why students might want to get rid of Securly, the risks associated with bypassing it, and how to manage it responsibly while staying compliant with school policies.
Understanding Securly and Its Purpose
Securly is a cloud-based web filtering system designed to protect students from harmful online content. Schools use Securly to monitor and control the websites students can access while using school-provided devices. The system blocks websites that are considered inappropriate for students, such as adult content, social media sites, or other non-educational platforms. Additionally, Securly helps track students’ online activity to ensure they are using the internet responsibly during school hours.
While this system is essential for keeping students safe online, it can sometimes limit access to educational resources that are mistakenly classified as inappropriate. As a result, students may feel frustrated and may look for ways to bypass or remove the software.
Why Students Want to Get Rid of Securly
Accessing Blocked Websites
One of the most common reasons students seek to bypass Securly is the restriction of websites that are important for their education. Sometimes, websites that offer useful information or resources are blocked due to misclassification. Students may feel that these blocks limit their ability to fully engage in their academic work.
Privacy Concerns
Securly monitors students’ online activity, which can raise concerns about privacy. Some students may feel uncomfortable knowing that their internet usage is being tracked and may want to disable the monitoring features to regain a sense of privacy.
Avoiding Over-Restrictive Controls
While Securly aims to keep students safe, its stringent filtering rules can block a wide range of websites, including those that are not harmful. For example, entertainment or personal websites may be blocked during free periods or after school hours, leaving students frustrated when they try to access non-harmful content.
Risks and Consequences of Removing or Bypassing Securly
Violation of School Policies
Bypassing Securly without permission violates most schools’ acceptable use policies. Schools use web filters like Securly to maintain a safe and controlled online environment, and circumventing these systems can lead to disciplinary actions. Depending on the severity, consequences may include warnings, loss of access to school devices, or more serious sanctions.
Security Risks
Attempting to remove or bypass Securly can expose students’ devices to potential security threats. Using unapproved tools or software to circumvent the filter may result in downloading malware or other harmful programs. These risks could compromise the personal data on the device or the school’s network security.
Ethical Implications
Bypassing Securly raises ethical concerns. The system is in place to ensure that students use their devices responsibly and stay safe online. Disabling or attempting to circumvent these protections can undermine the school’s efforts to provide a safe learning environment for everyone.
Methods to Bypass or Remove Securly
Proxy Websites
Proxy websites allow users to bypass web filters by acting as intermediaries between the user and the blocked website. By accessing a website through a proxy, the user’s IP address is masked, which can trick the filter into allowing access to restricted sites. However, proxies are often unreliable and can be slow or blocked by the school’s IT department. Additionally, they may not provide adequate security, leaving the device vulnerable to malware or other risks.
VPN Services
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows users to encrypt their internet connection and route their traffic through a different server. This helps mask the user’s real location and bypasses restrictions set by web filters like Securly. While VPNs are effective in bypassing filters, many schools block VPN connections to maintain control over their network. Using a VPN without permission can result in disciplinary actions, and students should be aware of the risks involved in using them on school devices.
Incognito Mode
The incognito mode in Chrome or other browsers disables the saving of browsing history and cached data. Although this mode can help students maintain privacy by not storing their online activity, it does not bypass Securly’s filtering. It is a temporary solution to avoid having browsing history tracked, but it does not help in unblocking websites.
DNS Settings Adjustment
Changing the DNS (Domain Name System) settings on a Chromebook can sometimes bypass Securly’s filtering system. By using a public DNS service such as Google DNS or OpenDNS, students may be able to reroute their internet connection and bypass the restrictions. However, this method is not always effective, as schools may monitor and restrict DNS changes.
Requesting Access Through Official Channels
Rather than bypassing Securly, students can work within the system by submitting requests to access specific websites. If a site is critical for academic purposes and is mistakenly blocked, students can contact school administrators or IT staff to have it whitelisted. This ensures that students remain in compliance with school policies while gaining access to the resources they need.
Ethical and Responsible Approaches to Internet Use
Respecting School Policies
It is important for students to respect the policies that schools have in place for online safety. While it may be tempting to bypass Securly, doing so can lead to consequences that affect academic standing or access to technology. Students should consider using the official channels available to resolve access issues, rather than resorting to bypassing methods that could jeopardize their education.
Communicating with Teachers and Administrators
If students encounter blocked websites that are essential for their learning, they should first communicate with teachers or administrators. Many schools have a process for approving exceptions for educational purposes, and administrators may be able to unblock specific websites to support academic work.
Using School-Approved Resources
Most schools offer a range of online resources and tools that are pre-approved and safe for students to use. By focusing on these resources, students can access the materials they need without risking the consequences of bypassing filters.
FAQs
Is it legal to bypass Securly on my school Chromebook?
Bypassing Securly without permission is against school policies and may violate terms of use agreements. Schools typically impose consequences for students who attempt to bypass or remove web filtering software.
What happens if I get caught bypassing Securly?
Students caught bypassing Securly may face disciplinary actions, including warnings, loss of device privileges, or more severe consequences depending on the school’s policies.
Can a VPN help me bypass Securly on my school device?
VPNs can mask your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic, which may bypass Securly. However, many schools block VPN connections, and using one without permission can result in consequences.
How can I access educational websites that are blocked by Securly?
The best approach is to request access through the school’s IT department or teachers. They can review the request and, if appropriate, whitelist the site for academic use.