About Unblocking MySpace
Many establishments that provide access to a large computer networks--such as high schools, colleges or even employers--block access to specific websites, like the social-networking site MySpace. There are ways to get around blocking software if you need to access MySpace from a restricted computer.
Other People Are Reading
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Function
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Organizations prevent access to MySpace because of privacy concerns or the possibility that people will be surfing through other people's profiles when they should be working or studying. Access to the website is blocked when software like Net Nanny or Cyber Patrol is added to the network, allowing the network administrator to filter specific web addresses or any web page that contains specific keywords.
Prevention/Solution
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You can potentially unblock access to MySpace by contacting the administrator of your network and clearly laying out your case for why the site should not be blocked. You can get around the block entirely by using a proxy server that masks your computer's Internet protocol address and accesses the website on your behalf. The proxy downloads the website's content, then sends that content to your computer through the proxy's web address rather than through the MySpace web address.
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Features
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You can access MySpace through a proxy by navigating your browser to the proxy's website, then entering in the MySpace address in the appropriate text field. Browsing web sites through a proxy will always be significantly slower than browsing directly, because your computer has to download twice as much information.
Types
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Most proxy servers are accessed by going to a specific web ite. Some proxy servers, such as "Proxy Switcher" and "Allegro Surf," are downloaded and installed on your computer like any other software. These proxy servers offer additional features, such as the ability to communicate with other people using the proxy, as well as email or phone support if websites are not displaying properly.
Considerations
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You may be subject to disciplinary actions like temporary expulsion or even termination if the organization using the blocking program discovers that you are circumventing their software. Always use anti-spyware and anti-virus software as well as a reliable firewall when accessing proxy-server websites, as many of them contain embedded malicious programs.
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Resources
- Photo Credit MySpace
