Sometimes certain apps get blocked on your phone or computer, preventing you from using them. This can happen for various reasons – the app may have been deemed inappropriate by parents/employers, there may be permission issues, or your network may be restricting access. Fortunately, there are usually ways to get around these blocks, depending on what device and software you’re using. Here are some common methods for unblocking apps on phones, computers and networks.
Determine Why The App is Blocked
Before trying to unblock an app, it helps to understand why it’s blocked in the first place. Here are some common reasons apps get blocked:
- Parental controls – Parents sometimes use apps like Google Family Link, Norton Family, or built-in iOS/Android parental controls to limit kids’ access to certain apps. These parental control apps block access based on age ratings or content.
- Employer restrictions – Businesses often use Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to block certain apps on work devices. This helps limit distractions and inappropriate use during work hours.
- School network blocks – Schools block apps and websites that could be distracting or inappropriate for students while using the school’s network.
- Government censorship – In some countries, governments restrict access to certain apps and websites, especially social media.
- App permissions – Sometimes lack of permissions can cause apps to be “blocked.” For example, an app may need access to your location or camera to function properly.
- Outdated app – An outdated version of the app may have issues opening if it’s not compatible with your current device/operating system.
Knowing why an app is blocked will inform the best approach to unblock it. If it’s a parental control app, you’ll need the parent password. For employer or school blocks, you may need to connect to a different network.
Unblocking Apps on Your Phone
If an app is blocked on your iPhone or Android phone, here are some ways to try and unblock it:
Check Parental Control Settings
If the app is blocked by parental controls:
- On an iPhone, go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. Enter the Screen Time passcode to access the blocked apps list.
- On Android, open the parental control app (Google Family Link, Norton Family, etc) and disable or configure the settings blocking that app.
- Ask the parent to enter their passcode or change the settings to allow that app.
Clear App Cache and Data
Sometimes apps get blocked if their cached data becomes corrupted. Try clearing the app’s cache and data:
- On iPhone: Delete and reinstall the app. This clears all data.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps. Select the app, then choose Clear Cache and Clear Data.
Check App Permissions
Make sure the app has all required permissions allowed:
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > The app > Enable all permissions like Camera, Location, etc.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > The app > Permissions, and enable all of them.
Update the App
An outdated version of the app may not work. Update it to the latest version from the App Store/Google Play Store.
Use VPN to Change Region
In some regions, certain apps may be geo-restricted by the government. A VPN app can mask your phone’s region to access blocked apps and websites.
Unblocking Apps on Computers
Here are some ways to unblock apps blocked on a Windows PC, Mac, or Chromebook:
Check Restrictions/Parental Controls
If the app is blocked by parental control software or device management settings:
- On Windows, check the Microsoft family safety settings. You may need an admin password.
- On Mac, check System Preferences > Parental Controls. Enter the admin password to make changes.
- On Chromebook, check for any Google family policies enforced. Only the family manager can make changes.
Try Using a Different Network
If the app is blocked due to employer/school network restrictions, connect to a different Wi-Fi network like a personal hotspot or home Wi-Fi. This will bypass the network blocks.
Use VPN to Mask Region
As with phones, a VPN can mask your computer’s region to access geo-restricted apps and websites.
Clear Browser Cache and Data
For web apps, clear your browser cache/cookies as corrupted data could block access:
- On Chrome, go to Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data
- On Firefox, go to Options > Privacy & Security > Clear data
- On Safari, go to Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All
Allow App Through Firewall
Check your computer’s firewall settings to make sure the app is allowed through. You may need admin access to make firewall changes.
Unblocking Apps on Networks
If an app is blocked on a school/business/library network, here are some options:
Connect to a Different Network
Use your cellular data or connect to a personal Wi-Fi network if available. This will bypass the network blocking the app.
Use VPN
A VPN app or service masks your network identity, encrypts data, and can bypass regional or network blocks.
Request App Access
In a business setting, submit a request to the IT department to unblock the app if you need it for work. For schools, request your teacher to unblock an app for an educational purpose.
Change DNS Server
Networks often block sites and apps through the DNS (Domain Name System) server. Try changing your device’s default DNS servers to public ones like Google (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1). This can sometimes bypass network blocks.
Use HTTPS Version of Site
If a website is blocked, try accessing the HTTPS version instead of standard HTTP. HTTPS connections are more secure and may bypass filters.
Use Mirror Sites
If the main site is blocked, look for an alternate mirror site that accesses the same app content.
Bypass With Proxy Site
Proxy sites act as an intermediary for accessing content and can sometimes get around network blocks.
Conclusion
Blocked apps can be annoying, but in most cases you can regain access by disabling parental control settings, using a different network, updating the app, clearing cached data, or utilizing technical workarounds like VPNs and proxy sites. Be aware that app blocks in schools, workplaces or countries are often in place for safety or legal compliance reasons. Tread carefully when attempting to bypass these restrictions. With some effort, you can usually find legitimate ways to unblock apps that have been inadvertently blocked or aren’t posing meaningful risks. Just be persistent and use the right tools for the specific environment the app is blocked in.
| Environment | Unblocking Methods |
|---|---|
| Parental controls on phone |
|
| Work/school network |
|
| Government censorship |
|
| Outdated app version |
|
| Corrupted app data |
|
Using VPN to Unblock Apps
One of the most effective tools for unblocking apps is a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Here’s an overview of how they work:
- VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and route it through remote servers, masking your IP address and location.
- This allows you to bypass regional restrictions and access blocked content.
- VPN services usually have thousands of servers worldwide, making it easy to virtually relocate your device anywhere.
- Top providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark and CyberGhost make it easy to get started.
- Some VPNs have dedicated apps for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and even routers.
- They can be used to unblock apps on cellular data, Wi-Fi networks, and computers.
- Most have a monthly subscription, but watch for deals. Surfshark offers a 2-year plan for about $2/month.
The key is finding a VPN with lots of server locations, fast speeds, and apps for all your devices. Read reviews before choosing one, as quality can vary significantly.
Steps to Use a VPN:
- Select and subscribe to a reputable VPN service.
- Download & install the VPN app on devices you want to use it on.
- Log into the VPN app and connect to a server in the required region.
- Access blocked apps while connected. Your IP will now appear to be in the VPN server’s location.
- Be sure to disconnect the VPN when done as it can slow your speeds down.
With hundreds or thousands of servers to choose from, a good VPN lets you virtually relocate anywhere in the world, making regional blocks a non-issue.
Other Technical Methods for Unblocking
In addition to VPNs, here are some other technical workarounds that could help unblock apps:
DNS Servers
As mentioned before, using public third-party DNS servers like Google or Cloudflare often bypasses network blocks, allowing access to restricted apps and sites.
Proxy Sites
Proxy sites act as an intermediary for accessing web content. Sites like Hidester and ProxySite can sometimes get around restrictions when the direct site is blocked.
Tor Browser
The Tor network routes traffic through thousands of randomly selected servers for maximum anonymity. The encrypted Tor pathways often bypass filters, making it another option for accessing blocked apps.
Remote Desktops
Using a remote desktop tool like TeamViewer to control a device on an unrestricted network from your restricted computer can sometimes provide access to blocked content.
App Mirrors and Copies
If an app’s official version is blocked, look for mirrors that host the same content under a different URL, or copies that serve the same purpose. Not guaranteed to work but worth a try.
Reset Network Settings
On iPhones and Android devices, resetting network settings to defaults can sometimes resolve network issues blocking apps. Note that you will need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords after resetting.
Clear Hosts File
The hosts file maps domain names to IP addresses. Some blocks edit the hosts file to prevent access. Clearing it can possibly bypass this.
These more technical options require some effort but are options to attempt if simpler methods fail.
Handling App Blocks
While it’s often possible to bypass blocked apps, it’s also important to handle the situation responsibly:
- Don’t illegally access content or break terms of service.
- Consider why the app was probably blocked in the first place.
- On networks, try talking to IT staff or teachers first.
- With parental controls, discuss with your parents if the app is appropriate.
- Make your case logically and maturely if you think the block should be removed.
- Accept that the block may remain in place for good reason in some cases.
- Be transparent about any unblocking steps you take.
- Use unblocked apps responsibly and don’t overdo your new access.
While frustrating, app blocks are often in place to protect you or others, limit distractions, or comply with laws. Cooperating with the rules and being honest about wanting app access are the best approaches. And if you do successfully get an app unblocked, use your new freedom responsibly!
FAQs about Unblocking Apps
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about getting blocked apps to work again:
How can I unblock apps on my child’s phone?
On an iPhone, go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions and enter your parental control passcode to change the app limits. On Android, open your parental control app (Family Link, Norton Family, etc) and modify the app blocking settings or age filters. Uninstalling the parental control app will also remove all blocks.
Is it illegal to unblock restricted apps?
It depends on the method used. Bypassing geographic restrictions imposed by corporations is generally not illegal, but breaking government censorship may violate certain laws. Accessing prohibited content, downloading copyrighted material you don’t own rights to, or hacking networks/devices likely crosses legal lines.
Can schools track if you use a VPN?
Schools can see VPN traffic on their networks and may be able to block known VPN IP ranges. To hide VPN use, try connecting from your phone’s cellular data instead of the school Wi-Fi. Note that unblocking prohibited apps on school networks still violates policy in most cases.
How do I request access to a blocked app at work?
Talk to your IT administrator or manager. Explain what the app is used for and why you need access for your job role. They may approve limited access if it benefits the business. Be transparent that you aim to use the app productively.
What’s the easiest way to unblock websites and apps?
The simplest approach is using a VPN service. With just a few clicks you can connect to VPN servers worldwide, masking your IP address and location. This allows easy access to content blocked in your region. VPNs work on all devices and require little technical skill.
Key Takeaways
- Determine why the app was probably blocked – parental controls, employer policies, etc.
- Disable restrictions in parental control apps to regain access.
- Use a different Wi-Fi network or cellular data to bypass network blocks.
- Clear app cache/data and update to the latest version if issues occur.
- VPN services can easily change your virtual location to bypass regional blocks.
- Other technical methods include DNS changes, proxy sites, Tor browser and remote desktops.
- If the block seems excessive, politely discuss access with the appropriate authority.
Conclusion
Blocked apps can certainly be annoying and limit access to useful or entertaining content. Thankfully, there are usually ways around these restrictions depending on the exact situation. With the right approach and tools like VPN services, you can often get blocked apps working again. Just remember to use any newly granted access responsibly, especially when bypassing parental controls or school network policies. With some critical thought and discretion, you should be able to regain access to blocked apps that aren’t posing any meaningful harm or risk.