Disclaimer: Certain pages on this site may include an affiliate link. This in no way affects our editorial staff.
When you are in a school, college or government institution, it is likely that your access to certain websites will be restricted. This is especially true for social platforms or content sharing websites that may exchange sensitive data. Since Discord is both, your school or college probably won't allow you to download it or even visit the website.
Luckily, there are options online that can help you get around this problem and use the app even if it's initially blocked. It mainly depends on the type of block and your preferences. This article will tell you how to use Discord at school even if it seems impossible at first.
Use a VPN to access Discord
If the web filters on your school computer recognize web proxy servers, you need to turn up anonymous browsing a notch. In this case, you must use a virtual private network (VPN).
Limited offer: 3 months FREE!
The difference between a VPN and a web proxy is simple. The web proxy server can only handle traffic that passes through the web browser and website you entered. On the other hand, a VPN can hide your entire device and your IP address. This also includes software that is not tied to the web browser, such as the Discord app.
On the other hand, the most reliable VPNs require a monthly or annual subscription. However, there are some you can try for free, like TunnelOurs, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc. Installing this VPN should allow you to download Discord or use it from the web app.
For tutorial purposes, let's cover how to get started using ExpressVPN to access Discord on your work or school network.
Limited offer: 3 months FREE!
- Assuming you aren't already, connect to your school or work network.
- After creating an account with ExpressVPN and logging in, open the app and click the button Connect button.
- If you want to connect to a specific region or a list of recommended locations, click the ellipsis menu button (the three horizontal dots), then select VPN locations.
- Now that you're connected to your ExpressVPN network, navigate to Discord using the app or browser and connect.
Try the Browser app
Sometimes school and college computers do not block any specific application. Instead, they simply prevent users from downloading an executable (EXE) file, which prevents you from installing the application (like Discord) on the computer.
Before moving on to more complex options, you should check if this is the case for you. If so, the solution is simple. Discord has a web browser app that acts almost the same as the normal app, except you can use your browser to log in instead of downloading it.
Go to the Internet browser version of the application. If it loads, you can just enter your credentials and wait for the app to load. Then you should be able to use the app in the browser with the same functionality as if you had downloaded it. But if it does not load, you will have to move on to more complex methods.
Limited offer: 3 months FREE!
Copy the IP address (Windows only)
Some schools use keyword-based content blockers to prevent you from accessing websites. Instead of blocking the VPN, these tools will block certain words that a website may contain. This is one of the easiest ways for schools to block websites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.
Luckily, you can easily avoid content blockers if you're using Windows.
- Click it Start menu, start typing 'command prompt' until the icon appears in the task menu, and click on it to open the Command Prompt.
- Now type 'ping discordapp.com' and press Enter.
- This should display the IP address of the website.
- Next, copy the IP address in the Google search bar and press Enter, you should hopefully see a page similar to the one pictured below.
This should bypass the keyword blocker.
Use a web proxy
A web proxy server should be enough for you to bypass your school or college filters and access the Discord website and app.
This method hides your public IP address and routes all web traffic through different servers. If you can open the web proxy server normally on your school computer, you will be able to use it to access the Discord website.
Keep in mind that you should use reliable and secure web proxy servers. For example, Cacheur is user-friendly and completely free. Once you have opened this web proxy, simply copy the Discord website URL and press the “Surf anonymously” button. When the browser takes you to the Discord web app, just log in and use it without downloading the EXE file.
Other than Hidester, you can try Hide Me, Site Proxy, Kproxy, and Qui. They are all secure, free and extremely simple. They also mostly work on the same principle.
Install Discord from external storage
If your school browser is blocking certain websites and not allowing downloads, you can try installing the app from external storage. Download the Discord app from another network – for example, at home – and transfer it to the computer via an SD card or USB stick.
If you're lucky, you'll be able to set up the app on your computer and use it without needing to access the web browser. Some school and college computers allow file installation, while others will require administrator permission.
Use the Discord app from another device
Unless your school's router specifically blocks Discord's IP address, you should still be able to use the app on other devices. For example, you can download Discord from the Play Store (Android) or the App Store (iTunes). Set it up on your phone or tablet and you can use it regardless of web browser restrictions.
Use the Alpha test version of Discord
Often, favorite versions of programs go unchecked when institutions block them. If you're lucky enough, your school or workplace neglected to limit access to the Alpha version on Discord.
Try to access canary.discordapp in your browser, hope it works for you. If you have trouble typing it, use the IP method mentioned above and type 'ping canary.discordapp' in your Command Promptt and copy the IP address to use.
Use a TOR mirror
As mentioned in the comments, you can try your luck with a TOR mirror to access Discord on a school or work network that has banned access/use. The success of this method will vary depending on your network's firewalls and other security measures.
You may need to try several different mirrors for this method to work.
Browse carefully
There's a reason schools and other institutions block websites like Discord. These sites are a distraction, and they allow students to share sensitive data. You should be especially careful when using a VPN, as some websites and executable files contain malicious data that can damage the computer and get you in trouble. So while you can bypass these blocks, make sure you use your skills responsibly.
Remember that while you can easily find a way to bypass their firewalls and website restrictions, your school/work administrators can too. If they are diligent, then nothing stays effective forever.
Are there other ways to bypass filters in colleges and schools? Share your tips with other readers in the comments below.
