Seeing the message “This app has been blocked by your system administrator” can be frustrating when trying to access a program or website on your computer. This usually occurs when your organization’s IT department has implemented security policies to restrict certain applications. While the block is typically done for security reasons, there may be legitimate needs to bypass it in some cases. This article will explore different methods to potentially get around the system administrator block.
What Does This Message Mean?
The “blocked by admin” message means that the application you are trying to use has been explicitly prohibited through security software running on your computer or network. This is commonly done by system administrators in workplaces, schools, and other managed environments to limit access to certain programs deemed inappropriate or unsafe.
Some reasons an app may be blocked include:
- It is considered a security risk
- It could impact productivity
- There are licensing or legal concerns
- It uses too many system resources
- The content is inappropriate for a workplace
While the block is usually within the administrator’s right to enforce, it can still cause issues if you need access to the prohibited app for legitimate purposes.
Working Around the Block
There are a few different tactics you can try to potentially circumvent the block on an application:
Use a VPN
A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through an intermediary server. This masks your browsing activities from local network monitoring and security filters. By connecting to a VPN, you may be able to avoid the system admin blocks on your computer.
Free VPN services like ProtonVPN or TunnelBear provide enough encrypted bandwidth for basic web access. Paid options like NordVPN and ExpressVPN tend to work faster and more reliably. Connect to the VPN before launching the blocked application.
Of course, using a VPN may go against company security policies, so proceed with caution. The IT department may detect VPN usage, which could get you in trouble.
Try a Web Proxy
Web proxies work similarly to VPNs, routing your web traffic through an outside server. Sites like Hidester and Anonymouse let you plug in a URL to tunnel your browsing. This can sometimes bypass web filters that block access to certain sites.
Using a web proxy is generally safer than a full VPN, but still carries some risk if unauthorized proxy access is not allowed by your organization. The IT team may eventually notice traffic coming from proxy servers and block them.
Use a Portable Browser
Portable web browsers like Firefox Portable and Chrome Portable run directly off a USB drive without a full installation. This may let you access blocked sites and apps that are prohibited on your primary work browser.
To use this method:
- Download the portable browser files to a USB drive.
- Plug the drive into your computer.
- Launch the browser directly from the external drive.
Because this browser operates outside the normal install path, it may bypass restrictions placed on your default browser. However, if wider network blocks are in place, portable browsers may still not have access.
Try an Alternative App Store
If your organization restricts the official app store for your device (like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store), you may be able to use alternative markets to download and install blocked apps.
For iOS devices, try TutuApp or AppValley, which let you install unofficial modified apps. For Android, Aptoide functions as an alternative marketplace with apps not always available on Google Play.
Downloading from unapproved sources carries security risks, so only obtain apps from reputable alternative stores. Also be aware that sideloading banned apps could lead to disciplinary action if disallowed by your IT department.
Use Desktop Programs When Possible
In many cases, web-based apps and mobile apps are easier for admins to block across an entire network. Desktop programs installed locally on a PC may avoid wider blocks.
For example, if your organization blocks the Slack website and mobile app, try using the desktop version. Steam gaming, Spotify music, and other desktop programs may also work when their web counterparts are inaccessible.
This will depend on the specifics of how the block is implemented, but can act as a workaround in some situations. Of course, prohibited desktop apps could still raise alerts and get you in trouble.
Access Through a Different Network
If you can connect to a separate Wi-Fi or mobile data network that isn’t controlled by your organization, you may be able to bypass network-level blocks on certain apps and sites.
For example, you could tether your work laptop to a personal mobile hotspot to avoid filters configured on the corporate LAN. Or connect to a home Wi-Fi or coffee shop public network outside of the office.
This will provide access on that particular connection, but typically won’t subvert local blocks if you return to the managed network.
Speak with Your IT Department
Rather than using questionable workarounds, the best approach is often to directly engage with your IT administrators about app restrictions. Explain why you need access to the blocked app and how it benefits your work. The department may be able to make exceptions or provide an approved alternative.
For example, requesting access to Slack for improved team communication is more reasonable than demanding to play Fortnite. Come prepared to explain exactly how the app aids your productivity or other business needs.
Also find out if there are security implications or policy concerns driving the block. IT staff may be able to implement safe access to an app if they understand how it will be used appropriately.
Weigh the Risks of Circumvention
Before attempting to circumvent your IT department’s blocks, carefully consider the risks involved:
- Using banned apps may violate company security policies and lead to disciplinary action if detected.
- Banned apps may be unsafe and could introduce malware or other threats into the network.
- IT staff may monitor and identify usage of VPN services, proxies, and other circumvention tactics.
- You could end up with your entire device blocked from accessing the corporate network.
Tread cautiously to avoid negatively impacting your employer or your own job and access. Only bypass restrictions when truly necessary and not just for convenience.
Conclusion
Being blocked from accessing an app you want to use can certainly be annoying and disruptive. However, in a managed environment, the IT department generally has logical reasons for prohibiting certain programs. Before desperately trying to circumvent the block, take a step back and fully consider the implications. In many cases, a simple discussion with admins could provide approved access for necessary apps. If you do attempt to bypass restrictions, use the privacy-focused tactics outlined here at your own risk. Ultimately, understanding and working within the security policies of your organization is the wisest approach.