School Methods
Overview
Does your school have draconian security/filters on its computers?
Don't worry, what I have here is a constantly updated list of methods and tools for bypassing the system. All shortcuts and programs are mostly for Windows XP (seeing as Macs usually aren't as restricted). If you're a technical person, you probably already know these. If you are a common user, then this is the right place for you, as everything here is explained in simple English. Most of these methods apply to NYCBOE (New York City Board of Education) schools.
Pr()xies
Can't get on MySpace/Facebook/[other social site]?
The reason for this is that most schools have filters set up that automatically block out these sites. However, there is a way to get around them! It's called a pr()xy.
I refer to them by pr()xies, so that this page will not be blocked by the filters. Before, these were not blocked by the NYCBOE, but now they are. However, through extensive researching, I have found out that the filters don't block the pr()xies, as long as you don't have pr()xy wrotten all over it. Below are links to some reliable, running pr()xies. Be warned, not everything works through a pr()xy. Logins may be a little screwy, so don't complain. Flash Player(ex: Youtube) does not work as of yet. Also, do not use the pr()xies for important financial transactions (ex: online shopping), because pr()xies are not secure. Also, check back often, as new pr()xies are added on every other day, while others are removed. I will start up some other proxies on other servers as soon as I can. As of now, the http://nycboe1.122mb.com/ pr()xy is best. It handles Flash, cookies, logins, and all that stuff.
Software
AIM- ever wanted to IM in computer class? Of course you have. You have several options available:
1) Run AIM express (http://www.aimexpress.aim.com) through one of the pr()xies.
2) Run (but not install) TerraIM on the computer. Installing just takes time, and the hard drive wipes clean on every startup anyway. You can download it from here, or from the official site. You can also put in onto a Flash drive if you don't feel like downloading it every time.