How to Access Gimkit on Restricted School Devices: Tips for IT Setup

Introduction

The Struggle with School Device Restrictions

We’ve all been there. You’re ready to jump into a fun, educational game like Gimkit in class, but the school device just won’t let you. Why? Because of those pesky restrictions. Schools put these in place to protect the network and keep students on track. However, they sometimes block access to perfectly good educational tools like Gimkit. It’s frustrating when you want to use something fun and educational, but the device or network stops you.

But don’t worry, it’s not impossible to fix! In this guide, we’re going to walk you through the steps to access Gimkit on restricted school devices. We’ll show you how to adjust settings and get Gimkit running on those locked-down devices.

Why Accessing Educational Tools is So Important

Educational tools like Gimkit are changing the way students learn. It’s a platform that turns boring vocabulary drills into engaging games. And when students have fun, they learn better. Teachers want these tools to be accessible, but sometimes, school networks and devices get in the way. That’s where this guide comes in. It’ll help teachers, IT admins, and anyone who’s dealing with restricted school devices get Gimkit working smoothly.

For more on how Gimkit compares to other tools, check out our post on Which is Better: Gimkit or Blooket? You’ll see how Gimkit stands out as a unique tool for learning.

How School Devices are Restricted

So why are these devices so locked down? Let’s dive into a few of the main culprits.

Firewall Settings

Firewalls are like gatekeepers. They decide which sites you can visit and which ones you can’t. They’re designed to keep out harmful or unwanted content. But the thing is, they don’t always know that Gimkit is perfectly safe. So, sometimes, the firewall ends up blocking Gimkit even though it’s an educational tool.

Network Filtering

Network filters are there to block websites that aren’t related to schoolwork—like social media or video streaming sites. Unfortunately, Gimkit can sometimes get swept up in these filters. That’s because, technically, it’s a game. And filters might flag it as non-educational content. It’s an easy fix, but it’s something you need to work around.

Want to learn how to set up a more flexible filtering system for educational purposes? Check out our post on how to play unblocked games.

Device Management Software 

Some schools use device management software to control what apps and websites can be accessed on school devices. This software is great for keeping the devices safe, but it can accidentally block useful tools like Gimkit. If you’re dealing with MDM software, you may need to adjust the settings to allow Gimkit to work.

Tips for IT Setup

Now that we know why the devices are restricted, let’s look at how IT administrators can open up access to Gimkit.

Check and Configure School Firewall Settings 

First thing first: take a look at the firewall settings. Here’s how to get Gimkit through the firewall:

1. Log into the Firewall Settings: You’ll need admin access for this.
2. Whitelist Gimkit URLs: Add the following URLs to the whitelist:
   • gimkit.com
   • cdn.gimkit.com
   • assets.gimkit.com
3. Allow Ports 80 and 443: These are the standard ports for web traffic. Make sure they’re open to let Gimkit run.

These simple changes should allow Gimkit to work on your school network. For more detailed firewall tips, our post on Gimkit browser extensions and add-ons can also help.

Adjust Network Filtering Settings

Network filters block websites that don’t fit the school’s content policy. But sometimes they block things like Gimkit that are actually educational. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Log into the Filtering System: You’ll need access to the system that controls the filtering (like GoGuardian or Lightspeed).
2. Find the Whitelist Section: This is where you can add allowed websites.
3. Add Gimkit to the Whitelist: Just add gimkit.com and other related URLs, and you’re good to go!

Once you do this, Gimkit should be available for students and teachers to use.

Grant Device Permissions for Educational Apps

Many schools use MDM software to control what apps are available on school devices. You might need to tweak those settings to allow Gimkit. Here’s how:

1. Log into the MDM Software: Use your admin credentials to access the MDM platform.
2. Check App Settings: Find Gimkit in the app list.
3. Allow Access: Make sure Gimkit is listed as “Allowed” or “Enabled”.

This will let Gimkit work on school-issued devices. If you’re looking for more information on managing devices, see our post on how to configure Gimkit for targeted learning.

VPN Solutions

If none of the above solutions work, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN can hide the user’s real IP address and bypass network restrictions. Here’s how:

1. Set Up a VPN: Choose a reliable VPN provider and install the software on the device.
2. Connect to the VPN: Once connected, try accessing Gimkit again.

It’s a quick fix, but using a VPN may slow down the connection. Use this as a last resort. If you’re looking for alternative solutions, take a look at our guide on how to join a random Gimkit game.

Step-by-Step Guide to Unblocking Gimkit

Let’s break it down into some simple steps. This is how you can unblock Gimkit on school devices.

Step 1: Whitelisting Gimkit URLs in School Networks

1. Log into Your Firewall or Router: You’ll need to use your admin credentials.
2. Whitelist the URLs:
   • gimkit.com
   • cdn.gimkit.com
   • assets.gimkit.com
3. Save Changes: After you add the URLs, restart the network to make the changes take effect.

Step 2: Configuring Firewalls for Unrestricted Access

Here’s a more detailed guide to get the firewall settings just right:

1. Check the Blocked List: See if Gimkit is listed there. If it is, remove it.
2. Add Gimkit to the Allow List: Ensure gimkit.com is on the whitelist.
3. Test: Open Gimkit on a device to make sure it works.

Step 3: Using Mobile Devices to Access Gimkit

If Gimkit is still blocked, try using a mobile device:

1. Enable a Mobile Hotspot: Use your phone’s hotspot feature to bypass the school’s network.
2. Connect School Devices: Connect the school-issued devices to the mobile hotspot.

This will let students and teachers access Gimkit even if it’s blocked on the school Wi-Fi. For tips on how to set this up, read our post on how to play Gimkit yourself.

Common Challenges When Unblocking Educational Websites and Apps

Overcoming Strict Network Restrictions

Some schools have stricter network filters than others. Here’s how to deal with that:

1. Consult with Network Engineers: Get help from other IT professionals to loosen restrictions without compromising security.
2. Create an Educational Whitelist: Make sure apps like Gimkit are always accessible.

Device-Specific Limitations

Certain devices, like Chromebooks or iPads, have their own restrictions. Here’s how to deal with them:

1. Chromebooks: Use the Google Admin Console to adjust the settings and allow Gimkit.
2. iPads: Use Apple Configurator to make sure Gimkit is available.

Alternative Solutions for Accessing Gimkit on School Devices

Using a Proxy Server for Access

If nothing else works, a proxy server can help. It reroutes traffic to bypass restrictions.

1. Install a Proxy Service: Find a trustworthy proxy provider.
2. Set It Up: Configure the proxy settings on the devices.

This is a good workaround, but it might slow down the connection.

Mobile Hotspots as a Temporary Fix

If you don’t want to mess with network settings, mobile hotspots are an easy fix:

1. Turn on a Mobile Hotspot: Use your phone or a dedicated hotspot device.
2. Connect the Devices: Connect the school devices to the hotspot for unrestricted access.

Best Practices for IT Administrators

Maintaining Security While Allowing Access

When Gimkit and other educational tools are unblocked, make sure you’re still keeping the network secure:

1. Set Clear Security Policies: Only allow safe educational tools.
2. Monitor Usage: Regularly check which sites and apps are being accessed to avoid misuse.

Setting Up a Whitelist for Educational Tools

Create a list of approved educational tools that will always be accessible:

1. Maintain the Whitelist: Add Gimkit and other useful apps to it.
2. Keep it Updated: Regularly update the whitelist to include new apps.

FAQs

How can I access Gimkit on restricted school devices?

If you’re trying to access Gimkit on a school device, there are a few things you’ll need to tweak. First, check the firewall settings. You’ll need to make sure the right URLs, like gimkit.com, are on the allowed list. Then, make sure network filters aren’t blocking it. If that doesn’t do the trick, you might need to adjust the settings in your device management software to give the app access.

Can students play Gimkit on school-issued devices?

Yes, students can definitely play Gimkit on school-issued devices. But sometimes, it’s blocked because of the school’s network restrictions or the device management settings. If that’s the case, an IT admin can help. They’ll need to adjust the firewall, whitelist the Gimkit URLs, or even use a VPN to work around the restrictions.

What are the best ways to unblock Gimkit on school laptops?

Here’s what you can do to unblock Gimkit on a school laptop. First, make sure the URLs like gimkit.com are added to the whitelist in the firewall and network filters. You can also check that the device management software isn’t blocking the app. If all else fails, using a mobile hotspot could be a quick workaround to access Gimkit.

Are there any alternative solutions if Gimkit is blocked?

If Gimkit is still blocked, you have a couple of options. You can set up a VPN to bypass the network restrictions or use a mobile hotspot to get around the blocks. Another option is using a proxy server, though this might slow things down a bit. It’s worth a shot if you need to get Gimkit working quickly.

How do I set up Gimkit in schools for teachers and students?

Setting up Gimkit in schools is actually pretty simple for IT admins. You just need to configure the firewall settings so Gimkit URLs are allowed. Make sure the network filters are set to allow educational tools. Also, check that the device management software allows Gimkit to run. Keeping things updated and checking periodically will help keep it running smoothly.

Conclusion

Summary of Key Tips

• Whitelist Gimkit URLs and adjust firewall settings.
• Use VPNs or mobile hotspots as a last resort.
• Make sure MDM software permits Gimkit.

Final Thoughts on Accessing Gimkit on Restricted Devices

It’s important for both students and teachers to have access to tools like Gimkit. By following these simple steps, IT administrators can make sure that Gimkit is available without compromising security. It’s all about balancing access and protection to get the most out of educational tools.