How to Open Blocked URLs

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Many workplaces or academic institutions block certain URLs to prevent users from viewing them for legitimate reasons. However, you may find certain useful websites being accidentally blocked by this process. No need to worry since Windows does allow you to unblock these URLs.

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Internet Explorer Users

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Step 1

Launch Internet Explorer. Hit the Start button and select "All Programs." Scroll up to find the menu command for "Internet Explorer." Click on it.

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Step 2

Click on the "Tools" tab on the top bar of your browser. Select "Internet Options."

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Step 3

Click on the tab "Security." Click on "Restricted Sites" icon. Hit the "Sites" button beneath the icon.

Step 4

Browse through the list of all the restricted sites. Locate the blocked URL. Select the URL with a single-click and hit the "Remove" button. The blocked URL should disappear from the list.

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Step 5

Click on "Apply" and hit "OK." Close down and relaunch Internet Explorer following the instructions in Step 1. Type the blocked URL in the address bar to open the website. If you still cannot open the blocked URL, go to Step 6.

Step 6

Contact your system administrator or Internet provider immediately. Chances are they may have the administrative privileges required to unblock the URL.

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Mozilla Firefox users

Step 1

Launch Mozilla Firefox. Hit the Start button and select "All Programs." Scroll up to find the menu command for "Mozilla Firefox." Click on it.

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Step 2

Click on the "Tools" menu on the top bar and select "Options..."

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Step 3

Click on "Security." You can easily identify it with its lock-shaped icon.

Step 4

Click on the "Exceptions..." button.

Step 5

Type the blocked URL. Click on the button "Allow." Click on "OK." Close down and relaunch Mozilla Firefox following the instructions in Step 1. Type the blocked URL in the address bar to open the website. If you still cannot open the blocked URL, contact your system administrator or Internet provider immediately. Chances are they may have the administrative privileges required to unblock the URL.

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