Ask Ben - Your Laptop on the Net - both at School and at Home?

Ask Ben - Your Laptop on the Net - both at School and at Home?

27th September 2007 By Ben Hall

Dear Ben, 

My laptop works fine at home, but does not at school. How do I use my Laptop on the Internet, both at School and at Home?

John Owen
Sheffield

Dear John 

This is a question we are frequently asked. In schools the broadband connection goes via a separate server, called a proxy server, which filters out unsuitable content. Unfortunately, when you get home, the internet will not work properly unless the proxy server is de-selected.

This means changing the settings every time you go home or to school – an extra hassle you can probably do without.

A neat way to speed this up is to use a proxy switcher. This is a free piece of software – available for download from our website – which quickly allows you to switch between home and school settings.

The proxy switcher does require an initial set up – have a word with your IT technician – but once it is up and running life should be made much easier.

 Hall

By Ben Hall

Ben Hall BSc (Hons) MCP MCTS is part of our helpdesk support team, predominantly supporting schools.  He studied at Sheffield Hallam University and has been with Resolve IT for over 5 years. He enjoys a good burrito and a beer.