What is a Firewall?

A firewall is part of a computer system or network designed to filter/block unauthorized access to external users and websites while permitting outward communication.

The GCSD firewall follows students on their Chromebooks and works even more strongly when students take the devices off of district property. If your student is having trouble accessing the internet on home or public wi-fi, it is because of this firewall. Students will often be able to access their email and Google Drive, but not much else when this is the case. To gain access, students must authenticate their wi-fi source.

Wi-Fi Authentication

Students can authenticate a trusted wi-fi source when they are off school property. This includes home or public wi-fi, though students are always cautioned about their online activity when using public or shared wi-fi connections. View the instructions to authenticate here.