Block (Internet)

For other uses, see Block (disambiguation).

"Banned users" redirects here. It is not to be confused with Wikipedia:List of banned users.

This IP address is an open proxy, and it is blocked from editing Wikipedia because editing from an open proxy server is not allowed. Some good-faith users may also be affected by an IP block or range blocks.

On the Internet, a block is a technical measure intended to restrict access to information or resources. Blocks should not be confused with bans, although they are often used to enforce a ban.

Effects of blocks

A blocked user may have certain privileges revoked, such as the ability to publish content or communicate with other users, or they may be completely unable to access the service in question. Blocks can apply to individual user accounts or ranges of IP addresses. In most cases, individual services and websites set their own blocking policies, and a block issued by one will not apply on any others.

Most online communication tools, including chat software and social networking sites, allow users to block other users from contacting them. Such a block normally has no effect on the subject's access to any other part of the service.

Method

Due to the internet's general anonymity, it can be hard to block a person from a resource, as the person can simply create a new account, change their IP Address, or use another computer. There are many enforcement methods used.

Block User

This is the most common type of blocks. When a user attempts to log in, the system checks if the user is blocked. It is easy to set up, however it can be easily bypassed by creating another account. Usually, other users are blocked because of rudeness or simply because one user dislikes another.

Block IP Address

This blocks a IP address or range of addresses from accessing a resource, such as creating an account. Most internet users have a dymantic IP address, that is their IP address frequently changes. If multiple persons share a IP address (for example, a household using one internet router), this can result in innocent users being blocked.

Cookies

Cookies are small text information stored onto a user's computer, set by a website. It can be easily bypassed by deleting the cookies.

See also

• IP blocking
• Internet censorship