Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is alkasir?
A: It is a software program that allows its users to bypass censorship of specific websites and tracks censorship imposed by ISPs or/and governments.

Q: When saying 'specific websites', what do you mean?
A: When we launched the program, the aim of circumvention was to allow users to access information about their countries and regions that are concealed by the states due to censorship. An example would be news websites that cover protests, expose corruption, promote open online discussions and debates on political, social and cultural issues, etc. Once a website is reported, it is moderated by real humans who then approve or disapprove the website based on certain criteria (e.g., adult, gambling, multimedia sites, etc. will be rejected).

Q: Why limit websites? Aren't you also filtering with such an approach?
A: There are a number of reasons why we can't open up all blocked websites. The first and farmost is bandwidth consumption. We cannot afford to have servers that allow access to massive bandwidth-hungry websites that include videos and excessive images, games, etc. The second reason is that the program focuses on promoting access to information to websites that are more text-oriented and include news, opinions, reports, information, etc. that people are eager to know about and often relate to. Those website usually cover issues about reform, development, democracy and human rights. This in itself is a contribution. But there are certainly other circumvention tools that allow you to access any website at all. If you need information on how to get them, we'll be happy to guide you. Just and we'll respond promptly.

Q: Why are you doing this?
A: Two reasons: The first is because we wish to contribute in promoting access to information and freedom of expression around the world and by enabling users to bypass censorship, we believe we are achieving that goal. The second reason is because we would like to carry out a worldwide study of censorship trends using data gathered from computers around the world indicating if a website is blocked or unblocked and hence be able to assess censorship trends and do various types of academic and professional studies.

Q: Is the program free?
A: Given that the program was created for purposes that fall inline with the basic human right of the freedom to know, we felt that it should remain free for all to use. The fact that it only circumvents some blocked websites makes it easier and less costly to maintain compared to other servers that allow access to the whole world wide web. Hopefully the program will remain free as we are in the process of exploring various ideas to generate resources.

Q: How does your circumvention technology work?
A: It is not possible to explain the details here but in brief, the software depends on a number of service providers (servers) who offer their resources so the program could securely channel website content through them so you could access their content. Your ISP will not know which website you accessed because all the data received to and from the service providers are encrypted. If you want technical details on how it works, go ahead and .

Q: Do I have to report a blocked website to be able to access it?
A: Certainly not. Each blocked website is reported once for it to be considered by the service. The first person to report the website will practically would have acted on behalf all the other users of that specific ISP that is blocking it. Hence, upon approval of a website, the person who reported it plus every other user depending on that ISP would be able to bypass cernsorship and access the website seamlessly.

Q: Am I risking anything by using this program?
A: Remember that alkasir is not responsible if you are breaking the laws of your country by accessing blocked websites. Like the case with any other web-based proxy or circumvention software, we serve as a tunnel to blocked websites and do not bear any responsibility for that content nor can we be responsible for your actions. Furthermore, you should have read the warning and terms of use you agreed on when you installed alkasir. Everything you need to know is right there.

Q: Are you using or exposing my IP and other computer information?
A: All we get from you is your IP address, which is necessary for the program to work. However, we are committed to keeping your IP address strictly confidential and will never be shared by outsiders unless obliged by the court of law.

Q: How can I get help using alkasir?
A: You can always refer back to this Help document and also with your inquiries and we'll be more than glad to come back to you as soon a possible.

Q: I am facing trouble using your program. What should I do?
A: Refer to the troubleshooting guide here and if the problem persists, just .

Q: Your website is now blocked and your software failed too? What should I do?
A: You can so we could send you an updated version of the program plus information you may need to figure out a workaround if possible.