Apple Network Block 

Why is there an Apple block?

The Apple network block, commonly referred to as the "Apple Block," is to prevent the speed and integrity of the school's network from being compromised by Apple devices such as MacBooks, iMacs, iPads, iPods, and iPhones automatically downloading Mac OS, iOS, or app updates. Protecting the speed of your school's network is especially important during any school wide or grade level testing such as NWEA and PARCC.

When is it in effect?

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Does this schedule change?

As Apple releases new iOS upgrades, the block may be 
in effect 24 hours a day for a period of time while ITS performs critical testing to ensure that no CPS systems 
will be compromised due to the upgrade.

How do I lift the Apple block?

The Process
The Apple blocks are handled by our Network Operations team and require a 48 hour advance notice to be lifted.  
Please follow the below process to place a request: 
  1. Call the IT Service Desk at 773-553-3925, option 9, option 9, to place an Apple Block lift request.
  2. Provide the date and time frame of the request. You will be provided a ticket number.
  3. Have the principal send an email to Net Ops (netops@cps.edu) referencing the ticket number you were provided in the subject line of the email. In the body of the email the principal must state that they approve the lift request. 
NOTE: A TechCo or teacher may call in the lift request, however the Principal must follow up by sending an email to NetOps.
Can I still manage the iPads during the block?

What you can accomplish without lifting the block:

  • Student and Teacher use of the iPad’s standard functions and features: apps, web browsing, etc.
  • Employ iPads for NWEA or PARCC
  • Downloading free apps using iTunes
  • Deploying the free apps to the iPads using Configurator
  • Purchasing redemption codes for paid apps from the VPP Store (Volume Purchase Program) 
  • Redeeming a code in iTunes Store for the purchased app so that you can download a copy of the app into iTunes
  • Deploying paid apps to iPads using Configurator
  • Removing apps from iPads using Configurator
  • Creating Profiles (Restrictions and Web Clips) for the iPads in Configurator
  • Deploying Profiles to the iPads via Configurator
  • Removing Profiles from iPads using Configurator
  • Updating the naming convention for the iPads in Configurator
  • Unsupervising iPads
  • Managed Distribution

The block must be lifted for the following actions:

  • Updating the iOS
  • Prepare tab in Apple Configurator/Preparing iPads