The most efficient way to block a website depends primarily on the device and web browser you're using. For example, when running a desktop browser that supports extensions, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Opera, an add-on works great. If you're using a web browser that doesn't support extensions, such as Microsoft Edge, editing your Windows Hosts file will get the job done. The Hosts file on Windows and Mac is the only way to block all browsers from visiting specific websites. Blocking sites on Android phones and tablets with a mobile app is quite useful. For iPhone and iPad users, Screen Time provides a straightforward method for blocking specific websites. For parents or guardians who wish to shield their children from potentially harmful content, blocking sites directly via the router ads an additional layer of protection. Show
This article includes instructions for devices running: Windows 7/10, macOS, Android, and iOS. Block Websites Using the Windows Hosts FileThe steps below demonstrate how to edit the Hosts file in Windows 10 and 7.
Block Websites Using the Mac's Hosts FileThe steps below illustrate how to edit your Mac's Hosts file using Terminal.
Block Websites With Your BrowserBlock a Website in Google ChromeThe steps below show how to block websites using the Block Site extension for Google Chrome. If you're using Mac or Linux, launch Chrome, and go to the second step.
How to Block Websites With Firefox, Opera, and Internet Explorer
Microsoft no longer supports Internet Explorer and recommends that you update to the newer Edge browser. Head to their site to download the newest version. Blocking Websites on AndroidThe steps below show how to block websites using the Block Site mobile application.
Block a Website on iPhone and iPadThe steps below who how to block websites on an iPhone or iPad, using Screen Time.
Use Router Settings to Block WebsitesThe steps below generally outline how to block websites using your router. Because every router is different, the steps will vary slightly. In most cases, you'll need the username and password associated with your ISP account, as well as the administrative password for your router or modem. To connect with your router you'll need to access its control screen. Unfortunately, each router manufacturer does this differently, but we have an article on helping you find your router's IP address. We'll use a Belkin router in our example below.
If you intend to stay away from distracting websites, you can use a browser extension, your Hosts file (Windows and Mac), a mobile app (Android), or Screen Time (iOS). If your objective is to restrict children from accessing certain websites, blocking using your router or modem is the best method. How do I disable site blocking?Click the settings icon ( ) on the browser toolbar and select Settings.. On the left, select Advanced, then click Privacy and security.. Under Privacy and security, click Site Settings.. Scroll down and select Pop-ups and redirects.. Change the slider to the Allowed state.. How do I unblock a website in settings?In the network section click option 'Change proxy settings' Click the 'Security' tab and then click the 'Restricted sites' icon. Now click the 'Sites' option in order to open restricted sites windows. Lastly, click the blocked websites from the list and select the 'Remove' button; this will unblock the specific website.
How do I allow a blocked website?Users & browsers.
Scroll to URL Blocking and enter URLs as needed: Blocked URLs—URLs that you want to prevent users from accessing. For syntax and examples, see Users & browsers > URL blocklist. Blocked URL exceptions—URLs that you want to allow users to access (allowlist).
Why is my internet blocking certain websites?IP address blocking happens when a network is configured to reject access for specific IP addresses. Your ISP may be using IP blocking by simply monitoring your connection to see if you want to access a certain IP address. However, with the right tools, it's easy to bypass IP blocking.
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