Learn how to easily block distracting or inappropriate websites on your Android device with these step-by-step instructions.
Use Android’s Restricted Profiles
The easiest way to block websites on Android is by using restricted profiles.
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Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Users & accounts > Restricted profile
- Tap “Set up” to create a restricted profile
- Give the profile a name and tap “OK”
- Tap “Set app & content access”
- Under “Allowed apps,” disable Chrome and enable any child-friendly browsers you want to allow
- Under “Blocked apps,” block any other browsers installed on your device
- Under “Allowed websites,” block all websites then individually allow only the sites you want to permit access to
With restricted profiles, you can block entire categories of websites or only allow access to preapproved sites. Just toggle these settings on or off as needed for each profile.
Use Digital Wellbeing Tools
Android’s Digital Wellbeing features include ways to limit access to Apps and sites:
- Set app timer limits for browsers to control how long someone can access the web each day
- Use Focus mode to disable distracting sites and apps as needed
- Try Wind Down to block sites and apps at bedtime
Enable these Digital Wellbeing controls under Settings > Digital Wellbeing & parental controls. Tweak them to suit your needs.
Use Third-Party Apps
The Google Play Store offers many apps that can block sites, like:
- Norton Family: Allows blocking sites plus setting time limits and viewing browsing history
- Qustodio: Blocks sites and monitors online activity
- Net Nanny: Filters web content across devices
Research different apps to find one with the right mix of features and price for your needs.
Adjust Router Settings
For whole-home site blocking, adjust the settings on your WiFi router. Look for options like:
- Blacklisting specific URLs and keywords
- Whitelisting only approved sites
- Scheduling when to block sites
This will block sites across all connected devices, not just Android. Check your router’s admin interface for the available options.
FAQs
Can I block sites without limiting screen time?
Yes, apps like Norton Family let you block specific sites and content without limiting overall screen time. You can also use router-level blocks without time limits.
Will site blocking slow my phone?
No, blocking websites does not affect your phone’s performance. The only potential slowdown is if you’re using a very extensive router-based blocklist.
Can I block in-app browsers?
Yes, most third-party blocking tools let you disable in-app browsers found in apps like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc. Restricted profiles also block them.
