Blocking a website on your Android device can help you stay focused, protect children from inappropriate content, or avoid distractions. Whether you’re using a browser or a parental control app, there are several easy methods to control web access on your phone or tablet. Here’s how to block a website on Android effectively.
- Use Google Family Link for Parental Control
If you’re trying to block websites for a child’s device, Google Family Link is a free and powerful tool. Download the app on both your device and your child’s Android phone. After setup, you can manage which websites are accessible through Chrome. You can allow or block specific sites, and even restrict access to only a few approved ones.
- Install a Website Blocker App
There are many third-party apps designed to block websites on Android. Apps like BlockSite, Stay Focused, or Safe Browser let you add websites to a block list. After installation, open the app, grant the required accessibility permissions, and type in the websites you want to block. These apps are especially useful if you’re looking to improve productivity or manage screen time.
- Block Websites via Your Browser Settings
Some Android browsers have built-in content filters or options to block websites.
- Using Firefox: You can install add-ons like LeechBlock to block specific URLs.
- Using Opera: Enable ad-blocking and content restrictions through its settings.
- Using Google Chrome: Chrome itself doesn’t support native website blocking, but when paired with Family Link, you can control access.
If the browser doesn’t support blocking, consider switching to one that does or using a dedicated app.
- Modify the Hosts File (Advanced Users)
This method requires root access and is more technical. The hosts file tells your phone how to access certain websites. By editing this file, you can block websites completely.
- Use a file manager app with root access.
- Navigate to /etc/hosts.
- Open the file and add a new line like 127.0.0.1 www.blockedwebsite.com.
- Save the file and restart your phone.
Only attempt this method if you’re comfortable with root access and system files.
- Use a Custom DNS Service
Another method is using a DNS service like OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing, which can block harmful or specific websites.
- Go to your phone’s Wi-Fi settings.
- Tap your current network, choose “Modify network”, and set IP settings to “Static”.
- Replace the DNS with the preferred DNS addresses (e.g., 185.228.168.168 for CleanBrowsing).
- Save and reconnect.
This method blocks websites across all browsers without needing third-party apps.
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