How to Block Unwanted Websites on Your Home Network

Want to block certain websites for your children or household? Here are several effective methods — from simple router settings to advanced DNS filtering — explained clearly.

Category: Internet & Networking | Read time: 3 min | By Midland Computers

Blocking Websites Is Simpler Than You Think

Whether you want to protect children from inappropriate content, reduce social media distractions during work hours, or prevent access to known malicious sites, there are several effective ways to block websites on your home network.

Method 1: Use Your Router's Built-In Controls (Recommended)

Most modern routers include parental controls or website blocking features. The exact steps vary by router brand, but generally:

  • Log into your router admin panel (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in your browser)
  • Look for a section called **Parental Controls**, **Access Control**, or **URL Filtering**
  • Enter the website addresses you want to block
  • Save the settings

    • Router-level blocking applies to all devices on your network — computers, phones, tablets, and smart TVs — without needing to install anything on each device.

    Method 2: Use DNS Filtering

    DNS filtering blocks websites at the network level using specialised DNS servers. Free options include:

  • **Cloudflare Family (1.1.1.3):** Automatically blocks malware and adult content
  • **OpenDNS FamilyShield (208.67.222.123):** Blocks adult content specifically
  • **Google SafeSearch DNS:** Enforces SafeSearch across Google services

    • Change your router's DNS settings to these addresses to apply filtering to your entire network. Instructions are in your router's admin panel under WAN or Internet settings.

    Method 3: Windows Hosts File (Single Device)

    On individual Windows computers, you can block websites by editing the hosts file:

  • Open Notepad as Administrator
  • Open the file at: **C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts**
  • Add a new line: **127.0.0.1 www.websiteyouwanttoblock.com**
  • Save the file

    • This blocks the website on that specific computer only and does not affect other devices.

    Method 4: Browser Extensions

    Extensions like **BlockSite** (Chrome, Firefox) let you block specific websites within that browser. Simple to set up, but can be bypassed by using a different browser or device.

    Method 5: Dedicated Parental Control Software

    For more comprehensive parental controls — including time limits, content categories, and usage reports — dedicated software like Circle, Net Nanny, or Qustodio offers more granular control than router settings alone.

    Getting Your Network Configured Properly

    If you would like professional help setting up website blocking, parental controls, or a comprehensive family-safe network configuration, Midland Computers offers expert [home networking services in Midland](/services/networking-issues).

    We can configure your router, set up DNS filtering, and make sure every device in your home is covered — with settings that cannot easily be bypassed by tech-savvy children.

    [Book a networking appointment](/book-repair) or [contact us](/contact) — we are always happy to help Perth families create a safer home network.