How to Block Websites on Computer: Effective Methods and Tools

Popular Methods of Blocking Websites

Below are four common approaches to block websites. Each has its advantages but also notable drawbacks if you’re seeking flexibility, comprehensive control, or detailed usage reports.

1. Editing the Hosts File

Modifying the hosts file is a traditional approach where you manually reroute web addresses to a blank or invalid IP address. For example, you can map facebook.com to 127.0.0.1 to prevent access.

• ✔️ Pros: Free and does not require installing extra software.
• ❌ Cons: Anyone with admin rights can revert these changes. There’s no scheduling, no blocking by keywords, and no usage monitoring.

2. Browser Extensions

Many browsers offer website-blocking extensions. These can block distracting websites or certain categories of content.

• ✔️ Pros: Quick to set up and easy to manage within the browser.
• ❌ Cons: Extensions typically only work in one specific browser; using another browser bypasses the block. There’s also no robust scheduling or advanced filtering by keywords.

3. Blocking via Router

Many modern routers have built-in parental controls or block-list settings. You can filter domains at the network level so that all connected devices are affected.

• ✔️ Pros: Covers every device on the network.
• ❌ Cons: Settings can often be bypassed by using a VPN or mobile data. Features like scheduling or keyword-based blocks may be very limited. No usage tracking is typically available.

4. Specialized Software

Dedicated parental control and productivity apps, such as HT Family Shield, offer advanced blocking rules, time schedules, keyword-based filtering, and usage reports.

• ✔️ Pros: Robust, flexible, and suitable for both parental controls and productivity. They are difficult to bypass, offer scheduling, keyword blocking, and detailed stats.
• ❌ Cons: Typically paid solutions, although they usually offer free trials.

While hosts file edits, browser extensions, and router settings can work in certain basic scenarios, they’re often too limited for serious parental control or productivity needs. They provide no usage statistics, no robust schedules, and can typically be bypassed. This is where specialized software shines.

How to Block Websites on Computer Using HT Family Shield

HT Family Shield is a reliable parental control and productivity software that helps you block websites completely or on a schedule, filter content by keywords, and track usage statistics. Here’s how you can set it up:

How to Block Websites Completely

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Block Websites for a Certain Time (Scheduling and Limits)

If you prefer limiting specific websites to certain hours—perhaps to allow leisure browsing after homework or office hours—HT Family Shield offers scheduling and daily usage limits:

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Block Websites by Keywords

Not all website blocks are domain-based. You may want to restrict sites containing particular keywords such as “gambling” or “NSFW.” HT Family Shield makes this easy:

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Using keyword-based blocking is especially helpful for filtering out content across various domains, ensuring that even newly created or lesser-known websites don’t slip through.

Block All Websites Except One

When you need a strictly limited environment—maybe for a study session, a work environment, or a kiosk setting—you can block the entire web and allow access to only specific websites:

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This approach is perfect for exam settings, locked-down devices for public use, or strict workplaces where only a handful of websites are necessary.

Monitoring Statistics

One of the most powerful features of HT Family Shield is its reporting capability. You can see exactly how much time is spent on various websites each day, week, or month.

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FAQ

Can I block websites on Windows without third-party software?

Yes, by editing the hosts file or using router settings. However, these methods lack key features such as keyword filtering, scheduling, usage reporting, and can be easily bypassed if someone has the know-how.

Will blocking through HT Family Shield affect all browsers?

Yes. Once a site is blocked or limited in HT Family Shield, it applies to all browsers on the computer. This eliminates the usual loophole of simply switching browsers.

Can I block only specific pages or keywords?

Absolutely. HT Family Shield allows you to block or filter content based on keywords, categories, or full domain names. This is especially helpful if you only need to restrict certain types of content.

Does HT Family Shield work in incognito mode?

Yes, the website blocking and filtering features apply regardless of whether a browser is in normal or incognito mode, ensuring complete coverage.

Can I receive reports on blocked website attempts?

Yes, HT Family Shield provides detailed reports showing attempts to access blocked websites, including timestamps and URLs, helping you monitor online activity.

Conclusion

Managing online distractions and unsafe content is essential—whether for a safer family environment or for greater efficiency at work. While quick fixes like editing the hosts file or using browser extensions can suffice in certain scenarios, these methods fall short when it comes to advanced filtering, scheduling, and reporting. If you truly want a reliable, all-in-one solution, consider HT Family Shield.

Try our free trial and discover how to block websites on Windows or any other platform more effectively:

Last updated: March 7, 2025