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How to properly block access to website on Windows 10 PC?

T Crha 381 Reputation points
2024-01-02T08:00:07.43+00:00

Hello everyone,

I have a question about what is the most convenient, most reliable and most straightforward way to block access to a specific website on my home Windows 10 PC.

There are several options that come to mind:

  • some sort of site block addon for Chrome (thats the browser in use) - but I am not able to find any addon that would actually work and was for free at the same time (maybe someone knows better?)
  • utilizing a rule in Windows FW - but event though I tries to set UP a rule thats blocking both incoming and outgoing traffic for a specific IP of the site, its not doing anything, and the site is accessible (but maybe I did it wrong)
  • local hostfile - but since the browser queries public DNS, I guess I can rule this on out
  • some sort of rule on the router - but I am not using anything professional and I am afraid that this would block all the devices connected to it from accessing the website, while I need to apply the block only on one device
  • proxy script that is blocking one particular site - but is it possible to do it without an actual proxy server? I mean to have the script located on that Win 10 PC itself?

Thank you for any hints and tips, anything is appreciated

Tomas

Windows 10
Windows 10
A Microsoft operating system that runs on personal computers and tablets.
10,806 questions
Accepted answer
  1. Ian Xue (Shanghai Wicresoft Co., Ltd.) 31,091 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor
    2024-01-04T05:23:32.99+00:00

    Hi T,

    I noticed that the scenario is at home, so it is not a domain environment, right?

    I would suggest two ways to block specific websites.

    Method 1: Blocking Websites in all Browsers on Windows 10 with Family Safety

    Microsoft Family Safety is a built-in application in Windows 10. The administrator can change the settings to control family member’s online behavior. As parent, you are able to view the time your child uses the device and the time spent in each application. You can also filter inappropriate content, and set time limits on certain apps. But one thing you need to pay attention is that you need to create a Microsoft account for your child, and ensure that he can only log in to this account. Here is the steps on how to block websites on Windows 10 with Microsoft Family Safety:

    Create a Microsoft account for child:

    (If you child already has his account, you can skip this part)

    1. Click on the Start menu of your PC. Select Settings > Account > Family & other users.
    2. At the pop-up Microsoft account window, click on Create one for child. Then click Next.

    User's image

    1. Enter your child’s personal information to create an account for him.
    2. Go back to Microsoft account window and add your child’s account.

    Block inappropriate websites on child’s account:

    1. Sign in your own Microsoft account.
    2. Find your child’s account on the Your family page.
    3. Click on More options > Content restrictions.
    4. Go to the Web Browsing section. Enable the Block inappropriate websites option.
    5. Enter the unwanted websites to Always blocked section.

    User's image

    Method 2: Using the browser extensions.

    You can refer the following third-party article to see how to use extensions in Chrome and Edge.

    Best 5 ways to Block Websites on Windows 10 Chrome, Firefox & Edge (cisdem.com)

    Disclaimer: Microsoft provides no assurances and/or warranties, implied or otherwise, and is not responsible for the information you receive from the third-party linked sites or any support related to technology. If you are going to modify BIOS Settings, please back up all your personal files first to ensure you do not lose data.

    Best Regards,

    Ian Xue

    If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.

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