How to block websites on Android in 6 effective ways

Having to deal with random advertising pop-ups and fishy websites on your Android phone can be frustrating. Hence, blocking these websites on your Android device becomes essential to keeping the browsing experience clean and distraction-free. If you’re also troubled by the same, this guide can help.

I have listed some of the simplest yet effective ways to help you keep yourself or your children from accessing unwanted websites. Read on to learn everything you need to know about blocking websites on your Android device.

1. Use Google’s SafeSearch feature to block websites on Android

Not many people know this, but Google offers an in-built feature to filter explicit images, text, and links. This is helpful for those who do not want to depend upon third-party services.

This powerful tool allows users to filter explicit content, and can also be used to block multiple other websites.

To enable Google’s SafeSearch on Android:

1. Go to www.google.com.
   You can use Chrome, the Google Search widget, or the Google app.
2. Tap your profile photo or initial from the top-right corner.
   
   
3. Go to Settings → Choose SafeSearch from the menu.
4. Select one of the following:
   • Filter: Completely blocks off explicit images, text, and links.
   • Blur: Helps blur explicit images, but texts or links may appear.
   • Off: Shows all relevant results to the search query. 
5. Given your requirements, I’d recommend selecting Filter and exiting the interface.
   
   

This is a quick and efficient way to block websites on your Android phone without having to download any additional applications or modifying network settings.

However, this method is not completely foolproof. While it does its best to block a wide range of explicit websites, a few might still manage to bypass this wall.

2. Use browser add-ons to block website on Android

Setting up extensions in web browsers is the most practical way to block websites on Android devices permanently. These extensions can help you create personalized blacklists of websites you wish to block.

Unfortunately, Google Chrome does not allow the addition of extensions on Android. A few web browsers like Mozilla Firefox do. Here’s what you need to do.

1. Download Mozilla Firefox on your Android phone or update it to the latest version.
2. Open the app → Tap the three-dot icon from the top-right corner.
3. Select Add-ons to proceed → Scroll down and choose Find more add-ons.
   
   
4. Now, look for and select LeechBlock NG in the search bar.
5. Tap Add to Firefox.
   
   
6. Select Add → Okay, Got it to finalize your decision.
   
   
7. Again, select the three-dot icon → Add-ons → LeechBlock to proceed.
   
   
8. Finally, choose Options from the menu.
9. Here, according to preference, you can create six Block Sets with the website links you seek to block.
   
   
10. You can block access to a maximum of 30 websites by listing them in a single block.
11. Moreover, you can also set the block to function for a specific day or time.

You can now create personalized blacklists by adding specific URLs or sets of keywords that are often associated with blocked content.

Note: Based on the extension and browser you use, the process may slightly differ.

3. Set up Google Family Link to block websites on Android

If you’re looking for an easier method to block a specific website, Google Family Link is the right solution. This is particularly helpful for parents who seek to supervise their children’s smartphone usage and restrict their access to harmful or unwanted content.

Setting up Google Family Link involves a few simple steps.

1. Firstly, the parent needs to create a Google Account for their child if they don’t already have one.
2. Now, both the parent’s and child’s devices must have the Family Link app installed.
3. Open the Family Link app → The parent must sign in on their device and pair the child’s account.
4. Then select Block Websites and paste the URLs of websites you want to prevent your child from visiting.
   • You can further choose from popular categories such as adult or violent content.
5. Parents can also review activity reports that provide insights into their child’s digital behavior, ensuring a safe online environment for them.

As this method is integrated with Google Security, there is no need to worry about data leaks.

4. Block websites by setting up firewall on Android

Leaving no stone unturned, let’s discover how a firewall app can help you block websites on Android.

A good firewall app acts as a barrier between the network and unwanted connections, providing security and control over the online activities on your device.

Here are some of my top recommendations:

• NoRoot Firewall
• Kaspersky
• Norton360
• NetGuard
• Rethink

Simply download any one of the above-listed apps and follow the steps discussed below:

1. Launch the Firewall app on your Android.
   The app interface will display all apps on your device.
2. Scroll through the apps and locate the web browser you use the most.
3. Now, navigate to the restrict menu.
   It may vary for every app.
4. Either type or paste the URLs of websites you wish to block and hit Confirm.
5. Upon setting up the Firewall, your browser will not load the blocked websites.

Additionally, some firewall apps also provide options for time-based restrictions, allowing you to permit access only during specified hours of the day.

For optimal protection against potentially harmful content, choosing a firewall app that offers regular updates and ongoing support is essential.

5. Change home router settings to block websites on Android

If you feel like it, you can impose website restrictions on your router as well. By accessing the traffic settings of your router, you can block certain internet sites from your home network. This works for every device connected to the network.

To customize your internet router:

1. Access your router’s settings by running its IP address in the browser.
2. Enter your credentials and log in.
3. Now, locate the Parental Controls option from the menu.
   It may appear as Access Restrictions on some router brands. 
4. Here, you will find an option to create a new rule or restriction.
5. Tap this option and add websites you want to restrict.
6. Finally, save your changes to conclude the process.

Note: This method will work until you’re connected to a particular network. Once disconnected, your device will return to its normal state.

6. Use third-party apps to block websites on Android

To block websites on Android devices, one effortless method is to utilize third-party apps specifically designed for this purpose.

These apps offer comprehensive features to restrict access to specific websites, allowing you to create personalized block lists for a safe browsing experience.

I have compiled a list of the best website blocker apps to save you the trouble of manually searching the Play Store.

• Canopy
• AppBlock
• BlockerX
• Stay Focused
• Block Apps & Sites

Some of these apps further offer time restrictions and website blocking settings to improve productivity and control internet usage. Additionally, a few apps feature password protection to prevent unauthorized changes.

By using these apps, Android users can block websites and create a safe digital environment.

Benefits of blocking websites on Android

Now that you’re well-versed with the idea of blocking websites on Android, let’s hover through some of the benefits associated with this practice.

By blocking distracting or time-wasting websites,

• Users can control their internet usage and boost productivity.
• By limiting access to certain websites, you can enhance the security and privacy of your online activity.
• It reduces the risk of data breaches by preventing access to harmful sites with viruses, spyware, or phishing schemes.
• Blocking specific websites can also be helpful in protecting children from inappropriate content on the internet.
• By blocking access to adult sites or violent content, you can ensure a safe and sound browsing experience for your children.

Overall, the ability to block websites on Android adds an extra layer of control and protection while using the internet on Android devices.

Video on how to block websites on Android Phone

Level up your browsing game!

If you’re concerned about your online security and privacy, it’s important to block certain websites on your Android device. Fortunately, the process is relatively straightforward.

Did you find this guide helpful? If yes, in the comments, please let me know which method worked for you!