How to Block Websites on Any Device (Step-by-Step Guide)

April 21, 2026 By Nancy William No Comments 6 minutes

The internet is generally a safe place until an unsolicited ad suddenly pops up and interrupts your browsing experience. In many cases, these ads or links lead to suspicious websites that can expose you to malware or inappropriate content.

As a parent, you would naturally want to ensure that your children never encounter content that is not meant for them. Similarly, if you run a business, you likely want to prevent employees from clicking suspicious links that could risk the entire company’s infrastructure.

Because of these risks, it becomes necessary to block websites that contain malware, inappropriate content, or unnecessary distractions. In this guide, we will show you exactly how to block websites on different browsers and devices.

Note: The internet contains a massive variety of content, and not all of it is safe or appropriate. Blocking harmful websites is one of the first steps toward maintaining a secure browsing experience. Using a reliable VPN like FastestVPN can also help block spammy ads and suspicious websites while keeping your connection secure.

How to Block Websites on Chrome

If you are using Google Chrome, there are multiple ways to block websites that display unwanted content or intrusive ads.

Method 1: Using the View Site Information Option

1. Click the View Site Information icon on the far left of the address bar.
2. Select Site Settings from the dropdown menu.
3. Locate permissions such as Location, Camera, Microphone, etc.
4. From the dropdown next to each permission, select Block.

This method restricts what the website can access on your device.

Method 2: Blocking Sites Through Chrome Settings

1. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of Chrome.
2. Select Settings.
3. Navigate to Privacy and Security.
4. Click Site Settings.
5. Select View permissions and data stored across sites.
6. Choose the website and set its permissions to Block.

Block Websites on Chrome Using an Extension

Chrome extensions make website blocking much easier and more customizable.

Follow these steps:

1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Visit the Chrome Web Store.
3. Search for Block Site extension.
4. Click Add to Chrome and install it.
5. After installation, locate the extension icon next to the address bar.
6. Visit the website you want to block.
7. Click the extension icon and select Block this site.

The website will now be permanently blocked in Chrome.

How to Block Websites on Safari

Safari users can block websites using Apple’s built-in parental controls.

Follow these steps:

1. Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Open System Settings.
3. Select Screen Time and turn it ON.
4. Go to Content & Privacy and enable it.
5. Click Content Restrictions.
6. Select Limit Adult Websites.
7. Click Customize → Restricted.
8. Enter the website URL you want to block and press +.
9. Click Done to save the settings.

How to Block Websites on Windows

Windows allows you to block websites through the hosts file, which redirects specific domains so they cannot load.

Steps to Block Websites Using the Hosts File

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to:
   C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
3. Locate the hosts file.
4. Right-click and open it using Notepad as Administrator.
5. Scroll to the bottom of the file.
6. Add the following line:

7. Replace example.com with the website you want to block.
8. Save the file and close it.
9. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
10. Run the following command:

The website will now be blocked on your Windows device.

How to Block Websites on Mac

Mac users can also block websites through the hosts file using the Terminal.

Follow these steps:

1. Press Command + Space and search for Terminal.
2. Type the following command:

3. Press Return and enter your administrator password.
4. Scroll to the bottom of the file.
5. Add:

6. Replace example.com with the website you want to block.
7. Save using Command + O.
8. Exit using Command + X.
9. Flush the DNS cache with:

The website will now be blocked on your Mac.

How to Block Websites on Android

Android devices include parental controls that help block unwanted content.

Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls.
3. Tap Parental Controls.
4. Set a PIN for security.
5. Open Filters on Google Chrome.
6. Add the URLs of websites you want to block.
7. Save your settings.

The selected websites will now be restricted on the device.

How to Block Websites on iPhone or iPad

Apple devices provide built-in parental control settings through Screen Time.

Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Screen Time.
3. Select Content & Privacy Restrictions and enable it.
4. Tap Content Restrictions.
5. Select Web Content.
6. Choose one of the following options:
   • Limit Adult Websites
   • Allowed Websites Only
7. If needed, manually add specific URLs to block.
8. Tap Done to save your changes.

Why Should You Block Certain Websites?

There are several important reasons why blocking websites can improve safety and productivity.

Protect Children from Inappropriate Content

Children often browse the internet for schoolwork, games, or entertainment. However, they may accidentally visit websites that contain inappropriate or harmful material. Blocking these websites helps parents create a safer online environment.

Prevent Employee Distractions

In workplaces, employees may sometimes visit social media or entertainment websites during working hours. Blocking distracting websites helps maintain productivity and ensures employees stay focused on important tasks.

Reduce Bandwidth Usage

If you share your internet connection with others, high-bandwidth websites such as streaming or download sites can quickly consume your data. Blocking such websites helps control bandwidth usage and prevents excessive data consumption.

Prevent Malware and Phishing Attacks

Some websites distribute malware or attempt phishing attacks to steal personal data. Blocking suspicious websites can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats.

For even stronger protection, combining website blocking with antivirus software and a VPN is recommended. While antivirus tools block malicious files, a VPN encrypts your internet connection and protects your privacy online.

Conclusion

Blocking websites on your browser or device can help improve security, productivity, and peace of mind. Whether you are a parent trying to protect your children, a business owner securing company systems, or simply someone who wants to avoid spammy websites, blocking harmful sites is an important step.

While manual blocking methods work well, combining them with additional security tools like antivirus software and a reliable VPN can provide complete protection. A service like FastestVPN helps keep your internet activity private while also protecting you from suspicious websites and links.

By taking these steps, you can create a safer and more controlled browsing experience across all your devices.

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