Question

How to Block a Website on Chrome Mobile: Easy Methods

Posted on by William Zheng

Ever stumbled across distracting or inappropriate websites while browsing on your phone? Whether you’re a parent, student, or just trying to stay focused, sometimes blocking certain sites on Chrome mobile becomes essential.

With mobile devices being an everyday companion, knowing how to control your web experience matters more than ever.

This article will guide you through straightforward steps to block websites in Chrome on your mobile device, along with helpful tips to manage your browsing more effectively.

Related Video

How to Block a Website on Chrome Mobile: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever wished you could block certain websites on Chrome Mobile—whether to improve focus, keep kids safe, or filter unwanted content—you’re not alone. While Chrome’s desktop version offers extensions for content filtering, Chrome Mobile requires a different approach. Let’s walk through the best ways to block websites on Chrome Mobile in a simple, effective, and hassle-free manner.

Understanding Website Blocking on Chrome Mobile

Unlike the desktop version with its wealth of browser extensions, Google Chrome Mobile doesn’t natively offer a built-in website blocking feature. However, you have several powerful options using apps, parental controls, and device settings to achieve the same result.

1. Using Third-Party Apps to Block Websites

Many website-blocking methods on mobile rely on third-party apps. These are easy to set up and effective for most users.

Popular Website-Blocking Apps

  • BlockSite: User-friendly with scheduling and adult content filtering features.
  • StayFocusd (Android alternative): Helps limit time spent on distracting websites.
  • Safe Browser Apps (for children): Often include built-in block lists and activity reports.

How to Block Websites Using a Third-Party App

  1. Download a Website Blocking App
  2. Go to Google Play Store.
  3. Search for apps like BlockSite or similar.

  4. Download and install the one with the features you need.

  5. Set Up the App

  6. Open the app and go through introductory setup.
  7. Grant necessary permissions so the app can control your web access.

  8. Look for an option called “Blocked sites” or “Website blocking.”

  9. Add Websites to Block

  10. Tap the OPTION to add websites to your block list.
  11. Enter the URLs (for example, www.socialmedia.com).

  12. Save your changes.

  13. Activate Blocking

  14. Ensure blocking is enabled. Many apps have toggles to activate blocking schedules.
  15. Test by trying to visit the blocked website in Chrome.

Tip: Many blocking apps also let you schedule when sites are blocked—useful for productivity or study hours.

Benefits of Third-Party Apps

  • Simple to use, with no advanced setup needed.
  • Some offer extra features like time limits, reports, and scheduled blocking.
  • Great for both personal productivity and parental control.

2. Blocking Websites Using Google Family Link

If your goal is to protect children from inappropriate or distracting content, Google Family Link is an outstanding tool.

Setting Up Google Family Link

  1. Install Google Family Link
  2. Download the app on both parent and child devices.

  3. Follow prompts to link the accounts.

  4. Create a Child Profile

  5. Make sure your child’s device uses their Google account controlled by Family Link.

  6. Control Website Access

  7. On your device, open Family Link.
  8. Go to your child’s profile.
  9. Tap on “Manage settings” → “Google Chrome.”
  10. Select “Try to block explicit sites” or only allow specific sites.

  11. You can add URLs you wish to block or allow.

  12. Save and Monitor

  13. Changes take effect instantly.
  14. Regularly review browsing activity and blocked websites.

Advantages

  • Free tool, built and maintained by Google.
  • Offers robust monitoring and supervision.
  • Suitable for children and teenagers.

3. Using Safe Browsing Modes and DNS Filters

Beyond apps and Family Link, there are device-level methods for blocking websites, such as custom DNS settings.

Block Websites via DNS

DNS (Domain Name System) services can help filter content before it gets to your browser.

Setup Steps

  1. Choose a Filtering DNS Provider

  2. Popular choices: OpenDNS, CleanBrowsing, or Cloudflare Family DNS.

  3. Configure DNS on Your Device

  4. Go to device settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Tap the connected network.

  5. Find “Advanced” or “IP Settings,” then set DNS to your chosen provider.

  6. Benefit

  7. Blocks all web traffic to blacklisted sites on your phone, regardless of browser or app used.

DNS Filtering Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Device-wide filtering, can’t be bypassed easily.
  • Cons: Not as flexible as app-based solutions for individual website management.

4. Try Private and Safe Browsers

If Chrome Mobile’s limitations are too restrictive, consider using browsers that specialize in website filtering.

  • Safe Browser for Kids
  • Several kid-friendly browsers allow building a blocklist and supervise online activities.
  • Specialized Mobile Browsers
  • Some browsers focus on privacy and let you block trackers and specified websites out-of-the-box.

5. Manual Site Blocking With Hosts File (Advanced)

Tech-savvy users can edit the Android device’s hosts file to block websites. This is only recommended for experienced users because:

  • Root access is required.
  • Changes affect all browsing, not just Chrome.
  • Incorrect edits may disrupt network functionality.

Steps (Advanced)

  1. Gain root access on your device.
  2. Use a file manager to find and open the “hosts” file.
  3. Add entries redirecting blocked websites to 127.0.0.1.
  4. Save and reboot your device.

Practical Tips and Advice for Blocking Websites

  • Set schedules: Many apps let you block sites only during work or study hours.
  • Combine tools: Use both DNS filtering and apps for multi-layered control.
  • Educate family members: Explain why certain sites are blocked.
  • Test after setup: Always check if the block is working by trying to visit the website.
  • Monitor and adjust: Regularly review which sites are blocked and adjust based on needs.

Best Practices

  • For children: Use Google Family Link or a safe browser plus a DNS filter for strong protection.
  • For productivity: Block social media, messaging, or news sites that can distract during work.
  • For privacy: Opt for reputable apps and always check their permissions.

Challenges and Limitations

Blocking websites on Chrome Mobile is less straightforward than on a desktop. Here are some potential challenges:

  • No official Chrome extension support: Mobile Chrome does not allow extensions like the desktop version.
  • Bypassing possible: Tech-savvy users may find workarounds unless you use robust DNS/email controls.
  • App reliability: Free blocking apps may show ads or have limited features.
  • Device updates: System updates can sometimes change how settings work; check after each update.

Extra Considerations: Costs

  • Most website-blocking apps: Offer a free version with basic functionality and a premium tier for advanced features (like scheduling or tracking).
  • Free options: Google Family Link and DNS filtering can be set up at zero cost.
  • No shipping costs: All of these solutions are digital downloads or device settings—no physical shipment involved.

Summary

While Chrome Mobile doesn’t have a built-in website blocking feature, you have several powerful options. Third-party apps, Google Family Link, DNS filters, and safe browsers are all effective choices. Choose the method that fits your technical comfort, needs, and whether you’re blocking for yourself or a family member. Remember to combine methods for the strongest protection, keep your tools updated, and review your settings regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I block specific websites directly within the Chrome Mobile app?

No, Chrome Mobile doesn’t offer a built-in site-blocking feature. You need to use third-party apps, parental controls, or device-level filters to block specific websites.

2. Do I need to root my Android device to block websites in Chrome?

In most cases, no. Rooting is only necessary for advanced methods like editing the hosts file. For most users, website-blocking apps or parental controls are sufficient and do not require root access.

3. Can I set up website blocks for only certain times of the day?

Yes! Many blocking apps let you create schedules, so websites will be blocked only during specific times (like work or bedtime hours). Explore the app’s settings to customize your schedule.

4. Is it possible to unblock a website later if needed?

Absolutely. You can easily remove websites from your block list or adjust permissions in your chosen app, parental control tool, or browser settings at any time.

5. Do these blocking methods work across all browsers on my phone?

DNS filtering and hosts file edits block access on all browsers and even apps. However, most website-blocking apps only work for Chrome or the specific browser they are installed for. Choose the right tool based on your needs.

With the right method and a bit of setup, you can take charge of your browsing experience, stay productive, and create a safer internet environment for your family—all from your mobile device.

Post Views: 11