How to Block Websites on iPhone? 10 Easy Methods in 2025

INFIED March 20, 2025

If you want a quick and hassle-free way to block websites on iPhone without an app, Apple’s Screen Time feature is your best bet. It’s built right into iOS and lets you control website access without downloading anything extra.

How to Block Websites on iPhone 10 Easy Methods in 2025

Use Screen Time

No third-party apps needed – Works natively on iPhone.
Parental control friendly – Perfect for blocking adult websites or restricting content.
Flexible settings – You can block specific sites or even entire categories.

How to Block Websites on iPhone Using Screen Time

Follow these simple steps:

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and tap Screen Time.
  3. If you haven’t set it up, tap Turn On Screen Time and follow the setup.
  4. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and turn it ON.
  5. Go to Content Restrictions → Web Content.
  6. Choose one of the following options:
    • Limit Adult Websites – Blocks adult content automatically. You can also add specific sites to block.
    • Allowed Websites Only – Only lets you access sites on a pre-approved list (great for kids!).
  7. If you selected Limit Adult Websites, scroll down and tap Add Website under the Never Allow section.
  8. Enter the website URL you want to block (e.g., facebook.com, youtube.com).
  9. Tap Done and exit settings.

Now, if someone tries to access the blocked website in Safari, Chrome, or any other browser, they’ll see a message saying the site is restricted.

How to Block Websites on Safari iPhone Without Apps

If you only use Safari, Screen Time automatically applies restrictions to it. This means you don’t need extra settings—any blocked sites will be inaccessible across all browsers on your iPhone.

How to Block Websites on iPhone Without Password (For Kids & Employees)

  • If you’re setting up parental controls, use Screen Time Passcode so your child can’t change settings.
  • Go to Settings → Screen Time → Use Screen Time Passcode and set a 4-digit code.

How to Restrict Websites on iPhone for Work & Productivity

  • You can block social media sites like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok using this method.
  • If you only want to block sites during work hours, set up Downtime under Screen Time.

Using Router Settings to Block Websites (Network-Level Blocking)

If you want to block websites on an iPhone permanently, you can do it at the router level. This means the restrictions apply to all devices connected to your WiFi—iPhones, iPads, laptops, and even smart TVs.

Why Use a Router to Block Websites?

Applies to all devices – No need to block sites individually on each iPhone.
Prevents bypassing – Even if someone resets Screen Time, blocked websites remain inaccessible.
Great for parents & employers – Ideal for restricting content across the entire home or office.

How to Block Websites on iPhone Using Router Settings

  1. Find your router’s IP address
    • Open Settings → WiFi → Tap the connected network.
    • Look for Router IP Address (usually something like 192.168.1.1).
  2. Log into your router’s admin panel
    • Open a browser and enter the IP address.
    • Log in using your admin username and password (check the router label if you don’t know it).
  3. Find the Website Blocking or Parental Controls Section
    • Some routers have an option like URL Filtering or Blocked Websites.
    • Enter the websites you want to block (e.g., www.youtube.com).
  4. Save the settings and restart your router
    • After making changes, restart your router to apply them.

Bonus: Use Router-Based DNS Blocking

If your router doesn’t have a website blocking feature, you can change its DNS settings to block harmful or distracting sites.

  • Set your router’s DNS to OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing DNS for extra filtering.

Blocking Websites with Third-Party DNS (Safe Browsing Method)

DNS (Domain Name System) is what your device uses to connect to websites. By changing your DNS settings, you can block certain websites on your iPhone without needing an app. This method is great for those who want a network-wide website blocker without modifying each device individually.

Why Use DNS to Block Websites on iPhone?

  • Works across all browsers – Whether you use Safari, Chrome, or Firefox, the block applies to all.
  • No need for extra apps – You don’t have to install any third-party software.
  • More control over website access – You can block adult sites, gaming sites, or social media using specific DNS providers.

How to Change DNS to Block Websites on iPhone

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Tap WiFi, then select your connected network.
  3. Scroll down and tap Configure DNS → Manual.
  4. Tap Add Server and enter a filtered DNS provider like:
    • OpenDNS: 208.67.222.123, 208.67.220.123
    • CleanBrowsing (Family Filter): 185.228.168.168, 185.228.169.168
  5. Tap Save, then restart your WiFi connection.

Now, any website that falls under the blocked categories (e.g., adult content, social media, gambling) will be automatically restricted on your iPhone.

How to Block Specific Websites Using OpenDNS

If you want more control, OpenDNS lets you create a custom blacklist of blocked websites. Here’s how:

  1. Go to OpenDNS.com and create a free account.
  2. Add your home network to the dashboard.
  3. Go to Web Content Filtering and set custom rules.
  4. Add specific websites to block, like facebook.com or tiktok.com.

Once set up, these restrictions will apply every time your iPhone is connected to your home WiFi.

Limitations of Using DNS for Blocking Websites

  • Doesn’t work on mobile data – The block only applies when connected to the specific WiFi network.
  • Tech-savvy users can bypass it – Someone with knowledge of DNS settings can change it back.
  • May slow down browsing – Some DNS filters can slightly reduce internet speed.

If you need a more foolproof way to block websites on iPhone permanently, consider using third-party apps for extra control.

Using a Third-Party App to Block Websites

If you want a highly customizable way to block websites on your iPhone, a third-party app can be a great solution. Unlike Screen Time or DNS filtering, these apps offer advanced blocking options like:

  • Blocking websites on both WiFi and mobile data
  • Setting time limits for site access
  • Creating blacklists and whitelists for different users

Best Website Blocker Apps for iPhone

  1. Freedom
    • Blocks distracting websites and apps.
    • Works across iPhone, iPad, and even Mac.
    • Allows scheduled blocking for productivity.
  2. BlockSite
    • Simple and easy-to-use app.
    • Lets you block sites on both Safari and Chrome.
    • Has a focus mode for distraction-free browsing.
  3. Net Nanny
    • Best for parental controls and monitoring.
    • Blocks adult content, social media, and gaming sites.
    • Sends usage reports to parents.

How to Block Websites Using a Third-Party App

  1. Download the app from the App Store (e.g., Freedom, BlockSite).
  2. Open the app and grant permissions to block websites.
  3. Add the websites you want to restrict (e.g., youtube.com, instagram.com).
  4. Set up schedules or time limits if needed.
  5. Enable VPN-based blocking for full control (some apps require this).

Pros & Cons of Using a Website Blocker App

Pros:

  • Works across all networks (WiFi & mobile data).
  • More customizable than Screen Time or DNS filtering.
  • Some apps allow password-protected settings to prevent changes.

Cons:

  • Requires installing third-party software.
  • Some advanced features may need a paid subscription.
  • App-based blockers may not work in incognito mode (unless specified).

Blocking Websites on Safari iPhone (Browser-Specific Restrictions)

If you only use Safari and don’t want to block websites on other apps, you can use built-in browser restrictions. This method works well for parents who want to limit browsing access for their children or anyone who wants to avoid distractions while using Safari.

How to Block Websites on Safari iPhone Using Content Restrictions

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and tap Screen Time.
  3. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and turn it ON.
  4. Go to Content Restrictions → Web Content.
  5. Choose Limit Adult Websites or Allowed Websites Only.
    • If you select Limit Adult Websites, Safari will automatically block most adult content.
    • If you select Allowed Websites Only, you’ll need to manually add websites that are allowed.
  6. To block a specific website, tap Add Website under Never Allow, then enter the website URL (e.g., tiktok.com).
  7. Exit settings. Now, if someone tries to access the blocked website in Safari, they’ll see a restriction message.

How to Block Websites on Safari Without Screen Time

If you don’t want to use Screen Time, you can try using a third-party content blocker extension for Safari. Some popular options include:

  • 1Blocker – Allows custom website blocking on Safari.
  • AdGuard – Offers website filtering and parental control.
  • BlockSite – Lets you block distracting websites on Safari.

To enable a Safari content blocker:

  1. Download the app from the App Store.
  2. Open Settings → Safari → Extensions.
  3. Enable the content blocker app.

Now, the blocked websites won’t open in Safari, and you can customize your settings further within the content blocker app.

Using Shortcuts Automation to Block Websites at Certain Times

One of the most underused iPhone features for blocking websites is the Shortcuts app. This allows you to automate website blocking based on time, location, or specific triggers. It’s perfect for:

  • Blocking social media sites during work hours.
  • Restricting entertainment sites at night.
  • Automatically blocking sites when you enter a specific location, like the office.

How to Block Websites on iPhone Using Shortcuts Automation

  1. Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Automation → Create Personal Automation.
  3. Choose a trigger, such as:
    • Time of Day (e.g., block websites from 9 AM to 5 PM).
    • Location (e.g., block websites when at school or work).
  4. Tap Add Action → Safari → Open URLs.
  5. Enter a non-existent website (e.g., blocked.com).
  6. Tap Next, then Done to save the automation.

Now, when the trigger is activated, Safari will automatically try to open a blocked website instead of the original one.

How to Use Shortcuts to Block Websites Without Screen Time

If you don’t want to use Screen Time restrictions, you can set up a shortcut that runs whenever you open Safari:

  1. Create a new Personal Automation for App Opens.
  2. Select Safari and tap Next.
  3. Add an action to open a blank page instead of the restricted website.
  4. Tap Done to save.

Now, every time Safari is opened, it will automatically redirect from the blocked website, reducing distractions without using Screen Time settings.

Blocking Websites Permanently on iPhone Using Router Settings

If you want to block websites permanently on an iPhone (or all devices in your home), modifying your WiFi router settings is the best approach. This method works across all browsers and apps and prevents users from bypassing website blocks.

Why Block Websites Through Your Router?

  • Works on all connected devices (iPhones, iPads, laptops, and more).
  • No need to install software or change settings on each device.
  • Can block entire categories like adult content, gaming, or social media.

How to Block Websites Using Router Settings

  1. Log in to your WiFi router
    • Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
    • Enter your admin username and password (found on the router or in its manual).
  2. Find the Website Filtering or Parental Control Section
    • Look for Access Restrictions, Parental Controls, or Website Filtering (depends on the router brand).
  3. Add Websites to Block
    • Enter the URLs of the websites you want to block (e.g., facebook.com, youtube.com).
  4. Save Changes and Restart the Router
    • Once done, apply the changes and reboot the router.

Now, any device connected to your home WiFi won’t be able to access the blocked sites, including iPhones.

Using a DNS Filter on the Router

If your router supports custom DNS, you can use OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing to block websites:

  • OpenDNS (Free) – Blocks adult content, gambling, and social media.
  • CleanBrowsing (Family Filter) – Blocks unsafe websites automatically.

To set it up:

  1. Go to your router’s DNS settings.
  2. Enter OpenDNS servers: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220.
  3. Save and restart your router.

This method prevents users from manually changing DNS settings on their iPhones, making it a more secure way to block websites.

Limitations of Router-Based Website Blocking

  • Doesn’t work on mobile data – Only effective when connected to WiFi.
  • Users can use VPNs to bypass blocks – You may need additional measures to prevent this.

If you want to block websites on both WiFi and mobile data, check the next section on how to prevent bypasses.

Preventing Users from Bypassing Website Blocks on iPhone

Even if you block websites using Screen Time, DNS, or router settings, users can sometimes find loopholes to access restricted content. To make sure your blocks stay effective, you need to prevent common workarounds.

How Users Bypass Website Blocks & How to Stop Them

1. Using a VPN to Bypass Website Blocks

VPNs can hide internet activity and allow users to access blocked websites.

🔹 How to Prevent It:

  • Use Screen Time → Content Restrictions → Block VPN and Proxy apps.
  • Block VPN websites and services using router settings.
  • If using Screen Time, go to Always Allowed and remove VPN apps.

2. Changing DNS Settings to Override Filters

If someone changes their DNS settings, they can bypass OpenDNS or router restrictions.

🔹 How to Prevent It:

  • Use Screen Time to block access to Settings → DNS changes.
  • On a router, disable manual DNS settings and enforce your preferred DNS.

3. Using Private Browsing or Incognito Mode

Private mode in Safari or Chrome doesn’t store browsing history, making it hard to monitor access.

🔹 How to Prevent It:

  • In Screen Time, go to Content Restrictions → Web Content and block adult sites.
  • Use a third-party parental control app that prevents private browsing.

4. Resetting iPhone to Remove Restrictions

Some users reset their iPhones to remove restrictions and regain access to blocked websites.

🔹 How to Prevent It:

  • Set a Screen Time passcode that only you know.
  • Enable Find My iPhone, so if someone resets the device, they’ll need your Apple ID to restore it.

Troubleshooting Website Blocking Issues on iPhone

If you’ve tried blocking websites but they’re still accessible, don’t worry. Here are some of the most common problems and how to fix them.

1. Screen Time Restrictions Not Working

Sometimes, websites remain accessible even after adding them to the "Never Allow" list in Screen Time.

🔹 How to Fix It:

  • Make sure Screen Time is enabled: Go to Settings → Screen Time and check if it’s turned on.
  • Double-check the website URL: Enter the full address, including www. or https://.
  • Restart your iPhone: Sometimes, restrictions take effect only after a reboot.

2. Websites Are Still Opening in Other Browsers

Blocking a site in Safari won’t block it in Chrome, Firefox, or other browsers.

🔹 How to Fix It:

  • Go to Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → Allowed Apps and disable third-party browsers.
  • Use a DNS filtering service like OpenDNS to block sites across all browsers.

3. VPN or Proxy is Overriding Website Blocking

If someone is using a VPN or proxy, they can bypass website blocks.

🔹 How to Fix It:

  • Go to Settings → VPN & Device Management and remove any unknown VPN profiles.
  • Use Screen Time to block VPN apps.
  • If using a WiFi network, block VPN services through your router settings.

4. Website Blocking Only Works on WiFi, Not on Mobile Data

If restrictions are applied through a router or WiFi DNS, they won’t work when the iPhone is using cellular data.

🔹 How to Fix It:

  • Use Screen Time Web Content Restrictions to block sites system-wide.
  • Install a third-party parental control app that filters content on mobile data.

5. Private Browsing Mode is Allowing Access

Some people use Private Browsing in Safari or Incognito Mode in Chrome to avoid restrictions.

🔹 How to Fix It:

  • In Screen Time, go to Content Restrictions → Web Content and set it to Limit Adult Websites.
  • Use a third-party browser filter that blocks private browsing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Blocking Websites on iPhone

Many people set up website blocks incorrectly, which allows restricted sites to remain accessible. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Not Setting a Screen Time Passcode

Without a Screen Time passcode, anyone can easily remove restrictions.

✔ Fix: Set a Screen Time Passcode by going to Settings → Screen Time → Use Screen Time Passcode.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Disable Third-Party Browsers

If Safari is blocked but Chrome or Firefox is installed, restrictions won’t work.

✔ Fix: Go to Screen Time → Allowed Apps and disable all third-party browsers.

Mistake #3: Not Using a Router-Level Block

Blocking websites only on an iPhone means they can still be accessed on other devices in the home.

✔ Fix: Use router-based website blocking to filter all devices connected to your WiFi.

Mistake #4: Entering Incorrect Website URLs

Sometimes, blocked websites still load because the wrong URL format was used.

✔ Fix: Always enter the full website URL, including www. or https://.

Mistake #5: Ignoring Software Updates

Outdated iOS versions can cause Screen Time glitches and make restrictions ineffective.

✔ Fix: Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version by going to Settings → General → Software Update.

Tags:

Post a Comment

0 Comments