Best Ways to Block Websites on Android

How to Restrict and Block Websites on Android

It often begins innocently – a quick scroll, a familiar site, a moment of curiosity. But for many people, those moments don’t just steal time, they can gradually turn into patterns that are hard to control. Studies show it can take 20+ minutes to fully regain focus after an interruption, and repeated exposure to highly stimulating content makes it even harder to stay on track.

For some, the challenge isn’t only productivity. Certain types of online content – from endless social feeds to adult or gambling sites – are designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible. Over time, what starts as a distraction can feel closer to a habit, or even a dependency.

While we can’t remove the internet from our lives, we can decide how much access it gets to our attention. The good news is you don’t have to feel stuck, with the right tools, your phone can become something you control, not something that controls you.

Top Methods to Block Internet Sites on Android

1. Use a Dedicated Site Blocker (The Comprehensive Choice)

Android doesn’t offer a built-in, system-wide way to block specific websites, which is why many users turn to third-party tools. These apps are designed to give you more control over how and when you access online content, whether your goal is to stay focused, limit distractions, or reduce exposure to sites you’d rather avoid.

Unlike basic browser settings, dedicated website blockers work across browsers and create consistent rules that don’t rely on memory or self-discipline. They essentially turn your phone into a more intentional tool, rather than a constant source of interruptions.

One of the most comprehensive solutions in this space is AppBlock, which combines website blocking with automation and stronger enforcement features.

Key AppBlock Features at a Glance

Together, these features make AppBlock less about restriction and more about creating a digital environment that supports your goals instead of competing with them.

• Block specific URLs – Add exact websites you want to avoid and prevent them from loading during selected times or permanently.
• Scheduled blocking – Create recurring focus sessions (for example, during work hours or evenings) so restrictions run automatically.
• Keyword blocking – Block entire categories of content by filtering keywords in domains or URLs, helping prevent hopping between similar sites.
• Quick Block mode – Instantly start a blocking session whenever you need immediate focus.
• Strict Mode – Lock your settings to prevent turning off restrictions mid-session — useful when you want stronger accountability.

2. Google Family Link (Parental Controls)

The most comprehensive native way to block websites on Android is through Google Family Link. This is primarily used by parents to manage their children’s devices.

Key Features & Levels of Control

• Option A: Try to Block Explicit Sites (Standard)
  • What it does: Uses Google’s filters to automatically hide sexually explicit or violent content.
  • Best for: Older kids/teens who need general safety without constant supervision.
• Option B: Only Allow Approved Sites (Whitelist)
  • What it does: Blocks everything except the specific URLs you manually add to the “Approved” list.
  • Best for: Younger children who should only visit a few educational or entertainment sites.
• Option C: Manual Block/Allow
  • What it does: Within the “Manage Sites” menu, you can specifically blacklist a site (e.g., reddit.com) even if general filters are off.

Quick Setup Guide

1. Install the App: Download the Google Family Link app on your phone (parent) and ensure your child’s Android device is signed in with their Google account.
2. Link Devices: Open the app, select “Add Child,” and follow the prompts to link their device. On the child’s device, go to Settings > Google > Parental Controls to complete the connection.
3. Navigate to Controls: On your parent app, select your child’s profile and tap the “Controls” tab (usually at the bottom).
4. Manage Chrome: Tap on Content Restrictions > Google Chrome.

3. Private DNS (Simple System-Level Website Filtering)

If you’re looking for a way to filter web content across your entire Android device, not just in one browser, Private DNS is a built-in option worth knowing about. Instead of blocking individual websites, it works by limiting access to broader categories like adult or malicious content at the network level.

Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Private DNS

By entering a filtering provider’s hostname (for example CleanBrowsing or OpenDNS), Android routes your connection through a DNS service that blocks selected categories of websites across all apps and browsers.

Turn Your Android Into a Tool, Not a Distraction

Blocking websites is about creating a digital space that aligns with what you actually want to do. Whether your goal is to stay focused, protect your kids, or reduce exposure to content you’d rather avoid, there’s a method that fits your situation.

Once you put the right boundaries in place, your phone stops competing for your attention, and starts working for you again.

FAQ: Blocking Websites on Android

Sources

Google. (n.d.). Get started with Family Link – Google For Families Help. Retrieved February 23, 2026, from https://support.google.com/families/answer/7101025?hl=en