How to Block Websites in Chrome

Introduction

Whether it’s for parental controls, productivity, or simply maintaining focus, knowing how to block websites in Chrome can be essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through different methods to block websites, including using extensions, modifying system settings, and leveraging router settings.

Quick Fixes to Try First

• Use Chrome extensions specifically designed to block websites.
• Configure your router to block sites at the network level.
• Enable supervised users or parental controls for restricted access.

Block Websites Using Chrome Extensions

One of the simplest ways to block websites in Chrome is by using extensions. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Chrome and go to the Chrome Web Store.
2. Search for extensions like BlockSite or StayFocusd.
3. Click Add to Chrome to install the extension.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up blocked sites. Typically, you’ll find these settings in the extension icon in the toolbar.

Modify the Hosts File (Windows, macOS, Linux)

If you prefer not to use extensions, you can modify the hosts file on your computer to block websites.

Windows

1. Press Windows + R, type notepad, and press Enter.
2. In Notepad, click File > Open and navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
3. Add new lines at the end of the file with the format 127.0.0.1 [website] (e.g., 127.0.0.1 facebook.com).
4. Save the file and restart Chrome.

macOS

1. Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities).
2. Type sudo nano /etc/hosts and press Return.
3. Enter your password and add new lines in the format 127.0.0.1 [website].
4. Press Control + O to save and Control + X to exit.
5. Flush the DNS cache with dscacheutil -flushcache.

Linux

1. Open a terminal window.
2. Type sudo nano /etc/hosts and press Enter.
3. Add new entries in the format 127.0.0.1 [website].
4. Save changes with Control + O and exit with Control + X.

Block Websites at the Router Level

Blocking websites via your router ensures all devices on the network are restricted. Here’s a general approach:

1. Access your router’s settings by entering its IP address in your browser (often 192.168.1.1).
2. Log in with your router credentials.
3. Navigate to settings such as Parental Controls or Access Restrictions.
4. Add the websites you want to block and save the changes.
5. Restart your router to apply the settings.

Use Supervised Users or Parental Controls

Chrome’s supervised users feature helps parents restrict access to certain sites:

1. Open Settings by navigating to chrome://settings.
2. Click People > Add Person.
3. Check Control and view the websites this person visits from [your email].
4. Set up the supervised profile and manage restrictions through your Google account.

Utilize Focus Apps

For increased productivity, focus apps can block distracting websites across devices:

• Apps like Cold Turkey and Freedom allow you to block websites and apps on a schedule.
• Install and configure these apps according to your blocking preferences.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively block websites in Chrome across different platforms and devices. Choose the method that best fits your needs, whether it’s using extensions, modifying system files, or setting up network restrictions. For further assistance, consult the official Google Chrome Help page for more detailed guidance.