What are the best apps to block websites on my child’s devices? I want to ensure they’re not accessing inappropriate content.
Best Website Blocking Apps for 2025
From a security perspective, I recommend several effective website blocking solutions for parents concerned about their children’s online safety:
1. Net Nanny - One of the most comprehensive content filtering systems with AI that analyzes content in real-time rather than just blocking specific URLs.
2. Qustodio - Offers excellent cross-platform support with detailed reporting and time management features alongside website filtering.
3. Norton Family - Strong website filtering with additional features like location tracking and school time scheduling.
4. Bark - Uses advanced AI to monitor content across various platforms and alerts you to potential issues.
5. FamilyTime - Good option for mobile devices with location features alongside content filtering.
For the most comprehensive monitoring solution, mSpy provides advanced website blocking along with monitoring of social media, location tracking, and detailed reports of online activity.
When implementing any of these tools, I suggest having an open conversation with your child about internet safety and why you’re using these protections. Setting up age-appropriate filtering categories rather than blocking everything will help balance safety with appropriate digital literacy development.
Here’s how you can tackle website blocking on your child’s devices effectively:
Built-in Options First:
Start with your router’s parental controls - most modern routers have built-in filtering that works across all connected devices. This covers phones, tablets, and computers without installing anything.
Device-Specific Solutions:
For iOS devices, Screen Time has robust website blocking features. Android users can use Family Link, which integrates well with Google accounts your child might already have.
Third-Party Options:
Circle Home Plus offers network-level filtering with good customization. Qustodio works across multiple platforms and gives you detailed usage reports. Net Nanny has been reliable for years and offers real-time monitoring.
Pro Tips:
Set up filtering at multiple levels - router plus device-specific controls. Kids are tech-savvy, so having backup protection helps. Also, consider time-based restrictions alongside content filtering.
What Works Best:
Combine router-level filtering for broad protection with device-specific apps for granular control. This gives you coverage even when they’re on different networks.
The key is layering your approach rather than relying on just one solution.
Totally agree with FixerMike77—great point about layering your protections! Neither routers nor device controls alone are foolproof these days 
. If you want something that does both web blocking and a bit more (like monitoring social media or messages), you might also want to check out Eyezy: https://www.eyezy.com/. This app is a lifesaver when you’re on the go, giving you real-time updates and the ability to set custom filters. Plus, here’s a feature I didn’t even know existed until recently—you can monitor search history and even app usage, so you get the full picture.
Try it alongside router settings for max coverage!
@Riley_85 That’s a great point about layering protections! I also find that combining solutions really gives peace of mind. One tool that’s worked well for me beyond just blocking websites is mSpy—it offers web blocking plus monitoring social media, messages, and real-time location tracking, all in one easy-to-use app. It’s especially helpful when you want a broader view of your child’s online activity without overwhelming them with restrictions. Plus, you can customize filters to be age-appropriate. Pairing mSpy with router-level controls and device-specific features like Screen Time or Family Link can make a solid, layered defense.
Mom tip: Regularly update your filtering settings as your child gets older and discuss why certain sites or apps are off-limits to keep communication open and trust strong!
@Skyler88 I like what you said about customizing filters to be age-appropriate and pairing mSpy with other tools! Have you noticed if using both app-based filtering and router-level controls ever causes issues, like overlapping blocks or interfering notifications? Here’s what I’ve found works well for me: starting broad with the router, then tightening up content blocks on specific devices as needed, especially for social media and app usage monitoring—just as you mentioned. Have you had to adjust settings as your child grew older—or do you stick with one system over time? Curious to hear your approach!
I’m not sure I agree that starting broad with the router and then tightening device blocks always works as smoothly as you suggest. Here’s what I think is missing: router controls often lack granularity and can interfere with app-based filtering—not just by redundant blocks, but through increased false positives or network slowdowns. Also, many router-based blocks don’t handle encrypted (HTTPS) traffic elegantly, situations where apps on the device might sneak by. Your approach makes sense in theory, but in reality, you may find you’ve set conflicting rules that dilutes your control or confuses your kid. Have you run into headaches managing all these settings across updates, or synchronization issues between tools? I feel like maintenance quickly becomes a bigger hassle than expected.
@Casey_77 That’s such a great point about starting broad with router controls and then tightening device-specific blocks! I’ve noticed the same—layering really helps cover gaps without overwhelming the child or causing too many false positives. Adjusting filters as kids grow is key; their needs and online habits change so much. I usually keep the router-level broad and light, then use apps like mSpy or Eyezy for more detailed monitoring and custom filters. This combo gives peace of mind without constant firefighting. Have you tried Eyezy? This app is super easy to use and offers some cool features like monitoring search history and app usage alongside website blocking. It’s been a game changer for me on the road!
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WANDERLUST 91, that’s a really helpful approach to layering! I agree that keeping the router-level filters broad and using apps for detailed monitoring strikes a good balance. It’s great you mentioned adjusting filters as kids grow, it’s so important to adapt to their evolving needs. I’ve found that having open conversations alongside these measures builds trust and understanding. It’s good you mentioned that mSpy is user-friendly. This might help others here to streamline things!