Below are straightforward methods for parents who want to restrict or block access to specific websites on Android devices. Choose the one that best fits your family’s needs:
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Use Google Family Link
• Install Google Family Link on both your (parent’s) device and the child’s Android device.
• Log in with your Google account and create or link the child’s account.
• Once set up, open Family Link on the parent device and select your child’s profile.
• In “Settings” or “Controls,” look for “Filters on Google Chrome” (this may vary depending on the app version).
• Add any websites you want to allow or block in the “Manage sites” section.
• More details: Google For Families Help -
Configure Parental Controls in the Play Store
• Open the Google Play Store on the child’s device.
• Tap the menu (top-left), then select “Settings” → “Parental controls.”
• Turn on parental controls and set a PIN.
• Adjust content restrictions for apps, games, and web content if available.
• Note: This primarily restricts app downloads and content ratings rather than specific websites, but it helps reduce exposure to inappropriate apps.
• More details: How to set up parental controls on Google Play - Google Play Help -
Utilize a Dedicated Parental Control App
• Apps like Net Nanny, Qustodio, or Norton Family allow you to set block lists, filter content, and monitor activity.
• Download the chosen app on both the parent and child Android devices.
• Create an account and follow the on-screen prompts to set permissions.
• Specify the domains (websites) to block or allow from the app’s dashboard.
• Each app’s setup varies; consult the official documentation linked within their app store listings or on their websites. -
Use DNS Filtering Services
• Services like OpenDNS (https://www.opendns.com) or CleanBrowsing (https://cleanbrowsing.org) allow you to filter unwanted content at the network level.
• Create an account with the DNS service you prefer.
• On the child’s Android device, go to “Settings” → “Network & internet” → “Advanced” → “Private DNS” (or “Wi-Fi network settings” → “IP settings” → “Static,” depending on Android version).
• Enter the DNS addresses provided by the filtering service.
• Configure the filters and blocked domains on the service’s website from a parent’s account.
Helpful Tips:
• Talk with children about online safety to help them understand why certain websites are blocked.
• Periodically review settings to keep them up to date.
• Many parental control options have subscription fees for advanced features such as detailed monitoring or time restrictions.
Authoritative References:
• Google Family Link: Google For Families Help
• OpenDNS: https://www.opendns.com
• CleanBrowsing: https://cleanbrowsing.org
These steps should assist in creating a safer online environment for children using Android devices.