The internet has opened a world of possibilities, but not all websites are suitable for every user. Whether you want to limit distractions, protect your child from harmful content, or avoid accidentally opening unsafe pages, knowing how to block websites on your iPhone can be incredibly useful. Thankfully, Apple provides built-in tools that make this possible, and in this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every method step by step.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to block specific websites, create content filters, and even set up screen time limits—all without needing third-party apps.
Why You Might Want to Block a Website on iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why someone might block a website on their iPhone:
- Parental Control: Parents may want to restrict access to adult, violent, or distracting websites for their children.
- Focus & Productivity: Blocking social media or entertainment sites helps you focus during work or study time.
- Security Concerns: Some sites are phishing scams or filled with malware. Blocking these improves your safety.
- Mental Health: Reducing screen time and cutting down on doomscrolling or toxic content can improve your peace of mind.
No matter your reason, iPhones make it fairly simple to do with the help of Screen Time settings.
Method 1: Use Screen Time to Block Specific Websites
The most straightforward and reliable way to block a website on your iPhone is through the Screen Time feature introduced with iOS 12.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Open Settings
Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Tap on ‘Screen Time’
Scroll down and tap Screen Time. If it’s your first time using it, tap “Turn On Screen Time” and follow the setup instructions.
Step 3: Set a Screen Time Passcode (Optional but Recommended)
If you’re doing this for your child or want to prevent changes, scroll down and tap “Use Screen Time Passcode” to set a four-digit code.
Step 4: Go to ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions’
Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and toggle it ON.
Step 5: Tap ‘Content Restrictions’
Now tap Content Restrictions, then scroll down to Web Content.
Step 6: Select ‘Limit Adult Websites’
Under Web Content, choose “Limit Adult Websites.” This enables you to block or allow specific sites.
Step 7: Add Website to Blocked List
Under the Never Allow section, tap “Add Website” and enter the URL of the website you want to block (e.g., www.example.com).
Step 8: Exit Settings
Once added, your iPhone will block the site when accessed through Safari or most browsers. You’re done!
Method 2: Block All Websites Except a Few (Whitelisting)
This method is ideal for younger children or highly focused setups.
Steps:
- Follow the same path: Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Content Restrictions > Web Content
- Select Allowed Websites Only
- Add only the websites you want to permit access to
- All other websites will automatically be blocked
This creates a very restricted environment—perfect for child safety or kiosk-mode devices.
Method 3: Use a DNS-Based Block with Screen Time
This is a more advanced but powerful method. If you want to block websites even outside Safari (like in other apps), you can configure a custom DNS.
Apple does not provide direct DNS blocking through iOS settings, but you can use a private DNS service that filters unwanted content, and set it under Wi-Fi settings > Configure DNS > Manual.
That said, for most users, Screen Time’s built-in content restriction tools are more than enough.
Method 4: Set Up Restrictions via Family Sharing
If you’re managing a child’s device, Family Sharing lets you apply Screen Time rules remotely.
Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Your Name > Family Sharing
- Tap Screen Time, then select your child’s device
- Now follow the same steps to apply web restrictions
You don’t even need to touch their phone once Family Sharing is enabled.
Can You Block Websites in Google Chrome or Other Browsers?
Yes and no. While Safari is the default browser affected by Screen Time settings, other browsers like Google Chrome or Firefox on iPhone still follow the same restrictions if “Limit Adult Content” is enabled under Screen Time.
However, some apps may use their own in-app browsers. Blocking all unwanted content is harder in those cases, but Screen Time still does a good job in 90% of scenarios.
If you’re concerned about full control, consider uninstalling third-party browsers or locking down their usage through Screen Time app limits.
How to Unblock a Website Later
If you change your mind or the restriction is no longer needed, you can easily remove a website from the blocked list:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap Content Restrictions > Web Content > Limit Adult Websites
- Under Never Allow, tap Edit
- Remove the website you want to unblock
You can also disable the web content filter altogether by selecting Unrestricted Access.
What Happens When You Try to Visit a Blocked Site?
When you or someone else tries to open a blocked website on Safari, a blank screen appears with a warning: “You cannot browse this page at www.example.com because it is restricted.”
There is usually an option to “Allow Website” by entering the Screen Time passcode. Without the code, the site remains inaccessible.
This makes the system useful not just for kids, but for anyone trying to limit their own access.
Tips for Better Control
Here are some additional tips for enhancing website blocking on iPhone:
- Set Downtime: In Screen Time, you can create scheduled “Downtime” during which only selected apps and websites are accessible.
- Use App Limits: If you want to limit the time spent on browsing in general, set an App Limit on Safari.
- Review Weekly Reports: Under Screen Time, review your screen usage and see how often specific sites or apps are used.
Combining these tools helps you create a healthier digital environment.
What If the Website Still Opens?
If your iPhone isn’t blocking the site as expected:
- Make sure Screen Time is enabled
- Double-check the URL you entered – it must be exact (including www if needed)
- Restart your phone – this helps apply changes
- Ensure no VPN or profile is bypassing DNS
- Update to the latest iOS – sometimes bugs are resolved in newer versions
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Block Specific Websites | Done through Screen Time > Content Restrictions |
| Whitelist Only Certain Sites | Use “Allowed Websites Only” mode |
| Parental Controls | Set via Family Sharing remotely |
| Custom DNS | Can be set manually but less user-friendly |
| Third-Party Browsers | Usually follow Screen Time rules |
| Bypass Prevention | Set a Screen Time passcode |
Final Thoughts
Blocking websites on your iPhone doesn’t require advanced tech skills or paid apps. Apple’s built-in Screen Time settings are powerful enough to help you manage internet access, whether you’re aiming to boost productivity, keep your kids safe, or simply reduce distractions.
With a few minutes of setup, you can take control of your digital environment and enjoy a safer, cleaner browsing experience on your iPhone.
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