The internet is a vast and powerful tool—but not every website out there is safe, appropriate, or helpful. Whether you’re a parent looking to protect your child, a student trying to stay focused, or simply someone interested in minimizing distractions or threats, learning how to block websites on your iPhone is a smart move.
Thankfully, Apple makes it relatively easy to restrict access to specific sites, and with the right settings, you can take control over what’s accessible through your device’s browser—Safari or otherwise.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore step-by-step methods to block websites on iPhone, useful tips, workarounds, and features you might not know existed.
Why Block Websites on iPhone?
There are several good reasons to block websites, whether temporarily or permanently:
1. Parental Control
Protect children from inappropriate or harmful content by blocking specific sites or entire categories.
2. Productivity and Focus
Block time-wasting websites like social media or gaming platforms to stay focused during study or work hours.
3. Privacy and Security
Avoid malicious or untrustworthy sites that may try to steal personal information or install harmful files.
4. Habit Management
Curb online addictions or bad habits, such as excessive social media scrolling or compulsive news reading.
Built-in Tools vs. Third-party Apps
iPhones running iOS 12 or later come with robust built-in tools under Screen Time for blocking websites. While third-party apps also exist, most users find the built-in methods more than sufficient for basic to intermediate restrictions.
Method 1: Block Specific Websites Using Screen Time
This method is best for users who want to block specific websites while keeping general web access enabled.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open Settings
Tap on the Settings app from your Home Screen. - Tap Screen Time
If it’s your first time, follow the setup prompts. You can set this for yourself or as a parent for your child. - Tap “Content & Privacy Restrictions”
Enable the toggle at the top if it’s off. - Tap “Content Restrictions”
- Tap “Web Content”
- Select “Limit Adult Websites”
This activates the ability to add both allowed and restricted websites. - Tap “Add Website” under “Never Allow”
- Type in the URL of the website you want to block
For example:www.example.com - Tap “Done”
Repeat for each website you want to block.
What Happens Next:
Once added, those websites will be completely blocked in Safari and most other browsers. Users trying to access them will see a message that says the site is restricted.
Method 2: Block All Websites Except Approved Ones (Whitelist)
If you want maximum control—especially for kids—you can allow access to only a few specific websites and block everything else.
How:
- Follow steps 1–5 from Method 1.
- Select “Allowed Websites Only”
- Tap “Add Website” to input only the websites you want the device to access.
This is especially helpful for younger children who should only visit school, educational, or entertainment websites you’ve reviewed.
Method 3: Use Downtime and App Limits to Restrict Browser Access
If you don’t want to block websites one by one but instead want to limit access to web browsers (like Safari or Chrome) during certain hours, you can use Screen Time’s Downtime feature.
Steps:
- Open Settings → Screen Time
- Tap Downtime
- Set a schedule (e.g., from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM)
- Apps not on the “Always Allowed” list will be restricted during this time
Optional: Use App Limits
- Go to Screen Time → App Limits
- Tap Add Limit
- Select Web Browsing category (usually under “Productivity”)
- Set a daily time limit for web use
This doesn’t block specific sites but helps reduce overuse of the internet as a whole.
Method 4: Disable Web Browsing Entirely
If you’re managing a child’s phone and want to remove web access altogether:
- Go to Settings → Screen Time
- Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap Allowed Apps
- Toggle off Safari
This will hide the Safari app completely. If they’ve installed other browsers (like Chrome or Firefox), you can also delete or restrict those under App Store restrictions.
Bonus: How to Block Websites in Google Chrome on iPhone
While Apple’s Screen Time covers Safari well, many users also install Google Chrome. Unfortunately, iOS doesn’t offer direct settings for Chrome-specific site blocking, but Screen Time restrictions still apply across browsers.
If Screen Time is set to block certain URLs, those websites will also be inaccessible in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and most third-party browsers on iPhone.
How to Lock Screen Time Settings with a Passcode
To prevent someone from just reversing your restrictions, it’s important to set a Screen Time passcode.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Screen Time
- Scroll down and tap Use Screen Time Passcode
- Enter a 4-digit code (avoid using your phone’s unlock code)
- Optional: Enter your Apple ID for recovery in case you forget the code
Once set, any attempt to modify blocked websites or restrictions will require the passcode.
How to Remove a Blocked Website
Unblocking a website is simple and quick:
- Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap Content Restrictions → Web Content
- Under “Never Allow,” swipe left on the blocked website
- Tap Delete
This restores access to the previously restricted site.
Additional Tips for Effective Website Blocking
- Talk to Your Kids: If you’re using restrictions for children, explain why certain sites are off-limits.
- Be Consistent: Keep your rules and blocked lists updated regularly.
- Test It Yourself: Always verify restrictions are working by visiting the sites after setting them.
- Use Multiple Layers: Combine web blocking with Downtime and App Limits for greater control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I block websites using only Safari settings?
No. Safari doesn’t offer a native way to block websites. You must use Screen Time in iOS settings.
Q: Will blocking websites also work in Private Browsing mode?
Yes. Screen Time restrictions apply even in Private Browsing, so users can’t bypass the block that way.
Q: Can someone bypass these restrictions by using another app?
If you restrict the App Store or use Downtime and App Limits in combination, it becomes very difficult for someone to bypass your rules.
Q: Does this work without Wi-Fi or offline?
Yes. Website restrictions are built into the system and work regardless of internet connection type.
Q: Are third-party parental control apps better?
They may offer more granular controls, activity reports, or remote access, but Apple’s built-in system is usually enough for most users.
Pros and Cons of iPhone Website Blocking
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Built-in and easy to use | Limited customization without 3rd-party apps |
| Effective across most browsers | Requires passcode protection to prevent bypassing |
| Works well for families | Can block too much if not configured carefully |
| Enhances privacy and productivity | Not ideal for advanced filtering needs |
Final Thoughts
Blocking websites on your iPhone is no longer just a tech-savvy move—it’s a practical, everyday decision for safer browsing, better focus, and improved digital well-being. Whether you’re managing a child’s phone, boosting your productivity, or protecting yourself from distractions, Apple’s Screen Time makes it easier than ever.
Start by identifying the sites or categories you want to block, set up your Screen Time preferences, and protect those settings with a passcode. You can always adjust your restrictions over time, but even a few minutes spent configuring them can make a world of difference.
Take control of your screen. The internet is powerful—but you’re the one holding the phone.
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