How to Block Certain Websites on Chrome Android

Website blocking is a useful feature that can help you maintain productivity, avoid distractions, or create a safer browsing environment. While there are various methods and tools available for website blocking, this blog post will focus specifically on how to block certain websites on Chrome Android. Whether you want to restrict access to social media platforms during work hours or limit your exposure to certain types of content, these methods will empower you to take control of your browsing experience on your Android device.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Block Certain Websites on Chrome Android

There are several reasons why you may want to block certain websites on Chrome Android. Here are some common scenarios where website blocking can be beneficial:

1. Productivity Enhancement: Blocking distracting websites, such as social media platforms or news websites, can help you stay focused and improve your productivity, especially when you need to complete important tasks or meet deadlines.

2. Maintaining a Safer Browsing Environment: If you have children or share your device with others, blocking certain websites can help you create a safer browsing environment by preventing access to inappropriate or potentially harmful content.

3. Managing Addictions or Temptations: If you find yourself spending excessive time on certain websites or struggling with online addictions, blocking access to those websites can support your efforts to manage your habits and maintain a healthier online presence.

4. Improving Digital Well-being: With the increasing awareness of the negative effects of excessive screen time, blocking certain websites can be a useful strategy to maintain a healthier balance between your online and offline activities.

Method 1: Using the BlockSite App

BlockSite is a highly-rated app that allows you to block websites on your Chrome Android browser. Here’s how you can use this app to block certain websites:

1. Install the BlockSite app from the Google Play Store.

2. Launch the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.

3. Tap on the "+" icon at the bottom of the screen to add a website to the blocklist.

4. Enter the URL of the website you want to block and customize any additional settings if desired.

5. Tap on the checkmark icon to save the changes.

6. Repeat steps 3-5 to add more websites to the blocklist.

Pros:
1. Easy to install and use.
2. Allows customization of settings and additional features like scheduling.
3. Provides a secure blocklist with password protection.

Cons:
1. Some advanced features may require a premium subscription.
2. Limited blocking options for in-app browsers or specific pages within a website.
3. May not block HTTPS websites by default.

Method 2: Via Chrome Settings

If you prefer to block websites without using any third-party apps, you can use the built-in website blocking feature in Chrome Android settings. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open the Chrome app on your Android device.

2. Tap on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of the screen.

3. Select "Settings" from the menu.

4. Scroll down and tap on "Site settings."

5. Tap on "Blocked" under the "Permissions" section.

6. Tap on "Add" and enter the URL of the website you want to block.

7. Tap on the checkmark icon to save the changes.

Pros:
1. No need to install additional apps.
2. Integrated within the Chrome browser for easy access.
3. Blocks websites across all devices connected to your Google account.

Cons:
1. Limited customization options compared to dedicated website blocking apps.
2. Blocking is limited to the Chrome browser and may not apply to other browsers on your Android device.
3. Requires manual entry of URLs to block each website individually.

Method 3: Using Parental Control Apps

If you want to block certain websites specifically for child safety or parental control purposes, using a dedicated parental control app can provide more comprehensive features. Here’s how you can use a parental control app to block websites on Chrome Android:

1. Install a reliable parental control app from the Google Play Store, such as Family Link, Qustodio, or Norton Family.

2. Follow the app’s instructions to set up parental controls and create a child profile.

3. Access the app’s settings and locate the website blocking feature.

4. Add the URLs of the websites you want to block in the designated field or section.

5. Save the changes and exit the app settings.

Pros:
1. Offers more comprehensive parental control features beyond website blocking.
2. Provides centralized control and monitoring of multiple devices for families or guardians.
3. May include additional features like time limits, app restrictions, or content filtering.

Cons:
1. Requires installation and setup of a separate app.
2. Some advanced features may require a premium subscription or in-app purchases.
3. May have a learning curve to navigate the app’s settings and features effectively.

Method 4: Using Chrome Extensions

If you prefer using browser extensions to block websites, Chrome offers a variety of extensions that can help you achieve this. Here’s how you can use a Chrome extension to block certain websites on Chrome Android:

1. Open the Chrome browser on your Android device.

2. Tap on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of the screen.

3. Select "Extensions" from the menu.

4. Tap on the "Open Chrome Web Store" button.

5. Search for a website blocking extension, such as "Block Site" or "StayFocusd."

6. Tap on the extension you want to install and follow the instructions to add it to your Chrome browser.

7. Once installed, access the extension’s settings and add the URLs of the websites you want to block.

Pros:
1. Extensions provide additional features and flexibility for website blocking.
2. Multiple blocking options, including blocking specific pages or sections within a website.
3. Extensions can be easily enabled or disabled as needed.

Cons:
1. Requires installation and management of browser extensions.
2. Some extensions may have limited functionality or compatibility with Chrome Android.
3. Extensions may consume system resources and potentially affect browsing performance.

What to Do If You Can’t Block Certain Websites on Chrome Android

If the methods mentioned above are not effective in blocking certain websites on your Chrome Android, here are a few additional steps you can take:

1. Clear Browsing Data: Clearing your browsing data, including cookies and cache, can help resolve any issues or conflicts that may be preventing website blocking. Go to Chrome settings, tap on "Privacy," and select "Clear browsing data" to clear your data.

2. Restart Chrome: Sometimes, restarting the Chrome browser can resolve any temporary glitches or conflicts that may be interfering with website blocking. Close the Chrome app completely and relaunch it to see if the issue persists.

3. Check for App Updates: Ensure that you have the latest version of the Chrome app installed on your Android device. Updates may include bug fixes or improved functionality that could resolve website blocking issues.

Bonus Tip: Additionally, you can explore alternative methods of website blocking, such as using a VPN with built-in blocking features or adjusting your router settings to block websites at the network level.

5 FAQs

Q1: Can I block websites on other Android browsers besides Chrome?

A: The website blocking methods mentioned in this blog post specifically target Chrome Android. Other Android browsers may have different settings or features for blocking websites.

Q2: Will website blocking affect other users on my Android device?

A: Website blocking on Chrome Android is typically applied at the browser level. If you have multiple users or profiles on your Android device, the blocked websites may only be restricted within the Chrome browser for your specific profile.

Q3: Can website blocking bypassing methods exist?

A: While website blocking methods can be effective, it’s important to remember that there are always potential ways for users to bypass blocklists, such as using alternative browsers, VPNs, or proxy servers. Continuous monitoring and adjustments may be required to maintain effective website blocking.

Q4: Are there any free alternatives to the BlockSite app?

A: Yes, there are several free alternatives to the BlockSite app available on the Google Play Store. Some examples include "Blocker" and "Website Blocker."

Q5: How do I unblock a website that I have previously blocked?

A: Depending on the method you used to block the website, you can access the settings of the corresponding app, extension, or Chrome website blocking feature and remove the website from the blocklist.

Final Thoughts

Blocking certain websites on Chrome Android can be a valuable tool for maintaining productivity, creating a safe browsing environment, and managing your online habits. Whether you choose to use dedicated apps, Chrome settings, parental control tools, or browser extensions, the methods outlined in this blog post provide accessible and effective ways to take control of your browsing experience. Experiment with different methods and approaches to find the solution that best fits your needs and preferences. Remember, effective website blocking is an ongoing process that may require adjustments and fine-tuning over time.