How to Block a Website with Chrome (Step-by-Step Guide) 

Key takeaways:

• Blocking distracting websites helps users focus on tasks and work more efficiently.
• Tools like parental controls protect children from harmful content and unsafe websites.
• A quick, built-in method for blocking websites but limited to browser-specific restrictions.
• Tools like Block Site and StayFocusd offer scheduling, keyword blocking and time limits.
• Editing the hosts file ensures restrictions apply across all browsers and apps on a device.
• Admin tools like Google Workspace provide network-wide website blocking for schools and businesses.
• Evaluate methods for flexibility, ease of use and security to select the best option.

Introduction 

Unwanted websites can derail your focus, consume precious hours, and expose your family to inappropriate content. From social media’s endless scroll to dangerous online content, these digital distractions pose real challenges for both parents and professionals.

Taking control of your browsing experience starts with a simple solution—blocking specific websites on Chrome. Your productivity tools might feel useless when distracting websites are just a click away.

Parents need robust solutions to keep their children safe online, while professionals seek ways to maintain focus during critical work hours. Even casual internet users often find themselves trapped in endless cycles of browsing that eat away at their free time.

This blog will guide you through effective methods of how to block a website, helping you create a more focused and secure digital experience.  

Why you might want to block websites 

The internet is full of both opportunities and risks, including threats to website security from malicious or harmful sites. Managing access to certain websites can help protect sensitive information, ensure safer browsing, and create a more secure online environment. Here are the reasons why you might consider blocking websites on Chrome. 

Boosting productivity 

Certain websites, such as social media platforms and streaming services, are designed to consume time. They often disrupt workflows and make it difficult to concentrate on important tasks. Blocking these sites helps users maintain focus and achieve their goals more efficiently. 

For businesses, reducing distractions among employees leads to higher productivity. By preventing access to non-work-related websites, employers can foster a more focused work environment. This is particularly important in roles where consistent attention and efficiency are critical. 

Parental controls feature for safe browsing 

The internet is full of harmful or inappropriate content, including adult websites and dangerous scams accessible through Google Chrome and other browsers. Children, who are often unaware of online threats, are especially vulnerable. Blocking these websites ensures a safer browsing experience for younger users. 

Parents might also want to limit their children’s exposure to distracting or time-wasting websites. This creates a more structured and responsible online environment. Ensuring safe browsing habits early on can help children develop better digital behavior as they grow. 

Limiting distractions 

50% of U.S. teenagers aged 15 to 17 reported being online almost constantly, according to a survey by Statista. Additionally, 40% of teens aged 13 to 14 indicated frequent internet use, bringing the overall figure to 46% of surveyed teens in the United States. 

Many websites are intentionally designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible. Endless scrolling, clickbait content and notifications make it easy to lose track of time. Blocking these websites helps individuals reclaim their time and focus on what matters most. 

This is especially useful for students managing study schedules or professionals working under deadlines. Avoiding these distractions can significantly improve productivity and mental clarity.

Now you know the reasons for blocking a website, let’s explore how to block websites on Chrome using specific methods, starting with using Chrome settings. 

Method 1: How to block a website on Chrome via Chrome settings 

For those who prefer a simple approach, Chrome’s built-in settings offer a straightforward way to block websites. This method works well for individual users who want to limit access to specific content without installing additional tools. While it’s not the most robust option, it provides a quick fix for basic website blocking needs.

Below are the steps to block websites using Chrome settings. 

1. Open Chrome settings: Click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner of your Chrome browser and select “Settings.” 
   
2. Navigate to site settings: Under the “Privacy and Security” section, click “Site Settings.” 
   
3. Modify permissions: Scroll down to locate the “Additional Content Settings.” 
4. Block-specific websites: Use the “Add” option under “Insecure Content” area to enter the website URL you want to block. For instance, if you want to block social media sites, add their web addresses here. 
   
5. Save and confirm: After entering the URLs, click “Save” to apply the restrictions. Ensure the changes take effect by restarting your browser. 

This method works well for blocking individual sites and limiting access to specific types of content. 

Limitations of using Chrome settings 

While Chrome settings offer a quick way to block websites, they come with several limitations. These restrictions can impact their effectiveness, especially for users seeking advanced controls or multi-device functionality. Here are the key drawbacks to consider. 

1. Restricted to user level: Changes only apply to the logged-in Chrome user, not across multiple users or devices. 
2. Limited customization: You cannot create advanced rules, such as scheduling blocks or redirecting blocked websites. 
3. No password protection: Anyone with access to your browser can modify the settings, making it less secure. 
4. Not foolproof: Tech-savvy users can bypass these restrictions by switching to incognito mode or using another browser. 
5. Device-dependent: Adjustments made in Chrome settings do not carry over to mobile devices unless configured separately. 

Method 2: How to block a website with Chrome extensions 

If you need more features and flexibility, Google Chrome extensions are a great solution. Extensions like Block Site, StayFocusd and LeechBlock NG provide advanced options, including scheduling, password protection and keyword-based blocking.

These tools are user-friendly and work directly within the Chrome browser, making them accessible for most users. 

Top Chrome extensions for blocking websites 

Block Site 

Block Site is a popular browser extension designed to block distracting or harmful websites. It allows you to create a block list, schedule restrictions and even set password protection. You can also block sites by keywords or categories. 

StayFocusd 

StayFocusd helps enhance productivity by limiting the time you spend on distracting websites. You can set daily limits, block specific pages or restrict entire domains. This extension is great for those looking to improve focus. 

LeechBlock NG 

LeechBlock NG offers robust customization options for blocking websites. It lets you set specific blocking schedules, create time quotas and restrict access during designated work hours. This extension is ideal for managing productivity and reducing screen time. 

How to install and configure an extension 

1. Visit the Chrome Web Store: Open the Chrome browser and type “Chrome Web Store” in the Chrome search bar.
   
2. Search for an extension: Use the search bar to look for extensions like Block Site or StayFocusd. 
   

3. Add to Chrome: Click “Add to Chrome” next to the desired extension, then confirm by clicking “Add extension” in the pop-up window. 
   
4. Configure settings: After installation, click on the puzzle icon in the top right corner and select the extension. Adjust settings such as blocked URLs, keywords or time limits based on your preferences. 
   
5. Test the block: Open the blocked website to verify that the restrictions are working correctly. 

Pros of using extensions 

• Extensions provide advanced features such as scheduling, password protection and keyword blocking. 
• They are easy to install and manage without requiring technical expertise. 
• Most extensions offer free versions with sufficient functionality. 

Cons of using extensions 

• Some extensions limit the number of websites you can block without a premium plan. 
• They consume browser resources, which can slow down performance. 
• Extensions are browser-specific and do not work across devices unless installed on each. 

Method 3: How to block a website at the system level 

Blocking websites at the system level ensures restrictions across all browsers and apps on a device. This method is ideal for users who need robust control. Parents managing household devices or individuals protecting systems benefit most. While it requires technical skills, it ensures comprehensive blocking. 

Editing the hosts file on Windows 

1. Locate the hosts file: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc using File Explorer. 
   
2. Open the file as an administrator: Right-click the hosts file and select “Open with Notepad.” Ensure you run Notepad as an administrator to save changes. 
   

3. Add blocked websites: Scroll to the bottom of the file and enter 127.0.0.1, followed by the website URL.
   
4. Save and restart: Save the file and restart your browser or computer to apply changes. 
5. Test the block: Open the browser and try accessing the blocked website. You should receive an error message. 

Using parental control software on macOS 

1. Access Screen Time: Go to System Preferences > Screen Time. 
   
2. Enable content restrictions: Under “Content & Privacy,” toggle the feature on and click “Content Restrictions.” 
   
3. Limit access to websites: Select “Limit Adult Websites” and manually add URLs to the “Never Allow” list. 
   
4. Save changes: Confirm the settings to block unwanted websites across all browsers on the device. 

Pros of system-level blocking 

• Works across all browsers and applications on the system. 
• Effective for blocking dangerous websites and preventing malicious downloads. 
• Ideal for parents or administrators managing multiple users on a shared device. 

Cons of system-level blocking 

• Requires administrative privileges, making it less accessible for non-technical users. 
• Changes can be reverted by users with system access. 
• Not as flexible as browser extensions for scheduling or temporary blocks. 

Method 4: How to block a website for organizations at the admin level

Admin-level blocking is ideal for schools, businesses and organizations. It ensures centralized control across devices and improves network security. This method helps maintain productivity and prevents access to harmful websites. 

Setting up URL blocking via Google Workspace 

Organizations can block websites across multiple devices using Google Workspace’s admin console.  

1. Log into the admin console: Visit admin.google.com and sign in with your administrator account. 
   
2. Navigate to Chrome settings: Go to Devices > Chrome > Settings > Users & Browsers. 
   
3. Select the organizational unit: Choose the group of users or devices you want to apply the block to. 
4. Enable URL blocking: Scroll to the “URL Blocking” section and add the web addresses you want to block. 
   
5. Save changes: Confirm the settings and the restrictions will apply across all devices linked to the organizational unit. 

Benefits for schools and businesses 

• Increased productivity: Reduces distractions by blocking access to non-work-related websites. 
• Enhanced security: Prevents access to malicious websites and unsafe content. 
• Centralized management: Allows IT administrators to enforce policies across multiple devices from a single console. 
• Customizable restrictions: Tailored website blocking for different departments or user groups. 

Troubleshooting common issues 

1. Blocked websites still accessible: Ensure the settings are applied to the correct organizational unit and synced across all devices. 
2. Users bypassing blocks: Enable incognito blocking in Chrome settings and use additional measures like firewall rules. 
3. Configuration errors: Double-check URL formats and ensure admin privileges are active. 

Comparing website blocking methods 

Final thoughts

 Imagine a digital world where distractions no longer steal your time and your family browses safely without worry. Blocking websites isn’t just about restrictions—it’s about reclaiming control over your online experience. Boosting productivity, creating a secure space for kids and eliminating interruptions all become easier with the right strategies. 

The internet should work for you, not against you. Start applying these strategies today and transform the way you interact with the web. Your focused, safer and more efficient digital life is just a few steps away. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)