How to block websites on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To block websites on an iPhone, you can use the built-in Screen Time feature, which allows you to restrict access to specific websites or categories of content. Additionally, you can use third-party apps for more advanced filtering options.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start blocking websites on your iPhone, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 12 or later (Screen Time feature is available from iOS 12 onwards).
  • •Access to the device settings and the ability to modify Screen Time settings.
  • •If using third-party apps, ensure they are downloaded from the App Store and have the necessary permissions.
  • •Backup important data to avoid accidental loss during configuration.

Method 1: Using Screen Time

Screen Time is a built-in feature on iPhones that allows you to monitor and restrict app usage, including website access. This method is ideal for parents or users looking to limit distractions.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Screen Time'.
  • •Step 3: If you haven't set up Screen Time, tap 'Turn On Screen Time', then 'Continue', and choose 'This is My iPhone' or 'This is My Child's iPhone'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Content & Privacy Restrictions'. Enable it by toggling the switch at the top.
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Content Restrictions'.
  • •Step 6: Select 'Web Content'. Here you can choose 'Limit Adult Websites' or 'Allowed Websites Only'.
  • •Step 7: If you select 'Allowed Websites Only', tap 'Add Website' to enter specific URLs you want to allow.
  • •Step 8: To block specific websites, go back to 'Web Content' and under 'Never Allow', tap 'Add Website' to enter the URL.
  • •Step 9: To verify, open Safari and try to access the blocked website. You should see a message indicating that access is restricted.
  • •Step 10: If it doesn't work, ensure that Screen Time is enabled and that the website is correctly entered under 'Never Allow'.

For iOS 15 and later

In iOS 15, the Screen Time interface has slight changes for easier navigation.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and tap 'Screen Time'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Content & Privacy Restrictions'.
  • •Step 3: Ensure 'Content & Privacy Restrictions' is turned on.
  • •Step 4: Follow the same steps as above to restrict websites.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The steps are similar, but the layout may differ slightly.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and tap 'Screen Time'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Content Restrictions'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to restrict websites.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps

If you require more advanced features or want to block websites across multiple devices, consider using third-party apps like 'Net Nanny' or 'Qustodio'. These apps offer comprehensive parental controls and web filtering.
  • •Step 1: Download a third-party app from the App Store (e.g., Net Nanny, Qustodio).
  • •Step 2: Open the app and create an account if required.
  • •Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to set up website blocking features.
  • •Step 4: Add specific websites to the block list as per the app's interface.
  • •Step 5: Verify by trying to access the blocked websites in Safari or the app's browser.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, check the app's permissions in 'Settings' > 'Privacy' > 'Location Services' and ensure it has the necessary access.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while blocking websites, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Website not blocked' - Solution: Ensure that the URL is entered correctly in 'Never Allow'.
  • •Issue: 'Screen Time not working' - Fix: Check if Screen Time is enabled and that you are using the correct passcode.
  • •Problem: 'Third-party app not blocking' - Workaround: Ensure the app has the necessary permissions and is updated to the latest version.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your website blocking experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - iOS does not support keyboard shortcuts for this function.
  • •Command line: N/A - iOS does not have a command line interface.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Downtime' in Screen Time to limit access to all apps during specific hours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using Screen Time is the most effective way to block websites, especially for parents managing children's device usage.