How to set screen time limits on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: October 2023

Quick Answer

To set screen time limits on Windows, you can use the built-in Family Safety feature or the Windows Settings app. This allows you to manage how long users can spend on their devices and which applications they can access.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before setting screen time limits, ensure you have the following:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your device.
  • •An active Microsoft account for Family Safety features.
  • •Administrator access to the device to modify settings.
  • •Internet connection for syncing settings across devices.
  • •Backup important data, as changes may affect user profiles.

Method 1: Using Windows Family Safety

This method is ideal for families wanting to manage children's screen time effectively.
  • •Step 1: Open the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon or pressing the Windows key on your keyboard.
  • •Step 2: Type 'Family Safety' and select 'Family Safety' from the results.
  • •Step 3: Sign in with your Microsoft account if prompted.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Manage family settings online' to access the Family Safety dashboard.
  • •Step 5: Select the child account you wish to set limits for.
  • •Step 6: Under 'Screen time', toggle the option to 'On'.
  • •Step 7: Set the allowed screen time for each day of the week by adjusting the sliders.
  • •Step 8: Click 'Save' to confirm your settings.
  • •Step 9: To verify, log in to the child's account and check the screen time limits.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find a slightly different interface.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start button and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Accounts' and then 'Family & other users'.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Manage family settings online' under your family group.
  • •Step 4: Follow the same steps as above to set screen time limits.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow these steps.
  • •Step 1: Open the Start menu and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Go to 'Accounts' and click on 'Family & other users'.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Manage family settings online' to access the Family Safety dashboard.
  • •Step 4: Follow the same steps as above to set screen time limits.

Method 2: Using Windows Settings

This method is useful for users who want to set limits without Family Safety.
  • •Step 1: Open the Start menu and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'System' and then 'Focus assist'.
  • •Step 3: Under 'Automatic rules', you can set specific times for Do Not Disturb, which indirectly limits screen time.
  • •Step 4: For app-specific limits, go to 'Apps' and select 'Apps & features'.
  • •Step 5: Click on the app you want to limit and select 'Advanced options'.
  • •Step 6: Set the 'Background apps' permissions to limit usage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while setting screen time limits, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Family Safety not available' - Solution: Ensure you are signed in with a Microsoft account and that the Family Safety feature is supported in your region.
  • •Issue: 'Settings not saving' - Fix: Check your internet connection and ensure you have administrative rights.
  • •Problem: 'Limits not applying' - Workaround: Restart the device and check if the child account is properly configured under Family Safety.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Windows + I - Opens the Settings menu quickly.
  • •Command line: 'net user [username] /time:[days],[hh:mm-hh:mm]' - Set time limits via Command Prompt.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Focus assist' - Access via Action Center to manage notifications and limit distractions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing Family Safety is the most effective way to manage screen time limits across multiple devices.