Website Blocker Setup Guide: 4 Methods to Block Distracting Sites

Cold Turkey Blocker

Cold Turkey offers both free and pro versions for comprehensive Website Blocker Setup. The free version blocks websites and apps, while Cold Turkey Pro provides advanced scheduling, password protection, and "Frozen Turkey" mode that prevents tampering with your Website Blocker Setup.

Freedom

Freedom is a cross-platform Website Blocker Setup solution that works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It's particularly good for blocking entire categories of sites and creating focused work sessions across all your devices simultaneously.

For Students and Professionals

Start with browser extensions like BlockSite or StayFocusd for quick Website Blocker Setup. Upgrade to Cold Turkey or Freedom if you need more robust blocking during work/study sessions.

For Parents and Families

Use router-level Website Blocker Setup combined with parental control software like Qustodio. This provides comprehensive protection across all family devices.

For Maximum Security

Combine multiple methods: hosts file editing + dedicated software like FocusMe + router settings. This creates multiple layers that are extremely difficult to bypass.

For Basic Needs

Browser extensions are sufficient for casual Website Blocker Setup needs. They're free, easy to install, and provide adequate blocking for most users.

Scheduling

Instead of blocking sites permanently, use scheduling to block them only during specific times:

• Block social media during work hours (e.g., 9 AM–5 PM)
• Block entertainment sites during study sessions
• Use Freedom's recurring scheduling for consistent focus time
• Consider time-based "allowances" for certain sites

Password Protection

Make it harder to disable your blocks:

• Use random, complex passwords for blockers
• Have a friend set the password so you can't disable it
• Use Cold Turkey's "Frozen Turkey" mode to lock settings
• Store passwords with a service like LastPass

Whitelisting Instead of Blacklisting

For maximum focus, reverse your approach:

• Block everything except specifically allowed sites
• Create a "work" whitelist with only necessary resources
• Use tools like Freedom to create focused work environments
• This prevents discovering new distractions

How do I unblock a site I accidentally blocked?

To unblock a site, access the same tool you used to block it. For browser extensions, open the extension settings and remove the URL. For hosts file, edit the file and remove the corresponding line. For dedicated software or router settings, access the control panel and remove the site from the block list.

Can I block websites on my phone too?

Yes! For iOS, use Screen Time settings under Settings. For Android, use Digital Wellbeing or parental control apps. Alternatively, install dedicated apps like Freedom or BlockSite, or set up your router to block sites network-wide, which will affect any device connected to your Wi-Fi.

Is website blocking software free?

Many website blocking methods are free, including browser extensions, hosts file editing, and router settings. However, dedicated software like Cold Turkey, Freedom, and FocusMe typically offer limited free versions with paid upgrades for more advanced features.

How can I prevent bypassing the website blocker?

To create a more secure block, use a combination of methods such as password protection (with a password you don't know), lock modes in dedicated software, router-level blocks, and by removing administrator privileges from user accounts.