How to block a website
You may find yourself in a position where you need to block access to a
particular website, or to a particular type of content on the Internet.
There are a number of different options available to you which we'll highlight
below.
Why block websites?
Before we look at how to block a website, let's consider the reasons why you might want to do this in the first place.
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Home |
Office |
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| Prevent young children stumbling across inappropriate content. | Enforce your company's Internet usage policy. | |
| Remove temptation from older children who should be doing their homework and not checking their Facebook profile. | Ensure employees stay focused on the job in hand and don't fritter away company resources. | |
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Protect against the types of websites that often harbour malware or phishing attacks |
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There are probably other reasons you can think of that would justify restricting the content that others can access. But the two we get asked about most are preventing children inadvertently viewing undesirable material and ensuring employee attention stays on the company business.
Methods for blocking websites
Browser controls - Most web browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome etc.) include limited content filtering features that can usually be accessed by the options/preferences menu. Only really appropriate for home use.
Filtering software - There are many software packages available offering "parental control". These packages are often feature rich and can use complex filtering criteria. Again, these are only really suitable for home use.
OpenDNS - We would recommend the use of OpenDNS
for a cost effective solution to filtering web content on
your home or business network. Their global network means Web sites load
faster, their industry-leading anti-phishing and web content filtering services
mean a safer network and more productive employees. And it all works
in the cloud with no hardware or software necessary.
It's also FREE!
Firewall with content filter - Firewalls don't just stop unauthorised individuals getting in to your computer and network, they can also be used to stop users on your network getting out. Many firewalls have built-in content filters that allow you to block access to specific sites, or category of site, from one or more computers on your network. In addition to the router itself, it's likely you will need to purchase an annual licence for use of the content filtering features.
