How to Block Websites on Android Without Apps: Step-by-Step

Whether you want to protect your kids, avoid distractions while working, or simply never visit that website that bombs you with spam again, blocking websites is a basic necessity. But, I won’t lie to you, most apps that promise to do it consume a lot of battery and bombard you with their own ads.

The good news is that you don’t need to install anything. Since a couple of versions ago, Android has a hidden feature in the network settings that allows filtering internet content natively. Here’s exactly how to block websites on Android without apps using the Private DNS method.

Table of contents

1. What is a DNS and Why is it Useful for Blocking Webs?

Imagine the DNS is like your phone’s contact book. When you type google.com, your browser calls the DNS to ask for the real phone number of that website (the IP address).

If we use a smart “agenda” that knows which websites are dangerous or for adults, the DNS will simply tell us that the site doesn’t exist or that it is not allowed to call it. Curiously, this process occurs even before the web starts loading, making it the fastest and cleanest method there is.

2. Step-by-Step: Setting Up Private DNS on Android

This is the official method that works for me in 90% of modern phones (especially with Android 9 and up). It doesn’t require being an expert, just copying and pasting a phrase.

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet (or Connections).
2. Look for the Private DNS option. If you don’t see it, use the settings search bar and type “DNS”.
3. Select the Private DNS provider hostname option.
4. Now, type one of these two options depending on what you’re looking for:
   • To block ads and trackers: type dns.adguard.com.
   • For parental control (block adult sites): type family.adguard-dns.com.
5. Tap Save.

Warning: Once you save, internet might take a few seconds to reconnect. If suddenly nothing loads, delete the text and set it back to “Automatic”.

3. Manual Blocking from your Browser (Google Chrome)

If you only want to block access to certain websites from the browser without affecting all other apps, you can use Chrome’s Safe Browsing engine.

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings (the three dots top right).
2. Enter Privacy and security.
3. Look for Safe Browsing.
4. Select Enhanced protection.

That said, Option B is better for the majority: the DNS method is much more powerful because it blocks access from any application, not just Chrome. If you block a website from the DNS, it won’t even open if someone sends you the link via WhatsApp.

Differences: With Apps vs Without Apps

4. Free DNS Alternatives and Which One to Choose

AdGuard isn’t the only option. There are several DNS providers that offer different levels of filtering, and choosing the right one depends on exactly what you need.

My recommendation: For general use, family.adguard-dns.com is the best option because it covers everything: ads, trackers, and adult content. If you want only speed without filters, Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 is unbeatable.

How to Use NextDNS for Total Control

If you want to block specific websites by name (for example, block only facebook.com and tiktok.com), you need a customizable DNS. NextDNS is free up to 300,000 queries per month, which is more than enough for personal use.

1. Go to nextdns.io and create a free account.
2. In the dashboard, look for the Denylist section.
3. Type the URLs you want to block (e.g., facebook.com, tiktok.com).
4. Copy your unique configuration ID.
5. On Android, go to Private DNS and type: [your-id].dns.nextdns.io

Now only the websites you’ve blocked will be inaccessible. Everything else will work normally.

5. Time-Based Blocking: Protect Your Kids Only at Night

One of the questions I get most is: “Can I block internet only at night so my kids aren’t on their phone at 3 AM?” With Android’s native Private DNS method, you can’t do this directly, but there are two solutions.

Solution 1: Focus Mode (Android 13+):

1. Go to Settings → Digital Wellbeing → Modes.
2. Create a new mode called “Sleep” or “Study.”
3. Configure it to disable internet access or specific apps during a time window.
4. Schedule daily repetition.

Solution 2: Google Family Link Parental Controls: If your kids are under 13, the Google Family Link app lets you:

• Set device usage schedules.
• Block internet access completely during specific hours.
• Filter content by category natively.
• See how much time they spend on each app.

My opinion: Family Link is the best parental control tool that exists, and it’s completely free. You don’t need to pay for third-party apps that are sometimes more invasive than what they’re trying to protect against.

6. What If I Want to Block an Entire App, Not Just a Website?

Sometimes the problem isn’t a website but an app that steals your time (TikTok, Instagram, games). DNS can’t block apps directly, but Android has native tools for this.

Using Digital Wellbeing:

1. Go to Settings → Digital Wellbeing & parental controls.
2. Tap on the circular chart showing each app’s usage time.
3. Find the app you want to limit.
4. Tap the clock icon next to its name.
5. Set a daily limit (e.g., 30 minutes).

When the time runs out, the app will be “grayed out” and you won’t be able to open it until the next day. You can override the limit if you want, but the visual reminder already serves its purpose.

Using Scheduled Airplane Mode: If you need a total internet cutoff at specific times, Tasker or MacroDroid can automatically activate airplane mode at certain hours. This blocks everything: websites, apps, notifications, calls.

7. Common Mistakes You Should Avoid

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I block a specific site (e.g., facebook.com) with this method?

With the free DNS I’ve provided, you block “packages” of content (ads or adults). If you want to block a specific website by name, you need a customizable DNS service (like NextDNS). It’s free but requires creating an external account.

Does it work on both Wi-Fi and mobile data?

Yes! That’s the magic of Android’s private DNS. Once configured, it works wherever you are, regardless of the network you connect to.

Is it safe to use these DNS?

Yes, AdGuard and Cloudflare are giant security companies. I won’t lie to you, they’ll see your network requests (which sites you visit), but that’s exactly what your carrier (Verizon, Orange, etc.) already does right now.

Conclusion

Knowing how to block websites on Android without apps gives you total control over your device without sacrificing performance or privacy. My verdict is clear: the Private DNS method is the most professional and efficient way to filter the internet. It’s fast, doesn’t consume battery, and is configured in less than a minute.

Did you manage to block that site that was bothering you? Let me know in the comments or ask if you’ve gotten stuck on any step!