Block Websites at Router Level: Network-Wide Filtering

Selective Website Blocking with Your Router

Implementing a complex network filtering system can be excessive if your goal is simply to block a limited number of websites. This guide demonstrates how to selectively block and temporarily restrict access to specific websites using only your router’s built-in features.

For many users, the expense and complexity of large-scale commercial internet filters are unnecessary. Consider the scenario where you wish to block Facebook during your children’s study time, or Reddit when you need to focus on work.

Utilizing Router-Based Access Restrictions

A dedicated, extensive system isn’t required for these situations. The access restrictions module integrated into most routers provides a straightforward solution.

We will explore how to efficiently and easily block network traffic utilizing the access restriction capabilities found within your router’s configuration interface.

This method offers a targeted approach to content control, allowing you to manage internet access without the need for additional software or hardware.

Router-based access restrictions provide a convenient and cost-effective way to manage internet usage within your home or office network.

The process typically involves accessing your router’s settings through a web browser and navigating to the access control or parental control section.

From there, you can specify the websites you want to block and the devices to which the restrictions will apply.

This allows for granular control, ensuring that only the intended users are affected by the blocking rules.

Furthermore, many routers allow you to schedule these restrictions, enabling automatic blocking during specific times of the day or week.

This feature is particularly useful for enforcing study times or limiting access to distracting websites during work hours.

By leveraging your router’s built-in capabilities, you can effectively manage internet access and promote a more productive online environment.

Essential Requirements

This guide details how to implement website blocking at the router level for comprehensive network filtering. The process requires minimal resources and incurs no cost.

Necessary Components

• A router that is compatible with Tomato firmware.
• The Tomato firmware installed on your router.
• Administrative privileges for accessing the router’s configuration interface.

The following instructions will be demonstrated using a Linksys router with Tomato custom firmware. The procedures are broadly applicable to the DD-WRT system as well; information regarding domain blocking on DD-WRT can be found elsewhere.

Prior to beginning, ensure Tomato is installed on your router. If it isn't, refer to our installation guide for detailed instructions. Confirm you possess administrative access, meaning you know the login credentials for the router’s control panel.

With these prerequisites met, you are prepared to continue with the website blocking configuration.

Configuring URL Filtering with Tomato

This guide demonstrates how to implement both complete blocks and time-restricted access using the Tomato router firmware. We will use the popular social news platform, Reddit, as an example. Reddit, while enjoyable, can be a significant distraction and detriment to productivity.

Accessing the Access Restriction Module

First, navigate to the Access Restriction module within your Tomato router’s control panel. Typically, this can be accessed via a web address like http://192.168.1.1, requiring your router’s login credentials. Once logged in, locate and click on “Access Restriction” in the left-hand menu.