How to Block Websites With Linksys

Block websites in your Linksys router to prevent users from reaching them.

Linksys routers have the ability to block any website that you choose by the website's address or keywords that may be contained in the address. This method of blocking websites is generally more effective than computer-based methods such as the Windows HOSTS file, as the HOSTS file can be modified by the user while the security settings for a Linksys router require a password. Use the filter settings on your Linksys router to block websites that you do not want users on your network to access.

Instructions

1. Open a web browser and type the IP address "192.168.1.1" in the address bar. Press "Enter." A prompt appears asking you to enter the user name and password for the Linksys router configuration page.

2. Enter "admin" as the password, and leave the "User Name" field blank. If you created a new user name and password for yourself when you set the Linksys router up, enter those login credentials instead. This brings you to the "Setup" screen in the configuration utility for your Linksys router.

3. Click the "Access Restrictions" tab at the top of the window.

4. Click the "Deny" radio button, and make sure that "Everyday" and "24 Hours" are selected if you would like your security policy to be in effect at all times.

5. Click the "Edit List of PCs" button. A new window opens.

6. Change the two boxes next to "IP Range 01" to "100" and "149" if you want to prevent all computers on your network from accessing the website(s) that you are blocking. Alternatively, enter the IP addresses of specific computers on your network under "Enter the IP Address of the PCs" to prevent only those computers from reaching the website(s). Click "Save Settings" when you are ready to continue.

7. Click inside a box next to "Website Blocking by URL Address" to enter the addresses of specific websites that you would like to block. Enter each address in the format "www.example.com."

8. Click inside a box next to "Website Blocking by Keyword" to enter words that should be blocked. Any website address including the keywords that you enter will be blocked automatically by the Linksys router.

9. Click the "Save Settings" button at the bottom of the window to finalize the new security policy when you are finished with it.

Tips & Warnings

• Although many Linksys routers share the same configuration utility, the instructions in this article are specific to the Linksys WRT54G wireless router. The menu options used to block websites may differ slightly for some Linksys router models.

References

• VOIProblem: Linksys WRT54G Emulator, Filters
• Watching the Net: Linksys Tip, Assign Static IP Address
• Linksys Support: Wireless MAC Address Filtering