Parental Controls with DNS: A Practical Setup
By [FILL IN], [FILL IN] · Last updated
Use DNS to block adult content, enforce SafeSearch, limit apps like TikTok and set schedules for every device at home, with nothing to install.
Why DNS works well for families
Kids use phones, tablets, consoles and smart TVs. Installing control apps on each is tedious and easy to undo. A DNS rule on the router covers all of them at once.
A sensible starting configuration
Start strict on content that is never appropriate and flexible on everything else.
- Block adult and gambling categories
- Force SafeSearch on Google, Bing and YouTube Restricted Mode
- Block or schedule social apps such as TikTok and Instagram
- Pause internet at bedtime
- Block VPN and public DoH services to prevent bypass
Talk, then configure
Technical filters work best with clear family rules. Explain what is blocked and why, and review the query log together now and then.