How to Block Websites using Firewall

You can prevent access to distracting websites by establishing a straightforward firewall rule. Below, we provide a detailed guide on how to block websites using Windows Firewall.

1. Determine the IP Address of the Website

The initial step involves identifying the IP Addresses of the websites you wish to block. For instance, if you intend to block Facebook, you must locate its IP Address.

Finding a website’s IP Address is quite simple. To do this, you can utilize services such as IPVOID. Here are the steps you should follow.

1. Navigate to IPVOID using your web browser.

2. Input the website name in the designated text field and click on the Find Website IP button .
 

3. The site will list the IP Address. You need to note down the IP address.

2. Establishing a Firewall Rule to Restrict Access to Websites

After obtaining the IP Address, it is necessary to establish a Firewall rule to restrict access to websites.

1. Launch the Windows 11 search function and enter Windows Firewall. Select Windows Firewall from the displayed options .

 

2. On the Windows Defender Firewall, click on the Advanced Settings.

 3. On the left pane, click on the Outbound Rules.

 

4. On the right pane, click on the New Rule button.

5. On the Rule type pop-up, select Custom and click on Next.

 6. Select all programs and click on the Next button on the next page.

7. Don’t make any changes to the Protocol and Ports option. Just click on Next.

8. On the Remote IP Addresses field, select the These IP Addresses checkbox.
 

9. Click on the Add button and add the IP Addresses you have copied. You need to enter every IP Address. Once you have done this, click on the Next button.

 10. On the Action page, select Block the Connection and click Next.

11. On the Profile page, select all three options and click Next.

 12. Enter the name & description of the new rule and click on the Finish button.

 

If you try to access the blocked website, you will see a page like this .

 Alternative Methods for Blocking Websites on Windows 11?

If you are utilizing the Google Chrome web browser, there are various extensions available that can assist in blocking websites. Extensions such as Block Site and StayFocusd are particularly effective in preventing access to distracting websites .

As another option, you can modify the Hosts file on Windows 11 to restrict access to sites that you prefer to avoid.

For a comprehensive guide on how to block a website using the Hosts file, as well as instructions on utilizing website blocker extensions, please refer to this guide – Block a Website in Chrome.

Although the process may seem extensive, it is straightforward to execute. Should you have any questions regarding this matter, please feel free to reach out in the comment section below.