How do I block certain websites from being accessed through a browser?
Solution 1:
If you know the names of the sites, edit the hosts file (c:\windows\system32\drivers\etc\hosts) and put
127.0.0.1 www.site.com
127.0.0.1 site.com
This should stop him from visiting the sites.
That aside, there are many plugins available, but they would be easy to get around. I know if you use OpenDNS as your DNS provider (may need to change a setting on your pc or the router), If you sign up for a (free) account, I believe that you can filter games.
Solution 2:
- The OpenDNS way is a good idea -- a reference.
- PeerGuardian is a good application to check -- here is a review.
- This is a good option if your router cannot be easily configured for the purpose.
- ProCon Latte is a firefox specific addon (and brOOzi is another experimental addon)
- would not be good for a system wide filter (for any browser)
Solution 3:
Proxomitron is one of the most efficient web filtering applications under the sun.
on Siski's website you'll find well maintained configuration files.
Proxomitron is freeware and works for any browser.
Solution 4:
You can edit your C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\host file to mess with the DNS settings for this.
For example - add a line like so:
1.2.3.4 localhost
where 1.2.3.4 is the IP address of the gaming site in question. Assuming the little brother in question doesn't have admin access to the box - he shouldn't be able to change it.
Also - this will work for ANY network connection to the site (assuming the little brother doesn't go directly by IP).