How to Block Websites Using VPN

Blocking websites using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a powerful technique for enhancing digital privacy, enforcing content restrictions, and improving productivity. While many users associate VPNs primarily with bypassing geo-restrictions or securing public Wi-Fi connections, their ability to control and restrict website access is often overlooked. Whether you’re a parent managing screen time for children, an employer enforcing workplace focus, or an individual seeking to reduce online distractions, leveraging a VPN to block websites offers a robust, scalable, and technically sound solution.

Unlike browser-based blockers or host file modifications, which can be easily circumvented or disabled, a VPN-based approach operates at the network level. This means restrictions apply across all devices connected through the VPN tunnel—regardless of the operating system or application being used. Additionally, because the traffic is routed through an encrypted server, the blocking rules are enforced by the VPN provider or your own configured server, making them far more resilient to tampering.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the mechanics of blocking websites using a VPN, provide actionable step-by-step instructions, highlight best practices, recommend trusted tools, illustrate real-world applications, and answer common questions. By the end, you’ll have a clear, technically accurate understanding of how to implement website blocking via VPN—and why it’s superior to alternative methods.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding How VPNs Enable Website Blocking

Before diving into implementation, it’s essential to understand the underlying mechanism. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server. All internet traffic—web browsing, streaming, downloads—passes through this tunnel. When you use a VPN to block websites, you’re essentially configuring the server or client software to intercept and deny requests to specific domains or IP addresses.

This can be achieved in two primary ways:

• Server-side blocking: The VPN server itself filters DNS queries or HTTP requests before forwarding them to the public internet. If a requested domain matches a blocked list, the server returns a null response or redirects to a warning page.
• Client-side blocking: The VPN application on your device includes a built-in content filtering feature that intercepts traffic before it enters the tunnel.

Server-side blocking is more secure and comprehensive because it applies to every device using the VPN. Client-side blocking is easier to set up but can be bypassed if the user disables the VPN or uses another network.

Step 1: Choose a VPN Service with Content Filtering

Not all VPNs offer website blocking capabilities. Many consumer-grade services focus solely on encryption and location spoofing. To block websites effectively, you need a VPN that includes either:

• DNS-level filtering (blocks domains before they resolve)
• Integrated parental controls or content filters
• Custom configuration options (for advanced users)

Recommended services with built-in website blocking include:

• ExpressVPN – Offers “MediaStreamer” for DNS filtering and third-party integrations
• NordVPN – Includes “Threat Protection” with ad, tracker, and malware blocking
• Surfshark – Features “CleanWeb” that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites
• ProtonVPN – Provides “NetShield” for DNS filtering (available on paid plans)
• ControlD – A DNS-based filtering service that works with any VPN

If you’re using a self-hosted solution like OpenVPN or WireGuard on a personal server (e.g., a Raspberry Pi or VPS), you can implement custom blocking rules using tools like Pi-hole or AdGuard Home.

Step 2: Set Up DNS-Level Filtering (Recommended Method)

DNS-level filtering is the most effective and efficient way to block websites via VPN. It operates before a connection is even established to the target site, preventing the request from leaving your network entirely.

Option A: Use a VPN Provider with Built-In DNS Filtering

1. Sign up for a VPN service that includes DNS filtering (e.g., ProtonVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark).
2. Download and install the official app on your device (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or router).
3. Launch the app and log in.
4. Navigate to the settings menu. Look for options labeled “NetShield,” “CleanWeb,” “Threat Protection,” or “Content Filter.”
5. Enable the feature. Most services offer preset categories: Ads, Trackers, Malware, Adult Content, Social Media, etc.
6. Optionally, add custom domains to the blocklist. For example, enter “facebook.com” or “youtube.com” to block specific sites.
7. Connect to any server location. The filtering will activate automatically.

Option B: Use a Third-Party DNS Filtering Service with Your VPN

If your current VPN doesn’t offer filtering, pair it with a dedicated DNS filtering service like ControlD or AdGuard DNS.

1. Create an account at controld.com or adguard.com.
2. Set up your blocklist by adding domains you want to restrict (e.g., tiktok.com, instagram.com, gambling-site.com).
3. Obtain the DNS server addresses provided by the service (e.g., 176.103.130.130 and 176.103.130.131 for AdGuard).
4. On your device, manually configure the DNS settings:
• Windows: Go to Network Settings > Change Adapter Options > Right-click your connection > Properties > IPv4 > Use custom DNS.
• macOS: System Settings > Network > Select connection > Details > DNS > Add DNS servers.
• Android/iOS: Wi-Fi settings > Modify network > Advanced > IP Settings > Static > Enter DNS addresses.

5. Connect to your preferred VPN server. The DNS filtering will now apply to all traffic routed through the VPN.

Important: Ensure your VPN is always active. If the VPN disconnects, your device may revert to your ISP’s DNS, bypassing the filters.

Step 3: Configure a Self-Hosted VPN with Pi-hole (Advanced Users)

For maximum control, you can host your own VPN server and integrate it with Pi-hole—a network-wide ad blocker that also blocks websites by domain.

Requirements:

• A Linux-based server (Ubuntu 22.04 recommended)
• A Raspberry Pi or cloud VPS (e.g., DigitalOcean, Linode)
• Basic command-line knowledge

Steps:

1. Install OpenVPN or WireGuard on your server. Follow official documentation for setup.
2. Install Pi-hole on the same server:

curl -sSL https://install.pi-hole.net | bash

3. During installation, choose “Do not change your current DNS settings” if you’re using a static IP.
4. After installation, access the Pi-hole admin panel via your server’s IP (e.g., http://192.168.1.100/admin).
5. In the Pi-hole dashboard, go to “Blocklists” and add custom domain lists:
• https://raw.githubusercontent.com/StevenBlack/hosts/master/hosts
• https://raw.githubusercontent.com/AdguardTeam/AdGuardSDNSFilter/master/Filters/overview.txt

6. Under “Blacklist,” manually add domains to block (e.g., twitter.com, reddit.com).
7. Set Pi-hole’s DNS (e.g., 192.168.1.100) as the DNS server in your OpenVPN/WireGuard server configuration.
8. Restart the VPN server and reconnect clients.
9. Test by attempting to access a blocked site. You should see a “Blocked by Pi-hole” message.

This setup blocks websites for every device connected to your VPN—phones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs—all without installing software on each device.

Step 4: Apply Rules Across Multiple Devices

Once your VPN-based blocking is configured, it applies automatically to all devices using the connection. However, for consistent enforcement:

• Use the VPN on your home router. This ensures all devices on your network—smart TVs, gaming consoles, IoT devices—are filtered.
• Configure the VPN as the default connection on all mobile and desktop devices.
• Disable local DNS overrides (e.g., avoid using Google DNS 8.8.8.8 or Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 outside the VPN).
• Enable “Kill Switch” in your VPN app to prevent traffic leaks if the connection drops.

Step 5: Test and Validate Blocking

After configuration, verify that your rules are working:

1. Try accessing a blocked site (e.g., facebook.com). You should receive a timeout, connection error, or “blocked” page.
2. Use a DNS leak test tool (e.g., dnsleaktest.com) to confirm your traffic is routed through your VPN and DNS filtering server.
3. Check your VPN app’s dashboard for statistics on blocked requests.
4. Use a different network (e.g., mobile data) to confirm that the site loads normally without the VPN—proving the block is VPN-dependent.

If a site still loads, double-check:

• Whether the domain was entered correctly (include “www.” if needed)
• If the site uses IP addresses or CDNs that bypass domain-based filtering
• Whether your device is using a different DNS server

Best Practices

Use Domain-Level Blocking Over IP-Based Blocking

Blocking by IP address is unreliable because websites frequently change servers, use CDNs (Content Delivery Networks), or host multiple domains on the same IP. For example, YouTube may resolve to dozens of IP addresses globally. Domain-based filtering ensures consistent results regardless of infrastructure changes.

Update Blocklists Regularly

Malicious, phishing, and adult sites are constantly created. Subscribe to curated blocklists from trusted sources like StevenBlack, Disconnect, or AdGuard. Update your Pi-hole or DNS filtering service weekly to maintain effectiveness.

Combine with Device-Level Controls for Redundancy

While VPN-based blocking is robust, combining it with OS-level restrictions (e.g., Screen Time on iOS, Family Link on Android, or Windows Family Safety) creates layered protection. This is especially useful for children’s devices, where a determined user might attempt to uninstall the VPN.

Avoid Over-Blocking

Blocking too many sites can hinder productivity or cause frustration. Start with high-risk categories (malware, gambling, adult content) and gradually add social media or entertainment sites based on observed usage. Maintain a whitelist for essential services like banking, education, or work tools.

Use Different Profiles for Different Users

If you’re managing multiple users (e.g., children, employees), create separate blocklists:

• Children: Block social media, gaming, and adult content
• Employees: Block streaming and shopping sites during work hours
• Personal: Block only malicious or addictive sites

Some VPN services allow multiple user profiles. With self-hosted solutions like Pi-hole, you can assign different DNS servers to different devices using DHCP reservations.

Monitor Usage and Adjust Rules

Most filtering tools provide analytics. Review logs weekly to see which sites are being blocked most frequently. This reveals patterns—e.g., a child accessing gambling sites or an employee visiting job boards during work hours—and helps you refine your rules.

Enable HTTPS Filtering (If Supported)

Some advanced DNS filters (like ControlD or Pi-hole with DNS-over-HTTPS) can inspect encrypted traffic to block sites even when accessed via HTTPS. This prevents users from bypassing filters using encrypted DNS protocols like DoH or DoT.

Secure Your VPN Server

If you’re self-hosting, ensure your server is updated, uses strong passwords or SSH keys, and has a firewall enabled (e.g., UFW on Linux). A compromised server could allow unauthorized access or bypass your filters.

Inform Users Transparently

Whether you’re blocking sites for children, employees, or yourself, transparency reduces resistance. Explain why certain sites are restricted. For example: “We’re blocking social media during homework hours to improve focus.” This fosters cooperation rather than rebellion.

Tools and Resources

VPN Services with Built-In Website Blocking

• ProtonVPN – NetShield: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware. Free tier available.
• NordVPN – Threat Protection: Includes domain-based blocking for malicious and phishing sites.
• Surfshark – CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware. Unlimited devices.
• ExpressVPN – MediaStreamer: DNS-based filtering for streaming services; can be extended for blocking via custom DNS.
• ControlD – Not a traditional VPN, but a DNS filtering service that works with any VPN. Offers granular control, scheduling, and user profiles.

DNS Filtering Services

• Pi-hole – Open-source network-wide ad blocker. Self-hosted. Integrates with any VPN.
• AdGuard Home – Similar to Pi-hole, with a modern UI and mobile app for remote management.
• NextDNS – Cloud-based DNS filtering with detailed analytics, device profiles, and scheduling.
• OpenDNS (Cisco Umbrella) – Enterprise-grade DNS filtering with customizable categories.

Blocklist Sources

Add these to Pi-hole, AdGuard, or NextDNS for enhanced filtering:

• StevenBlack’s Hosts File – Aggregates multiple blocklists for ads, malware, and adult content.
• AdGuard DNS Filter – High-quality, regularly updated filter lists.
• KADhosts – Polish-focused but includes global malicious domains.
• 404NotF0und’s BlockList – Focused on social media, trackers, and telemetry.

Testing and Validation Tools

• DNSLeakTest.com – Confirms your DNS is routed through your filtering server.
• WhatIsMyIP.com – Verifies your IP address is masked by the VPN.
• BrowserLeaks DNS – Checks for DNS leaks over IPv4/IPv6.
• Encrypted SNI Test – Ensures your browser isn’t bypassing filters via encrypted SNI.

Automation and Scheduling Tools

For advanced users:

• Cron Jobs – Automate Pi-hole updates or blocklist refreshes on Linux.
• IFTTT or Zapier – Trigger DNS changes based on time of day (e.g., block YouTube after 9 PM).
• Home Assistant – Integrate VPN and filtering rules into smart home automation.

Real Examples

Example 1: Parental Control for a Teenager

A mother wants to reduce her 15-year-old’s screen time on TikTok and Instagram. She subscribes to Surfshark VPN and enables CleanWeb. She adds “tiktok.com,” “instagram.com,” and “snapchat.com” to the custom blocklist. She configures the VPN on the teen’s iPad and enables the kill switch. She also sets up a weekly schedule to temporarily disable the block on weekends.

Result: The teen attempts to access TikTok during school hours but receives a “site blocked” message. The mother reviews the weekly stats and sees 47 blocked attempts—evidence that the system is working. She discusses the results with her child, reinforcing healthy habits.

Example 2: Workplace Productivity Policy

A small software company wants to minimize distractions during core work hours (9 AM–5 PM). The IT manager deploys ControlD on the company’s Wi-Fi router. He creates a profile called “Work Hours” that blocks YouTube, Reddit, Twitter, and e-commerce sites. He sets a schedule to activate this profile Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM. Outside these hours, the filters are disabled.

Result: Network analytics show a 62% reduction in non-work-related traffic during work hours. Employees report improved focus. No one complains because the system is transparent and time-bound.

Example 3: Self-Improvement for Digital Detox

A freelance writer struggles with compulsive news checking. He sets up a self-hosted OpenVPN server with Pi-hole. He blocks all news sites (bbc.com, cnn.com, nytimes.com) and social media. He configures his laptop and phone to auto-connect to the VPN on startup. He also enables a “distraction mode” that only allows access to writing tools and research databases.

Result: Within two weeks, his daily screen time drops by 3.5 hours. He regains focus and completes projects faster. He keeps the setup active as a long-term productivity tool.

Example 4: Blocking Malware and Phishing Sites

A small business owner uses NordVPN’s Threat Protection to block malicious domains. One day, an employee receives a phishing email with a link to “secure-login-bank[.]xyz.” The link is automatically blocked by NordVPN’s threat database before it loads. No credentials are stolen. The company avoids a potential breach.

Result: The business adds a policy requiring all devices to use NordVPN with Threat Protection enabled. Annual IT security costs drop by 40% due to reduced phishing incidents.

FAQs

Can I block websites on all devices using a single VPN?

Yes. If you install the VPN on your router or use a DNS filtering service like Pi-hole or ControlD, all devices connected to your network will be subject to the same blocking rules—regardless of whether they’re smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, or gaming consoles.

Does blocking via VPN work on encrypted websites (HTTPS)?

Yes. DNS-level filtering blocks websites by domain name before the encrypted connection is established. Even if a site uses HTTPS, the request to resolve its domain is intercepted and denied. The browser never reaches the point of establishing an encrypted session.

Can users bypass VPN-based website blocking?

It’s difficult but not impossible. Users may attempt to:

• Disable the VPN
• Use a different network (e.g., mobile data)
• Use a browser with DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) configured manually

To counter this, enable a kill switch, use router-level filtering, and disable DoH in browsers if possible. For maximum security, combine VPN filtering with device-level parental controls.

Will blocking websites slow down my internet?

Minimal impact. DNS filtering adds negligible latency—typically under 10 milliseconds. In fact, blocking ads and trackers often speeds up browsing by reducing data load. The only slowdown comes from the encryption overhead of the VPN itself, which is usually under 10–15% on modern hardware.

Is it legal to block websites using a VPN?

Yes, as long as you’re not violating terms of service or laws. Individuals can block sites for personal use. Employers can enforce workplace policies. Parents can restrict children’s access. However, blocking access to lawful content in violation of local laws (e.g., blocking news sites in a country with censorship laws) may carry legal risks. Always comply with applicable regulations.

Can I unblock a site temporarily?

Yes. Most services allow you to remove a domain from the blocklist or pause filtering for a set time. With Pi-hole or NextDNS, you can disable filtering for a specific device or schedule temporary access.

Do I need a paid VPN to block websites?

Not necessarily. Free services like ProtonVPN and Windscribe offer limited DNS filtering. However, paid plans typically provide better performance, more blocklist options, and customer support. For advanced control, self-hosted solutions like Pi-hole are free but require technical setup.

What if a site uses a different domain name or subdomain?

Block the root domain (e.g., “youtube.com”) to cover most subdomains (e.g., “m.youtube.com,” “www.youtube.com”). Some filtering tools auto-detect subdomains. If not, add key subdomains manually to ensure full coverage.

Can I block websites on public Wi-Fi using a VPN?

Yes. When connected to public Wi-Fi, activating your VPN routes all traffic through your filtered server. This ensures your blocking rules remain active even on untrusted networks.

How do I know if my blocklist is working correctly?

Test by attempting to access a blocked site. Check your filtering service’s dashboard for logged blocks. Use DNS leak tools to confirm your traffic is routed through the correct server. Consistent “blocked” responses and high block counts indicate proper configuration.

Conclusion

Blocking websites using a VPN is a sophisticated, scalable, and highly effective method for managing digital access. Whether your goal is to protect children, enhance workplace productivity, safeguard against malware, or reclaim personal focus, leveraging a VPN for content control offers advantages that traditional browser extensions or host file edits simply cannot match.

By implementing DNS-level filtering—either through a premium VPN service, a third-party DNS provider, or a self-hosted solution like Pi-hole—you create a network-wide barrier that operates independently of individual devices. This means your rules are enforced consistently, even on smart TVs, gaming systems, or IoT devices that lack native filtering capabilities.

Best practices such as regular blocklist updates, transparent communication, and layered controls ensure your system remains effective over time. Real-world examples demonstrate how individuals and organizations have successfully reduced distractions, prevented breaches, and improved well-being through this approach.

While no system is 100% foolproof, a properly configured VPN-based website blocker significantly raises the barrier to unwanted access. It transforms your network from a passive conduit into an active guardian of digital intent.

Start small—enable DNS filtering on your existing VPN. Monitor the results. Refine your blocklist. Expand to more devices. Over time, you’ll not only block unwanted sites—you’ll reclaim control over your digital environment.