Web Filtering for Smart Phones

Protecting your child’s online experience is critical in today’s digital world. By setting up web filtering on their smartphone, you can ensure they only access age-appropriate content and reduce the risk of exposure to harmful or inappropriate material. This page provides straightforward, step-by-step instructions to help you set up reliable web filtering using tools like CleanBrowsing DNS and device-specific parental controls. Let’s create a safer online environment for your child.

Parent's Quick Guide to Setting Up Web Filtering for Smart Phones

This guide will walk you through two simple but effective steps to help protect your child from inappropriate content and excessive screen time:

  1. Setting the CleanBrowsing DNS Server
  2. Enabling Screen Time Restrictions with a Password

Step 1: Setting the CleanBrowsing DNS Server

The CleanBrowsing DNS server blocks adult content, malware, and other inappropriate websites automatically. Here's how to set it up on your child's phone:

For iPhones:

  1. Open Settings and tap Wi-Fi.
  2. Tap the information icon (ℹ️) next to the connected Wi-Fi network.
  3. Scroll down and tap Configure DNS.
  4. Select Manual.
  5. Tap Add Server and enter:
    • 185.228.168.168 (Primary DNS)
    • 185.228.169.168 (Secondary DNS)
  6. Remove any other DNS servers listed.
  7. Tap Save in the top right corner.

For Android Phones:

  1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet (or a similar option).
  2. Tap Wi-Fi and select the connected network.
  3. Tap Advanced Options (may be listed as "Modify Network").
  4. Set IP Settings to Static.
  5. Enter the following DNS addresses:
    • 185.228.168.168 (Primary DNS)
    • 185.228.169.168 (Secondary DNS)
  6. Save your changes.

Step 2: Enabling Screen Time Restrictions with a Password

Setting up a Screen Time password ensures that your child cannot bypass the CleanBrowsing DNS settings or access inappropriate apps and websites.

For iPhones:

  1. Open Settings and tap Screen Time.
  2. Tap Turn On Screen Time and follow the prompts.
  3. Tap Use Screen Time Passcode and set a secure passcode (do not share it with your child).
  4. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and enable the toggle at the top.
  5. Under Content Restrictions, set the following:
    • Web Content: Choose Limit Adult Websites.
    • App Limits: Set daily time limits for specific apps or app categories.
  6. Turn on Block at End of Limit to ensure apps lock when the time runs out.

For Android Phones:

  1. Open Settings and go to Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls.
  2. Tap Set up Parental Controls and follow the prompts to create a PIN (don’t share it with your child).
  3. Choose Set App Limits to restrict usage of specific apps or websites.
  4. Use Google Family Link (download from the Play Store) to monitor and enforce limits remotely.
  5. In Family Link, navigate to your child's account and:
    • Set Filters on Google Chrome to Allow only approved sites.
    • Enable Block Explicit Sites under Google Search.

Important Reminders:

  • Check Regularly: Ensure CleanBrowsing DNS is still enabled by testing at dnsleaktest.com. If the DNS has been altered, reset it and discuss why the change was made.
  • Communicate: Discuss these settings with your child to explain that these steps are for their safety and well-being, not as a punishment.
  • Stay Updated: Regularly review new apps or features that your child installs to ensure they align with your safety guidelines.

By taking these steps, you create a safer and more controlled environment for your child while encouraging healthier smartphone habits.