How do Schools Block Websites on Computer?

The digital transformation of classrooms has become a reality. Do you know why?

In 2025, the global digital classroom market is projected to grow from $184.21 billion in 2024 to $208.54 billion, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2%^[1]. This surge is the result of the widespread adoption of interactive smartboards, learning management systems (LMS), e-learning platforms, and the proliferation of personal computing devices in educational settings.

And at the center of this digital revolution are Windows-powered devices. As of March 2025, Windows dominated the global desktop operating system market with a share of 71.72%^[2]. 

Why? Because it strikes the perfect balance between cost-efficiency, device compatibility, and ease of IT administration, which makes it a go-to operating system for schools and other educational institutions.

However, this convenience also comes with some concerns, which brings us to the following question. 

Why is it important to block websites on Windows devices at schools?

Unrestricted internet access exposes students to distractions, harmful content, and cybersecurity risks. It is important that schools and other higher educational institutions enforce restrictions on inappropriate websites to ensure a safe digital learning environment. 

So let’s explore some practical methods to block websites in school computers and other educational institutions. 

How to block websites on computers at school?

Method 1. Implement browser extensions

Extensions like StayFocusd (Chrome) and LeechBlock (Firefox), are widely used in education to enforce digital discipline. These tools offer timers, scheduling, and even enforced cooldown periods to limit access to social media, video sites, or gaming platforms.

Step 1. Open Chrome and go to the Chrome Web Store. 
Step 2. Search and install your desired extension. 
Step 3. Click the extension icon and go to Settings.
Step 4. Add websites to the Blocked Sites list.
Step 5. Set daily time limits or full blocks.
Step 6. Use Challenge Mode or uninstall protection if available.

Method 2: Modify the hosts file

The hosts file is a local configuration file in Windows that maps hostnames (domain names) to IP addresses. By adding the required entries you block access to those websites. This redirects them to the local machine, which results in a “site can’t be reached” error.

Step 1. Press Windows + R, type notepad, then run as administrator.
Step 2. Open the file located at: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
Step 3. At the bottom, add entries like:

• 127.0.0.1 facebook.com  
• 127.0.0.1 www.facebook.com

Step 4. Save the file and restart the browser or system. 

Method 3: Configure the network firewall

At the network infrastructure level, schools can configure their firewall or router to block access to specific domains or entire categories (e.g., gambling, social networking). This method applies restrictions across all devices connected to the school’s network.

Step 1. Log in to your school’s router or firewall admin console.
Step 2. Go to URL Filtering or Content Filtering settings.
Step 3. Add specific websites or categories to block (e.g., “Social Media”).
Step 4. Save and apply the policy to the entire network or specific VLANs.
Step 5. Save and reboot the router/firewall if required.

Method 5. Use a UEM-integrated Windows MDM solution

A UEM integrated Windows MDM solution like Scalefusion allows IT administrators to manage website access across all school Windows devices from a single, centralized dashboard. Here’s what makes it ideal for schools:

1. Centralized policy enforcement – Roll out rules across all devices at once.
2. Cross-browser and system-wide control – Works regardless of which browser is used.
3. Granular URL allows/block capabilities – Allow only specific educational sites.
4. Tamper-proof configuration – Students can’t bypass or uninstall the MDM agent. 
5. Time-saving automation – Create device groups based on grade level, classroom, and apply website restriction rules.

Scalefusion Windows MDM: The smarter way to manage web access in schools

Scalefusion for Windows devices goes far beyond basic website blocking. It enables IT teams to define, enforce, and maintain secure browsing environments that align with school policies, without micromanagement. From a single dashboard, administrators can allow only approved websites, block the rest by default, and roll out these policies across hundreds of devices in minutes.

The result? Less manual work, fewer distractions, and a digitally disciplined classroom that supports real learning.

References 

1. TheBusinessResearchCompany

2. StatCounter