Do you want to block YouTube on your Mac to ensure a safer and more controlled online experience? Fortunately, there are several effective methods you can employ to achieve this. In this article, we will explore four different methods to help you block YouTube on your Mac. Choose the one that suits your needs and preferences best.
Method 1: Canopy – The Ultimate Website Blocking Solution
If you want comprehensive control over the websites accessible on your Mac, Canopy is the solution for you. This powerful tool allows you to block any website across all your devices, including desktops and mobile devices. With Canopy, you can enjoy real-time blocking of inappropriate content, such as explicit images and pornography, to ensure a safer online environment.
To block YouTube using Canopy, here’s what you need to do:
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Start by creating an account on Canopy. You can try it out for free by clicking here.
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Download and install the Canopy for Kids app on your Mac.
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Once installed, open the Canopy web dashboard or Canopy for Parents app on your Mac.
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Select the child’s device you want to protect and go to the Protection Settings and then Advanced Filtering.
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On the left-hand side of the screen, select the child’s device and go to Protection Settings > Advanced Filtering.
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Add YouTube to the blocked websites list by adding its URL and selecting your preferred filtering level.
By following these steps, you can successfully block YouTube on your Mac using Canopy. The great advantage of Canopy is that it works across all your devices, ensuring consistent protection.
Method 2: Screen Time – Free and Simple Website Blocking
If you’re looking for a free and straightforward way to block YouTube on your Mac, Screen Time is the answer. This method is available on macOS 10.15 Catalina and later versions and allows you to block websites easily across different browsers.
To block YouTube with Screen Time, follow these steps:
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Open “System Preferences” on your Mac.
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Click on “Screen Time” and then “Options.”
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Turn on Screen Time and create a unique passcode for security.
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Go to “Content & Privacy” and apply privacy restrictions to your device.
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Under “Content,” select “Limit Adult Websites” to filter out inappropriate content.
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Customize the restrictions and add YouTube to the restricted category.
By enabling Screen Time and customizing the restrictions, you can effectively block YouTube on your Mac. This method is great for its simplicity and cost-free nature.
Method 3: Terminal – A Techie Approach to Blocking YouTube
For those who enjoy a more technical approach, blocking YouTube using Terminal is an option worth considering. This method modifies the host file of your macOS, restricting access to specific websites.
Follow these steps to block YouTube using Terminal:
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Launch the Terminal app on your Mac.
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Enter the following command:
sudo nano /etc/hosts. -
Enter your administrator password when prompted.
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Add the following lines to the hosts file:
127.0.1.1 youtube.com 127.0.1.1 www.youtube.com -
Press “Ctrl + O” and hit the “Return” key to save the changes.
By following these steps, you can block YouTube on your Mac using Terminal. This method may be a bit more complex but offers an extra layer of difficulty for tech-savvy individuals trying to bypass the block.
Method 4: Router Settings – Extreme Block for Added Security
If you want to block YouTube access for all devices connected to your home network, modifying the router settings is the way to go. This method provides an additional layer of security, making it more challenging to bypass the block.
To modify your router settings and block YouTube access, follow these steps:
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Open “System Preferences” on your Mac and navigate to the “Network” window.
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Click on “Wi-Fi” and then select “Advanced” and “TCP/IP.”
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Copy the IP address of your router.
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Enter the router’s IP address into your browser’s address bar.
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Log in to the router’s configuration page using your credentials.
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Explore the website blocking features within the settings and choose the option to block YouTube access.
By adjusting your router settings, you can effectively block YouTube on all devices connected to your home network. This method provides an extra layer of difficulty for would-be bypassers.
Blocking YouTube is just the beginning when it comes to creating a safer internet experience. Consider blocking other websites and content categories to further safeguard your online browsing. Examples include explicit content, gambling sites, violent content, hate speech platforms, and unregulated social media platforms.
Remember, open communication and clear guidelines are key to keeping your child safe online. Discuss the potential risks and dangers, set boundaries, and encourage your child to approach you with any concerns or questions about their online experiences. By fostering a safe environment and employing effective blocking techniques, you can promote a safer and more enjoyable online experience for everyone.
Stay tuned for more articles in this series, where we provide tips on blocking websites on different devices and platforms. And remember, for more detailed information and step-by-step guides, visit Mr Reviews.
