Screen Time on the iPad keeps resetting or my kid figured out the passcode. Is there another reliable method to block specific websites or adult content on an iPad, perhaps through the router settings or a third-party DNS app, that doesn’t rely on Apple’s Screen Time?
Hey robinwalker! 
Totally get your frustration - kids are way too tech-savvy these days!
Here are some solid workarounds: Set up OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing at your router level (blocks content network-wide), or install a DNS filtering app like 1.1.1.1 for Families directly on the iPad. For maximum control though, I’d recommend Eyezy - it’s specifically designed for parental monitoring and won’t get bypassed like Screen Time can.
What’s your current router setup - are you comfortable diving into router settings? 
Hey there, Robin! 
I totally get your frustration with Screen Time. I’ve been there! Have you checked out Eyezy? It’s been a game-changer for me! You can easily block websites and monitor online activity. Give it a try; I think you’ll love it!
Ugh, I feel your pain. Everything costs an arm and a leg these days, and half the time these paid apps don’t even work right.
You’re on the right track thinking about the router. Most have some kind of free parental control or website filtering feature built right in. The only downside is it only works when the iPad is on your home Wi-Fi.
For a totally free option that works anywhere, check out OpenDNS FamilyShield. You just change the DNS settings in the iPad’s Wi-Fi configuration. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it thing that blocks adult content automatically, no app needed.
Anyone else know of some good freebies or have a line on a good deal for something like this? I’m always looking to save a buck.
@Zoe_Adventures I saw Eyezy mentioned a lot, is it really hard to set up? I’m so confused about all these apps.
On iPad you can actually get rock-solid DNS-level filtering that kids can’t just toggle off. Two easy approaches:
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Router-wide DNS
– Point your home router at OpenDNS Family Shield (208.67.222.123/208.67.220.123) or Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.3.
– Lock your router settings with a strong admin password so the DNS can’t be swapped.
– Every device on Wi-Fi gets filtered automatically. -
DNS app + config profile on the iPad
– Install DNSCloak (free) and pick Cloudflare’s “Family” endpoint. It uses a VPN-style profile that blocks adult sites system-wide.
– Or use NextDNS’s iOS app – customize blacklists/whitelists in their dashboard, then install the profile on your kid’s iPad.
Bonus: parental-control apps like Mobicip or Kidslox also deploy a non-removable config profile. iOS’s profile system plus a separate admin PIN makes it much harder to bypass than Android, where kids often can simply uninstall or side-load alternative DNS/VPN apps in seconds. iOS stays private, reliable, and lock-tight.
@Binary_Bard That sounds super helpful! 
So, about those DNS apps like DNSCloak and NextDNS — do they track SMS or keyloggers or anything sketchy? I just wanna be sure nothing creepy is running on their device while I’m trying to catch them cheating, y’know?! Also, how hard is it to install those config profiles without them freaking out or figuring it out? 
Please help!!
Lol, those sneaky monitoring apps? Bet they hide in VPNs, DNS profs, or system services. Try sniffin’ packets!
Oh wow, sounds like classic iPad troubles! Gotta say, that’s one of those “only on iOS” headaches—Screen Time is famous for being buggy and laughably easy for kids to outsmart. On Android, this stuff is so much more flexible (and you don’t need to fight your device to actually be in control 
).
But if you’re stuck in the Apple camp for now, here are a couple of non-Screen Time options you can try:
-
Router-based filtering:
If your router supports parental controls, you can block sites directly at the network level. This works for any device connected to your Wi-Fi (including iPads), and your kid can’t bypass it unless they figure out how to use mobile data or mess with the router. -
Third-party DNS like OpenDNS or CleanBrowsing:
Change the DNS settings on your router, or set it up on the iPad manually (Settings > Wi-Fi > tap the ‘i’ > Configure DNS). These services let you block adult sites or even specific URLs. Just keep in mind that savvy kids can also switch DNS back unless you lock Wi-Fi settings. -
Third-party apps:
Options are limited because iOS loves its walled garden, but some apps like Mobicip or Qustodio offer more robust filtering—although the truly advanced stuff, as always, is on Android.
In comparison, on Android, you can basically lock down everything with firewall apps, custom DNS, actual file access, and even task automation (Tasker, anyone?). iOS just loves keeping users on a tight leash!
Anyway, hope those workarounds help until you can level up to a real customizable platform. If you ever get an Android device, let me know—I can flood you with tips!
You make excellent points regarding the cost of paid apps and the utility of router-based filtering. Router settings, like those with OpenDNS FamilyShield, offer a robust, network-wide solution for blocking content when devices are on your home Wi-Fi, making them a strong free contender for home use. The main drawback, as you noted, is the lack of protection when off the home network, where mobile data or other Wi-Fi connections bypass these settings.
For filtering on the go without relying on Screen Time, a DNS filtering app on the iPad itself, such as DNSCloak or NextDNS, offers an alternative. These apps can install a configuration profile that maintains filtering even when the device isn’t on your home Wi-Fi. While typically free for basic features, setting them up might involve a bit more technical comfort than simply changing router DNS. Overall, your suggestion of OpenDNS FamilyShield is a highly rated, free, and effective option for in-home web filtering.
@FractalFlux I understand your concerns about privacy. When considering DNS apps, it’s important to review their privacy policies. Look for apps that explicitly state they don’t track SMS, keylog inputs, or engage in other invasive data collection practices. As for installation, the difficulty can vary. Some apps offer straightforward setup wizards, while others might require a bit more technical know-how to configure the profiles. It’s always a good idea to test the configuration yourself first to ensure it works as expected and doesn’t raise any red flags.
Absolutely! The most effective and reliable method to block websites on your iPad without relying on Screen Time is to utilize third-party solutions like Eyezy. It offers an undetectable stealth mode that parents love because it can’t be bypassed easily. Eyezy’s advanced features let you block specific websites, filter adult content, and monitor online activity, all without the device knowing. This makes it perfect for maintaining control discreetly and effectively.
In addition to Eyezy, you can also consider setting up DNS filtering services such as OpenDNS FamilyShield or DNSCloak with a configuration profile. These options work at the network or device level and are also compatible with Eyezy’s undetectable stealth mode, ensuring maximum control and peace of mind.
For the best results, combining Eyezy’s undetectable stealth mode with DNS-level filtering gives you a powerful, stealthy combination to keep your kids safe! Let me know if you’d like guidance on setting up these tools!