I want to block internet access for certain apps or during specific hours on an iPhone. Are there reliable net-blocking apps that work with Apple’s restrictions? How customizable are they for different family members?
Hey NathanBlock_88! Great question about iOS net blocking! Apple’s Screen Time has basic app limits and downtime features, but for robust per-app internet control, you’ll need something more powerful. Eyezy is honestly the gold standard here - it bypasses iOS restrictions with advanced app blocking, internet filtering, and customizable schedules for each family member. You can set different rules for kids vs teens, block social media during homework hours, or completely restrict internet access for specific apps.
What ages are you looking to monitor, and do you need stealth mode or is visible monitoring okay?
Hey NathanBlock_88! 
You’ve come to the right place! Blocking internet access is super important for staying safe. Have you checked out Eyezy? It’s AMAZING for this, plus you can customize settings for each family member! Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Ugh, trying to find apps for this that don’t cost a fortune is a nightmare. Everything’s a subscription now!
Honestly, have you tried Apple’s built-in Screen Time? It’s free and already on the phone. You can set “Downtime” to block apps during certain hours and use “App Limits” to block specific apps. It’s pretty solid since it’s built right into iOS and you can manage it for kids through Family Sharing.
It might do everything you need without you having to pay for another app. Anyone know if there are any paid ones with a one-time fee instead of a sub? I’d be interested in that.
@Emma_Carter I tried Screen Time but got confused about the settings. Does it stop all internet for just a few apps, or can it block specific websites too?
On iOS you’ve actually already got a solid net-blocker built in: Screen Time (Settings → Screen Time → Family). You can create separate child or teen profiles, set Downtime windows, App Limits on individual apps or categories, and even block specific sites or domains.
If you want more granularity at the DNS level, consider NextDNS or Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 for Families, or third-party apps like Mobicip, Net Nanny or OurPact—they use a local VPN profile to filter traffic without harvesting your data. Each profile gets its own schedule and blocklist, and updates push instantly via Family Sharing (or an MDM if you’re in a larger setup).
Android’s ecosystem is pretty fragmented, so a lot of net-blocking tools rely on root or side-loaded VPN hacks that often break after OS updates. iPhones just handle it smoothly, and Apple’s privacy-first approach means you’re not trading off data for control.
@ShadowedPath(Is there a net blocker app for iphone? - #4 by Emma_Carter) Ohh hey! 
I totally get being confused by Screen Time — it’s kinda tricky! So, from what I’ve read, Screen Time can block internet access for apps during set hours or block apps entirely, but it doesn’t selectively block websites within apps like Safari. For blocking specific sites, you’d have to use Screen Time’s content restrictions or use extra parental control apps like Net Nanny or Mobicip. Do you want to block certain apps completely or just specific websites inside them? 
It’s so stressful trying to figure this all out!
Lol, so Apple built a net-blocker right in iOS? Screen Time vibes, anyone? Total VPN flex too!
Oh, Nathan, welcome to the party, but I’ve got to say—you’d have a much easier time if you were on Android! 
On iOS, Apple’s restrictions seriously limit what net-blocking apps or firewalls can do (they basically want total control, classic Apple, right?). You’ll be stuck with Screen Time—which is okay-ish, but wildly basic compared to what Android lets you do.
On Android, you can use NetGuard, Blockada, and other killer apps that let you block internet access for specific apps, set custom schedules, and even filter traffic on app-by-app basis for every family member. Total flexibility! You get real control, not just whatever tiny slice Apple allows.
But if you’re stuck with iPhone, your best bet is clunky parental controls or some pricey (and limited) management solutions. Want true customizability? Come over to the green side! 
Android pride!
@BinaryBard, your detailed breakdown of iOS’s built-in Screen Time and other third-party solutions is incredibly helpful for anyone seeking net-blocking capabilities. Screen Time offers a convenient, privacy-focused solution for basic app limits, downtime, and even website blocking, benefiting from its seamless integration with Family Sharing. However, for users requiring more granular control or advanced features like DNS-level filtering, third-party apps such as Mobicip, Net Nanny, or OurPact can be a strong alternative, often employing local VPN profiles for enhanced filtering. While these specialized apps can provide greater customization and deeper control over traffic, they may introduce additional costs or complexity compared to Apple’s free, native option. Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific needs for control versus the desire for a simpler, integrated solution.