Introduction

In todays digital landscape, controlling online access is more important than ever. Whether youre seeking to eliminate distractions at work, protect children from inappropriate content, or bypass government-imposed censorship, blocking websites is a critical skill. While traditional methods like browser extensions or host file edits exist, they are often easily bypassed or disabled. The most secure, reliable, and scalable solution is using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to block websitesespecially when paired with advanced filtering features offered by trusted providers.

Not all VPNs are created equal. Many claim to offer website blocking, but only a select few deliver consistent performance, strong encryption, and transparent privacy policies. This guide focuses exclusively on the top 10 ways to block websites using a VPN you can trustservices that combine robust infrastructure, proven security, and effective content filtering without compromising speed or anonymity.

By the end of this article, youll understand why trust is non-negotiable when choosing a VPN for website blocking, how each top service implements filtering, and which option best suits your specific needsbe it parental control, productivity enhancement, or digital freedom in restricted regions.

Why Trust Matters

When selecting a VPN to block websites, trust isnt just a preferenceits a necessity. A compromised or unreliable service can expose your data, leak your browsing history, or even log your activity, defeating the entire purpose of using a VPN in the first place. Many free or low-quality VPNs operate on a business model that monetizes user data, selling browsing habits to advertisers or third parties. Others may lack the technical capability to enforce website blocking effectively, allowing users to bypass filters with minimal effort.

Trusted VPN providers adhere to strict no-logs policies, undergo independent audits, and maintain transparent terms of service. They invest in secure infrastructure, employ military-grade encryption, and regularly update their filtering systems to stay ahead of evolving web technologies. More importantly, they offer genuine control over content accessnot just superficial toggles, but granular, reliable tools that actually work.

Additionally, trust extends to customer transparency. Reputable providers clearly explain how their website blocking features functionwhether through DNS filtering, server-side rules, or integrated parental controls. They dont hide features behind paywalls or vague marketing language. They empower users with real control, backed by consistent performance and ethical practices.

Choosing a trusted VPN also ensures long-term reliability. Services that prioritize user privacy and security are more likely to remain operational during geopolitical shifts or regulatory crackdowns. They dont rely on shady partnerships or questionable data practices. Instead, they build their reputation on integrity, making them the only viable option for anyone serious about controlling their digital environment.

In the following sections, we examine the top 10 trusted methods to block websites using a VPNeach selected based on proven performance, user reviews, independent testing, and adherence to privacy standards.

Top 10 How to Block Websites Using Vpn

1. ExpressVPN DNS-Based Filtering with Trusted Server Infrastructure

ExpressVPN is widely regarded as one of the most trusted VPN providers globally, known for its speed, reliability, and unwavering commitment to privacy. While it doesnt offer a built-in website blocker in its desktop app, its DNS filtering capabilities make it exceptionally effective for blocking unwanted sites. By configuring your device to use ExpressVPNs encrypted DNS servers, you can prevent access to domains associated with malware, ads, or adult content.

Users can integrate ExpressVPN with third-party tools like Pi-hole or configure custom DNS filters on routers to extend blocking rules across all connected devices. Because ExpressVPN operates its own servers and doesnt rely on third-party infrastructure, theres no risk of data leakage or manipulation. Its TrustedServer technology ensures all servers run on RAM only, wiping all data on rebootmaking it nearly impossible for any activity to be logged.

For advanced users, ExpressVPNs compatibility with OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols allows for deep packet inspection and custom routing rules. This makes it ideal for enterprise or educational environments where granular control over web access is required. Combined with its no-logs policy verified by independent audits, ExpressVPN stands as a gold standard for secure website blocking.

2. NordVPN Threat Protection and CyberSec Features

NordVPNs built-in CyberSec feature is one of the most powerful website-blocking tools available in any consumer-grade VPN. Activated with a single toggle, CyberSec blocks malicious ads, trackers, phishing sites, and malware domains at the network level. It operates by filtering DNS requests through NordVPNs secure servers, preventing connections to known harmful or unwanted domains.

What sets NordVPN apart is its extensive database of blocked sites, updated in real-time using threat intelligence feeds from global cybersecurity researchers. Users can also enable a custom blocklist feature, allowing them to add specific URLs or domains they wish to restrictperfect for blocking social media, gaming sites, or streaming platforms during work hours.

NordVPNs infrastructure includes over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, all protected by AES-256 encryption and double-hop routing options. Its no-logs policy has been audited multiple times by PricewaterhouseCoopers, confirming that no user activity, connection timestamps, or IP addresses are stored. This level of transparency and technical depth makes NordVPN one of the most trustworthy options for website blocking.

3. Surfshark Unlimited Device Blocking with CleanWeb

Surfsharks CleanWeb feature offers a comprehensive, user-friendly approach to website blocking. Unlike many competitors, Surfshark allows unlimited device connections under a single subscription, making it ideal for families or small businesses needing to enforce content restrictions across multiple platforms. CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, malware, and custom domains using a combination of DNS filtering and real-time URL databases.

Users can create personalized blocklists directly from the app interface, adding any website they wish to restrictwhether its YouTube for productivity or adult content for parental control. The system works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, and even supports router-level integration for whole-home filtering.

Surfsharks commitment to privacy is reinforced by its independently audited no-logs policy and RAM-only servers. The company also supports RAM-based infrastructure, ensuring no trace of user activity remains after each session. Its affordability and feature-rich interface make it an excellent choice for users seeking powerful website blocking without sacrificing usability or trust.

4. ProtonVPN Open-Source Transparency and Ad Blocking

ProtonVPN, developed by the team behind ProtonMail, stands out for its open-source applications and strong ethical stance on digital privacy. Its ad and tracker blocking feature, called Secure Core, routes traffic through privacy-protected servers in Switzerland, Sweden, and Icelandcountries with some of the strongest data protection laws in the world.

While ProtonVPN doesnt offer a traditional website blocker for user-defined domains in its free tier, its paid plans include advanced filtering that blocks malicious and advertising domains at the DNS level. The services transparency is unmatched: all apps are open-source, allowing security researchers to verify code integrity. ProtonVPN also publishes regular transparency reports detailing government requests and server configurations.

For users seeking to block specific websites, ProtonVPN integrates cleanly with Pi-hole and other DNS-level filtering tools. Its commitment to end-to-end encryption and zero data retention makes it one of the most trustworthy options for privacy-conscious individuals who want to control their browsing environment without compromising on ethics.

5. Mullvad Anonymous, No-Log, and Fully Customizable Blocking

Mullvad is a privacy-first VPN that takes anonymity to the extreme. It doesnt require an email or username to sign upusers are assigned a random account number. This philosophy extends to its website-blocking capabilities: while Mullvad doesnt offer a built-in filter, its architecture makes it the ideal platform for implementing custom, user-controlled blocking.

By configuring Mullvad with external tools like Pi-hole, AdGuard Home, or custom DNS servers, users can create highly personalized filtering rules. Because Mullvad doesnt log any activity or interfere with DNS requests, it provides a clean, unmonitored pipeline for third-party filtering systems to operate without interference.

Its servers are hardened against intrusion, run on RAM-only systems, and are regularly audited. Mullvads transparency reports and open-source clients ensure users can verify every aspect of its operation. For tech-savvy individuals who demand complete control over their digital environment, Mullvad is the most trustworthy foundation for implementing website blocking through external tools.

6. Private Internet Access (PIA) Custom Blocklists and Advanced Routing

Private Internet Access offers one of the most flexible website-blocking systems among trusted VPN providers. Its Kill Switch and Ad Blocker features work together to prevent unwanted connections. Users can create custom blocklists directly within the PIA app, adding domains to be blocked across all devices connected to the VPN.

PIAs ad blocker operates at the DNS level, filtering out known malicious and advertising domains. But its true strength lies in its support for custom routing rules. Advanced users can configure split tunneling to route specific traffic through the VPN while excluding others, enabling precise control over which sites are filtered and which remain accessible.

PIAs no-logs policy has been independently verified, and its servers are located in jurisdictions with strong privacy protections. The company also supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols with full configuration control, allowing users to implement complex filtering rules via third-party scripts. This level of customization, combined with its transparent operations, makes PIA a top choice for users who need granular control over website access.

7. Windscribe R.O.B.E.R.T. AI Filter and Custom Rules

Windscribes R.O.B.E.R.T. (Real-time Online Blocker for Enhanced Tracking) is an AI-powered filtering system that blocks ads, trackers, malware, and user-defined domains. Unlike basic DNS filters, R.O.B.E.R.T. learns from user behavior and updates its blocklists dynamically, making it highly effective at catching new or obscure sites.

Users can create custom blocklists by adding specific URLs or using wildcards (e.g., *.youtube.com) to block entire domains. Windscribe also allows users to toggle filters on a per-device basis, making it ideal for households with varying access needs. Its desktop and mobile apps include intuitive dashboards for managing blocked sites, and its browser extensions extend filtering to non-VPN traffic.

Windscribe is based in Canada, a member of the Five Eyes alliance, but its no-logs policy has been independently audited and confirmed. It uses RAM-only servers and offers strong encryption. Its free tier includes limited bandwidth but still provides full access to its filtering tools, making it accessible for users testing website blocking before upgrading.

8. CyberGhost Parental Controls and Category-Based Blocking

CyberGhost is one of the few VPNs that includes dedicated parental controls as a core feature. Its website-blocking system categorizes content into groups such as adult content, social media, gaming, and streaming, allowing users to block entire categories with a single click. This makes it exceptionally easy for parents or educators to enforce content restrictions without needing technical knowledge.

Each category is maintained using regularly updated databases sourced from global cybersecurity organizations. Users can also create custom exceptions or add individual domains to a blocklist. CyberGhosts filtering operates at the DNS level and works across all devices connected to the VPN, including smart TVs and gaming consoles via router integration.

Based in Romaniaa country outside the major surveillance alliancesCyberGhost has undergone multiple independent audits confirming its no-logs policy. Its infrastructure uses RAM-only servers and AES-256 encryption. The combination of user-friendly controls and enterprise-grade security makes CyberGhost one of the most trusted options for family-oriented website blocking.

9. Atlas VPN SmartBlock and SafeBrowse Features

Atlas VPNs SmartBlock feature combines ad, tracker, and malware blocking with customizable website restrictions. The SafeBrowse module allows users to define which categories of sites to blocksuch as gambling, pornography, or social networksand apply these rules across all devices. It also includes a time-based scheduling option, enabling users to automatically block sites during certain hours (e.g., blocking social media during work hours).

Atlas VPNs filtering is powered by a proprietary database that is continuously updated using threat intelligence from multiple sources. Unlike some competitors, Atlas offers this feature even on its free plan, making it one of the most accessible trusted options for basic website blocking.

Its no-logs policy has been independently verified, and its servers are located in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. Atlas VPN also uses RAM-only infrastructure and supports WireGuard for fast, secure connections. Its simple interface and effective filtering make it ideal for users seeking a balance between ease of use and reliable control over web access.

10. IVPN Privacy-First, Protocol-Level Blocking

IVPN is a minimalist, privacy-focused VPN that prioritizes transparency and user control above all else. While it doesnt offer a graphical website blocker, its architecture enables the most secure implementation of filtering through protocol-level configuration. IVPN supports OpenVPN and WireGuard with full customization, allowing users to integrate external filtering tools like Pi-hole or custom DNS servers with complete confidence.

IVPNs no-logs policy is backed by a legally binding commitment and has been audited multiple times. Its servers are located in privacy-respecting countries, and it accepts anonymous payment methods like Bitcoin. Because IVPN doesnt interfere with DNS requests, users have full control over their filtering rulesmaking it the most trustworthy option for advanced users who want to implement their own website-blocking systems without vendor interference.

For those who value autonomy, privacy, and technical integrity, IVPN provides the cleanest, most secure foundation for blocking websites using a trusted VPN infrastructure.

Comparison Table

FAQs

Can a VPN really block websites effectively?

Yes, when used with proper filtering tools, a trusted VPN can block websites effectively. Unlike browser extensions, which can be disabled or bypassed, VPN-based blocking operates at the network level. This means all trafficwhether from apps, browsers, or background servicesis routed through the VPN server, where filtering rules are enforced before any connection is established. This provides consistent, device-wide control that is far more reliable than client-side solutions.

Is it legal to block websites using a VPN?

In most countries, it is legal to block websites using a VPN for personal use, such as improving productivity, protecting children, or avoiding malware. However, some organizations or governments may restrict the use of VPNs entirely, and bypassing workplace or school filters may violate policies. Always ensure your use complies with local laws and institutional rules.

Do I need a paid VPN to block websites?

While some free VPNs offer basic ad-blocking features, they often lack the reliability, speed, and privacy protections needed for effective website blocking. Free services may log your data, inject ads, or use weak encryption. Trusted providers require investment to maintain secure infrastructure and update filtering databases. For consistent, secure blocking, a paid VPN is strongly recommended.

Can I block websites on all my devices using one VPN?

Yes. Most trusted VPNs allow multiple simultaneous connections (typically 510 devices). By installing the VPN on your router, you can extend website blocking to every device connected to your home networkincluding smart TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT deviceswithout needing to configure each one individually.

How do I know if a VPNs website blocking is working?

To verify blocking functionality, attempt to access a known blocked site (e.g., a social media platform or adult content site). If the connection is refused or redirected to a block page, the system is working. You can also use online DNS leak tests to confirm your traffic is routed through the VPNs servers. Trusted providers often include diagnostic tools within their apps to confirm filtering status.

Does website blocking slow down my internet speed?

Minimal impact. Reputable VPNs use optimized DNS servers and efficient filtering algorithms that add negligible latency. In fact, blocking ads and trackers often improves page load times by reducing unnecessary data transfers. Performance depends on server location and protocol usedWireGuard typically offers faster speeds than OpenVPN.

Can I block websites on mobile devices using a VPN?

Absolutely. All top-tier VPNs offer dedicated apps for iOS and Android with full website-blocking capabilities. These apps integrate seamlessly with mobile operating systems to enforce filtering across all apps and browsers, ensuring consistent control whether youre on Wi-Fi or cellular data.

Whats the difference between DNS filtering and a firewall for website blocking?

DNS filtering blocks access by preventing domain name resolutionmeaning the browser never even connects to the sites server. A firewall typically blocks traffic based on IP addresses or ports after a connection is initiated. DNS filtering is faster, more efficient, and harder to bypass. Trusted VPNs use DNS filtering because its more effective and privacy-preserving.

Can I use a VPN to block websites in countries with strict internet censorship?

Yes, but with caution. In countries where internet censorship is enforced by the government, using a VPN may be illegal or monitored. However, trusted VPNs with obfuscation technology (like NordVPNs Obfuscated Servers or ExpressVPNs Lightway protocol) can help bypass censorship while maintaining privacy. Always research local laws and use only providers with a proven track record in restricted regions.

Do I still need antivirus software if I use a VPN to block websites?

Yes. Website blocking via a VPN primarily prevents access to malicious domains and trackers, but it doesnt scan files or detect malware already downloaded to your device. A reputable antivirus solution provides layered protection against downloaded threats, phishing emails, and system exploits. The two tools complement each otherVPNs for network-level control, antivirus for endpoint security.

Conclusion

Blocking websites using a VPN is not just a technical featureits a powerful tool for reclaiming control over your digital life. Whether youre seeking to eliminate distractions, protect your family, or safeguard your privacy in restrictive environments, the right VPN can make all the difference. The ten providers outlined in this guide have been selected not for marketing hype, but for their proven commitment to security, transparency, and effective filtering.

Trust is the foundation of every decision here. A VPN that logs your activity, sells your data, or fails to enforce blocking rules is worse than no VPN at all. The services listed aboveExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, ProtonVPN, Mullvad, PIA, Windscribe, CyberGhost, Atlas VPN, and IVPNhave all demonstrated that its possible to deliver powerful website blocking without compromising on privacy or performance.

When choosing your solution, consider your needs: families benefit from CyberGhosts parental controls, power users thrive with Mullvad or IVPNs customization, and most people will find NordVPN or Surfshark to be the ideal balance of ease and effectiveness. Regardless of your choice, prioritize providers with independently audited no-logs policies, RAM-only servers, and transparent operations.

Remember: the goal isnt just to block websitesits to create a safer, more intentional online experience. With the right trusted VPN, youre not just filtering content; youre reclaiming your digital autonomy. Make your choice wisely, and take back control of your internet.