Every device on your network is given a media access control address, or MAC address, which can often be found listed alongside its IP address. The ability to target specific devices, sometimes called MAC filtering, is another common network control on routers.
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That means you can block internet access to your kids’ iPads after bedtime or during homework hours, while leaving the family TV or work laptops connected. You can shut off your entire wireless network, but more often you want to block only specific devices. This feature allows you to shut off internet access during certain hours of the day. Limiting screen time is one of the most basic ways of restricting a child’s internet access and is available on many routers.
These tools are most effective when used in conjunction, though each of these abilities has its own merits. The amount of control that you have over your network depends on the kind of router that you have, but common tools allow you to do the following: This will give you access to your router and other devices on your network. To do this, log in to your user account and click on the Network menu. Some ISPs, like Google Fiber, allow you to control your network and home router simply by using a web browser. The app will also give you access to all your router’s network management and parental control options. Once installed on your phone, the app will walk you through the steps of connecting to (or setting up) your home network. AT&T’s Smart Home Manager ( Google Play, App Store) and the Xfinity App ( Google Play, App Store) are good examples, but many nationwide ISPs are moving toward apps, as are some router manufacturers. Many internet service providers (ISPs) offer apps that allow you to manage your router and home network settings from your phone. If you don’t see a Main Menu option that looks like parental controls, it can often be found in a menu labeled “Tools,” “Firewall,” or “Advanced Settings.” Using an app Not all routers have these options, and the location of these options can vary depending on the router you’re using. Once you’ve logged in, look for an option for parental controls or access restrictions. The first step is to log in to your router, as you would to change your network name and password. Using your router’s settings is the most common way to set up parental controls on your home network, though it can also be the most intimidating way if you’re not used to accessing your router’s administrative console. Here are some of the most common ways to set up parental controls: Most modern routers have some form of parental controls built in, but they can vary a bit from router to router. Setting up parental controls on your router