Resolved Windows 10 firewall question

I've been trying to block a web site using their IP address in Windows firewall, and I continue to get it. What am I missing? Thanks

 

Block the site in hosts.

Edit the file "C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\hosts" & insert 127.0.0.1 your_website_name. This would block the site if someone goes through the name.

 

If you have more than one device on your network, I recommend blocking the site in your router. It is usually easier than messing with HOSTS files and one entry blocks access to all your computers instead of having to do it on every machine.

 

Thanks for the responses. I'm not a computer techie, so I don't make too many changes that could result in operating system issues.
If I get this right, blocking with the host file involves URL's, and not ISP addresses. Some of the URL's are quite lengthy, but not so with the ISP addresses, and I realize that some of these sites have multiple addresses. So I guess that leaves me the router option. Can I use ISP addresses there?
I can easily delete a new "rule" in the firewall, or undo a setting in the router. I still don't understand how an address that's blocked in the firewall can still get through.

 

I think you mean IP (Internet protocol) addresses and not ISP (Internet service provider).

When it comes to URLs, you generally can shorten them. For example, the URL of this thread is:

https://www.windowsbbs.com/threads/windows-10-firewall-question.112548/#post-663254

But if you wanted to block all access to the site, you only need to enter: www.windowsbbs.com

Check your router manual. Or just enter it's admin menu and check the menu options. In my Linksys, I can easily block specific sites for all or some of my connected devices. I can even set specific times to allow access. And all I have to do is follow the easy to follow prompts. This is located under the Parental Control section.

 

You're correct Bill; I meant IP addresses. I'm using a Netgear router. I haven't found this to be an issue with phones or tablets connected to my WiFi, only on the desktop. Will blocking in the router block all the devices in the WiFi network? I guess I'll look into using the router if it's that simple. Thanks.

 

You will have to check with that specific Netgear router. I suspect it will let you block specific devices. I mean that is how Parental Control works - so you can, for example, block the kid's computer from accessing certain sites - facebook for example - at certain times, but let your computer through at all times.

 

I think I've found an answer. Thanks Bill.

 

Please note forums are places to learn, and to share what we have learned so others may benefit too. So what solution did you come up with?

 

I'm going to attempt blocking with my router.