How to Set Up OpenDNS FamilyShield on Windows 10/11 for Safe Browsing

In an age where the Internet serves as a vast ocean of information, ensuring a safe digital environment for children and family members has become an increasingly pressing concern. Fortunately, OpenDNS FamilyShield offers an intuitive solution for blocking adult content across all browsers, including the ever-popular Google Chrome. This guide will provide you with a robust method to configure OpenDNS on your Windows 10 or 11 PC.

The Dilemma of Internet Safety​

Let’s face it: like having an overzealous bouncer at your favorite nightclub, blocking unsavory content on the web is imperative. With endless avenues for exploration online, protecting your family from potentially harmful material can seem daunting. Yet, forbidding access to the Internet entirely is neither practical nor effective, given its importance as an educational tool.

Why Choose OpenDNS FamilyShield?​

OpenDNS FamilyShield distinguishes itself as a powerful, cloud-based parental control solution, blocking access to adult content without necessitating the installation of additional software. This means that whether you prefer to browse in Chrome, Firefox, or even the oft-neglected Opera, your filtering will remain effective.
Here’s how to get started:

Setting Up OpenDNS FamilyShield on Your Windows PC​

Step 1: Access Adapter Settings​

First, we need to navigate to your Network Adapter settings. You can choose between the traditional Control Panel or the more modern Settings app — for this guide, we will embrace the simplicity of the latter.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network & Internet and select Advanced Network Settings.
3. Choose your active network adapter; this could be either Ethernet or Wi-Fi, depending on your connectivity.

Step 2: Configure DNS Settings​

For OpenDNS to work its magic, we need to adjust some DNS settings:

1. Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
2. Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
3. Enter the following OpenDNS Nameserver IP addresses:
   • Primary DNS: 208.67.222.123
   • Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.123
4. Click OK to save your settings.

Step 3: Flush Your DNS Cache​

With your DNS settings in place, it’s time to clear out any cached data to ensure the new settings take effect.

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Terminal (Admin).
2. Enter the command: ipconfig /flushdns
3. Clear your browser cache as well, and then restart Chrome.

Step 4: Validate Your OpenDNS Configuration​

Open your browser and visit OpenDNS Welcome Page. If everything is set up correctly, you should see a friendly message confirming your connection to OpenDNS.

Step 5: Conduct an Adult Website Blocking Test​

To ensure OpenDNS is effectively blocking adult content:

1. Type in the URL for an example adult site such as www.exampleadultsite.com. This site merely simulates an adult website for testing purposes.
2. If OpenDNS successfully blocks the page, pat yourself on the back — you’ve configured parental controls like a pro!

Step 6: Customize Filtering Settings (Optional)​

For those wanting a more tailored experience, creating a free OpenDNS account allows for granular control over the filtering process. This enables you to choose which categories to block beyond just adult content, including hate speech, gambling, and more.

1. Visit OpenDNS Home to create an account.
2. After creating your account, log in and register your current IP address.

Additional Pro Tips​

• User Accounts: For optimal security, consider creating separate Windows user accounts for your children. This minimizes the risk of them removing DNS settings and reverting to unfiltered Internet access.
• Tweak Settings: Regularly check and adjust filtering settings based on your family’s evolving needs.

Conclusion​

Setting up OpenDNS to filter out adult content from your web-browsing experience is a straightforward yet effective approach to ensure online safety for all family members. It not only saves you from the hassle of installing software but also empowers you to take control of your home network's safety. Dive into the digital world with peace of mind—after all, knowledge is power, and so is protection!
Let us know how these steps worked for you, or share your own tips on keeping the web a safe space. Happy browsing!
Source: How2shout How to Block Adult Websites in Chrome on a Windows 11 or 10 PC – Free