How to Set Internet Parental Controls on Linux Mint 21.3 – A Step-by-Step Guide

Linux Mint 21.3 desktop with parental control settings and content filtering tools open on screen.

The internet is a vast space filled with useful knowledge, but it also contains content that may not be suitable for children. If you're a Linux Mint 21.3 user looking for a way to set up internet parental controls, you’re in the right place.

This guide will walk you through the best methods to restrict access to inappropriate websites, manage screen time, and ensure a safer browsing experience for your children. Whether you’re an advanced Linux user or a beginner, you’ll find simple and effective solutions that work.


Why Set Up Internet Parental Controls on Linux Mint 21.3?

Parental controls help ensure a safe online environment by:

Blocking adult content and harmful websites
Restricting access to social media and gaming sites
Limiting screen time for better digital well-being
Preventing malware and phishing threats

Since Linux Mint 21.3 does not have built-in parental controls like Windows or macOS, we will use third-party tools and manual configurations to implement effective filtering.


Method 1: Using OpenDNS for Content Filtering

One of the easiest ways to block inappropriate websites on all devices connected to your home network is by using OpenDNS FamilyShield.

Step 1: Change Your DNS to OpenDNS

1️⃣ Open Network Settings in Linux Mint.
2️⃣ Go to IPv4 Settings under your active network connection.
3️⃣ Select Manual under the DNS section.
4️⃣ Enter the following OpenDNS FamilyShield servers:

plaintext
208.67.222.123 208.67.220.123

5️⃣ Click Save and restart your internet connection.

Step 2: Test the Filtering

Visit a known adult website (e.g., an adult content testing site) to see if it gets blocked. If OpenDNS is working correctly, the website will be restricted.

Pro Tip: You can create a free OpenDNS account to customize filtering categories like gaming, social media, or video streaming.


Method 2: Blocking Websites Using a Hosts File

The hosts file in Linux lets you manually block specific websites.

Step 1: Open the Hosts File

Run the following command in the terminal:

bash
sudo nano /etc/hosts

Step 2: Add Restricted Websites

At the bottom of the file, add the domains you want to block:

plaintext
127.0.0.1 facebook.com 127.0.0.1 youtube.com 127.0.0.1 tiktok.com 127.0.0.1 instagram.com

Step 3: Save and Apply Changes

1️⃣ Press CTRL + X to exit.
2️⃣ Press Y to confirm changes.
3️⃣ Restart the network with:

bash
sudo systemctl restart networking

This method is local to the device and works even if users switch browsers.


Method 3: Using a Firewall to Block Internet Access

A firewall can be used to block access to certain websites or services.

Step 1: Install UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall)

If UFW is not installed, add it with:

bash
sudo apt install ufw -y

Step 2: Enable the Firewall

bash
sudo ufw enable

Step 3: Block Websites Using IP Addresses

Find the IP address of a website:

bash
nslookup youtube.com

Use UFW to block it:

bash
sudo ufw deny out to 142.250.190.46

Replace 142.250.190.46 with the website's actual IP address.


Method 4: Setting Up Time Restrictions for Internet Access

To limit internet usage during specific hours, use Timekpr-nExT, a parental control tool.

Step 1: Install Timekpr-nExT

Run:

bash
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:mjasnik/ppa sudo apt update sudo apt install timekpr-next

Step 2: Configure Time Limits

1️⃣ Open Timekpr-nExT from the menu.
2️⃣ Select the user account to manage.
3️⃣ Set daily time limits or schedule hours when internet access is allowed.

This method is great for preventing excessive screen time.


Method 5: Installing Web Content Filtering Software

If you want more advanced control, install DansGuardian or Squid Proxy for comprehensive filtering.

Step 1: Install DansGuardian

bash
sudo apt install dansguardian -y

Step 2: Configure Filtering Rules

Edit the configuration file:

bash
sudo nano /etc/dansguardian/dansguardian.conf

Find the banned site list and add:

plaintext
.badwebsite.com .adultcontent.com

Save and restart the service:

bash
sudo systemctl restart dansguardian

DansGuardian is a powerful tool that filters inappropriate content in real-time.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I set parental controls for specific users on Linux Mint?

Yes! Tools like Timekpr-nExT allow per-user restrictions. You can also create separate user accounts and limit privileges.

2. How can I block YouTube and social media?

You can use:
OpenDNS (blocks at the network level)
Hosts file editing (blocks locally on the system)
Squid Proxy or DansGuardian (advanced filtering)

3. Is there a GUI tool for parental controls on Linux Mint?

Yes, GNOME Web Filtering and Timekpr-nExT provide graphical interfaces for easier control.

4. Can my child bypass these restrictions?

If they are tech-savvy, they might try using a VPN or proxy. To prevent this, block VPN ports in UFW or your router’s firewall.


Conclusion

Setting up internet parental controls on Linux Mint 21.3 ensures a safer browsing experience for children. While Linux doesn’t have built-in tools like Windows or macOS, solutions like OpenDNS, UFW firewall, Timekpr-nExT, and DansGuardian make it possible to filter content, set time limits, and block harmful websites.

🔹 Best for Beginners: OpenDNS & Hosts file
🔹 Best for Screen Time Management: Timekpr-nExT
🔹 Best for Advanced Users: DansGuardian & Squid Proxy

By following this guide, you can effectively control internet access and ensure that your child’s online experience is both educational and safe.

🚀 Did this guide help? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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