Parental controls via router any experiences?

[MoMuntervary]

We were managing DSs phone via Family Link but since Google (oh so helpfully) gave him the option to turn it off when he turned 13, we've had multiple issues. I've sorted the home WiFi so that he can't access inappropriate stuff but Virgin's MAC filter is clunky and flakey.

I know I could put another app on his phone but thought it might feel less confrontational to manage it via a parental control router. Has anyone got any recommendations? I want to set limits on bedtimes and some on apps e.g. no tiktok when on school mornings.

Hi,

I notice no one has responded to your message! I have exactly the same problem. Essentially the tech companies make it incredibly hard for parents to control their child's access to computers. I am desperate to get them under control. I am just about to sort out how to use routers to block them, but looking for info....Can you let me know if you have succeeded? Thanks

Hi @Rebecca1968 -sadly, no. We have got a bit better at negotiating. I am a bit more relaxed about the absolutely ridiculous amount of tiktok/YouTube/insta he consumes. And if all else fails, I pull the plug out of the router. Not exactly hi tech though....

We have a Deco router/wifi mesh system. Bought it to extend the wifi network through the whole house but the other advantage is it has a fab range of parental controls so you can lockdown access from the source, as it were: www.tp-link.com/uk/home-networking/deco/deco-m5/

Routers can do times and sites , but you need quite a good (expensive) one. I would make him a new child account that doesn't turn 13 for another few years. Is that seriously when they let them control it themselves! Bloody Google.

I'm an IT professionsal, I did have an extremely comprehensive (but very complicated) system in place, but I've since moved to the TP-Link parental controls built into my new router (Virgin Media is my ISP).

Works pretty well so far, but DS is pretty compliant when it comes to the darker corners of the net... I'll get a stronger test when my eldest comes to stay for a few days, he's much more likely to try find something objectionable!

You can continue using family link once they pass 13, but it's "voluntary" - I think the way to deal with it is to make it clear to the child that having family link past 13 is a requisite to having a phone... I guess it's effective, but brutal.

I have broadband with BT and can control access to specific devices using the BT app. I have not used the parental controls. For DS2 his PS4 and his mobile have internet removed at a specific time. We also live in an area with poor mobile signal so he can't just switch to 4G.

Hi, I have been posting literally all over to try and get a decent response...the best one so far is a recommendation for NextDNS. Have a look at this link...it looks like it does everything that you would ideally like and mends all the mistakes/regrettable features of other available products. www.techradar.com/uk/reviews/nextdns

We've used both EE and BT's built in WiFi controls with DSS and lately with DD...it's a bit of a faff to name all devices which are connected (need IP address for each) but once that's done it's easy. Set each device to disconnect from the WiFi at a certain time. You can pause access and even set schedules for certain days and times. It's been bloody brilliant!

Ah - thank you all. I'm going to check out the Deco @tpmumtobe and NextDNS @Rebecca1968

Is the TP-Link to do with virgin or just the router you have bought @c3pu ? Excuse my ignorance, I'm usually reasonable with tech stuff but networks and routers just seem to bend my brain!

I did consider enforcing family link, but it's actually quite basic and blocks stuff that I didn't want it to block e.g. only allowing kids YouTube.

The TP-Link router is one I bought, you can put the router that Virgin supply into "modem mode" so you can use your own kit (which is usually infinitely better than the stuff Virgin supply).

My router is the best one that TP-Link do and cost an eye watering amount, but much more affordable ones will still have the same parental controls built in.

Thank god you guys are responding....I have tried countless times to get a discussion going about this problem.....I actually think that the tech companies must suppress this kind of conversation, perhaps on here we are off their radar! I have been trying to get my devices under control for the past 2 years...I have multiple types...all heading for legend status....To me it feels like such a monstrous task to try and control them (having tried repeatedly already) , only to then have to replace them and start again.....hence thinking a router might be the simplest way to go. I have looked at the cost over a year of having someone like BT and it works out as £120 more than plusnet (who are fine) just to get the parental controls....and you would be paying that every year...you easily recoup the cost of a router....I am just really scared at the prospect of paying out a lot, and being too inept to install it...@c3pu Is your TP-link suitable for the most inept at tech types?

You shouldn't need anything more than a standard router with a provider who allows WiFi access control, that's literally all we have and it works like a dream. No need to pay out over £100, it's just your normal broadband cost. Link up any device which is connected to your WiFi and set a time control for the ones that need it.

BT halo 2 home hub does times. Can be controlled by app. You enter new devices one at a time.

(So that you can re-name then to the person/item)

It is better for you to install special software on the device itself, from which the child goes online.