Before you start
- A router with parental controls
- Access to the router app or admin page
Method 1 Create a profile and add devices
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Step 1: Open parental controls
In the router app look for Parental Controls, Family, Profiles or HomeShield (TP-Link). In a browser admin page, it’s often under Advanced.
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Step 2: Create a profile
Add a profile with your child’s name and age (some routers set filters by age automatically).
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Step 3: Add their devices
Pick their phone, tablet, console and laptop from the device list.
Method 2 Set time limits
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Step 1: Bedtime / off time
Set times when internet is blocked, e.g. 21:00–07:00 on school nights.
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Step 2: Daily allowance
Some routers let you set a total time per day (e.g. 2 hours on weekdays).
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Step 3: Pause instantly
Use the Pause button in the app for dinner time or homework.
Method 3 Add content filters (optional)
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Step 1: Choose filter categories
Block adult, gambling or social media categories, or specific websites.
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Step 2: Enable SafeSearch
Some routers can enforce SafeSearch on Google, Bing and YouTube Restricted Mode.
Troubleshooting
The schedule doesn’t work
Check the router’s time zone and clock. Devices with randomised MAC addresses may appear as new devices; set their Wi-Fi to use a fixed address.
My router has no parental controls
Use a family DNS (e.g. 1.1.1.3), device-level controls, or a newer router.
Frequently asked questions
Do children get a warning before the internet stops?
Usually not from the router. Device controls like Screen Time or Family Link can warn them.
Is it free?
Basic schedules are free on most routers. Advanced filtering may need a subscription (e.g. eero Plus, TP-Link HomeShield Pro).
Summary
In your router’s Parental Controls, create a profile for each child, add their devices, and set bedtime schedules and daily limits. Pair it with device-level controls for full protection.
