Do you want to block Netflix on certain computers but not all of them? Sometimes, blocking Netflix at the network level isn’t possible because only specific devices need restrictions. Luckily, Windows offers a simple way to block Netflix using its built-in tools.
Block Netflix on Windows Using Firewall Rules?
One way to block Netflix is by using firewall outbound rules to block its IP address. However, this method isn’t reliable. Websites like Netflix can change their IP addresses frequently, which makes this approach ineffective. Instead, you can use the hosts file to block Netflix.
How to Block Netflix on Windows Using the Hosts File
The easiest way to block Netflix on a Windows computer is to edit the hosts file. By doing this, you can redirect Netflix’s web address to localhost, which will prevent users from accessing the site.
Step 1: Find the Hosts File
First, go to this folder on your computer:C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
Here, you will see the hosts file.
Step 2: Open the File as an Administrator
Next, you need to open the file with administrator rights. To do this:
- Right-click the file and choose Open with, then select Notepad.
- If you don’t have administrator rights, open Notepad as an administrator. After that, click File > Open and navigate to the etc folder to open the hosts file.
Step 3: Edit the File to Block Netflix
Now, add these lines at the bottom of the file:
127.0.0.1 netflix.com
127.0.0.1 www.netflix.com
127.0.0.1 https://www.netflix.com
127.0.0.1 https://netflix.com# Copyright (c) 1993-2009 Microsoft Corp.
#
# This is a sample HOSTS file used by Microsoft TCP/IP for Windows.
#
# This file contains the mappings of IP addresses to host names. Each
# entry should be kept on an individual line. The IP address should
# be placed in the first column followed by the corresponding host name.
# The IP address and the host name should be separated by at least one
# space.
#
# Additionally, comments (such as these) may be inserted on individual
# lines or following the machine name denoted by a '#' symbol.
#
# For example:
#
# 102.54.94.97 rhino.acme.com # source server
# 38.25.63.10 x.acme.com # x client host
# localhost name resolution is handled within DNS itself.
# 127.0.0.1 localhost
# ::1 localhost
127.0.0.1 netflix.com
127.0.0.1 www.netflix.com
127.0.0.1 https://www.netflix.com
127.0.0.1 https://netflix.com
Step 4: Save and Apply the Changes
Finally, save the file. If Netflix is still accessible, follow these extra steps:
- Open Command Prompt and type:
ipconfig /flushdns - Clear your browser cache.
- Restart your computer.
Why Use This Method?
This method is simple, reliable, and doesn’t require extra software. However, it only blocks Netflix on the specific computer where the changes are made.
Now you know how to block Netflix on Windows using the hosts file. This method is effective, and perfect for blocking Netflix on individual computers. By following these steps, you can easily restrict access to Netflix on selected devices.