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7 Best Porn Blocking Software Tools (That Actually Work!)

7 Best Porn Blocking Software Tools (That Actually Work!)

With thousands of people actively using porn blocking software to quit their addiction, you're not alone in seeking a solution that actually works.

Porn blockers have become essential tools in today's digital landscape, using content filtering and domain blocking to restrict access to explicit adult content. These applications do more than just block websites - they help protect your mental health, boost productivity, and support your journey toward breaking free from unwanted habits.

While many blocking solutions focus on family protection, there's a growing need for personal-focused tools that address the specific challenges faced by young and middle-aged adults. That's why we've tested and reviewed the 7 best porn blocking software options available in 2025, each offering unique features to help you regain control of your digital life.

7. CleanBrowsing: DNS-Based Internet Filter

CleanBrowsing provides network-level porn filtering at the DNS layer, creating a simple yet effective barrier against adult content without requiring software installation on every device.

How DNS Filtering Works

CleanBrowsing operates on the Domain Name System (DNS) infrastructure, functioning as a specialized DNS resolver that screens website requests before they reach your devices. Whenever you type a website address, your device sends a DNS query to translate that domain name into an IP address. CleanBrowsing intercepts these queries and blocks access to domains identified as pornographic or obscene.

This technology offers several advantages over traditional blocking methods:

  • Works at the network level, affecting all connected devices simultaneously
  • Operates independently of browsers or operating systems
  • Requires no software installation on individual devices
  • Supports encrypted DNS protocols including DNS-over-HTTPS, DNS-over-TLS, and DNSCrypt for enhanced privacy

The system effectively blocks known adult websites, obscene content, and enforces Safe Search on major platforms like Google, Bing, and YouTube. CleanBrowsing's approach is particularly valuable for limiting access to mixed-content sites like Reddit that contain both appropriate and inappropriate material.

Implementation Across Devices

CleanBrowsing can be deployed in two primary ways: at the router level or on individual devices.

For comprehensive home protection, router-level implementation is most effective as it automatically covers all connected devices including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT devices that might not support local installations. This method requires changing your router's DNS settings, typically taking less than five minutes to configure.

Alternatively, for protection outside your home network, CleanBrowsing offers apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

For Android users specifically, the app offers enhanced features like automatic configuration and hardening options that prevent unintentional removal. Similarly, the Windows application includes password protection and can disable access to Internet Options to prevent circumvention.

Payment and iOS Drawbacks

CleanBrowsing offers both paid and free options, with different features based on your selected plan.

Unfortunately, for users of iOS-based technology like iPhones, MacBooks and iPhones, DNS filtering is often easy to bypass. Apple’s technology utilizes a sire-memory feature that can allow users to access explicit content without alerting a filtering software like CleanBrowsing. For those working to overcome porn addiction, this can pose a significant drawback.

6. Antidopamine: VPN-Based Porn Blocking Solution

Antidopamine is an emerging porn blocking software that harnesses VPN technology to eliminate access to adult content across your devices. Unlike traditional blockers or parental controls, this technical solution takes a fundamentally different approach by routing all internet traffic through a secure filter designed with one purpose: completely blocking pornographic material.

VPN Filtering Technology

Antidopamine uses a Virtual Private Network (VPN) as its core blocking mechanism, which proves more effective than standard DNS or browser-based blockers. This approach creates a secure tunnel for your internet connection that automatically filters out adult content before it reaches your device.

What makes VPN filtering particularly effective:

  • It blocks not just porn websites but also filters pornographic ads originating from adult domains
  • The encryption provides additional privacy protection against potential spying
  • It works at the network level, meaning the filter applies regardless of which browser or app you're using

In contrast to time-limiting solutions, Antidopamine operates on the principle that "one second worth of porn is too much". This way, the system provides complete blocking without options for temporary access or time-limited viewing.

The content filter activates automatically upon installation and continues functioning even after you restart your device. This persistent protection eliminates the vulnerability gap that occurs with blockers requiring manual activation after each system restart.

Cross-Platform Implementation

Getting Antidopamine working across different devices follows a straightforward implementation process. Once installed, the VPN connection establishes automatically, requiring minimal technical knowledge from users. Furthermore, the system continues protecting your devices even after rebooting, without needing manual reconnection.

For devices that require specific DNS settings for always-on VPN operation, Antidopamine provides simple configuration instructions. This ensures consistent protection across mobile platforms alongside desktop implementations. This uniformity addresses a common frustration with other blocking solutions that perform inconsistently across different operating systems.

Essentially, you don't need to search for different types of porn blockers depending on which platform you're using. This makes Antidopamine particularly valuable if you use multiple devices throughout your day, or if your household contains a variety of Apple, Android, and Google products.

Bypass Protection Measures

Antidopamine acknowledges an uncomfortable truth about traditional porn blockers: many people actually use VPNs to circumvent blocking rather than enforce it. In essence, this solution turns that dynamic on its head, using the very technology often employed to access restricted content as the method to block it.

The system's automatic startup and persistent operation create additional layers of bypass protection. Moreover, because the filtering occurs at the network level rather than browser level, common workarounds like switching browsers or using incognito mode become ineffective.

5. Covenant Eyes: Accountability-Focused Porn Blocker

Covenant Eyes takes a different approach to porn blocking by primarily focusing on the accountability experience. Built around the concept of transparency, this software helps you maintain your commitment to porn-free living through relationship-based accountability. The program takes continuous, randomized screenshots of your daily web and cellular activity, which it then makes available to your chosen accountability partner.

Screen Accountability Technology

Covenant Eyes utilizes artificial intelligence to monitor your screen activity across devices. The system captures screenshots at random intervals, analyzes them for concerning content, and then blurs these images before sending them to your designated accountability partner.

Moreover, this screen-based approach provides more comprehensive monitoring than traditional URL tracking. Since the software captures what appears on your screen:

  • It detects explicit content regardless of how you access it
  • It works across browsers and apps, not just web addresses
  • It sees content that might be missed by domain-level filters

Notably, the implementation varies by platform due to operating system restrictions. On Android and desktop computers, Covenant Eyes monitors all screen activity system-wide, whereas on iOS, it's limited to Safari and the Covenant Eyes browser due to Apple's restrictions.

Reporting Features

The reporting system centers around the Victory app, which delivers an activity feed to your chosen accountability partners. When the software detects potentially explicit content, it sends alerts to your allies while maintaining your privacy through careful image blurring.

The accountability approach fundamentally differs from simple blocking—instead of just preventing access, it creates transparent relationships that support behavior change. This framework encourages open conversation with trusted allies who can provide support during challenging moments.

Platform Compatibility

Covenant Eyes works across most major platforms but with varying capabilities depending on the operating system:

  • Android: Supports version 7.0+ with device-wide screen monitoring and optional filtering
  • iOS: Compatible with iOS 14+ but users are only protected when surfing the web on Safari and the Covenant Eyes app
  • Mac: Supports macOS High Sierra (10.13) or later with full device monitoring
  • Windows: Works on Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11 with complete screen monitoring

The software is not compatible with Chromebooks, Linux computers, smart TVs, gaming consoles, or Kindle Fire tablets. For antivirus compatibility, most programs work well with Covenant Eyes, though some specific security software may require adjustments.

Pricing and Value

A Covenant Eyes subscription costs $184.00 per year. For users seeking a permanent solution, a lifetime subscription is available for $850.00.

Each subscription includes:

  • Support for up to 10 users on a single account
  • Installation on unlimited devices
  • Access to filtering tools and Screen Accountability
  • Complimentary technical assistance and product support

App store purchases are slightly more expensive at $19.99 monthly or $199.99 annually but provide identical features. Payment options include all major credit cards and PayPal.

Covenant Eyes offers powerful accountability features, but that’s where the addiction help ends. For those trying to gain real tools to help them make lasting behavioral change, Relay provides a more comprehensive recovery approach with psychological support, recovery tools, and accountability that goes beyond content policing by a loved one.

4. Qustodio: Best Parental Control Porn Blocking Software

For parents seeking robust protection against online pornography, Qustodio offers comprehensive tools designed specifically with families in mind. As opposed to recovery-focused solutions like Relay, Qustodio prioritizes content filtering and parental oversight to create a safer online environment for children and young adults.

Content Filtering Capabilities

Qustodio's web filtering technology blocks inappropriate content across multiple categories, including Pornography, Gambling, Violence, and Drugs. This porn blocking software allows you to:

  • Block entire categories of websites rather than blocking individual sites, preventing access to inappropriate websites you might not know about
  • Set custom permissions with options to "Allow," "Block," or "Alert Me" for each category
  • Add specific websites to blocklists manually when needed
  • Enforce Safe Search on search engines to filter explicit search terms automatically

The filtering system works across major browsers including Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari, effectively blocking even secure HTTPS websites from restricted categories. Undoubtedly, this creates a robust first line of defense against accidental exposure to adult content.

Multi-Device Management

Qustodio works seamlessly across virtually all platforms your family uses, providing consistent protection regardless of device:

For mobile devices, Qustodio supports Android 8.0+ smartphones and tablets, iOS 15+ for iPhones and iPads, and even Amazon Kindle devices running Android 8.0 or FireOS 6 and above.

On computers, the software functions on Windows 10 and newer, macOS Sierra 10.13 to macOS Sonoma 14, and Chromebooks with Google Play. This cross-platform compatibility ensures your children remain protected whether they're using smartphones, tablets, or computers.

Real-Time Monitoring Features

Apart from blocking inappropriate content, Qustodio provides extensive real-time monitoring capabilities that help you stay informed about your child's online activities:

Primarily, the alerting system allows you to receive immediate notifications when your child attempts to access restricted content. You can opt to get alerts via email whenever they visit specific categories or websites.

The monitoring features extend beyond web browsing to include app usage tracking, screen time monitoring, and even YouTube viewing supervision. For instance, is your child supposed to be studying but opens YouTube? You'll get notified immediately so you can check if they're using it for educational purposes.

Family-Focused Pricing Plans

Qustodio offers three distinct pricing tiers designed to accommodate different family needs:

The Free version protects a single device with basic features. For more comprehensive protection, the Basic premium plan costs $54.95/year ($4.58/month) and covers up to 5 devices with core features including web filtering, daily time limits, and location monitoring.

The Complete premium plan, priced at $99.95/year ($8.33/month), provides the most comprehensive protection with unlimited devices and advanced features such as:

  • Custom routines for specific times like study periods and bedtime
  • AI-powered alerts for concerning content
  • Calls and messages monitoring
  • App insights to understand potential risks
  • YouTube monitoring capabilities

First of all, it's worth noting that all plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the software risk-free. For families seeking complete digital protection, the Complete plan offers the best value with its unlimited device coverage.

For those personally struggling with pornography addiction, remember that while Qustodio excels at family protection, it isn’t engineered to help address the root causes of addiction. But for those looking to proactively protect their families from exposure to pornography, this is a great option.

3. FamiSafe: Best Mobile-Focused Porn Blocker for Android and iOS

When it comes to mobile-specific porn and virus blocking, FamiSafe delivers exceptional protection across both Android and iOS platforms. This dedicated parental control app excels at keeping explicit content away from smartphones and tablets—where most unfiltered internet access occurs today.

Mobile-Specific Blocking Features

FamiSafe employs robust web filtering technology designed specifically for mobile browsers. The system includes pre-set filtering rules that automatically block harmful websites across 21 different categories, including pornographic content. This comprehensive approach ensures that explicit material is filtered regardless of which mobile browser is used.

First and foremost, the web filter works across major mobile browsers including Chrome and Safari, effectively blocking even secure HTTPS websites containing adult content. This creates a seamless protective layer across the entire device.

The app goes beyond simple website blocking by employing advanced content detection algorithms. These tools scan for inappropriate content across multiple social platforms—including WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Gmail, and YouTube. In particular, the system can detect explicit images in photo albums and alert parents immediately.

Besides standard filtering, FamiSafe enforces safe search on mobile search engines, preventing exposure to adult content through search results. This multi-layered approach makes FamiSafe particularly effective for mobile protection.

App Management Capabilities

FamiSafe's app management features provide precise control over which applications can be accessed on mobile devices:

  • App Blocker: Blocks specific apps or entire categories of apps with a single toggle
  • Smart Scheduling: Creates time-based rules that automatically block recreational apps during school, study, or bedtime
  • Instant Block: Immediately locks all applications with one tap when needed
  • Usage Monitoring: Tracks how long each app is used and provides detailed reports

Parents receive instant notifications whenever a child attempts to access a blocked application. This real-time alert system ensures immediate awareness of any attempts to circumvent the restrictions.

Primarily, what makes FamiSafe's app management superior on mobile devices is its ability to function remotely. After installation, you don't need physical access to the protected device—all controls operate through your own device's control panel. This remote management capability is especially valuable for monitoring smartphones that travel with users throughout the day.

Pricing for Mobile Protection

FamiSafe offers flexible pricing plans based on device quantity and subscription length:

The Monthly Plan costs $9.99 per month and covers up to 5 devices. For growing families, the Quarterly Plan provides better value at $19.99 per quarter ($6.67/month) with support for up to 10 devices.

The Annual Plan delivers the best overall value at $59.99 per year ($4.99/month) with support for unlimited devices. All plans include full access to every feature without restrictions. Free trials are available to test the software before committing to a subscription.

While FamiSafe provides excellent mobile porn blocking capabilities, those struggling with pornography addiction should consider that technical solutions alone may not address underlying issues. Relay offers a more comprehensive recovery approach with support groups and psychological curriculum specifically designed to help you identify and treat the root causes of addiction rather than just the symptoms.

2. Truple: The Most Effective Screenshot-Based Filter

Truple is a newer name in the porn blocker space, but it’s quickly making a name for itself by its sheer effectiveness. Instead of just blocking websites based on URL filters, Truple utilizes the most comprehensive screenshot accountability available. It captures random screenshots of device activity and shares them with a trusted accountability partner, offering a more holistic picture of how someone is using their device.

This blocker shines especially on platforms like social media and YouTube, where harmful content can slip past more traditional filters. By combining AI-powered content detection with real-time transparency, Truple helps build digital habits rooted in self-awareness and trust—not just restriction.

More Than Just a Filter

Truple does include a strong filtering system, too. For online browsing, it uses DNS-based blocking to restrict access to over two million adult sites and comes with smart features like app blocking, SafeSearch enforcement, and tamper alerts. It works across browsers and apps—even in incognito mode—making it a solid choice for families or individuals serious about creating a safer online environment.

For those who want even more control, premium features like PIN-locked filter settings and delayed unlock options help prevent workarounds and impulsive decisions.

These tools are designed with both security and flexibility in mind. In November of 2024, Truple became one of the first porn blockers to offer End-to-End Encryption, meaning that no one—not the company, your cell carrier, internet provider, or anyone else—will ever be able to access them. Only the sender and the recipient, or in this case, you and your accountability partner, will be able to see these screenshots.

Thoughtful, User-Centered Design

One of Truple’s biggest strengths is how it balances protection with personal growth. The platform is built to encourage healthy, intentional use of technology rather than just relying on hard restrictions. Users can adjust privacy settings over time—like redacting certain content or blurring images—based on what works best for their stage in recovery or accountability journey.

It’s worth noting that Truple’s full functionality is currently limited to Android and desktop devices. iOS users can still benefit from its filtering and web history tracking, but screenshot accountability isn’t available due to Apple’s platform restrictions.

Pricing and What Others Are Saying

  • Monthly Plan: $16.00 per month, billed monthly.
  • Annual Plan: $13.33 per month, billed as $160 per year.

Both plans allow you to monitor all devices within a single family household, including Android phones, Windows PCs, Chromebooks, Macs, and more.

Although this is a fairly normal price range for an internet blocker, Truple is more than meets the eyes. One user said, “Truple has been a Godsend for our family,” with another leaving a review that said, “without a doubt, this is the best accountability and monitoring solution for Windows and Android. You can get the family subscription for a year and then all of your devices are protected. Its perfect for kicking porn. It's also great to monitor what your kids do on their devices. The software is simple and so easy to install. If you're looking for the best solution to finally overcome addiction and keep your family protected, this is it! Customer service is great!”

1. Relay: The Most Comprehensive Porn Blocking and Recovery Solution

Relay is the most comprehensive solution for those who are really serious about overcoming porn addiction. Unlike standard porn blockers that merely restrict access, this revolutionary program combines effective blocking technology with proven psychological methods and group support to address the root causes of unwanted behavior.

How Relay's Blocking Technology Works

Relay both partners with the exciting new blocker Truple and offers a straightforward Chrome extension that blocks inappropriate sites in real-time. When you attempt to access pornographic content, the system instantly redirects you to a help page. However, Relay goes beyond simple blocking, acknowledging that filters alone are just a "band-aid" solution.

The real power of Relay's approach comes from combining technical blocking with behavioral analysis. Instead of merely preventing access, the system helps you identify patterns and triggers that lead to your engaging in unwanted behavior. This dual approach creates stronger barriers against impulsive viewing and provides tools to understand the underlying issues.

Furthermore, unlike standalone blockers that can be easily circumvented, Relay's comprehensive system includes accountability measures that make it significantly more effective for long-term recovery.

Relay's Support Group System

At the core of Relay's effectiveness is its unique team-based support structure. After assessing your specific situation, Relay matches you with a small group of 5-8 peers who are working toward similar goals. This creates a powerful environment for recovery that combats the isolation typically associated with addiction.

The group format provides several key benefits:

  • Shame-free accountability with peers who understand your struggles
  • True connection while maintaining anonymity if desired
  • Immediate support when feeling vulnerable
  • Structured interaction through secure in-app chat and optional Zoom meetings

According to user feedback, the tight-knit group format is consistently cited as the biggest reason people choose Relay. This approach directly addresses the isolation that typically perpetuates addictive cycles, providing a supportive community framework that standalone blockers cannot offer.

Specifically, when you're struggling, you can use the app's "red flag" feature with a single tap to alert your team that you need immediate help. This real-time support system creates a safety net during moments of vulnerability.

Behavioral Psychology-Based Curriculum

Relay's recovery program was developed in collaboration with licensed therapists who have over 40 years of combined addiction expertise. The curriculum uses principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you identify and address the psychological patterns that fuel addictive behavior.

The program includes:

  • Automatic enrollment in a support group of real people working to overcome the same struggle
  • Interactive video lessons that teach practical recovery skills
  • Structured activities completed individually and as a group
  • Psychology-based tools designed to slow down the addictive cycle
  • Personalized feedback on your progress

This evidence-based approach helps rewire neural pathways that have been damaged by addiction. Instead of simply restricting access to content, Relay's curriculum focuses on developing healthier habits and coping mechanisms that lead to sustainable change.

Many users report significant improvement within their first month—79% of users see positive changes in this timeframe. This effectiveness stems from the program's focus on both behavioral changes and addressing deeper psychological patterns.

Pricing and Platform Availability

Relay is available as a mobile app for both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible regardless of your preferred platform. The program requires a subscription, which allows the company to maintain a "world-class team of psychologists and technical folks".

To make the program accessible to those committed to recovery:

  • Relay offers a 100% money-back guarantee if you don't find the program helpful after 30 days
  • Limited scholarships are available for those who cannot afford the full cost
  • The one-year plan costs less than two therapy sessions

Consequently, Relay provides exceptional value considering you receive ongoing support, professional guidance, and community accountability—elements that would cost significantly more through traditional therapy.

For those seeking more than just a blocking tool, Relay represents the most comprehensive solution available in 2025, addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of porn addiction through its unique combination of technology, community support, and psychological expertise.

Conclusion

Each porn blocking solution serves distinct needs - from Covenant Eyes' accountability focus to Qustodio's family protection features. While technical solutions like Antidopamine's VPN filtering and CleanBrowsing's DNS approach effectively block content, they address only surface-level symptoms.

Standard blockers might temporarily restrict access, yet sustainable recovery demands a more comprehensive strategy. Relay stands apart through its unique combination of real-time blocking technology, professional psychological support, and supportive peer groups. This three-pronged approach helps you identify and address underlying triggers while building lasting habits for recovery.

Your journey toward freedom from pornography starts with choosing the right tools. Whether seeking parental controls or personal recovery, understanding each solution's strengths allows you to make an informed decision. For those ready to break free from pornography addiction and create lasting change, Relay offers a proven path forward with its science-backed curriculum and supportive community.

Remember - blocking access alone rarely leads to permanent change. Success comes from combining effective filtering with proper support systems and psychological tools that empower you to build healthier habits for life.

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Find Effective, Evidence-Based Treatment in the Relay Program for Addiction

There is help available to you if you or a loved one has a physical dependence or psychological dependence on a behavior or substance. These urges and compulsive behaviors can control your life, but you can take back control. Relay's addiction recovery program provides a comprehensive, outpatient approach to behavioral change - at home, at your own pace. To each new program member, we provide a personalized recovery plan, a peer support group, progress tracking, journaling, and intelligent insights about your behavior patterns, all within a simple and secure mobile app Our proven approach helps program members achieve the best chance at long-term recovery without the time or expense of rehab or therapy. Try the Relay program for free here; if you need help as you get set up, contact us now at hello@joinrelay.app.

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