How to Block or Unblock Apps with Microsoft Family Safety
You can block or unblock specific apps on a child’s Windows PC, Xbox, or Android device using Microsoft Family Safety.
Microsoft Family Safety is a free service that helps you manage your family’s digital lives, like setting limits on apps and games. As the Family Organizer, you can use this feature to stop children from accessing apps that aren’t suitable or that take up too much time.
Microsoft Family Safety lets you block apps based on age ratings, such as stopping a child from playing games rated E10+. This feature helps create a safe online space. Only a Family Organizer account can change app-blocking settings for the family group.
To block an app, sign in to account.microsoft.com/family, select your child, choose their platform, go to Apps and Games, and click “Block” next to the app. Unblock it by clicking “Unblock” on the same screen.
Getting Started: The Family Safety Portal
The best way to manage app blocking is through the Microsoft Family Safety website. This is where you can find all the settings for your family.
Sign In to Your Account
Your Family Safety organizer account is where you manage app blocking, so start by signing in at account.microsoft.com/family.
Select the Family Member
The Microsoft Family Safety page displays all family members after login. Clicking a child's picture or name opens the child's specific settings page within Family Safety, allowing app management for that child.
Choose the Platform
After signing in, you’ll need to pick the right platform, like Windows or Mobile, to block apps for your child.
Navigate to Apps and Games
Microsoft Family Safety settings show a list of apps installed or used by a child. Users find this list by looking for an "Apps and games" section. This section displays installed applications on the child's device.
Block an App
Blocking an app with Microsoft Family Safety is simple: find the app on the list for the platform you chose and click the ‘Block’ button next to it.
Once blocked, the app cannot be used. Your child will not be able to open it on that device. You’ll see the screen update to confirm the app is now blocked.
Unblock an App
To unblock an app with Microsoft Family Safety, go back to the app list for your child and the specific platform, then click “Unblock” next to the app.
Reference:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/family-safety/block-or-unblock-apps-with-microsoft-family-safety
Summary
Blocking apps with Microsoft Family Safety lets you control what your child can use, and when an app is blocked, they won’t be able to open it on that device.
Blocking an app stops a child from opening or using the blocked app on a selected device. Unblocking an app makes the app available for the child to use again on that device.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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