FocalFilter

What FocalFilter is

FocalFilter is a free Windows tool for temporarily blocking websites that compete for attention. Choose which sites to block, then set the duration; the tool is designed to work with Windows browsers including Chrome and Firefox. To add a site, copy its address from the browser and paste it into FocalFilter. The blocked-site list is saved for the next time the program runs. Blocks may require a full browser exit and restart before they begin or end. If FocalFilter remains installed, rebooting the computer can remove a block early. Do not uninstall it while sites are blocked: the blocks will remain, and FocalFilter will no longer be able to clear them when the timer expires. Security or antivirus software may stop the program because it changes system settings. On Windows XP, users need administrator privileges or must run FocalFilter as an administrator. The site points users to desktop, laptop, and tablet help guides and offers a contact email link.

Who it suits

FocalFilter suits Windows users who want timer-based blocking for selected websites. It is designed for browser use on Windows, including Chrome and Firefox.

Limits

The Free plan costs nothing and temporarily blocks chosen websites on a timer. Uninstalling while a block is active leaves the sites blocked and prevents FocalFilter from clearing them when the timer ends.

Getting started

1. Open the FocalFilter website.
2. Use the Windows version of FocalFilter.
3. Copy website addresses from the browser address bar and add them to the block list.
4. Choose how long the websites should be blocked.
5. Fully exit and restart the browser if the block does not start or end.

Verdict

FocalFilter offers a simple way to put a timed barrier between you and selected websites. Keep it installed until active blocks end, and be prepared to restart the browser if blocks do not change as expected.