Blocking on only one computer

[ollitrop]

Hello. Can I use Open DNS to block access too all websites except a few on just one particular laptop? I want to allow my autistic son to have access to only 4-5 websites, but I want my other laptop and my PC to have unlimited/unfiltered access.

Thanks :)

[rotblitz]

You purchase OpenDNS VIP to enable whitelist-only mode, and you configure the OpenDNS resolver addresses on your son's PC only.

[ollitrop]

I purchased OpenDNS VIP version and setup whitelist only but it blocks websites on ALL of my computers. I can't find the instructions on how to just block everything (except blacklist) on just the laptop.

[rotblitz]

"I can't find the instructions"

The instructions are closer than you think, just two inches away.  Again, you configure the OpenDNS resolver addresses on your son's PC only, not on the router, and not on any other device.  OpenDNS is effective on those devices where the resolver addresses are configured, or on all devices if configured on the router

"how to just block everything (except blacklist)"

With whitelist-only mode enabled the blacklist doesn't do anything.  It is disabled.  Only domains in the whitelist can be accessed.

[rotblitz]

If you were looking for step by step instructions: https://support.opendns.com/forums/21618384

[ollitrop]

Ok, seems straight forward. One last question: So I can't have my cake and eat it too? Meaning I can't get the security/increaed speed benefits on my desktop AND block all websites for just my son's laptop?

[rotblitz]

Oops, this is now a new requirement.  You were looking only for "Open DNS to block access too all websites except a few on just one particular laptop".  If you order a car, you cannot expect it to fly and to swim too afterwards, can you?

OpenDNS just sees your one public IP address to identify your settings with you.  OpenDNS has - fortunately - no insight into your network internals like devices, users, etc.  Therefore it cannot differenciate this way, but responds to your DNS queries always according to your dashboard settings.

[brianandyoko]

 Rotbliz, thank you for your kind, helpful assistance. You are very gracious in your manner and it demonstrates the kind of quality that represents OpenDNS well. People will look forward to your helpful comments in the future. 

[allmars24]

I know this is an old post but wanted to re-visit and ask if this solution as ROTBLIZ described actually worked for blocking websites for specific computers. If I add the DNS servers for OpenDNS onto my children's laptops can I then block specific websites?

This is granted I also purchase the OpenDNS VIP service.

Thanks in advance!

[rotblitz]

Nothing has changed since this has been discussed.

"If I add the DNS servers for OpenDNS onto my children's laptops can I then block specific websites?"

Not websites, but domain names.  If you configure the OpenDNS resolver addresses on specific devices, then your OpenDNS dashboard settings or default settings take effect on these specific devices only.  This is true for OpenDNS Home Free, OpenDNS Home VIP and OpenDNS FamilyShield.

Think about to run also an Updater to keep your IP address information updated at OpenDNS, so that your dashboard settings take effect.