How to block minecraft on ipad

[wontons]

My kids use play minecraft through downloaded minecraft app on their ipads.  For some reason when I set my Netgear router to block games, my kids can still play minecraft on-line mode without restriction.  Is there anything I can do to block minecraft app when I choose to block games on router?  Thank you.

[rotblitz]

"when I set my Netgear router to block games"

This is not what you can do with a DNS service.  You can block only domains or a category of domains (like games).  You cannot block games or game apps.

If this game app works based on DNS hostnames, you can block these domains with OpenDNS, else not.  You had to block IP addresses, ports and protocols at the router level then.  According to a quick internet seach, port 25565 seems to be a candidate to be blocked.

[jerry7494]

Hi wontons,

I’ve run into the same issue before—blocking games through the router doesn’t always catch everything, especially apps like Minecraft that can use different ports or even fallback servers to stay connected. Minecraft on iPad doesn’t need a traditional web browser and connects directly through the app, which can bypass general “game” filters on routers like Netgear’s. One solid option is to dig into your router’s settings and manually block the domains Minecraft uses, like minecraft.net and mojang.com. Some parents have also had luck blocking specific ports (like 19132 for Bedrock edition), but it can be tricky since it might interfere with other apps or devices.

Another approach—probably more reliable—is using Apple’s built-in Screen Time controls. On the iPad itself, you can go to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits, then set a limit for the “Games” category or even block Minecraft directly by name. You can also prevent app access during certain hours. It gives you tighter control without needing to mess too much with the router, and it’s harder for kids to bypass if you set a passcode. Might be a bit of trial and error at first, but between Screen Time and a few tweaks to your router, you can definitely rein it in.

Regards