Hey guys! Want to keep YouTube off-limits on your Roku TV? Whether you're trying to manage screen time for the kiddos or just want to avoid those endless video rabbit holes, blocking YouTube on Roku is totally doable. Let's dive into some easy methods to get it done!

Why Block YouTube on Roku?

Before we jump into how to block YouTube, let's quickly chat about why you might want to. Here are a few common reasons:

• Parental Control: This is a big one! YouTube is a treasure trove of content, but not all of it is suitable for young eyes. Blocking it can help you ensure your kids are only watching age-appropriate videos.
• Reduce Screen Time: It's so easy to get sucked into YouTube for hours. Blocking it can help you and your family spend less time glued to the screen and more time doing other awesome stuff.
• Minimize Distractions: Trying to focus on work or a hobby? Blocking YouTube on your Roku can remove a major source of distraction.
• Prevent Unwanted Content: Maybe you're not worried about kids, but you're tired of seeing certain types of videos recommended. Blocking YouTube can help you curate a cleaner viewing experience.

Method 1: Using Roku's Parental Control Feature

Roku offers a built-in parental control feature that lets you restrict access to certain channels, including YouTube. This is probably the most straightforward method, but it requires you to set up a Roku PIN.

Step 1: Set Up a Roku PIN

First things first, you'll need to create a Roku PIN. This PIN will be required to add new channels or change parental control settings. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Go to your Roku account online: Head to the Roku website (https://my.roku.com/) and log in to your account.

2. Navigate to "PIN Preference": Look for the "PIN Preference" option. It might be under "My Account" or "Settings."

3. Choose your PIN Preference: You'll have a few options here. You can require a PIN to:

   • Always require a PIN to make purchases and add channels.
   • Require a PIN to make purchases only.
   • Don't require a PIN.

   For our purposes, choose the first option: "Always require a PIN to make purchases and add channels." This will ensure that no one can add YouTube back without your permission.

4. Create your PIN: Enter a four-digit PIN that you'll remember but that others won't guess. Confirm the PIN, and save your changes.

Step 2: Remove the YouTube Channel

Now that you have a PIN set up, you can remove the YouTube channel from your Roku. Here's how:

1. Go to your Roku home screen: Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Highlight the YouTube channel: Find the YouTube channel icon on your home screen.
3. Press the Options button: Press the Options button on your Roku remote. It looks like an asterisk (*).
4. Select "Remove channel": A menu will pop up. Choose the “Remove channel” option.
5. Confirm the removal: Roku will ask you to confirm that you want to remove the channel. Select “Remove” to proceed.

YouTube is now gone! If someone tries to add it back, they'll need your Roku PIN.

Step 3: Preventing Re-installation without PIN

The key to keeping YouTube blocked is ensuring that the PIN is required for any channel additions. By selecting "Always require a PIN to make purchases and add channels," you've set up a strong barrier. Make sure to keep your PIN safe and don't share it with anyone who shouldn't have access.

Method 2: Using a Router to Block YouTube

Another way to block YouTube on your Roku is by using your router's parental control features. This method blocks YouTube at the network level, meaning it will be blocked on all devices connected to your Wi-Fi network, not just your Roku. This can be both a pro and a con, so keep that in mind.

Step 1: Access Your Router's Settings

To access your router's settings, you'll need its IP address and login credentials. Here's how to find them:

1. Find your router's IP address: This is usually the default gateway address. You can find it by:
   • Windows: Open the Command Prompt (type cmd in the search bar) and type ipconfig. Look for the “Default Gateway” address.
   • macOS: Open System Preferences, go to Network, select your Wi-Fi connection, and click “Advanced.” Go to the “TCP/IP” tab and look for the “Router” address.
2. Open a web browser: Type your router's IP address into the address bar and press Enter.
3. Log in: You'll be prompted for a username and password. If you haven't changed them, check your router's documentation or the manufacturer's website for the default credentials. Common default usernames are "admin" and passwords are "password" or "admin."

Step 2: Find Parental Control or Access Control Settings

Once you're logged into your router's settings, look for a section labeled "Parental Controls," "Access Control," "Website Filtering," or something similar. The exact name and location will vary depending on your router's brand and model.

Step 3: Block YouTube's Domain

In the parental control settings, you should be able to add websites to a blacklist. Here's what you need to do:

1. Add YouTube's domain: Enter www.youtube.com into the blacklist.
2. Consider adding related domains: To be extra thorough, you might also want to add m.youtube.com (the mobile version) and youtubei.googleapis.com (which is used for some YouTube APIs).
3. Save your changes: Make sure to save the changes to your router's settings. Your router may need to restart for the changes to take effect.

Now, any device on your network that tries to access YouTube will be blocked. Keep in mind that this will affect all devices, so if you only want to block YouTube on your Roku, this might not be the best method.

Method 3: Using a Third-Party App (If Available)

Some third-party apps offer parental control features that can block specific channels on Roku. However, availability can vary, and you'll want to research the app's reputation and privacy policy before installing it. Search the Roku Channel Store for apps with parental control features and see if they meet your needs.

Caveats of Third-Party Apps

• Privacy Concerns: Be cautious about granting third-party apps access to your Roku. Make sure the app is reputable and has a clear privacy policy.
• Reliability: Not all third-party apps are created equal. Some may be unreliable or stop working after updates.
• Cost: Some parental control apps require a subscription fee.

Tips for Keeping YouTube Blocked

• Keep your Roku PIN safe: Don't share it with anyone who shouldn't have access.
• Regularly check your Roku channels: Make sure YouTube hasn't been re-added without your knowledge.
• Consider using a combination of methods: For example, you could use Roku's parental controls and block YouTube at the router level for extra security.
• Communicate with your family: Talk to your kids about why you're blocking YouTube and discuss alternative activities.
• Stay updated: YouTube and Roku are constantly evolving, so stay informed about new features and potential workarounds.

Conclusion

Blocking YouTube on your Roku TV is a great way to manage screen time, protect your kids from inappropriate content, and minimize distractions. Whether you choose to use Roku's built-in parental controls, your router's settings, or a third-party app, there's a method that will work for you. Just remember to keep your PIN safe, stay vigilant, and communicate with your family about the changes. Happy blocking!