How to Block Internet Access for a Program

Sometimes you may want to prevent specific applications from accessing the internet to reduce data usage, enhance data security, or avoid unwanted updates. In this guide, we’ll look at how to restrict network access for programs on Windows, macOS, and Android.

1. Blocking Internet Access on Windows Using the Firewall

Step 1: Open the “Windows Defender Firewall”. Press Win + R, type control firewall.cpl, and press Enter.

Step 2: Click on “Advanced Settings”.

Step 3: In the left menu, select “Inbound Rules” or “Outbound Rules”, depending on whether you want to restrict internet access or block incoming data.

Step 4: Click “New Rule” on the right panel.

Step 5: Choose the rule type “Program” and click “Next”.

Step 6: Specify the path to the executable (.exe) file of the program you wish to block.

Step 7: Select the action “Block the connection” and follow the instructions to save the rule.

Now, the program will not be able to access the network due to the firewall rule you have set up.

2. Restricting Internet Access for Programs on macOS

On macOS, there is no built-in firewall for specific app control, but you can use third-party software like Little Snitch to manage internet access.

Step 1: Download and install Little Snitch (a paid app with a free trial version available).

Step 2: Open the application; it will start monitoring the network connections of various programs.

Step 3: Locate the desired application in the list and create a rule to block its internet access.

Step 4: Customize the rules to either allow or deny network access as needed.

This method provides flexible control over network access for macOS applications.

3. Blocking Internet Access on Android

To manage internet access for apps on Android devices, you can use specialized applications such as NetGuard.

Step 1: Install the NetGuard app from the Google Play Store. It functions like a firewall without requiring root access.

Step 2: Open the app and enable its functionality.

Step 3: In the list of apps, select those you want to block from accessing the internet. Set restrictions for Wi-Fi and mobile data as needed.

With NetGuard, you can precisely control internet access for each app on your Android device.