loopBlock is a software that allows users to block domain names or IP addresses using the /etc/hosts file. It provides a simple and effective way of limiting access to unwanted websites or online resources.
LoopBlock is a powerful software that allows an administrative user on a local computer (running Mac OS 10.2 or later) to declare certain domain names and IP addresses as "blocked". This feature disallows users on the system to access any network or computer listed. The software modifies the "/etc/hosts" file, adding domain names or IP addresses to the list of hosts in the file.
These domain names or addresses are set to route to the "loopback" address on the machine, causing any lookup of a name listed in LoopBlock to route to the local machine. At that point, the machine will either access services on the local computer, such as personal web sharing. This way, the administrator can set up a "restricted access" index.html page to let other users know that they cannot access the requested name or address.
Using LoopBlock is a breeze! Simply enter domain names or IP addresses of computers that should be "blocked", and push the return key or the "Block" button to add the name to the list. Remember to push the "Save" button to apply the settings. An administrative name or password is needed to save the list.
The software also features an import function that allows the user to import entries from a Comma Delimited Text File (.CSV). Users can select "Import" from under the "File" menu and select the file that contains the data they wish to import.
LoopBlock also comes with a cache flushing option to help in some instances. Mac OS X consults that cache before the configuration files that LoopBlock modifies (/etc/hosts). The cache flushing option is available in "Preferences" under the "LoopBlock" menu.
In this release, LoopBlock has added new features such as bug fixes that no longer assign incorrect permissions when replacing hosts files, an import option under the file menu, and a function that flushes the lookupd cache. Overall, LoopBlock is an excellent software choice for anyone in need of a powerful and easy-to-use tool for blocking domain names and IP addresses on their local computer.
These domain names or addresses are set to route to the "loopback" address on the machine, causing any lookup of a name listed in LoopBlock to route to the local machine. At that point, the machine will either access services on the local computer, such as personal web sharing. This way, the administrator can set up a "restricted access" index.html page to let other users know that they cannot access the requested name or address.
Using LoopBlock is a breeze! Simply enter domain names or IP addresses of computers that should be "blocked", and push the return key or the "Block" button to add the name to the list. Remember to push the "Save" button to apply the settings. An administrative name or password is needed to save the list.
The software also features an import function that allows the user to import entries from a Comma Delimited Text File (.CSV). Users can select "Import" from under the "File" menu and select the file that contains the data they wish to import.
LoopBlock also comes with a cache flushing option to help in some instances. Mac OS X consults that cache before the configuration files that LoopBlock modifies (/etc/hosts). The cache flushing option is available in "Preferences" under the "LoopBlock" menu.
In this release, LoopBlock has added new features such as bug fixes that no longer assign incorrect permissions when replacing hosts files, an import option under the file menu, and a function that flushes the lookupd cache. Overall, LoopBlock is an excellent software choice for anyone in need of a powerful and easy-to-use tool for blocking domain names and IP addresses on their local computer.
What's New
Version 1.1b: N/A