SelfControl
SelfControl is a free Mac app that helps you avoid distracting websites by blocking access to them for a set period of time. It can help you stay focused and productive when you need to get work done.
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SelfControl: Free Mac App for Blocking Distracting Websites
SelfControl is a free Mac app that helps you avoid distracting websites by blocking access to them for a set period of time. It can help you stay focused and productive when you need to get work done.
What is SelfControl?
SelfControl is a free application for Mac that allows users to block their own access to distracting websites and mail servers for a predefined period of time. It aims to help people stay focused and productive when they need to get work done.
Once installed, SelfControl allows the user to add sites and mail servers to their blacklist. The user can then start a blocking session for a set length of time, from 1 minute up to 24 hours. During this time, SelfControl will block access to the blacklisted sites and mail servers, preventing the user from accessing common distractions.
Some key features of SelfControl include:
- Free and open source
- Customizable blacklist
- Blocking time can be preset from 1 minute to 24 hours
- Blocked sites cannot be accessed even if the app is deleted or computer restarted during a session
- Sync blacklist and settings across devices (requires SelfControl app on all devices)
By restricting access to unproductive websites and email, SelfControl aims to break bad habits and keep users' attention focused on the task at hand. It has proven popular among students, writers, coders, and anyone who finds themselves distracted in their workflow by websites and online communication.
SelfControl Features
Features
- Block access to distracting websites
- Set time periods for blocking (from 5 minutes to 1 day)
- Customizable blacklists and whitelists
- Block application usage
- Schedule website blocking in advance
Pricing
- Free
- Open Source
Pros
Free and open source
Simple and easy to use
Effective at blocking distractions
Available for Mac only
Cons
Lacks advanced configuration options
Easy to uninstall or work around blocks
Mac only, no Windows or mobile support
Official Links
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