How to Enable DNS Filtering on the ASUS RT-BE88U to Protect Children Online

If you have the ASUS RT-BE88U router, you can easily set up DNS filtering to block harmful or inappropriate content on all devices connected to your home Wi-Fi. This is a great step toward making your digital environment safer for children.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the setup process using screenshots from my own router, so you can follow along step-by-step.

🛡️ What Is DNS Filtering?

DNS filtering works by intercepting web address requests and blocking access to websites known to host adult content, violence, malware, or other online threats. It protects all connected devices — phones, tablets, laptops — without the need to install anything.

🔧 Step-by-Step: Enable DNS Filtering on the ASUS RT-BE88U

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel.
   In a browser, enter 192.168.50.1 or router.asus.com, then enter your admin username and password.
2. Select “Parental Controls” and then “DNS Filtering”.
   This is where you can enable or configure safe DNS servers.
3. Switch “DNS Filtering” to ON.
   You’ll now be able to assign a filtering level for specific devices or all devices on your network.
4. Select a filtering service.
   ASUS typically offers options like:
   • OpenDNS (blocks adult content)
   • CleanBrowsing (Family Filter)
   • Google DNS or custom DNS (can be configured for advanced users)
5. Assign the DNS filter to your devices.
   Choose the devices you want to protect, such as your child’s tablet or gaming console, and assign the DNS filter to them.
6. Save your settings.
   Click “Apply” to activate the DNS filtering rules.

📸 Screenshots of the Setup Process

I’ve included screenshots below to show each step visually. These may help you find the right settings quicker if the layout of your admin panel looks slightly different.

1: Main screen after login:

2: Parental Controls: Select this tab.

3: In the "Client name" section, select the device that the DNS rule has to be applied to.
4: In the "Content Category" section, select the type of filtering required. Note the explanation for each category in yellow writing.
5: Click the "+" button to add the rule.
6: Check to see that the device is listed now in the "Client List" section.

💬 Final Thoughts

DNS filtering on the ASUS RT-BE88U is a powerful, low-effort way to protect children from harmful websites. It works across all connected devices and is especially helpful for younger children who aren’t yet ready for more advanced device-specific parental controls.

💬 If you have this router or another ASUS model, feel free to share your setup, questions, or tips below. Let’s help each other build safer home networks for our kids.