The Only Real Linux Desktop App Blocker with advanced website blocking Support
Finally, a productivity tool that actually works on Linux – with full GUI, app blocking, and no terminal hacks required
- Works on Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch & more
- Simple GUI - no CLI skills or sudo needed
- Blocks both websites AND desktop apps
- The ONLY Linux blocker with uninstall protection
- Focus mode, dark theme, multiple device support and sync
Tired of Half-Baked Linux Blocking Solutions?
Every Linux user knows the struggle:
- Browser extensions that disappear with one click when temptation strikes
- Editing hosts files that only block domains (not specific URLs)
- Writing complex scripts that take hours and break with updates
- "Cross-platform" tools that secretly don't support Linux at all
Other Focus Tools Lack Native Linux Support
- Cold Turkey: No Linux desktop app.
- Freedom: Browser extension only, no native Linux version.
- FocusMe: Works on Windows and macOS, not Linux.
- LeechBlock: Browser-only blocking, limited to extensions.
DigitalZen is different. We’re developers who USE Linux daily, so we built the productivity tool we wished existed.
Real Linux Support, Real Productivity Features
Block Websites AND Desktop Apps
- Block distracting websites with advanced URL patterns
- Block desktop apps like Steam, Discord, Slack
- Focus mode: allow ONLY what you need
- No root access required - works in userspace
Works on Every Linux Distribution
Officially Supported:
- Debian-based: Ubuntu, Debian, Linux Mint, Pop!_OS, Zorin OS
- Red Hat-based: Fedora, CentOS Stream, RHEL, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux
- Arch-based: Arch Linux, Manjaro
- Any X11 desktop environment
- GNOME on Wayland (KDE Wayland coming soon)
Smart Blocking That Adapts to Your Willpower
- 6 adaptive lock types (code, cooldown, friend approval, schedule, money fine)
- Daily allowances -for example get 30 mins of Reddit, then it's blocked
- Pomodoro integration - 50 mins focus, 10 mins break
- Settings locks, App and extension can't be removed when temptation strikes
Unique Linux-First Features
- Extension removal protection (we're the ONLY ones)
- App uninstall protection (prevent yourself from removing DigitalZen)
- One-click focus sessions from system tray
- Low system footprint - we respect your resources
One Simple Command
curl -fsSL https://api.digitalzen.app/downloads/DigitalZen-setup.sh | bash
That’s it! No complex configuration, no editing system files, no root permissions needed.
Then Just Click and Configure
- Select from pre-built blocklists (social media, adult content, gaming)
- Or create your own custom rules
- Set schedules that work for you
- Start focusing immediately
Why DigitalZen is the Best Linux Website Blocker
Built for Real Linux Users
For Developers
I needed to block Hacker News and Reddit during deep coding sessions. DigitalZen's focus mode lets me access only my IDE, terminal, and documentation. Finally shipping projects on time!
For Students
Gaming on Linux was killing my grades. Now Steam and Discord are blocked during study hours, but I can still access research sites. The friend-approval unlock saved my semester!
For Remote Workers
Slack and social media were constant distractions. DigitalZen's schedules keep me focused during work hours, and the Pomodoro timer reminds me to take real breaks
Technically Sound, Privacy-First Design
- No kernel modules or system-level changes
- Runs entirely in userspace
- No personal data collection
- Works with all browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Brave, Vivaldi)
- Lightweight - minimal CPU and memory usage
- Open blocklist format - import your own lists
- Regular updates through our agile release cycle
Linux Website Blocker FAQ
Do I need root access to install DigitalZen?
No! Our installer works completely in userspace. No sudo required for daily use.
How is this different from just editing /etc/hosts?
Hosts file only blocks entire domains. DigitalZen can block specific URLs, paths, and even YouTube playlists while allowing others. Plus, it blocks desktop apps and has protection against removal when your willpower is weak.
Does it work with Wayland?
Yes! We support GNOME on Wayland. KDE Wayland support is coming once their API matures.
Can I use it with my tiling window manager?
Yes! DigitalZen works with any X11 window manager including i3, awesome, bspwm, etc.
What about system resource usage?
Minimal. We built this for developers who need their RAM for Docker containers and compilation. DigitalZen uses less resources than a single browser tab.
Join the Linux Productivity Revolution
Stop wasting time with half-solutions.
Get the only website and app blocker that truly respects Linux users.
* No credit card • No root required • 60-second install