What do I need to use Blocker?
A UniFi router (UDM, UCG, or similar) running UniFi Network 9 or later with the zone-based firewall, and a Local API Key. Blocker runs on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac on the same home network as the router.
Where do I get an API key?
In UniFi OS, go to Control Plane → Integrations and create a Local API Key. Paste it into Blocker's Settings along with your router's address (usually 192.168.1.1). Use Test Connection to confirm it works. There's a step-by-step guide if you'd like the exact screens.
How do I set up Blocker for my partner?
You don't need a second API key. On the device that's already set up, open Blocker and tap Share, then AirDrop the setup to their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. They open it in Blocker and choose Use Setup and Devices. Same router, same device list, nothing to type. AirDrop is encrypted between the two devices; the file contains your router's API key, so send it directly rather than posting it somewhere.
After that, each of you has your own copy. Devices one of you adds or renames later don't appear on the other's list; share again if you want to resync.
How do I use Siri?
Every device in your list is a Siri phrase. Say "Block the Playroom iPad with Blocker" to pause it, and "Unblock the Playroom iPad with Blocker" to bring it back, using whatever name the device has in your list. Siri needs the app's name in the phrase. Works on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
The same actions appear in the Shortcuts app, so you can put a block on a schedule (every school night at 9 PM), on a Home Screen button, or inside a personal Shortcut with a shorter name of your choosing.
What does Blocker change on my router?
Blocker creates and manages a single firewall policy for the devices you choose to block. Nothing else on your router is touched, and removing your devices from Blocker removes that policy's entries.
Why does a device say something like "YouTube limited in UniFi"?
That device is affected by an app-blocking rule you set up in UniFi itself (for example a scheduled YouTube block). Blocker shows you it's there so the toggle state makes sense, but those rules are managed in the UniFi app, not in Blocker.
Why can't Blocker reach my router?
Blocker talks to your router over your home network, so your device needs to be on that network (or connected to it via VPN). Check that the router address in Settings is right and that your API key is still valid.
Does Blocker work when I'm away from home?
Out of the box it works on your home network. If you run a VPN back into your home network (many UniFi routers offer WireGuard or Teleport), Blocker works over that too.
Do blocked devices stay blocked?
Yes. The block lives in your router's firewall, so it stays in effect even when Blocker isn't running.
How does my device list sync between my iPhone and Mac?
Through your private iCloud account. We never see your device list, and your API key stays in your Keychain.
Contact
Email support@boringware.com. Include what router model and UniFi Network version you're on if your question is about connecting; it speeds things up.