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Security guide6 min read

How to set up parental controls on a TalkTalk router

TalkTalk's Wi-Fi Hub and Wi-Fi Hub Plus are the standard routers for TalkTalk broadband customers. TalkTalk offers a free content filter called HomeSafe, which works at the network level and is one of the most straightforward ISP parental controls in the UK. This guide walks through securing your router and activating every available protection layer.

Before you start
  • TalkTalk HomeSafe is managed via your TalkTalk account online — not through the router admin panel. Keep your TalkTalk account credentials secure.
  • The TalkTalk router admin panel is only accessible from within your home network.

Step 1 — Log into the TalkTalk router admin panel

  1. Connect to your TalkTalk Wi-Fi.
  2. Open a browser and go to http://192.168.1.1.
  3. Enter the admin password (printed on the back of the router).
  4. Click Login.
Some TalkTalk routers use http://192.168.0.1. Check the label on the back of your router for the correct IP.

Step 2 — Change the admin password

  1. Find Settings or Administration in the router admin.
  2. Click Change Password.
  3. Set a new password that is at least 12 characters long.
  4. Save changes.

Step 3 — Verify Wi-Fi encryption

  1. In the router admin, go to Wireless Settings.
  2. Confirm Security Mode is WPA2-PSK.
  3. Update your Wi-Fi passphrase if using the factory default.
  4. Apply.

Step 4 — Enable DNS filtering with NextDNS

  1. Sign up for a free account at nextdns.io.
  2. In the router admin, locate DNS Settings under Advanced or LAN settings.
  3. Set Primary DNS to 45.90.28.159 and Secondary DNS to 45.90.30.159. Note: if you're a Canopy Pro member, use your personalised DNS addresses from your Safety dashboard instead.
  4. Save.
  5. Configure blocking categories in NextDNS: Adult Content, Gambling, and Social Media are common choices for families.

Step 5 — Enable TalkTalk HomeSafe

  1. Go to my.talktalk.co.uk and sign in.
  2. Navigate to My Account → Manage HomeSafe.
  3. Switch HomeSafe on.
  4. Select the filtering level: "Protect" blocks adult content and malware; "SafeSearch" also enforces Google/Bing SafeSearch.
  5. Click Save. Changes apply within a few minutes.
TalkTalk HomeSafe is free and operates at the TalkTalk network level — it applies to every device on your connection, even if they change their own DNS settings.
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