FocusDesk

What FocusDesk is

FocusDesk is a Windows tool for blocking distracting websites and applications during work or study. It blocks domains across browsers by adding them to the Windows hosts file, then reverses those changes when a block ends. For applications, it terminates selected programs by executable name if they start during a blocking session.

Users can set recurring focus hours for individual weekdays, including periods that cross midnight, or turn on a session manually. FocusDesk runs locally: block lists and preferences remain on the device, and the maker says the software does not transmit them to FocusDesk or other parties. It also says the app does not initiate network connections during normal operation. The free plan costs nothing, needs no account, and is listed at about 3 MB. FocusDesk supports Windows 10 and 11, and operation requires Administrator privileges. Blocking may be bypassed by browsers that use DNS-over-HTTPS, VPNs, or alternative network paths. The license permits personal and commercial productivity use on devices the user owns or controls.