Rule Configuration¶
Rules are the building blocks of Focus. They define what is blocked, when restrictions apply, and how limits are enforced. This guide explains how to create, edit, and manage rules across all modes.
Rule Types¶
Focus supports several types of rules:
| Rule Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Website block | Prevents access to a specific domain or URL |
| Category block | Blocks an entire category of websites (Parental Mode) |
| App limit | Sets a daily time limit for an application |
| App block | Completely blocks an application from launching |
| Schedule rule | Defines when other rules are active or inactive |
| Downtime rule | Blocks all non-essential activity during specified times |
Creating a Rule¶
- Open Focus settings with the admin password.
- Navigate to the appropriate section for your rule type:
- Website rules: Domain Management
- App rules: App Limits or App Groups
- Schedule rules: Downtime or Free Time
- Click Add Rule or the equivalent button for that section.
- Configure the rule parameters.
- Click Save.
Rule Priority¶
When multiple rules apply to the same app or website, Focus uses this priority order:
- Allow list -- Always takes highest priority. If a site is on the allow list, it is never blocked.
- Specific block rules -- Rules targeting a specific domain or app.
- Category rules -- Broad category-based blocks.
- Schedule rules -- Time-based rules modify the behavior of other rules.
- Default policy -- The fallback behavior when no specific rule matches.
Conflict Resolution
If there is a conflict between rules, the more specific rule takes precedence. For example, a specific allow rule for docs.google.com overrides a general "block all Google" rule.
Editing Rules¶
To modify an existing rule:
- Navigate to the section containing the rule
- Click the rule to select it
- Click Edit or double-click to open the editor
- Make your changes
- Click Save
Changes take effect immediately.
Enabling and Disabling Rules¶
Toggle rules on or off without deleting them:
- Enabled -- Rule is active and enforced
- Disabled -- Rule is saved but not applied
This is useful for temporary changes (e.g., disabling a block for a specific task) without losing the rule configuration.
Deleting Rules¶
Select a rule and click Delete. Deleted rules are removed permanently. To temporarily stop a rule without losing it, disable it instead.
Exporting and Importing Rules¶
Back up your rules or transfer them to another Focus installation:
- Export -- Save all rules to a file
- Import -- Load rules from a previously exported file
Rule Templates
Create a set of well-tuned rules on one computer, export them, and import them on other machines for consistent configuration across multiple devices.