Linux Mint Doesn’t Have One Built-In Parental Control Tool. Here’s What to Use Instead. Keeping Kids Safe Online

Free tools that fill the gap on give IT. get IT. computers

Many computers from give IT. get IT. run Linux Mint, a free operating system built on Ubuntu. Mint is fast, secure, and friendly for beginners.

Here is the honest part. Android has Family Link. Apple has Screen Time. Windows has Family Safety. Mint does not come with a one-stop tool like those. The good news is that free tools cover most of what a family needs, and our helpdesk can help you set them up.

Three Steps That Work

Step 1: Give your child their own standard account

A standard account can use the computer, but it cannot install software or change system settings. Only an administrator can do that. On Mint, open the menu and look for Users and Groups to add an account, then choose Standard as the account type. Keep the administrator password private.

Step 2: Set time limits with Timekpr-nExT

Timekpr-nExT is a free tool that controls how long, and when, your child can use the computer. You can set a daily time limit, choose allowed hours (for example, no computer after 9 pm), and lock the account when time runs out. It only works on standard accounts, which is one more reason for Step 1.

Step 3: Filter websites for the whole home network

A free DNS filtering service, such as OpenDNS FamilyShield or CleanBrowsing Family Filter, blocks adult websites on every device connected to your home Wi-Fi. You set it up once in your router settings. It covers the Mint computer, phones, and tablets at the same time, with nothing to install.

The Catch

• Setup takes a few more steps than on Windows, iPhone, or Android
• Timekpr-nExT limits time. It does not block individual apps or watch messages
• A DNS filter blocks content, but it does not limit time. A tech-savvy teen may be able to change DNS settings on a device where they have administrator access
• You may find online advice about GNOME Parental Controls. That tool is built for the GNOME desktop. Mint uses a different desktop called Cinnamon, and the tool is not set up on Mint by default

Bottom Line

There is no single free app on Mint that matches Family Link or Screen Time. The closest free combination is a standard account, Timekpr-nExT for time limits, and a DNS filter for content. That is three free pieces, and our helpdesk can help you put them together.

Need a Hand Setting This Up?

If you have a Windows 11 or Linux Mint computer from give IT. get IT., our free Help Desk is here for you. We will walk you through each step, whether you are brand new to this or just want a second set of eyes. No question is too small.

• Email: helpdesk@giveitgetit.org
• Phone: (207) 322-9555
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 am to 7 pm ET
• Online: Request Training or Technical Support

Most issues can be solved remotely, by phone, by email, or with direct access to your device. No driving, no waiting rooms. Learn more about our Help Desk.

Please note: the Help Desk supports the computers we provide. give IT. get IT. does not provide or support Apple or Android devices.

Need a Computer? Apply Through give IT. get IT.

give IT. get IT. provides warrantied, refurbished computers, with free user support, to eligible individuals and families. Every system comes with Windows 11 or Linux Mint, plus access to our Help Desk.

• Who can apply: legal residents of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont whose household income and goals fit our program guidelines
• Good to know: this program is not free. There is a participation fee, and sponsors or grants may help cover it. If cost is a concern, call (207) 338-4233 and select Option 3 before you apply
• A tip for families with kids: desktop computers are the easiest to supervise. Choose a laptop only if you need to carry it

Ready? Apply for a computer at giveitgetit.org

Parent & Teacher Resources for Online Safety

• FTC Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) guidance: what apps are legally required to do with a child’s data
• Common Sense Media: age-based reviews of apps, games, and shows
• NetSmartz (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children): internet safety lessons for kids and classroom-ready materials for teachers
• Common Sense Education: free digital citizenship curriculum for classrooms
• AAP Family Media Plan: a tool for building household media rules together

Related Reading: Safety Guides for Every Device

Every guide in this series is written for beginners. Pick the one that matches your device.

• Android Users: Your Free Screen Time Tools: Google Family Link for Android phones, tablets, and Chromebooks
• Apple Users: Your Free Screen Time Tools (iPhone and iPad): Apple Screen Time on iPhone and iPad
• Apple Users: Your Free Screen Time Tools (Mac): Apple Screen Time on a Mac
• Windows 11 Users: Your Free Family Safety Tools: Microsoft Family Safety, built into Windows 11
• Linux Mint Users: Your Free Screen Time Tools: Free tools for the Linux Mint computers we provide (you are here)
• Kids360 Review: Is It Worth Paying For?: What a paid app adds, and where it falls short

More from give IT. get IT.

• We’re With You Every Step of the Way: The give IT. get IT. Help Desk
• Understanding Your Computer: A Plain-English Guide for Beginners
• Back to School, Back to Basics: 5 Ways Students Can Stay Secure Online
• Your Guide to Scam Prevention Resources

give IT. get IT. helps families navigate technology safely, regardless of budget. Reach out to our team for a free digital literacy session. Learn more at giveitgetit.org.