Setting screen time on Windows 11 is a breeze and a fantastic way to ensure a healthy balance between online and offline activities. By following a few simple steps, you can set limits on how long you or your child can use specific apps or the computer itself, helping to manage screen time effectively.
How to Set Screen Time on Windows 11
This guide will walk you through setting screen time limits on Windows 11. By the end of these steps, you’ll have screen time restrictions in place that can help manage daily usage.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, you need to open the Settings app on your Windows 11 device.
To do this, click on the Start button, then select the gear icon which represents Settings. You can also press the Windows key + I to open Settings directly.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
Next, head over to the Accounts section within the Settings app.
In the Settings window, look for the Accounts option on the left-hand side. Click on it to access account-related settings.
Step 3: Access Family & Other Users
From the Accounts menu, select Family & other users.
This section allows you to manage family members’ accounts and set up screen time restrictions for child accounts.
Step 4: Add a Family Member
If the family member is not already listed, you’ll need to add them.
Click on "Add a family member" and follow the prompts to add a child account. Make sure to use their email address associated with their Microsoft account.
Step 5: Access Family Safety Website
Once the account is added, go to the Family Safety website to set screen time limits.
Open your web browser and go to family.microsoft.com. Sign in with your Microsoft account to access the Family Safety dashboard.
Step 6: Set Screen Time Limits
Finally, select the account and set the desired screen time limits.
On the Family Safety dashboard, select the child account. Navigate to Screen time and set the desired limits for each day of the week.
After completing these steps, the set screen time limits will be enforced on the child’s account, helping to manage and monitor their usage effectively.
Tips for Setting Screen Time on Windows 11
- Customize Limits: Make sure to set different limits for weekdays and weekends based on your child’s schedule.
- Daily Reports: Use the Family Safety app to receive daily activity reports and adjust limits as needed.
- App-Specific Limits: Set limits for specific apps to prevent overuse of certain applications.
- Communicate: Explain to your child why these limits are important for their health and productivity.
- Consistency: Be consistent in enforcing the rules to ensure the effectiveness of screen time limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set screen time for different devices?
Yes, screen time settings apply across all devices linked to the child’s Microsoft account.
Can I set screen time for specific apps?
Yes, you can set limits for specific apps in addition to total screen time.
What happens when the screen time limit is reached?
When the limit is reached, the user will be unable to access the device or app until the next day or the limit is extended by an adult.
Can children request more screen time?
Yes, children can send a request for additional screen time which can be approved or denied by the parent.
Is it possible to monitor screen time remotely?
Yes, parents can monitor and adjust screen time settings remotely via the Family Safety website or app.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Accounts.
- Access Family & Other Users.
- Add a Family Member.
- Access Family Safety Website.
- Set Screen Time Limits.
Conclusion
Setting screen time on Windows 11 is a simple yet powerful way to manage digital habits and ensure balanced screen usage. By following these steps, you can create a healthier digital environment for your children or even for yourself. Start by opening the Settings app and adding family members if necessary. Then, with the help of the Family Safety website, you can customize and set limits that suit your family’s needs.
Remember, it’s all about balance. Use these tips to make the most of the screen time settings and foster better digital habits. For more detailed guides and additional features, visit the official Microsoft support page. Now that you know how to set screen time on Windows 11, why not give it a try and see the positive impact it can have on your daily routine?

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.