Preventing the Installation of Unauthorized Software
Blocking executable (.exe) downloads is a highly effective method to stop users from installing new, unapproved applications or games. This feature is also essential for protecting your system against potentially malicious software hidden in downloaded files.
Method 1: Blocking by Content Type (Recommended)
This is the most robust method for blocking applications. It intercepts the actual binary data stream, regardless of how the file is named.
- Open HomeGuard and navigate to Monitoring Settings.
- Under the Internet section, click on Content Types.
- Check the box labeled Block exe files.
Note: This action blocks the download of all standard installers (including .msi files), standalone executables, and portable applications by interrupting "binary stream" file types. Because it is highly aggressive, it may occasionally interfere with specific high-bandwidth video streaming services.
Configuring HomeGuard to block .exe binary streams.
Once activated, any attempt to download an executable application will result in a connection failure or error message within the browser:
Example: A gaming application installer blocked by HomeGuard.
If you want the user to know exactly why the download failed, you can turn off Stealth Mode in HomeGuard's Main Settings. A clear system notification will then pop up informing the user that HomeGuard actively blocked the file transfer.
Method 2: Blocking Files by Extension
An alternative method is to explicitly block URLs that end in executable file extensions.
To do this, navigate to Settings >> Websites and add .exe and .msi to your list of blocked addresses.
Caution: This method is generally less effective than Content Type blocking. If a website serves the executable file dynamically without including the ".exe" extension in the actual URL path, the download may bypass this specific rule.
Setting up basic extension blocking rules.
