A comprehensive guide to the Microsoft 365 Family Safety app for keeping your children safe online

Microsoft 365 Family Safety is a suite of digital safety features designed to help families foster healthy digital habits and provide peace of mind. This guide will walk you through setting up and managing Family Safety features in Microsoft 365, including family safety settings, digital content filtering, screen time limits, location sharing, and managing family safety settings.

Setting up Microsoft 365 Family Safety

Create a Microsoft Family Group

1. Sign up or log in: To use Microsoft Family Safety, you need a Microsoft account. If you don’t have one, sign up at the Microsoft account website.
2. Download the app: Download the Microsoft Family Safety app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. If you have a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC, you can download the app from the Microsoft Store.
3. Add family members: Open the app, sign in, and add family members by entering their email addresses. They will receive an invitation to join your family group.

Install on devices

Ensure that all family members have the Microsoft Family Safety app installed on their devices and are signed in with their Microsoft accounts. This includes Windows PCs, Xbox consoles, and Android devices.

Digital content filtering

Web and search filters

1. Microsoft Edge requirement: To enable web and search filters, family members must use Microsoft Edge and be signed into their Microsoft accounts.
2. Set up filters: Open the Microsoft Family Safety app, select a family member, and navigate to Content filters. Turn on the Only use allowed websites slider to enable filtering.
3. Manage allowed and blocked sites: Add or select sites to allow or block. You can also choose to always allow educational websites.

App and game filters

1. Set filter restrictions: Open the Microsoft Family Safety app, find your family member, and tap their name. Navigate to the respective platform (Windows/Xbox/Mobile) and tap Set time limits > Apps and games.
2. Limit specific apps and games: Turn on ‘App and game limits’ and set the amount of time your family member can spend on each app or game.

Screen time limits

Set up limits

1. Access screen time settings: Open the Microsoft Family Safety app, tap the name of the family member you are setting screen time limits for, and go to the respective platform (Windows/Xbox).
2. Customize time ranges: Set screen time for each device as desired. Select a day to set time ranges and total hours permitted for device use.

Managing limits

1. Adjust schedules: Once a day has been selected, you can apply the changes to other days or every day. Remind family members to sign out when not actively using their devices.
2. Turn off limits: To turn limits off, select the family member and then select Turn limits off.

Location sharing

1. Enable location sharing: In the Microsoft Family Safety app, you can view family members’ locations anytime, anywhere. Save places and receive location alerts when a family member leaves or arrives at a saved location.
2. Privacy considerations: Discuss with your family why location tracking is being used and how it can help in emergencies.

Managing Microsoft Family Safety settings

Accessing settings

1. Family Safety dashboard: Sign in to your Microsoft account and select ‘Family Safety’ from the menu on the left to access the dashboard.
2. Adjust settings: From here, you can manage screen time, content filters, and view activity reports. You can also add money to your children’s Microsoft accounts and require them to ask permission before making purchases.

Regular updates

1. Review and adjust: Regularly review and adjust the settings as needed to ensure they continue to meet your family’s needs.
2. Open communication: Encourage open communication with your family members about online safety and adjust settings as necessary.

Troubleshooting

1. Common issues: If you encounter issues with family safety features, consult the Microsoft Community forums or the Microsoft Support website for troubleshooting tips.
2. Support and feedback: For additional support, you can contact Microsoft directly through the Family Safety app or visit the Microsoft Support website.

By following this guide and utilizing the resources provided by Microsoft, you can create a safer and healthier digital environment for your family. Remember to keep the dialogue open with your family members about the importance of online safety and to regularly review and update your settings to adapt to your family’s changing needs.

Download the Microsoft 365 Family Safety app for your device to try it out for yourself from the links below.

Download the Microsoft Family Safety app from the Google Play Store Apple App Store. If you have a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC, you can download the app from the Microsoft Store.