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Security guide6 min read

How to set up parental controls on EE Smart Hub

This guide covers EE Smart Hub security settings, available EE controls, and model-specific Canopy-managed DNS options. Filtering depends on each device using the configured route; a router selection alone does not establish coverage.

By James Mackie, Canopy Families founder · How we research and review guides

Before you start
  • EE app options vary by hub and account. Select the exact hub model shown in the app before changing controls.

Step 1 — Log into the EE Smart Hub admin panel

  1. Connect a device to your EE Wi-Fi.
  2. Open a browser and go to http://192.168.1.254.
  3. Enter the admin password. This is on the label on the back of the hub.
  4. Click Login.
EE’s current hub-manager address is 192.168.1.254. If it does not load, confirm that the device is connected to the EE hub rather than mobile data or another router.

Step 2 — Change the default admin password

  1. Use EE's current hub-management instructions for the exact model printed on your hub.
  2. Follow the admin-password option shown for that model rather than assuming every EE hub uses the same menu.
  3. Set a new strong password (12+ characters, not the same as your Wi-Fi).
  4. Save and log back in.

Step 3 — Enable WPA2 Wi-Fi encryption

  1. Check the Wireless settings described for your exact EE hub in its current instructions.
  2. Keep the strongest supported security mode; use WPA2-PSK (AES) on a WPA2-only model. Use WPA3 or a WPA2/WPA3 mode only if the model offers it and your devices are compatible.
  3. Update your Wi-Fi passphrase to something strong and unique.
  4. Apply and reconnect devices.

Step 4 — Create child groups in the EE app

  1. Open the EE app and choose Manage → Broadband → Groups.
  2. Create a group for each child or age range and add their devices.
  3. Choose a restriction level, set schedules, and test Pause internet.
  4. Review blocked categories and specific-site rules from the parent account.
EE documents these controls in the app. Availability varies by hub and account; if Groups or a control is missing, consult the instructions for your model. An available EE control is not proof that the device uses Canopy DNS.

Step 5 — Connect Canopy-managed NextDNS

  1. Start a Canopy Families full-access subscription or 14-day trial; the managed NextDNS profile is included.
  2. Open Home Safety → Router Setup and select your exact EE hub.
  3. If the current firmware does not expose a supported DNS-server field, review separate OS controls in Device Setup and ask for a verified compatible-router path. Device Setup does not install Canopy DNS; do not guess at a DHCP field.
  4. Use Check profile traffic in Home Safety. A positive check confirms recent profile traffic, not coverage for every device.

The sources below informed this editorial review. Router menus and service features vary by model, firmware and account. A documentation check is not a hardware test or confirmation of Canopy support.

Explore Canopy Families

Full access includes a managed NextDNS profile and parent dashboard. Filtering needs an available setup method validated for your exact router; a profile traffic check does not confirm every device or mobile connection.

£9.99/month after an eligible 14-day trial. A payment card is required at checkout; the paid subscription starts after the trial unless you cancel. A limited free plan is also available: five sessions per week and one child profile, without managed NextDNS filtering.

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