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Block distracting sites system-wide, managed by your AI assistant

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Tracked since 2026

The Bottom Line

Price
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Key facts

  • Blocks distracting websites at the system level by modifying the hosts file.
  • Integrates with AI assistants to manage focus sessions and site blocking.
  • Runs as a cross-platform background service for persistent and timed blocks.

Pros

  • System-level blocking is more robust than browser extensions, preventing easy workarounds.
  • AI integration allows for natural language control over focus settings.
  • One-time purchase model avoids recurring subscription costs.
  • Runs quietly in the background without user intervention after setup.
  • Blocks persist across system restarts and different browsers.

Cons

  • Requires command-line installation, which might be less intuitive for some users.
  • Relies on existing AI assistant subscriptions for full functionality.
  • Modifying the hosts file might be perceived as a more technical intervention than a simple browser extension.

What is LockIn MCP?

LockIn MCP is a productivity tool designed to help users stay focused by blocking distracting websites at the system level. Unlike browser extensions, LockIn modifies the hosts file, ensuring that blocked sites remain inaccessible across all browsers and even if users attempt to bypass the block. This robust blocking mechanism prevents common workarounds and enforces true digital discipline. The unique aspect of LockIn MCP is its integration with AI assistants like leading models. Users can interact with their AI assistant to manage their focus sessions, asking it to block specific sites, initiate timed focus periods, or temporarily unblock sites with accountability. The tool runs quietly in the background as a cross-platform daemon, managing blocks, temporary unblocks with timers, and exposing its capabilities to connected AI assistants, making it a powerful solution for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and minimize digital distractions.

Key Features

  • System-level domain blocking via hosts file modification
  • Integration with AI tools (Poke, Claude, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini)
  • One-line installer and MCP server
  • Cross-platform background daemon for block management
  • Ability to block sites via AI commands
  • Ability to start focus sessions via AI commands
  • Ability to temporarily unblock sites with expiry via AI commands
  • Persistent blocks after system restart

Pricing Plans

Pricing checked Oct 17, 2026. Source: lockinmcp.com/pricing, read Oct 17, 2026

LockIn MCP plans and prices, checked October 2026
Plan Price Details
Lifetime Pro

$9.99 once

  • System-level domain blocking
  • One-line installer + MCP server
  • Works with Poke, Claude, ChatGPT & more
+3 more
  • Stable relay URL for remote MCP
  • Recommended Poke focus recipe
  • Lifetime license, pay once

Is LockIn MCP worth the price?

Great value

The pricing for LockIn MCP is exceptionally fair and generous, offering a lifetime license for a one-time payment of $9.99.

This is a highly competitive price point for system-level distraction blocking. It's best for individuals seeking a permanent, cost-effective solution to enhance focus.

Full LockIn MCP pricing: every plan, hidden costs and alternatives

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LockIn MCP by the numbers

LockIn MCP compared with 52 Focus & Pomodoro tools on Toolradar, as of Oct 2026
Metric LockIn MCP Peer median Position (1 is best)
Free plan No 73% have one n/a
Listed as an alternative to 1 tool 2 #32 of 52 (joint)

Each position is counted among the tools that have data for that row, as noted under it. All Focus & Pomodoro data · How we compute this. Advertising and placement fees are not inputs to any position.

Cite this: Toolradar, “LockIn MCP by the numbers”, Oct 2026.

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LockIn MCP FAQ

How does LockIn MCP ensure that blocked sites remain inaccessible even if I try to cheat?

LockIn MCP modifies your system's hosts file to redirect traffic from blocked websites to a local address. This method works at the operating system level, making the blocks effective across all browsers and preventing access even if you open a new tab or try different browsers.

What is the 'MCP' in LockIn MCP and how does it relate to AI tools?

MCP refers to the 'Managed Control Plane' which exposes tools (like block_site, unblock_temp, focus_session) that your connected AI assistant can call. This allows you to manage LockIn's functionality through natural language commands to AI tools such as Poke, Claude, or ChatGPT.

Does LockIn MCP require a continuous internet connection to maintain blocks?

No, the core blocking mechanism, which modifies the hosts file, works offline. The background service manages temporary unblocks and keeps the MCP running, but the site blocks themselves are persistent in your system's configuration.

How does LockIn MCP compare to other focus tools like Freedom or Cold Turkey?

LockIn MCP differentiates itself by offering system-level blocking via the hosts file, which is generally more difficult to bypass than browser-based solutions. Its unique integration with AI assistants also provides a conversational interface for managing focus, offering a different interaction model compared to traditional app interfaces.

What happens if I temporarily unblock a site using an AI assistant?

When you request a temporary unblock through an AI assistant, LockIn MCP will unblock the site for a specified duration. These temporary unblocks are managed by the background daemon and automatically expire, re-blocking the site without further intervention.

Which specific platforms are supported for installing LockIn MCP?

The product description mentions a 'cross-platform daemon' and a 'one command to install' process, implying support for common operating systems, but specific platforms (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) are not explicitly detailed on the provided page.

How do I get started with LockIn MCP after purchasing a license?

After purchasing, you can install LockIn MCP by running a single command: npx -y lockin-mcp install. This command will guide you through verifying your license, selecting sites to block, and connecting your AI assistant.

Is there a way to integrate LockIn MCP with AI tools that are not explicitly listed?

LockIn MCP works with AI tools that can interact with its MCP (Managed Control Plane) via a stable relay URL. If an AI tool supports custom integrations or calling external tools, it may be possible to connect it, even if not explicitly mentioned, by utilizing the provided MCP tools.

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