This is the 2nd part of the series on Internet filtering. I recently wrote about Internet Filtering using a router or changing the DNS. If this isn’t a possibility or the PC that needs filtering is on a network that is shared, here is some software that can be installed locally or via the Internet filtering company’s filtering servers.
The software I list below is Internet Filtering I have used before. There are many out there today to choose from. I do recommend trying the software before purchasing it to make sure it’s the right fit for your family. Be advised: Some of this software may need to be tweaked to meet the filtering you are trying to achieve.
Most Internet filtering software usually works in the same way. The parent will do the initial install and pick a password so that the user will not be able to change the settings.
Puresite software is a robust software that filters the Internet and Facebook, and can alert parents if a child is being cyber-bullied. The parent can pick keywords such as credit card numbers or other words that if inputted into a chat will signal an alert. A daily Internet Security report can be emailed to the parent every night. Something that is also unique about Puresite is the parent can download a template from a school or person, such as a rabbi, that will filter Internet usage based on that person’s recommendations. The Internet Filtering policy can be downloaded straight from Puresite’s website. The software cost is based on the amount of computers. Another great feature is the parent can create Internet polices for a family with multiple ages. Younger children, as I wrote last week, would be at risk for “Fat Fingering” (typing the wrong website by accident); older students may be at less risk for but may need more filtering based on the parents’ filtering choices. Once the parent completes the Internet Filtering profile it will populate all of the other computers with that policy. The parent creates polices via the Parent Portal log in on the Puresite website. The software can be found at http:// puresight.com/
The Jnet Internet Filtering is unique because Jnet provides Internet access and all the Internet is filtered via Jnet servers. No software is needed to provide filtering. There are multiple levels of restrictions a parent can choose from. It’s is a great choice if you are flexible on which Internet provider you can choose. The parent can choose his own Whitelist (approved sites) or use Jnet’s Whitelist. Information and pricing can be found at www.TheJnet.com
Another popular and free for home users is K-9 web protection. K-9 software is available for MAC and Windows computers. K-9 is less memory intensive and will not slow down the PC as other filtering may do. Some features K-9 offers is web site blocking by category. Easy, pre-set levels are available to choose from depending on the age of your children that are SafeSearch enabled on all search engines to show cleaner search results. Time restrictions, including NightGuard(TM), disallow Internet access during designated times and customized “always allow” and “always block” lists can reflect your personal preferences. There is also the ability to override a block with the parent password making the program more tamper resistant for more savvy kids. Reports show activity to categories of web sites. www.getk9.com
One thing I tell all parents no matter what Internet Filtering software one chooses. One shouldn’t be complacent that Internet Filtering is installed and there is nothing to check. Check the reports, PCs/Macs, and keep the passwords in a safe place on a regular basis.
As I wrote last week, the best filtering your children can have is your two eyes. Educate your children, talk to them about the dangers the Internet can have. That, with a combination of good Internet Filtering, is really the best way to keep our children safe.
Email [email protected] if you have any questions on Internet Filtering.
By Shneur Garb
