Parental Control Software for your Children!

The Internet is a great learning tool for children, but it can also harbor a number of risks. Parents who want to protect their children from accessing undesirable web content now have a variety of solutions. It is important to understand the different types of filter available, and how they work.

Read the below tips and tell us what you think: is filtering software sufficient to protect kids online? Can parents lend their responsibilities to software and feel comfortable about it? And if anyone of you has tried such software, was it really efficient?

There are many types of parental control software. Some are already built into the computer, while others are available through purchase or free on the Internet.

Built into the Computer

Windows: Microsoft's Windows Vista and Windows 7 both allow parents to determine which games, programs and websites are deemed safe for their children. Internet activity can also be logged into a record.

Mac: Apple's OSX allows parents to control which programs are accessible and allot the amount of time children can spend on the Internet. In addition, it can check and block websites based on a list of explicit keywords, which can be customized.

Free Software

K9 Web Protection (Windows/Mac): BlueCoat's highly customizable product allows parents to block specific websites and search options. They can also allot the amount of time children are permitted to spend on the Internet.

Glubble (All Operating Systems): This Internet service provides safe access to the web through a family-friendly portal. Children can play games and discover the Internet through Glubble's kids browser.

OpenDNS (All Operating Systems): This easy-to-use program provides cross-platform, cross-device protection. Parents can organize categories of acceptable and banned websites, and view detailed reports of web usage. OpenDNS also provides protection against common Internet security threats, such as phishing and malware. This solution requires no additional installment of software, and offers centralized control for the entire household.

ParentalControl Bar: This simple software can be added to a browser to block access to adult-oriented websites. Parents can define the level of filtering and specify what is acceptable.

Commercial Software

There is a large number of commercial solutions available, with some providing extensive protection. Some of the most popular and widely-recognized products include:

Net Nanny (Windows/Mac): This simple software provides an extensive web filter that extends to chatrooms and emails. More information is available on this link.
Safe Eyes (Windows/Mac): This program comes with a user-friendly interface. It provides extensive filtering capability, covering chatrooms, social media and emails.

Industry-based reviews of other programs are available in the following websites:

CHOICE magazine (Internet Filtering Software - Review)
PC Magazine (Internet Filtering Software -Reviews and Editors Choice Awards)
Computer Shopper (Parental Control Software -Review)

ictQATAR does not explicitly endorse any specific free or commercial software for Internet parental control. The information provided on this page should be seen as guidance. ictQATAR is committed to supporting parents and keeping children safe on the Internet.