Every parent wants to keep their children safe while they are using the internet; however, this can seem like an overwhelming job since there are so many harmful, inappropriate sites on the internet to which children may have access. One of the many ways to protect children from online dangers is by using an internet filter.
There are many different internet filters available; some are free filters that parents can download from the internet while others are available for purchase either online, for immediate download and usage, or from a local electronics store. Regardless of which internet filter a parent chooses, it is important to review set up details, make sure that the software chosen will support the number of computers its going on, also known as permissions, make sure the desired features are included and, last but not least, remember to read the instructions carefully before you start the installation.
Set-up
There are a variety of internet filters available so parents need to read up on the specific features they want or need so they don’t have to do a lot of tailoring to make the program fit their needs once they install it. There are many websites that offer information and reviews for most of the popular internet filters available. Parents should read these reviews before purchasing or downloading a filter to make sure that they will work for their family.
How many computers
Once parents have narrowed their filtering program choices down to 2 or three, they need to think about the number of computers that will share the filtering software and check that their chosen software allows permissions for the requisite number of machines. Is there only one home computer or are there two? Do parents want to put the filtering software on their children’s personal computers? There are also some filter software programs available on a subscription basis so you don’t own the software and you have the flexibility to cancel if you are not happy with one program and try another. Some filter programs also offer discounts on other software subscriptions if you buy them. This can make it less expensive to put the filtering software on more than one computer.
Features
Most internet filtering software programs offer a variety of features that can be utilized or, or not, at the discretion of the parent, aka administrator. Some filters offer a function that, instead of blocking the page, posts a warning about possibly questionable material. This feature allows the user to continue without interruption or restriction. Knowing how to turn this feature off when an adult is using the computer is important.
Some internet filters allow parents to override blocked websites with a password. This feature is helpful when the filter blocks a site that adults may need to use. Some filtering software programs also offer two other interesting options: the first is the option to blank out words rather than blocking the entire website and the seconds sends e-mail updates about sites visited or instant messaging conversations had to parents. Parents need to be review all the options available to them on their chosen software program so they can decide which features they would like to use.
Read and follow directions carefully
While most internet filtering software installations are easy to do, parents need to read the instructions and follow the directions precisely. Minor glitches, which are easily fixed if caught right away, can appear in certain programs during setup. If minor glitches are overlooked during installation, the filter may not work properly. In order for the filter to work properly and protect your children, it needs to be installed correctly.