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.


When using such software, parents should be aware of the following:

• No software is foolproof.
• It can mistakenly filter out "safe" material.
• It is not a substitute for proper parental supervision.
• Some free software can perform just as well as commercial programs. 

Some of the questions parents should ask when choosing the right software include:
 

• Does it work on non-English content?
• Can it be used on different devices, such as a mobile phones or gaming consoles?
• Does it only filter websites? What about instant messengers, file-sharing programs and social media?
• How customizable is it?

 

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. Further information on this feature is provided by Microsoft for Vista and Windows 7.
• 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. Further information is available on Apple's website.

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. To read more, follow this link.
• 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.  For more, visit the Glubble website
• 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. For more about OpenDNS, follow this link.
• 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. For more information, use this link.

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. For more, use this link.

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.