What to look for in parental control software and Internet filters

Here are some important features to look for in parental control software if you opt to go that route. Remember to also use a computer scanner to make sure that improper or illegal material does not reach the computer via means that an internet filter can not detect, such as by CD or DVD discs or USB memory sticks.

Time Restrictions
If you want to disable Internet access at times when nobody is home to monitor computer use, or when it is improper for other reasons (such as late at night, when your family should be sleeping). Most common internet filters include this feature and lets you specify different rules for different days of the week. You can also sometimes specify a total amount of time each day that the computer can be used.

Keyword filters
No filter can have an exhaustive list of blocked websites, since the Internet contains billions of pages. Keyword filtering is a common method and optionally lets you specify your own keywords in addition to the built-in ones.

Whitelists
If you want to allow access to sites that would normally be blocked by the keyword filter, perhaps because they contain keywords in acceptable contexts.

History-keeping capability
All web browsers have an option for keeping website browsing history, but this can be easily cleared. Many filters keep an internal list of visited websites that can not be cleared through normal means and requires that the user knows the administration password. This can be a handy feature if you often find that the website browsing history has been cleared on the family computer. Some programs will even take a screenshot of the computer screen with regular intervals that can later be played back like a movie.

Usage statistics
The Internet can be addictive for other reasons than improper content. For example, some kids spend far too much time on social networks which can impact schoolwork. A good filter will remember how much time each day has been spent on different types of sites.

Remember, filters can also have the opposite effect of sparking an interest in that which is forbidden and exciting. You can not monitor every computer your child might use, such as those at school or at their friends. We recommend having an active dialogue with the child about online dangers and establishing house rules instead of trying to forbid specific activities.