Comparison Guide of Parental Controls for Internet Providers
The Internet is a useful tool for education and entertainment in children. However, many sites are on the Internet to which children should not have access. Even with adult supervision, parental control software is an important part of keeping kids safe.
-
Types
-
Parental controls are either software-based or hardware-based. Software types are programs that you install, and hardware types are devices that are installed with your computer.
Function
-
Parental controls for Internet work by filtering out, or blocking objectionable material. They do this by keeping lists of sites that cannot be accessed, filtering language and photos that are viewed, and by maintaining lists of safe sites. Software must be updated regularly to work correctly.
-
Advantages and Disadvantages
-
Hardware devices filter content for every user of the computer and are not as easy to customize. Software solutions allow settings to be customized by user, and may also provide reporting or other services. Some software packages have yearly fees, and they stop working if you do not renew your subscription. All parental controls may filter out websites that are not objectionable by mistake.
Other Considerations
-
Newer Windows and Mac computers may have their own versions included with nothing to buy. Check your computer first, and see if an included parental control package would work for your needs.
-