How to Block Inappropriate Websites

The Internet hosts an array of content, much of which is not appropriate for everyone. Your children may visit these websites, whether accidentally or purposefully. You can protect your kids from inappropriate websites by blocking them completely. Many computer programs are capable of filtering out inappropriate content based on your guidelines. For example, some programs have the option of only blocking sexual content. Others options may filter out Web pages based on inappropriate phrases or words. These programs are designed to fit your specific needs.

Instructions

1. Download Internet filtering software, such as Net Nanny or GoMcGruff. These programs are designed to block websites based on your criteria. Most of these programs charge a fee for a license.

2. Install the program on your computer. After purchase, you should be provided with a license key or a download link. If you only received a license key, that means that the download is readily available on the website. Download and install the program by following the prompts, and enter your license key when it starts up (if applicable). You may need to restart your computer.

3. Set your administrative password. You use this password to change settings in the Internet monitoring software. It needs to be password protected so no one makes unauthorized changes to what is blocked.

4. Set your filtering criteria. You can block adult content, Web pages with swear words, drug-related content and more. It is up to you to decide what is blocked. Many programs allow you to create custom filters (i.e., block a certain website altogether or a specific phrase).

References

• Net Nanny: Internet Filtering Software
• McGruff SafeGuard: Family Safety Software