Benefits of Filtering Employee Internet
Filtering Internet refers to the practice of blocking certain aspects of the Internet for employees. Many companies use at least some type of filtering system for their internet access. Some may use programs that are installed on servers and computers throughout the company, while others may use hardware that scans and restricts incoming data separately. There are several reasons companies choose to filter internet capabilities: 30 to 40 percent of Internet activity at work may be non-work-related.
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Malware Control
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One of the primary reasons that companies filter internet access is to protect their own systems or intranet capabilities. Malware is a category of unwanted programs that Internet sites can upload onto user computers without notice or approval. These malware programs may replicate and destroy data -- computer viruses fall in this category-- as well as collect data from company computers and send it to other locations for criminal activity, or slow down computers with spamming ads. Filtering systems prevent access by many malware programs.
Higher Efficiency
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Internet misuse at the office costs U.S. businesses more than $63 billion in lost profits per year, according to Websense Inc. Online financial management, social media interaction, pornography downloads and ecommerce gift purchases all have their highest activity ratings during work hours. This equals a large amount of wasted time for companies. By restricting websites and content through filtering devices, companies can increase workplace efficiency all around.
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Application Blocking
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Application blocking refers to filtering software that stops employees from using specific web applications. This also helps prevent malware and increases efficiency. Companies can block games so that employees cannot play them, along with particular social media applications that may be channels criminals can use to pass along malware that could steal company passwords and financial information.
Reduced Liability
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Small businesses may use filtering software specifically to reduce liability associated with internet activity. Employees who download copyrighted material such as music, offensive materials or protected information could expose the business to a liabilities in case of lawsuits or other types of legal action. Filtering reduces the risk of these complicated liability issues.
Increased Internet Speed
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On a technical level, activities like online games and gambling, while against company protocol, can also slow down bandwidth and make it very difficult for employees that are working to complete tasks as quickly as possible. Filtering Internet access can actually improve bandwidth speed.
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