Internet Filter Software

What to look for in Internet Filter Software

Even though the perfect internet Filter does not exist in today's marketplace, there are a number of great solutions depending on your family's needs. Below are the criteria Top Ten REVIEWS used to evaluate internet filter software:

Ease of Use
The most important attribute an Internet filter program can offer is an easy-to-use design, making it possible for people with all levels of computer experience to easily install and use the filter to its fullest capacity.

Effective at filtering
Top internet filter software offers a good balance between filtering objectionable material and not filtering too much content. Another important aspect is the ability to customize the filter's sensitivity for each family member.

Filtering algorithm
The best filter programs use a combination of filtering techniques, including URL filtering, keyword filtering and dynamic filtering.

Activity reporting
The most useful internet filter software offer reports on what each family member has been doing on the computer, which includes websites visited, chat room activities, IM conversations and so on.

Client-Server based
Good filtering programs offer a flexible platform, which allows users to decide whether their optimal filtering solution is client (home computer) based, server (Proxy or ISP) based or a combination of both.

Foreign language filtering
Effective internet filter programs offer the capacity to filter keywords in multiple languages. One of the tricks that many teenagers have discovered to bypass internet filters is to type in the foreign language equivalent of certain keywords.

Port filtering and blocking
Filtering programs should block or filter all major internet protocols, including web access, chat rooms, email, peer-to-peer networks, bulletin boards and pop-up windows.

With internet filter software and proper supervision, parents can keep their families safe from the ever-present problems and help them enjoy the most educational and entertaining aspects of the internet.

Find more information on different internet filters at:

http://internet-filter-review.toptenreviews.com/



Suggestions for parents to help their teen use technology in a way that honors God

1. Place the computer in a central location in your home.

2. Limit virtual relationships encourage face to face contact.

3. Set ground rules for networking sites such as Facebook (As a parent you should be able to view your student's Facebook page).

4. Check to see if your student has spent time in God's word and prayer before they start texting all of their friends or checking Facebook.

5. Limit the applications they can have on their cell phones (i.e. internet, pictures, text messaging).

6. Have agreed upon times for technology use (i.e. no computer use past 9 pm).

7. Establish times of technological fasting for the whole family use this to spend quality time together camping game night.

8. Model moderation in your own life when it comes to technology use.

9. As their responsibility increases so should their privileges.

10. Remember the goal is not to just keep them safe but to train them to use technology in a way that pleases and honors God.