The top 5 free Internet filtering software are...
1. Naomi (Version: 3.2.90)
- It detects and blocks forbidden territory block traffic from all applications that contain inappropriate words or material by shutting down the browser.
- It has a good parental-control filter with user-defined options.
Benefits: It will monitor all Internet connections for obscene or indecent content and images, as well as Web sites that lead to gambling, drugs, and other similar propaganda.
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OS Requirements: Windows 2000/XP/NT
2. File Sharing Sentinel
- It is designed to block file sharing software.
- Is intended to prevent P2P software (e.g., Kazaa, Morpheus, Bearshare, etc.).
- It provides free online updates.
Benefits: Prevents kids from being exposed to pornographic files.
System Minimum Requirements: 266 MHz, 8MB of RAM, Windows 95.
3. K9 Web Protection (from Blue Coat)
- It is a Web filtering software that offers a safe searching enforcement.
- It contains a password-protected menu with safe search options: to block or allow sites, as well as allow users to specify the time restrictions too.
- In order to use it, a K9 Web Protection License Request for a license key is required to be filled out.
Benefits: This internet filter desktop software is now available for an iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.
OS Requirements: Microsoft Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and Mac OS X 10.4.7 and higher.
Note: To permit a blocked Web site, the user just needs to enter the correct password on the “Block” page.
4. We-Blocker (Available from TechMission's Safe Families software)
-This is a free Internet filtering software to block a list of sites from being accessed.
- Is downloadable by entering your E-mail address.
- Is able to block thousands of Web sites.
Benefits: It can be used by parents to protect their children online when browsing the Internet.
OS Requirements: It only works on Windows XP or earlier.
5. B Gone
- It allows users to block sites based on keywords in the browsers caption bar. This means that it will only block traffic within the browser itself.
- It can prevent "porn" popup's and sites from appearing.
Benefits: It is a program that is password protected, so it helps to prevent accessing of certain websites.
System Minimum Requirements: 486/66 DX 2, Windows 95, 16MB Ram, Internet Explorer 5.0.
Other free program options...
- OpenDNS has "Award-Winning Parental Controls" to manage a family's Internet access. It can manage Web access across every device on a home network.
- Windows Live Family Safety enhances the standard Parental Controls in Windows. It can be used to block and unblock sites and users. The freeware can be downloaded from CNET.
Note: "Most of these programs can be configured by the parent to filter out sites that contain nudity, sexual content, hateful or violent material or that advocate the use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco. Some can also be configured to prevent children from revealing information about themselves such as their name, address, or telephone number." [2]
Also, note there are Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that "offer discounted rates for child safety software and some online service providers provide child safety features as part of the service. Check with your ISP to see what options and recommendations they provide." [3]
