If you didn’t already know, Windows Vista has a built in Internet filter to block unwanted web garbage from the little one’s eyes.  I recommend turning this on and having a separate user on the computer for this age group.  You should put a password on the adult account and leave the filtered account limited and easy to access.

The way most web protection filter’s work is they cross reference each location that appears in the browser with a rating database.  It is not just good and bad anymore.  You are able to set up a level of the filter to allow only child approved sites, block only adult sites, or something in between including a DYI blacklist.

There are many people out there that don’t know this setting exists or don’t worry because the users of their computer have good judgment.   What I am recommending is turn this feature on for everyone.   Make sure it does not block the sites you wish to travel to and you can leave access to the unrated sites because it could be a new weather or news site you are blocking.   Set users on the computer based on access restriction.  Block the youngest ones from the social sites and keep them viewing the places you want them to go.  Give the older ones the same access you have allowed them in the past but choose to restrict what you know to be off limits.  Even on your account click on the most lenient filter if you must, but remember you can always disable the filter if there is a particular site you need to view.

What are you talking about Rich?  I don’t need limits.  I am a grown adult!

There are many reasons to filter today’s Internet viewing.   Even the top name security programs are starting to have ‘Safe Web’ and ‘Safe Search’ features.  The sites that are being blocked through this massive list of no no’s are not just grown eyes only sites.  These sites could be malicious spyware sites, scams, unwanted advertisements, or even fake sites that promise the content you are looking for and then deliver nada.  When you travel to these sites your judgment is keen and you go back to the next result, but during that brief visit there could have been attack on your browser for spyware, malware, virus, or even hijack.  With the filter enabled you are given a warning when the site is blocked allowing you to think again before entering and most of the time just go to that next result without hesitation.  Same thing with the kids and their spaces and faces.   They see ads for things like “Make money testing Chewing Gum” and “Free Pink Pony Laptop!”.  Its not that they have bad judgment, but that their curiosity on a seemingly harmless ad could end up junking up your machine.   I am not saying that your expensive protection software that you renew yearly isn’t doing its job.  Just there are some more little things you can do to prevent annoyances and take control of what you and your family are exposed to on today’s web.

Here are some links:

• Vista Parental Controls
• Create Another User Account
• Google Safe Search
• Free Alternate Web Protection (Great for Windows XP)

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