Mac Internet Filter Software: Protect Your Family Online

There’s really no debating that the internet can be a dangerous place. There are heinous crimes committed online daily, which is why it is so important to protect yourself and your family from the dangers of the internet. There are virus infections, online predators and identify thieves, to name a few of the risks. Apple has thought ahead and installed parental controls on its Macs to help you better monitor and control what your family views and does online. However, those features can only go so far, which is why we suggest you consider purchasing the best Mac internet filter software.

To access the basic parental controls on your Mac, go to System Preferences from the Apple menu. Then click on Accounts. This is where all the user accounts are listed. At the bottom of the page there is a Lock icon. Click on it and enter the administrator's password. Now you can change the parental settings for each different user. Using this tool you can schedule times when the internet can be accessed. You can change these times so they are different on the weekdays and weekends to help children get to bed on time. You can also limit which applications are used from the finder. The Content section will allow you to type in websites you want to block. You can block iChat and email or only allow a select few contacts. There is also an internet and application history that will list all of the activities performed on a computer by each individual user, and only you will be able to access this information.

All of the features Apple has integrated are helpful, but they can only do so much. With Mac internet filter software, you can increase the level of security and monitoring on your device. These applications will allow you to filter websites so inappropriate content cannot be viewed. Using these applications you can also block websites by categories like gambling, gaming, religion, etc. There are also features to block file sharing and peer-to-peer applications. You will also be able to use the software to block streaming music and videos. Many programs, like Net Nanny, will send you an email alert when inappropriate content is accessed. Another outstanding application that will give you very detailed reports about computer usage is Safe Eyes.

The system preferences on a Mac will allow you to block social media sites like Facebook. But with the parental control software, you can allow limited access to the site and monitor all actions made. Some programs, like Spector Pro, will log each and every word that is typed on the keyboard and show you real-time screen monitoring so you know exactly what is being done and said online. This way your child can stay in contact with friends online, but you can help protect them from predators.

Apple computers will allow you to block iChat and email accounts, but parental control software will help you do so much more. Use the software to monitor what is being said on both sides of the chat. The software can automatically scan the chat for questionable language, or you can read what is being said through the keylogging feature or the screenshots. Again, you can set up alerts so that even if you are at work or away from the house you can find out if your child is receiving questionable emails or chats.

Mac internet filter software has vastly improved the internet safety features Apple has already installed. Using these applications you can better control, monitor and filter internet content on your Mac.

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