Internet Blocking and Filtering Basics

Understand Internet blocking and filtering basics to protect your company and optimize work output

By Christine Pollock
As the world depends more on technology and computer usage, understanding Internet blocking and filtering basics gives you an edge in security and potential work productivity. Filtering keeps your networks protected and alerts business owners of activity that reduces work output potential. Blocking and filtering programs scan through Instant Messages, chats and emails in addition to general web content, checking for harmful or blocked information then reports it in an easy-to-read format.

Website blocking also protects workers from content that could be harmful. It lowers the risk of legal ramifications in regards to Internet usage. When looking for an Internet filter, you might want to consider:

1. Looking into filtered Internet access designed specifically for small businesses.

2. Covering Internet blocking and filtering basics when using software for large businesses.

3. Using server-based Internet access management.

 

Look for a small business Internet filter to control basic web content

Businesses like schools and churches and other smaller operations benefit from Internet filtering software that performs basic tasks such as blocking porn, filtering chat rooms and blocking Spam.
Try: SafeLinks.com provides an Internet filter for small businesses and prides itself in its dedication to a client's web protection. The SafeLinks program lets users customize content and offers easy-to-read reports on usage. Many libraries, hospitals, schools and clinics use iTech solutions to filter and monitor Web usage. It offers consultations and support to customers.

Purchase Internet filtering and blocking solutions designed for large networks

Monitor web content easily with Internet filtering and blocking programs designed specifically for networks. These powerful programs monitor the consumption of bandwidth and block sites you don't want available during the work day. This can keep employees from checking personal email, visiting social networking sites or other sites that they can access on their own time.
Try: OpenDNS monitors over 50 categories and allows clients to choose the filtering level according to their purposes. The programs offer a business owner the ability to set unique filtering levels for different parts of the office network. Websense reduces legal liability by offering businesses stringent web filtering solutions. Designed for networks, it integrates into pre-existing infrastructure seamlessly.

Use server-based Internet monitoring for your business needs

When you use a server for business Internet filtering, you save bandwidth on your own networks. The servers filter through content, protecting your network.
Try: Finjan uses its patented active real-time content inspection technology to keep clients protected from malicious web content. It specializes in protecting corporate networks. BASCOM is dedicated to providing educational content that is available to any student who has Internet access in the United States through its servers. It works as a curriculum supplement and gives teachers a chance to catalog sites they want to highlight.

 

  • Look for a business Internet filter that shows screen shots of suspected activity.

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