Summary

The Internet can be a dangerous place, particularly for children. From objectionable content to shady users, the potential risks to users are as real as there are in the physical world. Keep the following points in mind when it comes to restricting access to the Internet:

• The Internet has a dark side, one that can put children in harm's way. Educate children about the potential dangers they face online, and monitor their Internet activities.

• Enable Windows Vista parental control features to ensure that children cannot access objectionable content on the Internet. These programs also give you more control over when users can access the Internet, and the types of software they can use while online.

• In order for parental controls to be effective, ensure that all Computer Administrator accounts are protected by a strong password, and that users subject to parental controls are assigned a standard user account (to stop them from changing settings).

• Review Parental Control activity log files regularly.

• Content filtering isn't for children alone. If you run a business that gives employees access to the Internet, consider installing content filtering software to avoid having objectionable content accessible to users, and to help increase employee productivity.