Internet Filter Review:

Technologists like to debate different technologies endlessly: Which is better, which is faster, which is more reliable? This makes for interesting tech talk, but really the question is: which technology makes more sense for your needs? Each network is different and will have different requirements for something as complicated as an Internet Content Filter.

At OmegaNeT, we strong feel that "pass-by" filtering is superior to proxy or cache based "pass-through" filters.  Many software products rob your computers performance by as much as 20%.  However, we have found that Bsafe Online's small product footprint seamlessly works in the background without slowing down browser queries; which is one of the reasons we strongly recommend their Family Filter. Foreign language sites are regularly uncovered by the various methods used to find websites and these sites are added to the database (including: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Japanese, & Korean).

Larger networks with 40 or more network devices can realize performance gains, better customization, easier management, and cost saving benefits from hardware based "pass-by" filters.  Most importantly, there is no single point of failure with our hardware based filters.  Contact OmegaNeT for entry-level and Enterprise hardware based filtering, stand-alone reporting, and E-mail Spam filtering that fits your Broadband network.

Note: While exercising Internet Safety is important - like protecting your children's identity online, spousal or parental over-the-shoulder involvement - nothing compares to filtering software with accountability.  Some products only offer accountability, but still allow you to see potentially objectionable material.  Products like Covenant Eyes' Internet Accountability software are designed to hold people accountable when using the Internet.  However, only the activity is logged at the corporate headquarters, not blocked like a filter would, and you are still exposed to the same harmful material.  We do not recommend accountability only software. Bsafe Online offers an Internet Filter bundled with Internet Activity Reporting for accountability, the Protection Pak.   We encourage others to review their recommendations as well.

Links:

• Counseling Resources
• FilterReview.com is a resource provided by the National Coalition for the Protection of Children & Families providing an independent review of Internet safety solutions.
• Check out Safe Surfing on Christian Computing Magazine's site.
• PureIntimacy.org was created to deal with the effects of online sexual temptation.
• GetNetWise helps parents educate themselves and their children about how to use the Internet safely.
• Check out the top safety and security tips for keeping your computer and family safe, from Stay Safe Online.
• Home Network Security
• HR4577: Children's Internet Protection Act 
• Recommendations from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: "How can I overcome my addiction to pornography?"

Survey:
    Does your library filter/block inappropriate content?
    Results: 84.1% NO
    ... more on Internet Filtering in Public Libraries