Filtering software how does it work

Filters are often installed either as a browser extension, as a standalone program on the computer, or as part of an overall security solution. However, they can also be installed on the network side, either by an ISP or a business, to restrict the Web access of multiple users at once.

Some search engines also feature rudimentary filters to remove undesirable pages from search results. Web-filtering software has two main customer bases: Parents who wish to prevent their children from accessing content they consider undesirable or inappropriate, and businesses that want to prevent employees from accessing websites that don't pertain to their jobs.

Web filters are also commonly used as prevention tool for malware, as the filters will block access to sites that commonly host malware, such as those related to pornography or gambling. The most advanced filters can even block information that's sent out over the Internet, to ensure that sensitive data isn't released.

There are ways around web-filtering software, such as using a Web-based proxy, using foreign-language websites or creating a VPN to a personal proxy server.

When known distractions like social media and streaming video sites are blocked, productivity increases. Web Content Filtering. What is content filtering? How does content filtering work? Find the right cybersecurity solution for you. The web filtering features of content-control software are used to enforce internet use policies by proactively blocking websites and applications.

While the software used for blocking applications and filtering websites by these organizations works the same, the motivations they have for using it will vary. In the following sections, we will break down the most common reasons that schools, libraries, and private businesses use web filtering as part of their operations. A web filter blocks access to websites based on the URL, domain, IP address, or content category of the website.

The most common websites to block are those with content that is offensive, inappropriate, or high-risk. Schools and businesses use web content filtering software to block access to enforce acceptable use policies, prevent their users from accessing certain content, and reducing web security risks by blocking dangerous websites.

As a network administrator, Joe is responsible for maintaining the network infrastructure of his company. Recently there have been complaints of high latency on the network leading to lost VOIP connections and difficulties using the internet.

After blocking access to Netflix with BrowseControl web filtering software, Joe reported the inappropriate use of technology to the department manager. Zayn has noticed a serious decline in employee productivity in his office. As part of his CIPA compliance requirements , Tyler uses a web filter to help protect his underaged patrons from accessing age-inappropriate visual content.

As a librarian, Tyler is passionate about ensuring that his patrons have access to the resources they need to perform legitimate research. Because of this, Tyler has ensured that his web content filtering solution is easy-to-use so that everyone on his staff can disable the filters for specific users on request. She uses strict internet access controls to protect the sensitive personal health information PHI of patients against internet-based threats such as malware and unsanctioned cloud storage sites.

The use of internet filtering tools is a hot topic in the EdTech space. The key debate surrounding content filtering in schools and libraries is this: are web filters too restrictive? Schools and libraries are in the tough position of determining how to implement content filtering in a way that balances intellectual freedom with the desire to protect networks against malware while also preventing their underaged internet users from accessing age-inappropriate content.

Under CIPA, schools and libraries are required to implement content filtering technology that is designed to prevent underaged users from viewing inappropriate content on the internet.

Because schools and libraries that do not implement an internet filter for CIPA compliance are ineligible for highly sought-after discounts on critical internet and telecommunications technology, the use of web filters is naturally highly prevalent. While the intention of CIPA is to block underaged users from viewing inappropriate visual content , there is the potential that an overzealous implementation of filtering technologies will inadvertently block patrons from accessing legitimate research.

To maintain a balance between ensuring intellectual freedom while simultaneously preventing access to objectionable content, the filtering software used to block internet access in libraries and schools must allow designated staff to easily disable the internet filter for a specific user after a request is made. Web filtering software allows students to access digital learning materials without unproductive websites and computer applications becoming a hindrance to their learning.