Parental Control soft wares are programs that either limit the access, constrain the usage, or track the usage of computers during times of accessing or browsing of internet websites or other internet contents. There are basically two types: the internet filter soft wares and the computer usage monitoring software.
Internet filter softwares are installed as the first line of defense or prevention of your child from accessing inappropriate websites. These work as censor and control of web content as well. They function by blocking websites, closing pop ups, chat rooms, e-mails, and so on based on the restrictions you have placed.
The most common inappropriate content for children that is found in the internet is pornography. Based on studies, the average age when children start searching for pornography is eleven years, and often most children between twelve and fourteen years of age already search for hard core videos. So controlling and internet filtering will be the best course of action to help protect your child.
Monitoring soft wares, on the other hand, are programs that can be run in stealth mode, which means without the knowledge of your child. This makes you immediately aware of what your child is doing or browsing and then you can take appropriate steps when necessary. These programs are often installed in tandem with filtering soft wares.
Considering that if your child already has basic knowledge about how to download pirated films, music, documents, other soft wares, etc., it is highly likely that he or she knows how to disable your filtering program too. In this case, the monitoring software you installed becomes very important.
By using parental control soft wares, you prevent your child from accessing illegal and inappropriate websites while giving permission to enjoy the internet with the proper protection.