A number of products are available to assist parents if they wish to manage their home networks to improve security and exercise greater control of content that is accessed. They vary in complexity and technical approach but all aim to provide families with choice over how technology is used at home.

Content Filtering

Circle, FamilyZone and KoalaSafe are solutions which provide a device which you can easily install which plug into your existing network router. They create a separate secure wireless network in your home which tablets and computers can be connected to enabling you to monitor and control the secure network with an associated app or webpage. The benefit of these services are that they do not interfere with any existing networks that you may be using for other purposes.

If you are willing to make changes to your existing network then OpenDNS is a service that requires a small change to your internet router and provides you with customisable filtering for all devices connected to your home network.

Security Software

For Mac and PC computers Sophos offers a free home edition of their software which will allow you to centrally manage security software including updates of antivirus. The company provides security software for businesses and has a strong reputation in the marketplace.

Need More Help or Information?

The Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner offers some great advice for parents seeking to manage devices at home available on their iParent website.

The Director of ICT is always willing to speak to parents if they have questions about their home network setup.