NetNanny Compared to Other Parental Internet Control Software

Any parent who has been on the Internet for any period of time shouldn't be surprised by the fact that it can be a shady place for children to venture into. Between unsolicited "adult-orientated" ads to predators lurking in chat rooms, the Internet can be quite the hostile territory. Thankfully, parental Internet control software like Net Nanny enables parents to allow their children the benefits of the Web while avoiding the dangers.

6StarReviews has downloaded and tested a variety of different parental control software products to see just how well they delivered on their promises. Net Nanny is one of the many parental Internet control products we tested. Our findings are outlined in this detailed review.

What's New?

• Net Nanny now prevents time tampering by synchronizing with an Internet atomic clock, ensuring you have full control of time limits and are getting an accurate report of time spent online.
  
• Net Nanny is offering a free 15-day trial.
  
• The new version can block Internet-based games and is able to run in stealth mode so the computer user doesn't have to know their activity is being monitored.

User Interface and Product Application:

The Installation of Net Nanny was fairly easy, although getting the products free trial did involve registering at the website and then waiting for an email with a link to the download center. The entire installation process did take a bit longer than others, but only by a minute or two.

The operation of the program is rather intuitive and it was fairly easy to implement our setting preferences and run reports and check logs with the software.

6StarReviews Favorite Feature:

The fact that this product can block Internet games, pop-up ads and can even omit search results is pretty impressive. It seems that Net Nanny offers one of the most comprehensive protection suites available.

Net Nanny Features:

• Web filtering with monthly updates.
  
• The ability to know exactly what your children can and can not see.
  
• The ability to view and edit all "blocked" lists.
  
• Customizable keyword filters.
  
• The option to block access to chat rooms and instant messenger programs.
  
• The ability to block access to Internet games and news groups.
  
• Allows you to limit the amount of time spent online per day.
  
• Allows you to set up different settings for different family members.
  
• Allows you to block Internet access during certain time periods (late at night or when not at home).
  
• Tracks chat activity and IM logs.
  
• Alerts sent when a user tries to access a prohibited website or activity.