Content control software, also commonly known as web filtering software, is software which is designed and optimized to determine what content can be viewed by the user. This software is particularly relevant to information supplied by a web browser.
In many respects, censorship of the internet is deemed to be harmful. Governments with oppressive regimes may use content control software to prevent their citizens from viewing material they consider objectionable. This can mean the censorship of perfectly legitimate websites including organisations advocating human rights, or even search engines such as Google. Even where a government has not directly enforced internet censorship they may apply pressure to internet providers to filter sites.
However, like any city, the web has neighborhoods, some safer and some very dangerous. The web hosts sites with pornographic material. Clearly, parents will want to make every effort to ensure that their children are not exposed to such material. Whilst content control software does not replace the need for parental supervision it adds an additional layer of protection. Furthermore, the internet can have profound effects on an individual’s social and mental life. While the internet has enormous educational benefits, it can encourage excessive computer use that interferes with daily life. Let control software dictate how long a computer can be used.
These are two areas where parental control software plays an important role in enabling parents to protect their family from undesirable content, and to make sure that the internet does not become an addiction. There are very few Linux content control solutions which are high quality and maintained.
Here’s our verdict captured in a legendary LinuxLinks-style ratings chart.
Let’s explore the 2 content control applications at hand. In the table below, click the links to learn all about each program.
| Content Control Software | |
|---|---|
| E2guardian | Web content filter works in proxy, transparent or icap server modes |
| Privoxy | Privacy Enhancing Proxy |
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