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Why a Business Needs an Internet Filter
The business world of today requires a business Internet filter software system that will exist either on the desktop or at the gateway level. A business Internet filter will ensure a more productive and secure bottom line for almost every business model. An Internet filter will allow only productive work to be done while blocking destructive or unproductive online activities by employees.
Many business owners and office managers turn to a business Internet filter solution for several reasons. Perhaps they find their employees spending more time instant messaging than working. The office network may have been hacked or the employer is just simply tired of receiving a plethora of on-line advertising.
Types of Business Internet Filters
There are two types of business Internet filters---Server side and client side.
Server-side - This business Internet filter can range from software installed on your company server to hardware appliances. Most server-side solutions are URL based filtering, which is a list of allowed or not allowed web sites.
Client-side Internet filtering resides on the desktop computer.
Top Three Reasons for Installing a Business Internet Filter
- Increase Employee Productivity - Studies show employees may spend as much as two hours a day online which equals about 7 billion dollars paid in salaries of which employees receive no benefit.
- Minimize Risk - A company can be liable for up to 150 dollars per pirated work if the company allows employees to download copyrighted material. An employer may possibly be liable for employees looking at questionable content or if an employee downloads copyrighted material.
- Save on Server Bandwidth - A large percentage of time spent online at work is non-work-related.
What Type of Business benefits from a Business Internet Filter?
Corporate - Sales office, business office, development, shipping receiving, production floor
Small Business - Real estate, lawyer, mortgage, insurance, retail, doctor, dentist offices
Business Internet filters stops intruders from gaining access to your network. They can stop users from downloading files that may be harmful. Business Internet filters lets you see how your network is being used and allows you to change its use.
A business Internet filter can stop pornography, on-line games and gambling, instant messaging, non-authorized email and 3rd party advertising. A business Internet filter discourages employees from using company time for personal matters. You can block, limit or allow which programs and services have access to the Internet.
How to Choose a Good Business Internet Filter
The product must be accurate, simple to install and operate. It must also be cost effective.
Accuracy - Look for a filtering system stops most of inappropriate content.
Simplicity - Look for uncomplicated programs where there is very little to install.
Cost-Effective - Look for a product that fits your network and is competitively priced while ensuring a quick return for your investment.
Key Benefits of a Business Internet Filter
- Increase employee production at work
- Increase productivity by limiting temptation for inappropriate web surfing.
- Only allow websites needed for daily tasks.
- Block unwanted websites or games.
- Only allow access to programs such as email, file sharing and business related programs.
Most business owners overwhelmingly agree that a good business Internet filter more than pays for itself in time by increasing company productivity.