In a house that has 6 computers (so far), I’m asked all the time what do I use to control internet junk like porn, spyware on kids computer and more.
On the internet side there is a free system that I use is called openDNS. This system inserts itself into your network by pointing all internet request to their systems which then provide you the ability to block by category, sites and many many more other functions.
They have a couple of range of services from free all the way to premium for a very low yearly price.
How it works?
Not getting to much into details, when you have a home network all devices need to go out a router, in this case many of us have a “Linksys”,”D-link”,”Belken etc”, and any other device which allows you to ‘share’ the internet (Cable modem, DSL etc.) connection wirelessly of via physical cable.
One of the task of this device is to provide DNS (Domain Name Services) so each time you type in a address like ‘http://www.google.com’ the DNS (Domain name service) converts the name into the IP Address (example: 12.54.34.35 the browser understands and off it goes! So with some minor configuration you can point your network DNS server to theirs and your set, you are now blocking your whole home from one location, no need to install individual programs on each computer. 
Note: Unless you are obsessed with ‘one’ more company knowing your IP address don’t read on. Since they will automatically tie your IP to your profile.
Once you setup your account, you can manage which sites to allow and which ones to always block, by level and more.
Btw: I’ve had this service for the last 3 years.
Below is a list of the types of modems/routers available and how to set them up.
- How to set up my 2 Wire router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Actiontec router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Airport Extreme router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Belkin router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Buffalo router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my D-Link router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Linksys router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Motorola router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my Netgear router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my SMC router to use OpenDNS
- How to set up my SpeedStream router
- How to set up my Westell router to use OpenDNS
- OpenDNS and DD-WRT tips
- MaraDNS Configuration Instructions
- Dlink DIR-655 Router
- SpeedTouch 585iv6 Modem Instructions
- DHCP Must Be Enabled On Individual Computers
Enjoy!
