Censorware is web filtering software used to limit or block access to certain internet content. It is viewed negatively as it implies censorship. There are five types of consumer-level censorware: client-side, restricted content, server-side, and search engine filters. Censorship can also be applied on a larger scale, such as when a country bans access to unpatriotic material. However, content control software can be bypassed and may inadvertently block acceptable content.
Censorware is a type of web filtering software used to limit or block a user’s access to certain Internet content. It is viewed in a negative light, because it inadvertently implies that the content is being censored and not simply filtered. Content control software as it is also known is applied worldwide in local, national and international situations. There are five types of consumer-level censorware: client-side filters, restricted content filters, server-side filters, and search engine filters.
Client-side filters are a form of censorware used by families and educational institutions to restrict children’s access to specific websites with objectionable content such as pornography. Such filters must be manually installed on a computer, after which the parent or teacher can use parental controls to configure which websites can and cannot be accessed. They are especially popular in public libraries.
Restricted content filters are offered by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who specialize in restricting and closely monitoring content for the protection of both children and adults. They have strict guidelines that must be adhered to by all users who sign up for their service. Plus, their coverage applies to everything, including websites, chats, and forums.
Server-side filters are a type of censorware used to establish a network-level Internet security protocol that filters content across all connected devices, including desktops, notebooks, tablets, and smartphones. They are especially popular in educational settings because all the computers in the school are affected. They come with a default configuration, but your network administrator can customize it if necessary.
Search engine filters are used by search engines to allow users to filter out inappropriate content. It is an optional service that can be activated or deactivated at will. It is mostly used as a secondary way to keep children away from offensive content.
Censorship can also be applied on a much larger scale, such as when a country bans its citizens from accessing material deemed unpatriotic. In such a case of Internet censorship, the government can pre-install censorware on all retail computers. This was attempted by China in 2009.
Content control software can almost always be bypassed. The Internet offers articles on how to disable commonly used censorware. One such site is specifically designed for teenagers, stating that its owners strongly believe that teenagers should have freedom of speech.”
Along with the pros, there are the cons of censorware. A highly effective filter can inadvertently block acceptable content, such as medical charts or other health-related materials. On the other hand, an outdated filter that hasn’t been updated may be missing objectionable material. Using such filters takes away the opportunity for a person to make their own decision about where to go online. Also, while censorware installed on a home computer may protect a child, it won’t protect them if they gain access to an unprotected computer.
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