Content Filtering
Content filtering is the use of a program to screen and exclude from
access or availability Web pages or e-mail that is deemed objectionable.
Content filtering usually works by specifying categories of web sites
that indicate undesirable content that is to be screened out. Content is
typically screened for pornographic content and sometimes also for
violence- or hate-oriented content. Critics of content filtering
programs point out that it is not difficult to unintentionally exclude
desirable content, but a well designed solution will keep this to a
minimum.
There are a number of benefits that come with a good content filtering
solution, including:
- Improved security as a result of blocking access to sites that are
likely to contain embedded malicious code
- Improved control over "rogue" protocols, such as
peer-to-peer file sharing applications, instant messaging, and IRC
chat, to name a few
- Improved employee productivity as a result of blocking access to
non-business related web sites (i.e. shopping sites, sports-related
sites, social networking sites, etc.)
- Improved bandwidth usage as a result of eliminating non-work
related web surfing, streaming media and downloads
- Accurate reporting on Internet activities by user, team, division,
etc.