Techalyzer

Do you want to deploy the built in parental controls that are on both PCs and Macs?
Both types of home computers have pareantal computers built into their operating systems, and each of their newest systems (Windows Vista and Mac’s Leopard) offers parents more vigilance over their kids than ever
To use your computer’s controls, first set up individual user accounts for each of your kids. Check your computer’s user guide if you’re not sure how to do this.
If you are a Mac User choose System Preferences on the Apple menu, and click on Accounts. For each child’s account, click on Parental Controls and you’ll be given a list of categories (Mail, Safari, etc.) that you can restrict or monitor.
If you’re running Leopard, you can record IM conversations and designate with whom the child can talk via e-mail or iChat, among other things. You can also limit screen time. For instance, you can set the computer to automatically log your kids out at 8 p.m.
If you are a Windows User the parental controls are accessed through the Control Panel. Look for User Accounts and Family Safety Control Panel. With Windows Vista, you’ll be given choices about web restrictions and also have the option of receiving reports on your child’s use of the computer. You can also designate certain hours off-limits and block objectionable video games and programs.
No matter which system you have, most browsers (Safari, Firefox, etc.) have an automatic history log that shows which sites have been visited. Check your user manual to learn how to check the history, if you’re not familiar with it. Make sure to check all the browsers on your computer if you have more than one. And be warned: Kids can learn how to delete the history to cover their tracks, so ask questions if you discover that the history was cleared by someone other than you.
As your kid ages he or she can be more responsible for their own online safety. Don’t let them do something because all the other kids are doing it.

Need more help? Both Apple (Macs) and Microsoft (Windows) have online tutorials and detailed info on their websites — just Google “parental controls” and “Apple” or “Microsoft” to find them. Mac users can also make an appointment at an Apple store if there’s one nearby.