Add in gaming and kids are targets pretty much everywhere, so savvy parents use safety measures wherever possible.
Here are our favorites this year (many have free trials or complete versions you could use.)
All features and functionality are free.
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Can take up to 30 minutes to set up.
Basic web content filtering.
Filters web content on all browsers.
The annual fee starts at $54.95 for five devices.
iOS version cant limit video game playtime.
A free account can offer basic protection on one machine, but multi-machine monitoring requires a membership.
Price: Free; Premium plans start at $54.95.
Free to use with Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS.
Web filtering is limited and easy to get around.
No social media monitoring.
Difficult to set up.
This app includes free web filtering, app blocking, and scheduling for up to six family members.
Sony
Price: Free with in-app purchases available.
Parents can limit how long children play games.
Fully managed on PS4 and PS5; no smartphone app.
Nintendo
Confusing for parents who dont use PlayStation console.
shut down the console at specific times.
The app can be installed on only one smart rig.
Inability to set unique play limits for individual users.
Best Social connection Monitoring App: Bark
Two plans for families.
Monitoring for social media, emails, and texts.
OpenDNS
The app also monitors YouTube usage, texts, emails, cyberbullying, online predation, and suicidal ideas.
Price:Bark, Jr. is $5 monthly/Bark Premium is $14 monthly after a free trial.
Best Content Blocker Service: OpenDNS Family Shield
OpenDNS
Affects every unit in the home.
ESET
Only works with your internet connection, not mobile.
Setup is fairly complex and can take a while.
It’s a service.
Monitors web, app, and other usage.
30-day trial of premium features.
$69.99 annual subscription needed for all features.
The web filtering is good, but isnt foolproof.
Price: Free; Premium version for $69.99 annually.
