Monitor & Control Kids' Computer Use - Windows 8
Managing Computer Access with Windows 8 Family Safety
The Family Safety functionalities within Windows 8 provide tools for overseeing your children's activity on the computer.
These features empower you to receive regular weekly reports detailing computer usage.
Key Capabilities of Windows 8 Family Safety
A range of controls are available, including the ability to establish time restrictions for how long children can use the computer.
Furthermore, the system allows for the filtering of websites containing unsuitable content.
Specific applications can be blocked, preventing children from accessing them.
Beyond these, additional monitoring and control options are also present.
Setting Up Family Safety
The process begins when a new user account is created within Windows 8.
During account creation, you have the option to classify the account as belonging to a child.
Selecting this option automatically activates the Family Safety feature for that user account.
This activation allows parents to then configure the various settings and controls.
Establishing User Accounts for Children
A new user account for a child can be established utilizing the PC Settings application within Windows 8. Access this application by maneuvering your mouse cursor to either the top or bottom right corners of the screen.
From there, move the cursor upwards or downwards and select the Settings charm, subsequently clicking on "Change PC Settings" located at the screen's bottom.
Within the settings, choose the "Users" category. Then, initiate the addition of a new user account by clicking the "Add a user" button.
During the account creation process, ensure the "Is this a child’s account? Turn on Family Safety to get reports of their PC use" checkbox is selected.
Enabling this feature activates Family Safety, providing reports on the child’s computer activity.
Accessing Family Safety Reports
If you are a Microsoft account holder utilizing Windows 8, accessing the Family Safety website at familysafety.microsoft.com allows you to log in using your account details.
From this central location, you are able to both review reports and modify the Family Safety settings for each member of your family. Adding co-parents is also possible, granting multiple individuals administrative access.
Report Viewing and Data Synchronization
Settings configured within the Family Safety portal will be automatically synchronized across all Windows 8 computers used by both you and your children.
Selecting the "View Activity Report" link associated with a child’s profile provides a detailed overview of their computer activity. Furthermore, weekly summaries of this activity will be delivered directly to your email inbox.
Report Contents
These reports detail the websites most frequently visited by your child. They also indicate the total hours spent logged into the computer each day of the week.
The reports also capture search queries, the applications and games utilized, and any applications downloaded from the Windows Store.
A "Monitor First" Philosophy
Microsoft advocates a “monitor first” strategy with Family Safety. Initial observation of a child’s computer usage is recommended before implementing any restrictions.
For instance, websites can be directly blocked from within the Web activity report itself.
Customizing Activity Reporting
The activity reporting functionality isn't mandatory. It can be disabled if desired, allowing you to enforce computer time limits without tracking online behavior.
Managing Computer Access for Children
To personalize a child's Family Safety experience, select the 'Edit Settings' link associated with their account.
Customizing Safety Settings
By default, Web Filtering is disabled. However, it can be activated and configured to a specific filtering level to suit your preferences.
Setting Time Restrictions
Computer usage can be restricted for children through defined time limits. This can be achieved by allocating a specific number of hours for daily use.
Alternatively, a curfew time can be established, preventing computer access after a designated hour.
Application and Game Control
Specific applications and games can be blocked from access through the Family Safety settings.
Remote Monitoring and Control
Children’s computer activity can be monitored and managed remotely by accessing a dedicated website.
This allows for oversight and control regardless of location.
Further details regarding Windows 8’s Family Safety functionalities are available on Microsoft’s official blog.
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