Parental Controls in OS X: A Guide to Protecting Your Kids
The Benefits of Utilizing Parental Controls on macOS
Parental controls offer peace of mind once properly configured and actively managed. Parents who are consistently engaged can experience reduced worry, and even fundamental controls, such as those integrated within macOS, can prove sufficiently effective.
Here at How-to Geek, we have previously explored the topic of parental controls extensively. We’ve detailed the native controls available in Windows 7, as well as the comprehensive Family Safety suite included with Windows 8.1. Furthermore, we’ve demonstrated how to leverage features within your wireless router for basic restrictions, and how to integrate OpenDNS for enhanced web filtering capabilities.
Now, we turn our attention to Apple’s operating system. Following a thorough evaluation of macOS’s parental controls, we can confidently state that it provides nearly all the tools necessary to safeguard children online. Supplementing these controls with a web filtering solution like OpenDNS is highly recommended for an added layer of security. Consistent monitoring of activity logs, which we will discuss shortly, allows for proactive intervention before potential issues escalate.
Setting Up Parental Controls in macOS
To begin configuring parental controls on macOS, navigate to System Preferences and create a new user account. First, unlock the preference pane by clicking the lock icon to enable modifications. Then, click the plus sign "+" located above the lock. Complete the user’s details – full name, account name, a secure password (which is mandatory), and an optional password hint – before clicking "Create Account."
Alternatively, a new parental control account can be created directly from the User & Groups preferences. Select "Managed with Parental Controls" from the New Account options, enter the user’s full name, account name, and password, and then click "Create User."
Pay close attention to the options on the user’s account page. Ensure that "Enable parental controls" is checked, and crucially, that "Allow user to administer this computer" remains unchecked.
Exploring the Control Options
Accessing parental controls reveals a range of options categorized under five main headings: Apps, Web, People, Time Limits, and Other controls.
Initially, you can define which applications users are permitted to access, and whether they should utilize the Simple Finder interface.
The Simple Finder provides a streamlined desktop experience, primarily intended for younger or less experienced users. For instance, the Applications folder is organized into pages, and applications are represented by aliases, preventing direct access to the underlying application files.
Restricting applications is a straightforward process. You can choose from four categories: App Store, Other Apps, Widgets, and Utilities. If App Store apps are allowed, you can specify an age rating, ranging from All to 17+.
Selecting "Prevent the Dock from being modified" locks the Dock, preserving the apps and shortcuts you’ve chosen. Once enabled, the user will be unable to alter the Dock’s contents. This is beneficial for younger users who might inadvertently delete a shortcut and struggle to restore it.
Web Filtering and Content Restrictions
The "Web" tab allows you to implement website restrictions, offering three options: unrestricted access to the entire internet, automatic filtering of adult websites, or the ability to allow access to specific websites you designate.
With the second option, you can create blacklists and whitelists of websites. As illustrated below, you can easily add or remove websites using the "+" and "-" buttons, respectively.
If a user attempts to access a blocked website, they will encounter a message similar to the one shown. As an administrator, you have the power to override the restriction if you deem it appropriate. Otherwise, the user will be redirected.
Managing Communication and Time Limits
The "People" tab focuses on Game Center and allowed contacts. You can control whether children can participate in multiplayer games or add friends within Game Center. Limits can also be placed on the use of Messages and Mail, such as restricting email communication to approved contacts.
The "Time Limits" options are familiar to those who have used parental controls on other platforms. You can set daily or weekly time limits for computer usage, ranging from 30 minutes to 8 hours. Note that this controls the duration of use, not specific times.
The "Bedtime" feature allows you to lock users out of the computer during specified hours, with separate settings for school nights and weekends.
Additional Controls and Monitoring
The "Other" tab provides a variety of useful checkboxes. You can disable the built-in camera, hide offensive words in the Dictionary, and prevent password changes.
While configuring these controls is essential, your role doesn’t end there. Regularly reviewing the activity logs, accessible by clicking the "Logs..." button at the bottom of any Parental Controls tab, is crucial for proactive monitoring and timely intervention.
Examining the Logs for Insight
Our exploration of OS X's parental controls wouldn't be complete without a detailed look at the logging features. Among the options within the Parental Controls system preferences, the logs represent the most effective resource available to parents seeking to address inappropriate online or application usage.
Accessing the "Logs..." button – found on any tab within Parental Controls – allows for a review of visited websites, those that were blocked, and application activity. Furthermore, Messages activity can also be monitored.
Log Details and Filtering
The system provides options for filtering activity by various timeframes, including the current day, the last week, month, three months, six months, year, or all recorded data.
Information can be organized either chronologically by date or categorically. For instance, application logs can be sorted by the specific application used, while message logs can be arranged by contact.
- Website visits are recorded.
- Blocked websites are identified.
- Application usage is tracked.
- Messages activity is logged.
Should no concerning activity be found, the "Clear Log" button offers the ability to reset the logs. Additionally, options are available to directly open a website or application for review, and to block specific content deemed unsuitable.
Regarding Web Filtering Practices
While utilizing OS X, it’s important to address web filtering capabilities. Although the operating system provides automatic filtering of websites categorized as adult content, and allows for both blacklisting and whitelisting of sites, our testing revealed that numerous adult-themed websites were still accessible.
Consequently, we reiterate our recommendation for employing a specialized web filtering service, such as OpenDNS. For those unfamiliar, OpenDNS parental controls function by directing all internet traffic through their designated domain name servers.
The level of filtering stringency can be adjusted to suit individual preferences, or specific content categories can be selected for a tailored experience. This allows for a more nuanced approach to content control.
After establishing an OpenDNS account and registering your IP address, you can determine whether filtering should be applied at the router level – encompassing all devices on your home network – or on individual client devices like PCs, Macs, or iPhones.
This solution effectively enhances the existing parental controls with a comprehensive web filtering system, providing increased peace of mind. It’s a valuable addition to any home network security strategy.
Ultimately, finding a balance between your parenting philosophy and your child’s digital requirements is key. Implementing parental controls is often simpler than anticipated, and, as we’ve consistently shown, is readily achievable across various platforms.
We are interested in your perspective on this topic. Perhaps you hold a differing viewpoint, or choose not to utilize OS X’s built-in parental controls. Regardless, your feedback is valuable.
Please share your thoughts and inquiries within our discussion forum. We eagerly anticipate engaging with your comments and fostering a constructive dialogue regarding parental controls.