BrowseControl

BrowseControl serves as a comprehensive solution for businesses aiming to regulate and optimize employee internet usage. This powerful software empowers administrators to implement granular control over which websites and applications employees can access, thereby minimizing distractions, preventing the download of malicious software, and reducing bandwidth consumption from non-work-related activities.

Key functionalities include comprehensive website blocking with the ability to block specific URLs, categories of websites, or even entire domains. The software also supports application blockage, allowing companies to prevent the use of specific applications that are deemed counterproductive or pose a security risk. For greater flexibility, administrators can leverage whitelisting, permitting access only to pre-approved websites and applications.

Beyond simple blocking, BrowseControl offers detailed reporting on employee internet activity, providing valuable insights into browsing patterns and potential policy violations. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement in productivity and security.

Furthermore, the software incorporates features like content filtering to block access to websites based on their content, and category-based filters for efficient management of large lists of websites. The centralized management console simplifies deployment and configuration across the network, making it an ideal solution for businesses of all sizes concerned with maintaining a productive and secure digital work environment.

Review of BrowseControl by CurrentWare

BrowseControl is a well-established employee internet management solution that provides businesses with the tools necessary to govern employee online activity. The software's core strength lies in its comprehensive approach to blocking unwanted websites and applications, offering granular control that can be tailored to the specific needs of different departments or individual users.

The installation and initial setup of BrowseControl are relatively straightforward for administrators with basic networking knowledge. The centralized management console is intuitive and provides a clear overview of connected devices and applied policies. From this console, administrators can easily define website blocking rules based on URLs, keywords, or pre-defined categories. This category-based blocking is particularly useful for quickly restricting access to broad types of content like social media, streaming services, or gambling sites. The ability to create custom categories adds further flexibility.

Beyond website filtering, the application blocking feature is a significant asset. It allows businesses to enforce policies regarding the use of non-work-related software, which can be a major source of distraction and security vulnerabilities. The option to whitelist applications provides a method for creating a highly controlled environment where only approved software can be executed.

Reporting is another area where BrowseControl shines. The software generates detailed reports on employee browsing history, blocked website attempts, and application usage. This data is invaluable for understanding how employees are utilizing their time online and for identifying potential policy violations or security risks. The reports can be customized and exported for further analysis.

While the software offers a wide range of features, some might find the initial configuration process for complex network environments slightly challenging, although support resources are available to assist. The user interface, while functional, could benefit from a more modern aesthetic in some areas.

Overall, BrowseControl is a robust and reliable solution for businesses that are serious about managing employee internet usage. Its comprehensive feature set, including granular blocking options, detailed reporting, and centralized management, makes it a strong contender in the employee monitoring and filtering market. It effectively addresses concerns related to productivity, security, and bandwidth utilization.

Key Strengths Identified:

• Highly effective website and application blocking capabilities.
• Granular control over policies allows for precise configuration.
• Comprehensive reporting provides valuable insights.
• Centralized management simplifies administration.
• Supports whitelisting for enhanced security.

Potential Areas for Improvement:

• User interface could be more contemporary.
• Configuration in complex network environments may require some technical expertise.

In conclusion, BrowseControl provides a powerful and flexible platform for businesses to manage and control employee internet access effectively. It's a valuable tool for organizations looking to enhance productivity, reduce security risks, and ensure compliance with internet usage policies.