What are parental controls on a router?
Parental controls on a router are a set of features that allow parents to restrict and monitor their children’s internet usage. These controls can be used to filter content, set time limits, and block specific websites or apps. By using parental controls, parents can ensure that their children have a safe and age-appropriate online experience.
The importance of choosing the right router for parental controls
When it comes to setting up effective parental controls, choosing the right router is crucial. A router with advanced parental control features can provide a high level of security and customization options. It should be able to filter content across all devices connected to the network, allow parents to set time limits for internet usage, and provide detailed reports on internet activity.
Top router options for parental controls
Netgear Nighthawk AC2300
The Netgear Nighthawk AC2300 is one of the top router options for parental controls. It offers a wide range of features, including website filtering, time scheduling, and the ability to restrict access to specific devices. The Netgear Genie app makes it easy for parents to set up and customize their preferences, making it a popular choice among parents looking for sophisticated parental control options.
Asus RT-AC86U
The Asus RT-AC86U is another excellent choice for parents seeking powerful parental controls. It features AiProtection Pro, which offers robust security measures and allows parents to customize content filters and set time limits. The router also has a gaming mode that prioritizes gaming traffic, ensuring a stable connection for online gaming while still enforcing parental control settings.
Linksys Velop Mesh Wi-Fi System
The Linksys Velop Mesh Wi-Fi System is a mesh router system that provides whole-home coverage and comprehensive parental controls. Parents can easily manage and monitor their children’s internet usage through the Linksys app, which allows them to set content filters and control access to specific websites and apps.
Additional features to consider
When choosing a router for parental controls, it’s also essential to consider additional features that can enhance the effectiveness of the controls:
Guest network: A router with a guest network feature allows parents to create a separate network for guests, ensuring that their parental control settings only apply to their children’s devices.
VPN support: Some routers offer built-in VPN support, which can provide an extra layer of security and privacy for the whole family.
Quality of service (QoS): QoS enables parents to prioritize certain types of internet traffic, such as video conferencing or online learning platforms, ensuring that their children have a smooth online experience even with parental control settings in place.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best router for parental controls, it’s important to consider a router’s features, such as website filtering, time scheduling, and access control. The Netgear Nighthawk AC2300, Asus RT-AC86U, and Linksys Velop Mesh Wi-Fi System are all excellent options that provide comprehensive parental control features. It’s also crucial to consider additional features like guest networks, VPN support, and QoS when selecting a router.
