How to Block a Kid's Access to Internet Wi-Fi
By Melly Parker
The Internet is full of interesting, educational content, but there are also sites that have inappropriate content for children. When you have Wi-Fi in your home, your child can access the Internet on any connected device in any room. Because you can't watch your child at all times, consider limiting or blocking his wireless access to ensure he doesn't see pages that aren't age appropriate.
Wi-Fi Passwords
The simplest way to block your child's access to Wi-Fi is to create a password on your wireless network. Only users with the correct password can access your Wi-Fi. Because the password isn't necessary for the wired network, your child will still be able to use computers that are connected to the Internet with a cable.
Router Settings
You can create restrictions on your router for those who access your Wi-Fi networks. Enter your router settings through your browser and open the access restrictions dialog. The restrictions can apply to a single computer or to multiple computers that you specify that connect to the network. Each computer put on a policy must be identified by its IP or MAC address. Policies can prohibit access at certain times, allow access only at certain times or stop the person from accessing specific websites or applications.
MAC-Address Filtering
If you want to block all Wi-Fi access outside of specific computers, you can use MAC-address filtering to only allow certain computers to use your Wi-Fi. To find the MAC address for a computer, open the Control Panel and then choose "Network and Sharing Center." Click "Change Adapter Settings" and then right-click on the "Local Area Connection." Click "Properties" and then hover over "Connect Using" to see your MAC address. MAC address filtering can be applied through your router settings. If you only allow the MAC address of your computers or shared computers to connect, your child won't be able to access Wi-Fi even if he knows the password.
Parental Controls
When you add a new user account to Windows 8, you have the option to enable Family Safety on the account. If you check the box to enable it, you'll be directed to user accounts, where you can select the user whose Internet access you want to control. Web filtering lets you block specific websites, types of websites and explicit content. Time limits help manage how much time your child spends on the computer; settings can be adjusted for each day of the week. Restrictions on which apps or games can be purchased or used are also available. Another benefits to the Windows 8 Family Safety settings is that you can choose to view an activity report that shows you what your child is doing online and can even have Windows email you the report periodically. Third-party parental control programs are also available and may offer more options to help you limit your child's access to Wi-Fi. A combination of Wi-Fi passwords, access limitations and parental control software helps to ensure that your child is never exposed to content that isn't suitable for him.
References
Writer Bio
Melly Parker has been writing since 2007, focusing on health, business, technology and home improvement. She has also worked as a teacher and a bioassay laboratory technician. Parker now serves as a marketing specialist at one of the largest mobile app developers in the world. She holds a Master of Science in English.