Internet content filters are used to prevent users on a computer from accessing websites deemed inappropriate and downloading files that may affect the security of a computer. Many Internet content filters are in place to block websites that contain pornography, hate groups, and other sensitive, and possibly illegal, activities and items. Many content filters are software based, but a large amount of organizations are moving toward hardware-based filtering, taking advantage of features in routers.

Companies need to be protected both legally, and in terms of network and information security. Content filters help to prevent programs and files from being downloaded that may be malicious, stealing company data, infecting systems with viruses, and more. Internet content filters are a necessary evil that actually help security.

Additionally, Internet content filters help to keep both an organization and an individual legally protected. By blocking pornographic websites, organizations are helping to prevent …