subject: The Uses Of Computer Monitoring Software [print this page] With so much activity being conducted online these days, sometimes it becomes necessary to monitor who is doing what. Today software exists that can be used by employers, parents, teachers, and other individuals and organisations to protect their own interests or the interests of those they are monitoring. Here are some of the most common uses of computer monitoring software.
Monitoring employee computer activity
Employees may be spending too much time on browsing the internet, sending personal emails or chatting with friends on instant messenger services, which all lead to less time spent on work and this ultimately leads to lower productivity. By using employee monitoring software such as Snapbox 360, manufactured by SpectorSoft, all employee PC activity can be monitored. Employers can find out what vital company information is being shared or how much time is being spent on a particular website. Information such as which files are being transferred, what programmes are being run and keystroke logging can also be revealed. Software such as Snapbox 360 even compiles reports which can be analysed department or employee wise.
Monitoring online activity of children and students
In homes, parents can use computer and Internet monitoring software to protect their children from falling prey to online predators and to be in the know of how much time their children are spending on the Internet and on what websites.
Schools and universities use software manufactured by companies such as SpectorSoft that allow teachers or information technology administrator review charts showing how much time a student is spending on a particular website or to block certain sites from being accessed. In addition, the keyword alert option informs administrators when a student might be searching for something that is in violation with the schools Internet usage policy.
Preventing illegal online activity
Surveillance software such as those manufactured by companies like Spector Soft can be very useful in fighting crime as well. For example the use of such software can prevent theft of internet banking passwords and credit card information. Today computer activity monitoring is also used to analyse terrorist activity.
