Challenge

1. To provide controlled Internet access while preventing abuse
2. To prevent productivity loss and bandwidth drain from recreational web surfing
3. To filter annoying and bandwidth-draining pop-up, pop-under, and banner ads
4. To find a filter solution that does not impede acceptable web usage
5. To monitor web usage and enforce an Internet Acceptable Use Policy
6. To customize web filtering to meet the Internet access needs of different groups
7. To protect your virtual borders and manage the flow of information on your network

Solution

Implement The FPA Enterprise-Wide Solution for Managing Internet Usage utilizing the SurfControl® Web Filter for Microsoft Windows

What is the SurfControl® Web Filter?

SurfControl® Web Filter software is deployed on the network to "sniff" information sent over the Internet. It records Internet activity as well as blocking visits to sites or specific actions that are not permitted. The SurfControl Web Filter uses special Pass By technology to "sniff" packets without hindering appropriate Internet usage in any way. The flexible Web Filter settings enable businesses to create custom permission levels appropriate for the firm, specific groups, and for individuals based on a number of intelligent criteria.

What are its benefits?

Uncontrolled Internet access, even when protected by a firewall and anti-virus software, can lead to security breaches in addition to draining bandwidth and staff productivity. Staff accessing webmail or visiting malicious websites can unwittingly download virus-ridden files, penetrating even the most protected network. Staff downloading pirated MP3 files can drain bandwidth, in addition to opening the firm up to prosecution for copyright infringement. Unfettered surfing can detract from an individual staff's productivity in addition to that of other staff who must access the Internet for business-critical tasks but are slowed down due to insufficient bandwidth. The SurfControl® Web Filter helps businesses to implement an appropriate Internet Access Use Policy that protects businesses from such threats, while at the same time allowing staff sensible access to the Internet.

The SurfControl® Web Filter contains the following features:

• Content Database: The SurfControl® URL Category List contains the most accurate and extensive category list available. With millions of URLs and billions of web pages regularly updated, the SurfControl® URL Category List can reliably place websites into 40 focused categories to help firms target permissible sites.
• Intelligent & Dynamic Categorization: Because no database could possibly keep up with the many new websites sprouting up every day, the SurfControl® Web Filter also comes with Virtual Control Agent™, which uses Adaptive Reasoning Technology to dynamically categorize websites not in the database, allowing firms to implement effective policy rules for any website staff may visit.
• Intuitive and Easy to Use: The drag and drop interface makes it easy to create and modify policy rules. Administrative features, such as running reports, can be automatically scheduled, requiring minimal ongoing administration.
• Comprehensive Built-In Reporting and Analysis: Multiple customizable reports make it easy for firms to track Internet usage overall, for groups, and for individual staff. Reports can be created and delivered in a number of formats to alert firms of instances where breaches may make the firm vulnerable. This knowledge can then be used to refine the rules and the Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
• Sophisticated Filtering: The SurfControl® advanced rules engine helps firms to customize rules for individuals and groups, ensuring the most effective access for each staff member's work responsibilities. Non-business Internet access can also be
• Precise Bandwidth Controls: SurfControl® can also manage the types of files that staff can download from the Internet, blocking .exe files that are regularly used to spread viruses and MP3 files that bandwidth-intensive and potentially illegal.
• Ad Filtering: Pop-up, pop-under, and banner ads can be blocked, saving bandwidth and avoiding irritation.
• Deny Pages: A variety of customizable deny pages alert staff when they are in violation of the Internet Acceptable Use Policy. The deny pages not only deny access but also serve to educate staff about appropriate web use at work.

The Technical Process for the FPA Solution for Managing Internet Usage

FPA works with firms to identify how they can best put the SurfControl® Web Filter to use in their organization. This process involves developing an overall Internet Acceptable Use Policy along with setting rules for the diverse roles and needs within the firm. We also help determine the best format and frequency of reports. For web filtering to be effective, it must be developed in accordance with how the firm works. And for legal purposes, it is important that staff are informed of the policy and repercussions of breaking the policy, in addition to being alerted that their web activity may be monitored and analyzed.  Therefore, we often work with our clients to create and help implement a formal Computer Acceptable Use Policy.

FPA begins by installing the SurfControl® Web Filter software onto the network, positioning it to "sniff" Internet traffic. This is usually on a dedicated workstation.  After successful installation, the configuration process begins based on the agreed upon filtering and reporting parameters.

Configuring the filter and reports correctly is the key to a successful implementation. We work directly with our clients to program the conditions and rules needed to filter Internet traffic appropriately. We rigorously test each rule and report as they are being set to review the outcome and confirm that it is accurately meeting our clients' needs. Once the initial rules and reports are set, we conduct a test and review period allowing additional review and refinement of the rules and reports as new "live" Internet traffic is run through the system.

Technical Requirements

• SurfControl® Web Filter Version: 4.2
• Operating System Windows 2000
• Workstation with SP 1 or higher
• Windows NT Workstation with SP 6a or higher
• Processor Pentium III or higher
• Memory 512 MB
• Disk Space 1 GB
• Internet Browser Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 or higher
• File Size 94 MB

Contact FPA

To find out more about the FPA Enterprise-Wide Solution for Managing Internet Usage for your organization, contact FPA at 818-501-3390 or email us at info@fpainc.com.