Secure the base!
Microsoft Family Safety is a free application developed by Windows as a way for parents to protect their children from harmful content on the web. The app is a cross-platform service that you can use via a Microsoft account.
Launch into protection
This Microsoft app provides solid features for anybody who wants to keep unsuitable content away from their computer.
Unlike Qustodio and OpenDNS FamilyShield, Family Safety does not have any features that the developers have locked behind a paywall. However, to use the software, each person in the plan must have a Microsoft account through opening an email.
You can control the filter settings and all the other options from a Windows 10 computer or the Family Safety website. However, you will need this application installed on each device that you want it to report on unlike OpenDNS Family Shield which you can install on the router.
Qustodio can work with any browser while FS only works with Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer. However, when on a device, it provides location tracking. Also, the admin can set time limitations on any app and receive detailed reports on what the users are doing.
Where can you run this program?
This program can run on Android devices, but the required OS varies by device.
Is there a better alternative?
No, there are no better options. Even though MFS is tied directly to Microsoft, it offers more features than Qustodio and OpenDNS FamilyShield do for free. The advantages the alternatives have are they work with every browser, and ODFS works on the router.
Our take
Overall, MFS is a great option if you’re looking for a web filter. With its robust selection of features and easy-to-understand reports, the limitations tied to having to use it with a Microsoft account and either the ME or IE browsers are minimal.
Should you download it?
Yes, if you need a family web protection software, this is a great option.
