Why Use Internet Monitoring Software?

When asked for their view on Internet monitoring software, organizations typically give one of two answers. Some will say that Internet monitoring software is needed because otherwise employees will abuse their Internet privileges and waste a lot of time online instead of working. Others will tell you that privacy is sacred and Internet monitoring software may be seen as abusive and as an infringement on employee privacy.


In reality, both answers are incorrect, especially in the context of an organization’s security. Internet monitoring is not about spying or controlling employees per se; it’s about the safety of your network.

Although employee privacy needs to be respected, there are important business considerations as well. Being too strict and ‘prying’ into users’ online activity can lead to low morale and lower productivity. In some cases, it can lead to abuse or discrimination. However, a good Internet
monitoring solution can anonymize the data when reports are generated. This means that the administrator can get a detailed view of the organization’s Internet activity without knowing who is generating that traffic. Only in particular cases, such as in a legal investigation and the gathering of forensic evidence, would it be possible to identify an individual’s use of the Internet.

The real problem is how to protect the organization from web-based threats. Irresponsible Internet usage can put a company at risk inseveral ways;from downloading malware-infected software to
visiting websites that carry drive-by downloads or other exploits, as well as phishing sites. With a good Internet monitoring solution it is possible to allow users to access only authorized sites that are
relevant to one’s work – this greatly reduces the risk that your network is exposed to malicious sites and malware. Internet monitoring software will also scan any downloads for malware,sometimes using multiple anti-virus engines to ensure the biggest possible virus detection rate.

Internet monitoring software will also give valuable information that can help an administrator to detect problems and take corrective action in a timely manner. For example, if bandwidth usage is
excessive, the computer and application responsible for using excessive bandwidth can be identified and fixed. If there is no indication that the connection is being abused but bandwidth utilization remains high, it may be the case that the organization’s Internet backbone needs to be upgraded.

In security terms,information on bandwidth usage and the time of day when this usage occurs can help to identify malicious activity. If large bandwidth spikes are recorded on weekends when few or no one is working, then the network may have been infected with a botnet and the organization’s machines are being used to send spam or run DDoS attacks.

RobustInternet monitoring software will allow the administrator to strike a balance between productivity and personal freedom. Allowing users time to check their personal email or browse for a short time can have a positive impact on productivity. To prevent abuse, you can use Internet monitoring software to set quotas limiting the time a user can spend browsing certain site categories.

Internetmonitoring software can give you control over your Internet connection and employee browsing yet enable you to maintain a high level of security without impacting on productivity and morale. There is no need to take draconian measures. Simply use Internet monitoring software.

This guest post was provided by Emmanuel Carabott on behalf of GFI Software Ltd. GFI is a leading software developer that provides a single source for network administrators to address their network security, content security and messaging needs.