The Best Parental Control Software

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Online Business Success

With children spending more time online, parental control software is essential for safeguarding their digital activities. Here’s a detailed guide to the best options for monitoring, filtering, and managing screen time.

FAQs

What is a parental control app?
A tool that monitors and restricts children’s digital activities, ensuring safety from inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and other online risks.
How do I use a parental control app?
Download the app, install it on your and your child’s devices, and use the dashboard to set restrictions, monitor activity, and receive alerts.
Are there free parental control tools?
Yes, options like Spyrix Free Keylogger and Qustodio provide free features, though premium tools offer advanced capabilities.
Can I block sites with these tools?
Absolutely. Apps like Net Nanny allow you to block explicit websites, filter content, and monitor apps effectively.

Top 10 Parental Control Software for Families

1. Aura – Best All-in-One Solution

Key Features:
Block websites and apps (e.g., TikTok, Snapchat).
Screen time management and internet usage reports.
Safe browsing with VPN and phishing protection.
Pricing:
14-Day Free Trial.
Premium Plan: $99.99/year.
Best For: Families looking for a complete safety solution.

2. Norton Family – Best for Online Rules

Key Features:
Web, time, and search supervision.
Parent mobile app and advanced reporting.
Manage settings via a user-friendly portal.
Pricing:
Free 30-Day Trial.
Annual Plan: $49.99/year.
Best For: Parents needing structured online rules.

3. Qustodio – Best for Social Media Monitoring

Key Features:
Real-time activity monitoring.
Social media and YouTube protection.
Location tracking and app time limits.
Pricing:
Small Plan: $54.95/year (5 devices).
Medium Plan: $96.95/year (10 devices).
Large Plan: $137.95/year (15 devices).
Best For: Families with teens who use social media heavily.

4. Salfeld Child Control – Best for Multi-Device Families

Key Features:
Multi-device management with activity reports.
Internet filtering and app blocking.
Remote dashboard access.
Pricing:
Starts at $29.95 for 1 device (2 years).
$49.95 for 3 devices; $59.95 for 5 devices (2 years).
Best For: Families with a mix of tablets, phones, and computers.

5. Bark – Best for Social Media Protection

Key Features:
Monitors 30+ social media platforms.
Cyberbullying and online danger alerts.
Screen time scheduling and location tracking.
Pricing:
Bark Junior: $5/month or $49/year.
Bark Premium: $14/month or $99/year.
Best For: Protecting kids on social media and messaging platforms.

6. FamilyKeeper – Best for Geo-Tracking

Key Features:
Real-time location tracking and geofencing.
Social media monitoring and content filtering.
Alerts for inappropriate content or risky interactions.
Pricing:
Starts at $10/month (in-app purchase).
Best For: Parents wanting detailed location tracking.

7. Net Nanny – Best Filtering System

Key Features:
Advanced web filtering and app blocking.
Screen time scheduling and location tracking.
Customizable Family Feed for activity monitoring.
Pricing:
1 Device: $39.99/year.
5 Devices: $54.99/year.
20 Devices: $89.99/year.
Best For: Comprehensive filtering and reporting.

8. Family Shield by OpenDNS – Best Free Option

Key Features:
Blocks adult content and phishing sites.
Domain blocking for custom restrictions.
Protects all Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
Pricing:
Free of charge.
Best For: Free whole-family protection.

9. Spyrix Free Keylogger – Best Free Keylogger

Key Features:
Tracks keystrokes and app usage.
Remote monitoring and clipboard control.
Screenshot capture for added oversight.
Pricing:
Free with paid upgrades starting at $69 for 1 PC.
Best For: Parents seeking a free tool for detailed monitoring.

10. Locategy – Best for Location Tracking

Key Features:
Real-time and historical location tracking.
App blocking and web filtering.
SOS alerts for emergencies.
Pricing:
3 Devices: $4.99/month or $29.99/year.
5 Devices: $6.99/month or $39.99/year.
10 Devices: $11.99/month or $69.99/year.
Best For: Location monitoring with safe zone alerts.

How to Choose the Best Parental Control App

Functionality: Consider features like screen time limits, app blocking, and social media monitoring based on your child’s age and needs.
Usage: Choose apps that balance privacy with effective monitoring.
Flexibility: Opt for software that works across devices and ages, with adjustable settings.
Intuitiveness: AI-driven alerts and automation make monitoring seamless.
Security and Privacy: Ensure the app has robust policies to protect your child’s data.
Affordability: Free apps are a good start, but premium options offer advanced features worth investing in.

Best Recommendations Based on Needs

Best All-in-One Solution: Aura ($99/year).
Best for Social Media: Bark ($5/month).
Best Free Option: Family Shield or Spyrix Free Keylogger.

Parental control software is a valuable ally in creating a safe digital environment for your children, ensuring they enjoy the internet without compromising their safety.