Need to block MySpace? Learn a free and simple method of blocking the social media site on your computer.

MySpace is a social media website that can be a great way to connect with people, but it can also cause problems for parents and companies. Parents may be concerned about predators contacting their children, or abusive comments that can occur from other MySpace members.http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/30/business/media/30MySpace.html?_r=1 Business can have productivity concerns as well as network issues due to employee’s MySpace useage.

It does not matter why you want to block MySpace, if you want to not have this service on your computer or network, you can block MySpace access. While there may be multiple methods for blocking MySpace, the easiest ways are to either use a DNS blocking service or to use special Internet filtering software. This page provides instruction on how to block MySpace on your computer.

Decide between these two methods of blocking MySpace:

1. Internet Filtering Software- This type of software allows a greater level of blocking customization and can help protect your computer. Some software packages also allow you to monitor your employee or child’s Internet activities.
2. DNS Blocking Service- Domain Name Service (DNS) is a basic service you are already using if you are connected to the Internet. This service helps to take computer language and put it into URL format. You are probably using the DNS service suggested by your ISP service, but you can change to any service that you prefer. The benefit of DNS blocking is that it blocks traffic from entering your network at your Internet access point, which means you do not need to update every computer if you are on a physical or wireless network.

To block MySpace with software, you must select a software product that meets your entire blocking and monitoring needs.

Some common Internet filtering software products include:

1. 1. MaxProtect
   2. CYBERsitter
   3. McAfee Parental Controls
   4. Safe Eyes
   5. CyberPatrol
   6. Net Nannyhttp://internet-filter-review.toptenreviews.com

Depending on the product you select, you may need to purchase a separate copy for each computer, so make sure to check the license agreement.

Install the software you select on each computer where you want to block MySpace and customize the application accordingly. You software may have a general blocking method for all social networking sites, or you can block MySpace specifically by URL.

OpenDNS is a free DNS service that allows the blocking and customization of your Internet access options. It also allows a high level view of all internet activity on your system.

To block MySpace with OpenDNS:

1. Establish a free account on OpenDNS.com
2. If you have a computer directly connected to the internet through a cable modem, or DSL line, change your DNS settings to 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. These settings are generally located in your Network Connections control panel settings.
3. If you use a router to establish a wired or wireless network in your home, change the DNS settings directly on your router. The OpenDNS website has detailed instructions available for each type of router.
4. After changing your DNS settings, log in to your account and choose the HIGH options for filtering. This setting will block MySpace as well as other social networking sites such as Facebook. If you prefer to only block MySpace, add the URL to the blocked website list in your account.