CUSTOM CATEGORIZATION 10

Using Custom Categorization

Find Destination - Allows you to search for a URL in the Monitored Destinations or VCA / Manual Categorizations panels.

VCA SETTINGS TAB

To configure settings for the VCA:

1In the Custom Categorization dialog, click the VCA Settings tab.

Figure 10-2VCA Settings tab

2Select the location of the Spider Files in the Spider Settings text box. In a default installation the location will be:

C:\Program Files\SurfControl\Web Filter\SpiderFiles

This setting can also be changed via the VCA Control Panel application. See "The VCA Service Settings" on page 124 for more details.

3You can select any of the following options:

Observe Robot Exclusion Policy - Some destinations contain a text file that describes exactly what each spider (or robot) can access on the destination. If you choose to ignore this policy then the spider will try to access unauthorized areas on the destination. This may result in your IP address being banned by the destination.

Cache retrieved web pages - Adds any pages directly retrieved during the VCA run to the local web page cache, if available.

Impersonate Internet Explorer - The VCA will identify itself as Internet Explorer when making requests to servers. If you clear this item the VCA will identify itself as SurfControl. Some destinations are inaccessible unless you impersonate Internet Explorer, although destinations can also ignore requests that originate from Internet Explorer. This option is selected by default.

SurfControl Web Filter v5.5

Administrator’s Guide 121

Page 128
Image 128
Surf Control 5.5 manual VCA Settings TAB, Custom Categorization dialog, click the VCA Settings tab

5.5 specifications

Surf Control 5.5 is a robust web filtering and security software designed for organizations seeking comprehensive internet safety and enhanced productivity. With the increasing reliance on the internet for business operations, it becomes imperative to utilize tools that not only ensure secure browsing but also improve workplace efficiency. Surf Control 5.5 offers a range of features that cater to these needs effectively.

One of the standout features of Surf Control 5.5 is its powerful web filtering capabilities. The software employs a robust categorization system that classifies websites into various categories such as social media, gambling, adult content, and more. This allows administrators to set policies that restrict access to non-work-related sites, leading to improved employee focus and reduced distractions during work hours.

Another significant characteristic of Surf Control 5.5 is its customizable policy management. Administrators have the flexibility to create specific access rules based on user roles, departments, or individual needs. This granular control ensures that employees can access the resources they need while maintaining an overall secure browsing environment.

Surf Control 5.5 leverages advanced technologies like real-time content analysis and URL filtering to provide instant protection against harmful websites. By analyzing web traffic in real-time, the software can block access to sites that are deemed unsafe or inappropriate, thus minimizing the risk of malware infections and data breaches.

In addition to web filtering, Surf Control 5.5 includes robust reporting and monitoring tools. These features allow administrators to track website usage patterns, identify potential security threats, and generate reports to analyze internet activities across the organization. This data is invaluable for making informed decisions regarding internet usage and policy adjustments.

Moreover, Surf Control 5.5 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Its intuitive interface facilitates easy setup and management, enabling IT personnel to implement and oversee policies without extensive training. This ease of use, combined with its powerful features, makes Surf Control 5.5 an ideal choice for organizations of various sizes.

In conclusion, Surf Control 5.5 is an essential tool for businesses looking to enhance their internet security and workplace efficiency. With its advanced web filtering, customizable policy management, real-time protection, and comprehensive reporting features, it offers a holistic approach to internet safety in the modern workplace. Organizations leveraging this software can expect to see a significant improvement in productivity and a reduction in exposure to online risks.