How to restrict computer access and usage

Posted on July 4, 2008 at 5:19 am

Generally, I leave my computer off when I’m not using it. A lot of people like to leave their computers on, but that’s usually because they’re leaving something to upload to Megaupload, or they’re downloading big files. But I never really download huge files, so I just conserve the electricity.

But, last weekend, I had my sister’s children come to my house. Unsurprisingly, they rushed to my computer, looking for games to play and what not. So, I began looking for ways to prevent them from damaging my computer, because god knows what they could have been doing.

And I found a few methods of doing this.

Method 1: Just Lock Windows

It may sound obvious, but perhaps one of the best ways to do this, is simply to lock windows, using the simple method of pressing Win + L simultaneously. However, I’ve found that kids generally get upset, as they sense that you are, of course, trying to block them from using their computer, and so, I’d recommend using the other methods, as it’s hard for them to see that you’re locking them out.

Method 2: Toddler Trap

Toddler Trap is a handy, little tool that my sister herself uses, to block all pressed keys and mouse actions. It would be the perfect child-proof program, except for the fact that it can easily be exited by clicking the ‘X’ in the top right corner. So, if by sheer luck, the kid manages to click on the ‘X’, Boom! goes your computer.

Get Toddler Trap, here http://www.donationcoder.com/Software/Skrommel/ToddlerTrap/ToddlerTrap.exe.

Method 3: Toddler Keys

Personally, I think Toddler Keys is better than Toddler Trap for two reasons - It can restrict the power source and the CD-ROM/DVD drives as well. It’s common sense to think that, if a kid can’t make things move the cursor around with the mouse, he’ll divert his attention the the tower, and if he slams the CD-ROM drive with his fist whilst it’s out…That’s quite a bill.

It’ll be even more terrible if you’re downloading, and the kid pushes the ‘Power Off’ button. Another nice feature of Toddler Keys is that you can add sound and pictures to appear on the screen whenever a certain key is pushed, allowing some entertainment for the kid, and very high chance of him/her not figuring out you’re blocking them from the computer.

To exit the Locked Mode, just type EXIT. You can change the exit word, if you think this one is a bit too obvious at the options screen.

To get Toddler Keys, go here http://tk.ms11.net/toddlerkeyssetup.exe

Method 4: Child Proof

My personal favorite out of all the programs here. Child Proof has the same concept as the others - Prevent damage to your computer by restricting keys and mouse actions to children. It hides all the windows and the bottom toolbar, and replaces it with another toolbar, which programs can be added to, so the child can still play games.

This is really good, as it allows entertainment for the child, without damaging the computer whatsoever. To get off the locked screen, just press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + P simultaneously. You can change the combination at the options screen for Child Proof. The only flaw I’ve found with Child Proof, is that it doesn’t allow blocking of opening the CD-ROM/DVD tray or Power Button, but otherwise, it’s a solid program to use, as it allows games to be played.

To get Child Proof, go here http://people.cs.uu.nl/markov/kids/cproof/cproof.exe

Every single one of these programs, are 100% free, and can be obtained by clicking on the links provided. They each have their good and bad points, so just pick accordingly to the child. These programs are also really useful if you want to clean your mouse/keyboard, but don’t want to press any buttons when doing so.

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One Response to “How to restrict computer access and usage”

How to hide text in MS Word 2007 Says:

[...] to unhide the text even if they know how to do it. It will allow them to view the document, but restrict access to all other editing [...]
August 27th, 2008 at 4:19 pm