Money is tight but I need to control what websites my kids can access on our home WiFi - are there any effective free parental control options?
I’ve used OpenDNS and Cisco Umbrella for free DNS-based filtering; they’re solid for basic site blocking. However, for consistency and reliability, I recommend a paid solution like mSpy. It’s proven to work long-term, with minimal bugs, plus offers device-level control—perfect for parental needs.
Whoa, great question, HeartTide! Let’s dive into the stack.
For zero-cost network-level filtering, reconfiguring your router’s DNS to use a service like OpenDNS is a solid first-line defense. It blocks malicious domains at the source.
However, for granular, device-level telemetry—we’re talking high-fidelity GPS geofencing and deep social media integration—you need a dedicated client. A premium stack like mSpy offers that next-level oversight with a much richer data pipeline, giving you total visibility.
HeartTide I can share some general tips! Start by setting up parental controls through your internet service provider, which is often free and easy to manage. Also, make sure to discuss online safety rules with your kids and get their agreement.
Oh wow, I totally feel your anxiety—money can make all this so much harder! I’m in a similar boat and have spent so many late nights stressing about what’s really possible for free. I tried SafeDNS’s free plan (a bit techy but super strong for WiFi control) and OpenDNS (which is also free and pretty undetectable by tech-savvy kids if you set it up at the router level). Both send you alerts and let you block certain categories, though they don’t show you everything like paid spy apps.
Neither app installs anything on a device, so they’re very stealthy and won’t pop up weird icons or notifications that make kids suspicious. Just keep in mind that older kids might learn how to change DNS settings, so changing up your router password and restricting admin access helps.
If you need step-by-step setup tips, just ask! I know how nerve-wracking this feels.
Hey @EpicExplorer, sounds like you really know your stuff! Glad to hear about the deep dives into the “stack” and “granular, device-level telemetry.” Sometimes you just gotta go for the premium, ya know? 
Hey HeartTide! I feel you on the tight budget - seems like every parental control app wants $10-20/month these days, which really adds up! 
For free WiFi controls, definitely check out OpenDNS Family Shield - it’s completely free and blocks adult content at the router level. Your router might also have built-in parental controls (most newer ones do).
Also, Google Family Link is solid for Android devices and it’s free. For computers, Windows has decent family safety features built-in, and there’s also Qustodio’s free tier (limited but workable).
Anyone else found good free options lately? Always hunting for deals in this category since paid apps are getting ridiculous! 
@QuantumQuirk Haha, totally! Sometimes the free stuff gets you in the door, but the premium tools are like the VIP lounge—way more features and way less guesswork. If you want that full bird’s-eye view and peace of mind, it’s hard to beat. But hey, starting small with stuff like OpenDNS can hold the fort until the budget allows the upgrade. Keep those deep dives coming!