WatchDog is the ultimate application for restricting and monitoring the time you or others spend on the computer. Its many security measures completely block unauthorized access. It can restrict the time of day a user may log in and what applications can be run. It also monitors URLs and keystrokes, and periodically takes screenshots. WatchDog has direct Windows-policy integration to enable many advanced security features on a per-user basis.

Version 9.3 includes the ability to block websites through the use of white or black lists when using any version of any Web browser, including IE7, Firefox, AOL, Opera. WatchDog filters Websites by checking for keywords in the URL.

Editor's review of WatchDog Keep a watchful eye on your PC

WatchDog gives you comprehensive control over how your computer is used, and how it monitors various activities. The program's bland but straightforward and familiar interface makes it easy to set permissions for users and to assign users to specific groups.

Basically, the program overrides the native Windows Task Manager and gives the Administrator the keys to the car. You can control not only what programs other users can access, but when they use them and even when the computer can turn on. You can shut down the PC after a specified period of time, or allow or block access for any hour or day of the week.

The newly-added URL filter builds on the full array of functions that the app presents. Hard drives, the Start menu and the Control Panel can be hidden from view, and the screenshot and keylogging functions give WatchDog some serious heft.

One drawback is that the Web filter is based on URL keywords and blacklists, so there's a strong possibility that some undesired content could make it through. Given the depth of control the app provides, we'd recommend WatchDog both for parents and for very small businesses.