CNET Editors' review
Anyone in need of amping up desktop security will find this application both useful and easy to use.
WinLock Professional has a clean and functional interface that is easy to understand. The program works well to limit access to certain areas of the computer, but a few of the security measures could be bypassed by savvy users. On the first use, users can easily set up a password to keep others from changing settings, decide when the program will run, and how it will log activity. Other features include the capability to lock users out of vital areas, such as the registry, task manager, control panel, and Windows folders. Users can even go so far as to disable changes to the desktop or access to the Start Menu. There is even a timer, which will limit the amount of time spent on the computer. The only issue we had upon testing was the Internet access tab. Users can set up a list of restricted and/or trusted sites, but the restrictions apply only to Internet Explorer. The settings were null and void if the sites were accessed through Firefox.
Parents, among others, will find WinLock Professional a great resource to limit user access to certain areas of the computer and the Internet, but be aware that it won't completely prevent sites if the kids use Firefox.
Publisher's Description
From Crystal Office Systems:
WinLock Professional is a comprehensive security solution for personal or publicly accessible computers. It is a program that ensures that only authorized people can access sensitive information on your computer.
With WinLock Professional you can control how long others can use your computer, disable Windows hot keys (such as Alt-Ctrl-Del, Alt-Tab, and Ctrl-Esc), lock Windows desktop, customize the Start menu, hide the Start button and Switch bar.
What's new in this version: Version 5.37 includes support for remote messages and minor fixes.
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"Outstanding parental website and security control"
Version: WinLock Professional 5.37
Pros
This program is considered a system security tool, but it's also among the best for website blocking. It can block sites based on the URL, or keywords in URL, web page, or window title.
In addition to file/folder protection, WLP can block any window or program based on window keywords. This is really powerful to block an undesired program or system tool regardless of source filename or folder location; users can't simply rename the file or download it to another folder. You can disable essentially any software or Windows feature.
For example, to block a user from launching MS Config (by entering "msconfig" in the Run command), just specify the MS Config window i.e. "system configuration utility" and it will instantly shutdown upon launch. Another example would be disabling changes to the system clock by specifying "date and time properties"
To block sites in Firefox or any non-IE browser, just use the window blocker (window titles almost always contain domain name keywords).Cons
The time control feature only limits sesson duration. It doesn't allow scheduling periods to block pc usage (see below).
Summary
I have found that combining WinLock Pro with Crawler Parental Control (free) is the ultimate combination for controlling pc usage time and website access -- WLP for website control, CPC for limiting pc time.
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