How to Track Usage Through a Proxy

Network administrators protect, manage and monitor a network by administering security software in the network's proxy server. In workplaces and educational institutions, it is common to track Internet usage to make sure that employee or student productivity isn't being affected by irresponsible Internet browsing habits. Tracking Internet usage through a proxy server is possible with the right monitoring software, and fortunately, there are several products available online that can accommodate your Internet usage tracking needs.

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  Visit the Tools4ever website and operate its MonitorMagic product on your network's proxy server to track Internet usage (see "Resources"). MonitorMagic is a monitoring solution for hybrid network environments. With MonitorMagic you have the ability to identify performance, prevent failures on your network and monitor both your server and network. Plus, you also have the ability to archive events and run reports on performance and trends. With this product you may monitor various components on a large enterprise network or a single server network. MonitorMagic offers a free download version so you can take the product on a test drive prior to purchasing it. This will help you evaluate if its service matches your Internet usage tracking needs.

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  Go to the OpExpert website and administer its software on your proxy server to monitor and secure all Internet usage being performed on your network (see "Resources"). OpExpert is a proficient tool that monitors Internet usage on any type of network including wireless devices. With OpExpert you will be alerted when something is affecting the network; consequently, you will be able to approach potential issues before they hinder the network's performance. A feature that proactively helps you track Internet usage is the alarm generator, which informs you when inappropriate or harmful Internet usage is happening. To make sure that your network's speed runs efficiently, OpExpert also helps you monitor bandwidth usage, and you have access to reports that detail all activity on the devices being used within the network. OpExpert features a basic free edition that can be downloaded from its homepage.

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  Navigate to the McAfee website and establish its McAfee SmartFilter product on your proxy server to both manage and monitor Internet usage on your network (see "Resources"). With McAfee SmartFilter, you have the ability to safeguard your network from potential threats such as malware, malicious scripts and viruses. This product can be customized to work on any type of network and it helps you increase productivity by providing efficient Internet usage tracking on every device operating on your network. McAfee SmartFilter also enables you to block websites that you want to restrict access to on your network. This product provides Internet activity and trend reports that are sorted by each individual IP address or user working on your network. McAfee SmartFilter provides a free 30 day evaluation trial so you can test its product prior to getting a license.