Meta Description: Discover the top 10 parental control software tools for 2025. Compare features, pros, cons, and pricing to find the best solution for your family’s online safety needs.
Introduction
In 2025, parental control software has become an essential tool for families navigating the complexities of the digital world. With children spending more time online for education, entertainment, and social interaction, parents face growing challenges in ensuring their safety from inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and excessive screen time. Parental control software helps monitor and manage a child’s online activities, offering features like web filtering, screen time limits, location tracking, and social media monitoring. As online threats evolve, these tools provide peace of mind while fostering healthy digital habits.
When choosing the best parental control software in 2025, parents should prioritize ease of use, robust filtering, multi-device compatibility, and real-time alerts. Budget, specific needs (e.g., social media monitoring for teens or strict content filters for younger kids), and platform support (iOS, Android, Windows, etc.) are also critical factors. This blog explores the top 10 parental control software tools, their features, pros, cons, and a detailed comparison to help you find the right solution for your family.
Top 10 Parental Control Software Tools for 2025
1. Qustodio
Description: Qustodio is a comprehensive parental control solution designed for parents seeking detailed oversight of their children’s online activities across multiple devices. It’s ideal for families with kids of all ages, offering customizable controls.
Key Features:
- Web filtering with 40+ categories and custom website blocking.
- Screen time limits and scheduling for daily/weekly routines.
- Social media monitoring for platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram.
- Real-time location tracking and geofencing with alerts.
- Call and SMS monitoring for Android and iOS (with computer setup).
- Detailed activity reports delivered via email.
- Panic button for kids to send SOS alerts.
Pros:
- Highly customizable for different age groups.
- Robust web filtering that resists VPN bypass attempts.
- Free 3-day trial with no credit card required.
Cons:
- Free plan limited to one device with basic features.
- Premium plans can be expensive for large families.
- iOS call/SMS monitoring requires a computer setup.
2. Bark
Description: Bark focuses on social media and messaging monitoring, making it ideal for parents of teens concerned about cyberbullying, predators, or harmful content. It uses AI to detect risks across multiple platforms.
Key Features:
- Monitors 30+ social media networks, texts, and emails.
- Real-time alerts for bullying, self-harm, or inappropriate content.
- Screen time scheduling and app blocking.
- Location tracking with geofencing capabilities.
- Web filtering with customizable category restrictions.
- Detailed activity reports for parents.
Pros:
- Excellent social media monitoring with AI-driven alerts.
- Affordable starting price at $5/month.
- No device limit, ideal for large families.
Cons:
- Limited web filtering compared to competitors.
- Can generate excessive notifications, overwhelming parents.
- No call/SMS monitoring on iOS devices.
3. Norton Family
Description: Norton Family is a trusted solution for large families, offering robust web filtering and screen time management with a focus on fostering open dialogue about online safety.
Key Features:
- Web filtering with age-based presets for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
- Screen time limits and scheduling across unlimited devices.
- Location tracking and geofencing for real-time monitoring.
- YouTube and Hulu monitoring for search and content history.
- Request Access feature for kids to ask for site permissions.
- Uninstall protection to prevent bypassing.
Pros:
- Unlimited device support, great for large families.
- Simple setup with a user-friendly dashboard.
- 60-day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Lacks social media conversation monitoring.
- Annual subscription ($49.99/year) with no monthly option.
- Limited iOS functionality compared to Android.
4. Kaspersky Safe Kids
Description: Kaspersky Safe Kids offers affordable, comprehensive parental controls with strong web filtering and YouTube monitoring, suitable for budget-conscious families.
Key Features:
- Web filtering for 10+ categories across multiple browsers.
- YouTube Safe Search and 30-day search history monitoring.
- Screen time limits with customizable schedules.
- Location tracking with geofencing alerts.
- App blocking and usage restrictions by age.
- Real-time alerts for restricted content access.
Pros:
- Low-cost plans starting at $15/year.
- Easy setup and intuitive interface.
- Strong YouTube monitoring capabilities.
Cons:
- Limited social media monitoring features.
- Free plan lacks advanced features like geofencing.
- Some features less robust on iOS.
5. Net Nanny
Description: Net Nanny is known for its intuitive design and powerful content filtering, perfect for parents seeking an easy-to-use solution for younger children.
Key Features:
- Real-time web filtering with 25+ categories.
- Screen time management with app timers.
- YouTube and social media monitoring.
- Location tracking with 7-day history.
- Customizable alerts for specific content or searches.
- App blocking for inappropriate apps.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with detailed reports.
- Strong content filtering with real-time updates.
- Affordable plans starting at $39.99/year.
Cons:
- Limited call/SMS monitoring capabilities.
- Some features unavailable on iOS devices.
- Advanced features require higher-tier plans.
6. Aura Parental Control
Description: Aura combines parental controls with identity theft protection, offering a well-rounded solution for families seeking both online and personal security.
Key Features:
- Web filtering with customizable content categories.
- Screen time limits and app blocking.
- Location tracking and geofencing for safety.
- Social media monitoring for major platforms.
- Identity theft protection for family members.
- Real-time alerts for suspicious activities.
Pros:
- Comprehensive bundle with security features.
- Easy-to-use interface for non-tech-savvy parents.
- Supports up to 50 devices on Family Plan.
Cons:
- Pricing starts high at $12/month (billed annually).
- Limited free plan features.
- Less focus on advanced monitoring compared to Qustodio.
7. Mobicip
Description: Mobicip provides a straightforward solution for managing screen time and web content, ideal for parents of younger children using Android, iOS, or Windows devices.
Key Features:
- Web filtering with 18+ content categories.
- Screen time schedules and app blocking.
- YouTube activity monitoring.
- Location tracking with geofencing.
- App timers for specific app restrictions.
- Whitelist-only mode for strict control.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing starting at $2.99/month.
- Strong web filtering with exclusion lists.
- Easy setup across multiple platforms.
Cons:
- Limited social media monitoring.
- Free plan lacks advanced features.
- Some features less effective on iOS.
8. FamiSafe
Description: FamiSafe is a versatile parental control app with strong screen time and location tracking features, suitable for families needing customizable controls.
Key Features:
- Custom downtime schedules for study or bedtime.
- Web filtering across Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
- Location tracking with geofencing and history.
- App blocking and usage monitoring.
- Driving safety reports for teen drivers.
- Real-time alerts for suspicious content.
Pros:
- Affordable plans starting at $10.99/year.
- Detailed location tracking with frequent updates.
- Unique driving safety features.
Cons:
- Limited social media monitoring compared to Bark.
- Some features require premium upgrades.
- Interface can be less intuitive for beginners.
9. OurPact
Description: OurPact offers robust screen time management and app blocking, ideal for parents seeking to regulate device usage for children across iOS and Android.
Key Features:
- Screen time scheduling with multiple daily slots.
- App blocking and allowance settings.
- Web filtering for age-appropriate content.
- Location tracking with geofencing alerts.
- Live screen view for real-time monitoring.
- Family locator for tracking multiple kids.
Pros:
- Free version with basic app blocking.
- Supports up to 20 devices on premium plans.
- Intuitive screen time management tools.
Cons:
- Limited reporting compared to competitors.
- iOS installation requires computer setup.
- Premium plan ($6.99/month) can be costly.
10. FamilyTime
Description: FamilyTime focuses on customizable screen time and location tracking, offering a simple solution for parents managing younger kids’ devices.
Key Features:
- Screen time limits for devices and specific apps.
- Location tracking with 150m–1km geofencing.
- Social media monitoring for WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.
- App blocking with usage exemptions.
- Real-time alerts for location and content.
- Detailed activity reports every 6 hours.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing starting at $2.50/month.
- Strong location-based features.
- Easy-to-use dashboard for parents.
Cons:
- Limited social media monitoring depth.
- No uninstall protection on some devices.
- Fewer features than Qustodio or Bark.
Comparison Table
| Tool Name | Best For | Platform(s) Supported | Standout Feature | Pricing | G2/Capterra/Trustpilot Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qustodio | Comprehensive monitoring for all ages | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Kindle | Robust web filtering | Free / Starts at $54.95/yr | 4.3/5 (Capterra) |
| Bark | Social media monitoring for teens | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS | AI-driven alerts | Starts at $5/mo | 4.5/5 (Trustpilot) |
| Norton Family | Large families | iOS, Android, Windows | Unlimited device support | $49.99/yr | 4.2/5 (Capterra) |
| Kaspersky Safe Kids | Budget-conscious families | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS | YouTube Safe Search | Free / Starts at $15/yr | 4.4/5 (Trustpilot) |
| Net Nanny | Intuitive design for younger kids | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Kindle | Real-time content filtering | Starts at $39.99/yr | 4.0/5 (Capterra) |
| Aura Parental Control | Security-focused families | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS | Identity theft protection | Starts at $12/mo | 4.6/5 (Trustpilot) |
| Mobicip | Simple web filtering for young kids | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Kindle | Whitelist-only mode | Free / Starts at $2.99/mo | 4.3/5 (Capterra) |
| FamiSafe | Customizable screen time controls | iOS, Android, Windows | Driving safety reports | Starts at $10.99/yr | 4.1/5 (Capterra) |
| OurPact | Screen time management | iOS, Android | Live screen view | Free / Starts at $6.99/mo | 4.0/5 (Trustpilot) |
| FamilyTime | Location tracking for younger kids | iOS, Android | Geofencing with small radius | Starts at $2.50/mo | 4.2/5 (Capterra) |
Which Parental Control Software Tool is Right for You?
Choosing the best parental control software depends on your family’s needs, the age of your children, and your budget. Here’s a decision-making guide to help you select the right tool:
- For Comprehensive Monitoring Across All Ages: Qustodio is the top choice due to its extensive features, including robust web filtering, social media monitoring, and a panic button. It’s ideal for parents who want full control and customization, especially for mixed-age households. Best for families with multiple devices and varying needs.
- For Social Media-Focused Families: Bark excels at monitoring over 30 social networks and detecting risks like cyberbullying or self-harm. It’s perfect for parents of teens who are active on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or WhatsApp. Choose Bark if social media safety is your primary concern.
- For Large Families: Norton Family supports unlimited devices, making it cost-effective for households with multiple children. Its focus on fostering open dialogue suits parents who prefer guiding rather than restricting.
- For Budget-Conscious Families: Kaspersky Safe Kids and Mobicip offer affordable plans with solid features like web filtering and screen time limits. Kaspersky is great for YouTube monitoring, while Mobicip’s whitelist-only mode suits younger kids.
- For Security-Minded Families: Aura combines parental controls with identity theft protection, ideal for parents seeking a holistic safety solution. It’s best for those willing to invest in premium plans for added security.
- For Screen Time Management: OurPact and FamiSafe shine in customizable screen time controls. OurPact’s live screen view is great for real-time oversight, while FamiSafe’s driving reports appeal to parents of teen drivers.
- For Location Tracking: FamilyTime and FamiSafe offer precise geofencing and frequent location updates, perfect for parents prioritizing physical safety alongside digital monitoring.
Consider starting with free trials (e.g., Qustodio, Bark, or Mobicip) to test features before committing. Evaluate device compatibility and whether you need advanced features like social media monitoring or basic controls like app blocking.
Conclusion
In 2025, parental control software is more critical than ever as children navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape. These tools empower parents to protect their kids from harmful content, manage screen time, and monitor online interactions while fostering healthy tech habits. The top 10 tools listed—Qustodio, Bark, Norton Family, and others—offer diverse features to suit various family needs, from comprehensive monitoring to budget-friendly options. As technology evolves, these solutions are integrating AI-driven alerts, cross-platform compatibility, and enhanced privacy features to stay ahead of online risks.
We recommend trying free trials or demos to find the best fit for your family. Open communication with your children about online safety, combined with the right parental control software, will ensure a balanced and secure digital experience in 2025.
FAQs
What is parental control software?
Parental control software helps parents monitor and manage their children’s online activities, including web browsing, app usage, screen time, and location tracking, to ensure safety and promote healthy digital habits.
Are free parental control apps effective?
Free apps like Qustodio and Mobicip offer basic features like web filtering and screen time limits but often lack advanced tools like social media monitoring or location tracking, which are available in premium plans.
Can kids bypass parental control software?
Tech-savvy kids may attempt to bypass controls using VPNs or alternate browsers, but top apps like Qustodio and Norton Family include robust protections like VPN resistance and uninstall safeguards.
Which parental control app is best for social media monitoring?
Bark is the best for social media monitoring, covering over 30 platforms and using AI to detect risks like cyberbullying, predators, or inappropriate content.
How much do parental control apps cost?
Pricing varies: Kaspersky Safe Kids starts at $15/year, Qustodio at $54.95/year, and Aura at $12/month. Free plans exist but are limited in features and device support.