By George, I Think I've Got It!

I'm back online, Ms J. While The Boy's away visiting with his mother, I've spent the better part of the last two days trying to find a way to restrict Dan's access to the internet, while still allowing me to use it. Connecting and disconnecting the modem was really getting tiresome. Zone Alarm may be the answer. Zone Alarm Security Suite. It's a software package who's primary function is to act as a firewall, keeping out hackers and other forms of intrusion. But it also allows the user to block access to a number of website "categories":

• Chat room/Instant Messenger
• Alcohol/Tobacco
• Illegal Drugs
• Dating/Personals
• Violence
• Hate/Racism
• Web Communication/Message Boards
• Web Hosting/Personal Web Pages

There are many more. The settings are password protected so he can't simply change them or shut down the programme. He'll still be able to download and listen to music using P2P programmes like LimeWire. Music is a passion of Dan's. Like most teens, he loves his music.

I've also been advised to set up a user account for Dan and another for myself, naming me as "administrator." Cool! I've never been an administrator before. Reminds me of that old Keith Hampshire song from the '70's. "Big Time Operator." Remember that one? Dan's account does not allow him to install or uninstall programmes or to alter general computer settings. I however, as administrator, can do whatever the hell I like. My position is guarded by password. The power, Ms J!! It's intoxicating! Mwa-ha-ha!!!

So I'll leave the modem connected. I must be sure, though, to log off each time to prevent Dan from organizing a cyber-coup. He'll be back on Friday. We'll see how it goes.