monitoring network user usage

[fenris]

Hi all, I am in charge of a small network (30 NT 4 workstations and 3 nt servers). A couple of days ago the network was connected to the internet via cable a router. I have not installed internet access to all the machines yet as I am waiting on the ISP to provide email addresses.<br><br>My boss is concerned about employee behavior now that we have a high speed internet access. He told me to find a solution (hardware or software) that would allow/block certian users ( or certain computers) from specific internet services. For example allowing a user to obtain email, while blocking web and ftp access.<br><br>I am looking for an nt software solution that will allow me to monitor a users network usage, specifcally bytes transfered to and from a certain ip (that ip would be the router). I would also like to be able to limit bandwith of a particular user if they become a bandwith hog and for various pollitical reasons I can't cut them off. The software should be able to control access by ip's or mac address.<br><br>Any input on software or even hardware that would be able to do this would be greatly appreciated.<br><br>fenris

 

[Zelandakh]

Proxy server on NT gives you the option to allow certain users onto the Internet or not as the case may be. This can also be configured as a firewall (but it is not great). It does not please everyone, but it will allow you to restrict access.<br><br>A hardware solution would probably do everything for you, but I don't know any.<br><br>:-(

 

[abovebrd]

Check out the following product. I am currently using it and I love it.<br><br><br><A HREF="

http://www.internetproducts.com/"

TARGET="_new">

http://www.internetproducts.com/</A><br><br><br>iPrismTM

is a unique new Internet server appliance that enables organizations to monitor and control Internet access, making the Internet a safer and more productive environment for employees and students. It reduces management problems and legal liability for administrators, managers and executives by allowing precise tailoring and enforcement of Acceptable Use Policies for Internet access. <br><br><br>Protects individuals from accidental or intentional viewing of inappropriate Internet sites that contain such material as sex, violence, drugs, racism and weapons. <br>Encourages higher productivity by monitoring or preventing Web surfing to sites unrelated to work or study, such as sports, stocks, games and entertainment sites. <br>Improves network response time by conserving precious bandwidth through control of user access to Internet services such as streaming audio, streaming video and FTP. <br><br>

 

[cbing]

Try Firewall 1 from checkpoint arguably the best <br>NT firewall solution on the market.

 

[DamnIT]

SurfControl makes a Plug-in for MS Proxy server. It allows you to monitor, block, and report on web usage based on your current NT user database and user groups.&nbsp;&nbsp;It doesnt require any fancy configuring.&nbsp;&nbsp;You just install it on the machine with Proxy