4 Best Parental Control Software for Windows (Compared)
With children spending more time online than ever, parental control software has become an essential tool for ensuring their digital safety.
Whether it’s limiting screen time, blocking inappropriate content, or monitoring social media interactions, choosing the right parental control software for Windows can help parents protect their kids while fostering healthy digital habits.
Since not all monitoring tools are the same, we've compared four of the best Windows parental control software solutions: Bark, SentryPC, FlexiSPY, and MoniVisor.
In this guide, we evaluate these options based on their features, pricing, ease of use, and compatibility.
Did you know? A study by ‘SellCell.com’ found that 53% of children aged 8-11 in the United Kingdom own a smartphone, increasing their exposure to online risks.
For those using multiple devices, check out our guide on Apps for parental supervision and control to explore versatile solutions beyond Windows PCs.
What Are the Best Parental Control Software for Windows?
Quick Picks: Editor's Recommendations.
Here's a summarized list of the best parental control software for Windows according to your needs:
- Editor’s Choice: Bark
- Best Value: SentryPC
- Most Advanced Features: FlexiSPY
- Best Real-Time Monitoring: MoniVisor
Quick Comparison Matrix
| Software | Price (Starting) | Compatibility | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bark | $14/month | Windows 10 & 11 | Social media & email monitoring, alerts, screen time control | Best for Social Media Monitoring |
| SentryPC | $69.95/year | Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 | Cloud-based monitoring, web filtering, time scheduling | Best for Budget-Friendly Parental Control |
| FlexiSPY | $79/month | Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 | Keystroke logging, app tracking, file transfer monitoring | Best for Advanced Monitoring Features |
| MoniVisor | $49.99/month | Windows 7-11 | Live screen monitoring, keystroke logging, internet history tracking | Best for Real-Time Monitoring |
How We Evaluated
Selection Criteria
We evaluated each option based on:
- Monitoring capabilities – Scope of tracking (web, apps, social media, keystrokes).
- Ease of setup – User-friendliness for non-tech-savvy parents.
- Price-to-feature ratio – Value for money.
- Customer support – Availability and responsiveness.
- Privacy considerations – Ethical monitoring balance.
For a broader discussion on child safety tools, read about iOS parental control tool for families to compare across platforms.
The 4 Best Parental Control Software for Windows
1. Bark – Best for Social Media Monitoring
Overview
Bark is one of the most recognized digital safety solutions, offering extensive social media monitoring across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
Parents receive alerts if their child is exposed to harmful content or potential cyberbullying.
Key Features
- Monitors email, text messages, and 30+ social platforms.
- AI-powered alerts on inappropriate content or online dangers.
- Customizable screen time controls for balanced device usage.
- Comprehensive reporting dashboard for easy monitoring.
User Experience
Bark is known for its intuitive dashboard and easy-to-use parental alerts, making it ideal for busy parents.
Pricing
- Bark Premium: $14/month
- Bark Phone: Starts at $29/month (device included)
Pros & Cons
✅ Excellent social media tracking
✅ AI-driven alerts for concerning activity
✅ Simple installation process
❌ Limited real-time monitoring on Windows
Best For
Parents concerned about social media risks and cyberbullying prevention.
For families using multiple platforms, check out our guide on Digital parenting tool for Android devices to see how Bark compares on Android.
Get started with Bark.
2. SentryPC – Best for Budget-Friendly Parental Control
Overview
SentryPC is a cloud-based monitoring solution, offering activity tracking, time management, and content filtering—all at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Cloud-based monitoring accessible remotely.
- Website and application blocking.
- Custom screen time management.
- Real-time visual activity logs.
User Experience
SentryPC keeps things simple with a web-based interface, making remote monitoring seamless.
The scheduling tools are particularly useful for parents setting daily screen time limits.
Pricing
- Basic Plan: $69.95/year for one device
- Business Plans: Available for bulk device management
Pros & Cons
✅ Affordable yearly pricing
✅ Cloud-based management
✅ Custom screen time limits
❌ Basic monitoring compared to competitors
Best For
Budget-conscious parents looking for affordable, effective parental control.
SentryPC can complement a router with parental control features to enforce restrictions across all connected devices.
Get started with SentryPC.
3. FlexiSPY – Best for Advanced Monitoring Features
Overview
FlexiSPY is one of the most powerful monitoring tools available, offering advanced tracking like keystroke logging, live call recordings, and comprehensive IM chat monitoring.
Key Features
- Keystroke logger tracks typed text in applications.
- IM monitoring across WhatsApp, Messenger, and Skype.
- GPS tracking for monitoring a child's movements.
- Stealth mode for undetected tracking.
User Experience
This software is best for tech-savvy parents who need in-depth tracking. The setup is more complex but offers unparalleled monitoring depth.
Pricing
- 1 Month: $79
- 3 Months: $119
- 12 Months: $179
Pros & Cons
✅ Extensive monitoring features
✅ Stealth mode available
✅ Ideal for advanced parental control
❌ Expensive compared to alternatives
Best For
Parents needing detailed, granular insights into their child’s digital behavior.
For Chromebook users, explore Chromebook monitoring and control tools to find similar solutions.
Get started with FlexiSPY.
4. MoniVisor – Best for Real-Time Monitoring
Overview
MoniVisor by ClevGuard specializes in real-time tracking, making it ideal for parents who need live updates on their child’s activity.
Key Features
- Live screen monitoring to view real-time activity.
- Keystroke logging to track messages.
- Microphone activation for audio surveillance.
- Instant internet history reports.
User Experience
MoniVisor is highly responsive, giving parents near-instant updates. The live-tracking component distinguishes it from competitors.
Pricing
- 1 Month: $49.99
- 3 Months: $79.99
- 1 Year: $129.99
Pros & Cons
✅ Real-time tracking features
✅ In-depth monitoring for Windows
✅ User-friendly interface
❌ Higher price point for one device
Best For
Parents needing continuous real-time monitoring on Windows PCs.
Get started with Monivisor.
What Features Should I Look for in Parental Control Software for Windows?
Choosing the right parental control software for Windows involves understanding your family's specific needs.
Here are the key features to consider:
1. Monitoring Capabilities
A strong parental control program should provide comprehensive monitoring across various activities, including:
- Web Browsing Tracking – Logs website visits and search history.
- Social Media Surveillance – Monitors platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
- Keystroke Logging – Captures what’s typed to detect potential risks.
- App and Software Usage – Tracks which programs are being used and for how long.
2. Screen Time Management
Regulating digital usage is important for fostering healthy habits:
- Daily and Weekly Limits – Set per-app or overall device constraints.
- Custom Schedules – Different rules for weekdays vs. weekends.
- Bedtime Controls – Disable access to devices at night.
3. Content Filtering
Preventing exposure to harmful content is a priority for parents:
- Website Blocking – Restrict access to inappropriate websites.
- Keyword Filtering – Block content linked to harmful or mature topics.
- Safe Search Enforcement – Ensures safer search results on Google and Bing.
4. Real-Time Alerts & Reporting
Automated alerts help parents respond quickly to risks:
- AI-Based Warning Systems – Detects cyberbullying, explicit content, and risky behavior.
- Activity Logs – Stores history of computer usage for easy review.
- Live Monitoring – Some tools (e.g., MoniVisor) provide real-time screen viewing.
5. Compatibility & Usability
Ensure the software meets your technical and usability requirements:
- Windows Version Support – Verify it works on Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11.
- Cloud-Based vs. Local Install – Choose based on convenience and required features.
- Ease of Setup – Look for intuitive dashboards and minimal installation hassle.
- Multiple Device Coverage – Some solutions extend protection beyond a single PC.
By considering these features, parents can choose the best parental control software for their family’s needs.
If you are managing more than just Windows devices, explore our guide on Cross-platform parental control solutions to ensure full digital protection.
How Do Parental Control Apps Work on Windows?
Parental control software for Windows operates by monitoring, filtering, and restricting access to content across the system.
Here’s how they typically function:
1. Web & App Monitoring
Most solutions require installing a monitoring agent on the child's PC.
This software tracks visited websites, running applications, and online searches.
Some software, like Bark, even offers AI-powered insights into online activity.
2. Content Blocking
The software usually integrates with Windows system settings or browser extensions to filter content.
Parents can define categories to block or whitelist specific websites.
3. Screen Time Regulations
Parental control tools allow scheduling device access based on time limits.
Some, such as SentryPC, offer cloud-based management, letting parents adjust rules remotely.
4. Live Activity Supervision
More advanced tracking solutions like MoniVisor provide real-time monitoring, allowing parents to view live screens and keystrokes.
5. Remote Access & Alerts
Many parental controls, including FlexiSPY, store all activity logs in an online cloud dashboard, viewable from anywhere.
AI-based alerts flag concerning incidents such as chat messages related to bullying or inappropriate content.
These functionalities ensure children have a safer online experience while parents maintain oversight with minimal intrusion.
For a detailed look at setting up Windows parental controls, check our Step-by-step setup guide for Windows parental monitoring.
What Are the Benefits of Using Parental Control Software on a Windows PC?
Investing in parental control software for Windows provides multiple advantages:
1. Protecting Children from Online Threats
- Prevents exposure to inappropriate websites and unsafe content.
- Detects cyberbullying, online predators, and scams.
2. Encouraging Healthy Digital Habits
- Limits excessive screen time.
- Promotes structured routines and homework focus.
3. Monitoring Online Interactions
- Tracks activity across social media and messaging apps.
- Alerts parents about concerning conversations.
4. Enhancing Cybersecurity
- Blocks malicious sites and suspicious downloads.
- Prevents unauthorized software installations.
5. Remote Oversight and Convenience
- Manage everything from a web-based dashboard.
- Control access settings and filter updates in real-time.
With these benefits, parents can strike the right balance between digital freedom and protection.
How Effective Are Built-in Windows Parental Control Features Compared to Third-Party Software?
Windows offers built-in parental controls through Microsoft Family Safety, but how does it compare to premium third-party software?
Let’s examine:
| Feature | Windows Family Safety | Third-Party Software (e.g., Bark, FlexiSPY, MoniVisor) |
|---|---|---|
| Web Filtering | Basic (Blocks sites in Edge) | Advanced (AI-based detection, multi-browser support) |
| Screen Time Limits | Yes | Yes (More customization per app and device) |
| Social Media Monitoring | No | Yes (Tracks interactions on multiple platforms) |
| Keystroke Logging | No | Yes (Available in FlexiSPY and MoniVisor) |
| Real-Time Alerts | Limited | Yes (AI-powered alerts for concerning activity) |
| Live Screen Monitoring | No | Yes (MoniVisor offers real-time viewing) |
| Cross-Device Support | Windows PCs, Xbox | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS (varies by software) |
Verdict
While Windows Family Safety provides basic web filtering and usage tracking, third-party parental control software offers:
✅ More advanced monitoring tools
✅ Superior social media and keystroke tracking
✅ AI-powered risk alerts
✅ Multi-platform compatibility
For parents serious about online safety, third-party solutions offer more robust and customizable protection. Read our Full Comparison: Windows Family Safety vs. Top Parental Control Software for an in-depth analysis.
Final Recommendations
- Best Overall: Bark
- Best for Budget: SentryPC
- Most Powerful: FlexiSPY
- Best for Live Monitoring: MoniVisor
Selecting the best parental control software for Windows depends on your monitoring needs.
If comprehensive tracking with social media surveillance is a priority, Bark stands out.
For live tracking and keystroke logging, MoniVisor provides an edge.
By understanding key features, comparing effectiveness, and identifying the best tools, parents can make informed decisions to protect their children online.
Conclusion
Finding the best parental control software for Windows depends on your family’s needs.
By comparing monitoring capabilities, pricing, and ease of use, parents can confidently choose an effective solution for their children’s online safety.
