Frequently asked questions about the Lifeguard device.
How does Safe Surfer Work?
We do all the heavy lifting for you… behind the scenes we filter every request from all of your devices such as phones, laptops, tablets and TVs through our DNS Firewalls to make sure that no unwanted content reaches you. And we do it quickly, using Safe Surfer can actually speed up your internet browsing too.

How do I know that my family is protected?
Once Safe Surfer is setup. At any time you can use our protection checker. Try it now.

Can I set per-device time restrictions?
Yes, if you’re using a Lifeguard device or mobile app then you will have access to per-device time restrictions.

Can I block Facebook, twitter, tumblr and other social media platforms?
Yes, if you’re using a Lifeguard device or mobile app then you will have access to per-device time restrictions.

Do my devices appear automatically in my list of devices in the Safe Surfer Control Panel when using a Lifeguard?
Yes. As soon as you have connected each device to the Safe Surfer WiFi, they appear in the Safe Surfer Control Panel. You can give them more useful names, and change settings per device.
Are my computers and laptops that are plugged into the normal router protected with a Lifeguard?
Your devices connected to your Lifeguard Wifi are protected. And your Lifeguard device does have 1 spare port for plugging in 1 computer or laptop. For additional devices that you normally use a cable with, modern ones often have wifi built in, so you can connect those to your Lifeguard Wifi. Or, you can purchase a 5-port network hub from a technology hardware store.
Will Safe Surfer block stuff it’s not supposed to? Or slow my internet connection?
No. Safe Surfer does not interfere with your internet speeds. We use intelligent firewalls with sufficient throughput to ensure your internet speed is unaffected.
Do I need to ‘forget network’ on each device, so it doesn’t automatically connect to the old network?
Yes. The Lifeguard sets up a new Safe WiFi. You may need to search Google for “how to forget wifi network” for instructions if you don’t know how to do this yourself.
Can teenagers bypass the Lifeguard device and connect to the normal Wifi?
Yes. You could change your wifi password and keep it to yourself, but even better, is to have a frank and open conversation with them about what they are viewing online. If they are onboard and share in what your family is trying to achieve, they are less likely to find ways to bypass any protection measures.
Do I still need anti-virus software if Safe Surfer is ‘switched on’?
Yes. We recommend all devices have up to date security software installed. Safe Surfer will also provide an extra line of defense by blocking:

  • Known hacked or infected websites
  • Malicious or phishing sites
  • Sites which may spread botnets or be command/control servers
  • Websites about hacking, dark web, and other illegal activity
Can I get reports if someone at my house tries to access blocked content?
Yes, if you’re using a Lifeguard device or mobile app then you will have access to per-device reporting on all blocked sites and unblocked categories.

What content does Safe Surfer block and how?
When Safe Surfer is ‘switched on’ it protects your family against:

  • Pornography
  • Violent and harmful content
  • Viruses (note: you also need up to date security/anti-virus software installed)
  • Spyware/Malware
  • Phishing sites