Risks

• Children are able to change settings or install programs on shared computers
• Other users can access private files
• Arguments over who can use the computer

Sharing a home computer creates tension

Sharing a single computer between different members of a family can cause tensions especially when different members of a household need it for different things.

Children may need it for homework, playing games or simply chatting to their friends using instant messaging.  Others in the household may need it to do their shopping online or use it for work. 

The problem comes when everyone wants to use the computer at the same time.

Agree guidelines

Agree a policy that all members of a household can accept.

• Agree a routine that everyone can live with.
• Set realistic time limits for everyone.
• Stagger computer use in line with bedtimes.
• Make sure everyone gets a fair go.
• Make sure everyone gets a chance to use the computer for homework before anyone uses it for games.
• Look for alternatives to the computer. Sometimes paper and pen is enough for homework. Perhaps some kids can play games on a video game machine plugged into the television, freeing the family computer for homework.
• If you have a separate computer for grown-ups only, make sure that the rules about whether or not children can use it are made absolutely clear.
• Think about how to help very young children by book marking their regular websites in the “favourites folder” so they know where to go.
• Decide who has access to which files, especially sensitive data such as personal files, photos, financial information and so on.

Create a user account for each user

Setting up different user accounts for each person who uses the computer is good practice. It means that you can give children limited control over the computer. For example, they won’t be allowed to install new programs or change settings without your permission. It also helps monitor and control what they do online.

Use Windows XP to create a different login and desktop for each user with the User Accounts settings in the Control Panel. In addition, we recommend setting a password for the master Administrator account.