Circle works by monitoring network traffic and managing internet access based on the devices connected to your home network. It essentially acts as a gatekeeper between your devices and the internet.
Here's a breakdown of how it functions:
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Network Traffic Inspection: Circle analyzes the data packets flowing between devices on your home network and the websites/services they are trying to access on the internet. It looks at the destination of the traffic.
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Filtering and Management: Based on pre-defined rules and user settings, Circle decides whether to allow or block the connection. This allows for parental controls, time limits, and content filtering.
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Device Identification: Circle identifies devices connected to your network, allowing you to assign them to specific profiles.
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Profile Creation: You can create profiles for each family member or device, setting individual time limits, bedtimes, and content filters.
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Time Limits: Set daily time limits for specific apps, websites, or categories of online content.
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Bedtime Scheduling: Schedule internet "bedtimes" when devices can't access the internet.
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Content Filtering: Filter websites and apps based on age-appropriate categories.
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Pause the Internet: Instantly pause the internet access for all devices or specific profiles.
In simple terms, Circle observes all internet traffic coming from your devices and uses rules you set to allow or deny access to certain websites, applications, or the internet entirely.