Safe Search helps you filter out explicit or mature content from search engines like Google, Bing, and YouTube. To make it work effectively, you need to apply and configure it properly.
Warning
If you turn on Safe Search in multiple places, such as Linewize Filter and Google Workspace, you create double inspection. This conflict will impact Safe Search and stop it from filtering content correctly.
Comparison of Safe Search Methods
| Method | When to apply | Dependencies | Impact / Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linewize Filter (Connect devices) | When you need a consistent, school-wide Safe Search policy across different device types. | Requires Linewize Connect installed on managed devices (Chromebook, Windows, macOS and iOS). | Enforces Safe Search for Google, YouTube and Bing both on and off network; supports strict or moderate YouTube filtering by age group. |
| Linewize Filter Appliance | When you need to enforce Safe Search for all devices on the school network, including unmanaged or guest devices. | Requires devices to connect through the school network; best combined with Connect for managed devices. | Applies Safe Search at the network level, protecting BYO and guest devices. |
| Google Workspace | When your school uses managed Google accounts and only needs Safe Search for Google and YouTube on student accounts. | Requires Google Workspace account management. | Centralises Safe Search for Google Search and YouTube; doesn’t apply to Bing. |
1. Safe Search in Linewize Filter for Connect devices
Linewize Filter lets you configure Safe Search across multiple device types, including Chrome, Windows, macOS, and iOS. You can use it to apply Safe Search for Google, Bing, and YouTube on students' devices, whether they’re on or off the school network.
Use Linewize Filter when you need a consistent, school-wide Safe Search policy across multiple platforms. It’s useful for schools with a mix of device types.
2. Safe Search with Linewize Filter Appliance
The Linewize Filter Appliance enforces Safe Search at the network level, applying restrictions to any device connected to your school network, including unmanaged or guest devices. Configure Safe Search in Linewize Filter when you need broad enforcement without relying on individual device settings.
Use this method if your school has devices not managed through an MDM or identity system (like Microsoft Intune or Google Workspace) but still needs protection (for example, unmanaged BYO learning or guest devices). The Linewize Filter Appliance filters search results for all users, regardless of device type or login status.
3. Safe Search in Google Workspace
If your school manages student accounts only through Google Workspace, you can turn on Safe Search there to filter Google Search and YouTube results. This method is suitable when you only need to apply Safe Search to Google and YouTube on student accounts.