A system and method for filtering of web-based content in a proxy cache
server environment provides a local network having a client, a directory
server and a proxy cache server that caches predetermined Internet-derived
web content within the network. When content is requested, it is vended to
the client only if it meets predefined user policies for acceptability.
These policies are implemented based upon one or more ratings lists
provided by content rating vendors. The lists are downloaded to the
network in whole or part, and cached for use in determining acceptability
of content by a filter application. Ratings can be particularly based upon
predetermined content categories. Caching occurs in a host or object cache
for rapid access. Only if current ratings are not found in the host or
object caches are ratings caches or vendors accessed for ratings. Ratings
on requested content are then placed in the host or object cache for
subsequent use. Object parsing or other techniques can be used to screen
returned content that is unrated or otherwise allowed to pass to ensure
that it is appropriate.
