Can someone explain content filters and if they could be responsible for my inability to access Second Life?

[Ayana Auer]

Are content filters keeping me out of Second Life?

[Lexie Linden]

This answer explains content filtering in general, and its relation to  gaining access to the Second Life® virtual world.

There are several  different software methods for stopping incoming internet content that  users may find objectionable. Firewalls, for example, typically work by  blocking internet traffic based on ports, protocols and IP addresses.  Another technique relies on identifying objectionable content. Content  filtering works by blocking internet traffic based on keywords, domain  names and whole classes of media such as streaming video, as well as  various other creative methods invented by the producers of content  filtering solutions. Unfortunately, some of these content filters  categorize Second Life as a "game". This can end up disabling all access  to the Second Life virtual world for business, education and non-profit  organizations who are using such content filters to block more  obviously objectionable material. Should you find access to the Second  Life website or virtual world hindered in any way at work or school, but  have no problems at home, you may want to investigate whether a content  filter is the cause. In those cases, please contact the manufacturer of  those products for further technical support. While we do not have a  comprehensive list of these content filters, one that has blocked access  to Second Life recently is 8e6 Technologies. They have their own Knowledge Base article describing how to resolve blockage of Second Life. It can be found at http://www.8e6.com; select Support > Knowledge Base from the navigation bar at the top of the page, and search for "Second  Life". A firewall may also be responsible for your access difficulties.