betterjobs

Free policy template · Word

Internet Usage Policy

An internet usage policy sets the rules for browsing, downloading and streaming on the company network and on company devices — blocked website categories, bandwidth-heavy use, downloads, public Wi-Fi and VPN, social media during work hours and how web activity is filtered and logged.

  • Editable Word (.docx)
  • Made for India
  • 10 fill-in fields highlighted
  • Free, no sign-up

Preview of the policy

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

INTERNET USAGE POLICY

Policy No.:
[Reference Number]
Version:
[Version Number]
Effective Date:
[Date]
Policy Owner:
Information Technology

1. Purpose

This policy guides responsible use of internet access provided by [Company Name], to keep the network secure, bandwidth available for business and the company protected from legal risks.

2. Scope

It covers internet use on company networks (wired, Wi-Fi, guest Wi-Fi), company devices anywhere, and any device connected to company VPN.

3. Definitions

  • Web filter: the system that blocks or allows websites by category.
  • Guest Wi-Fi: the separate network for visitors.
  • VPN: the company's encrypted remote access connection.

4. Policy

  1. Internet access is provided primarily for business; reasonable personal browsing is allowed during breaks.
  2. The following categories are blocked: adult content, gambling, piracy and torrent sites, hacking tools, malware and phishing sites, and [other categories].
  3. Streaming video or music for personal use on office networks is not permitted during work hours.
  4. Files may be downloaded only from trusted, business-related sources; executable files need IT approval.
  5. Employees must connect through the company VPN when using public or home Wi-Fi for work.
  6. Personal social media may not be used to post confidential information, customer data, photos of company premises or statements on behalf of the company.
  7. Use of anonymisers or proxies to bypass the web filter is prohibited.
  8. Visitors may use only guest Wi-Fi with time-limited credentials.

5. Procedure

  1. To unblock a business-relevant site, raise a ticket with [IT Helpdesk] giving the URL and reason.
  2. IT reviews within [Number] working days.
  3. Web filter logs are retained for [Number] days and reviewed only for security incidents, audits or investigations approved by [Designation].

6. Responsibilities

  • Employees: browse responsibly and report suspicious sites.
  • IT: maintain filtering, VPN and guest Wi-Fi.
  • Managers: address productivity issues with their teams.

7. Non-compliance

Accessing prohibited content or bypassing controls may lead to restricted access and action under the Disciplinary Policy.

8. Review & Approval

IT will review blocked categories every [Number] months.

Approved by
[Authorised Signatory]
[Designation]
Date: [Date]
Acknowledged by
[Employee Name]
Date: [Date]

What this template includes

  • Blocked categories — adult, gambling, piracy, malware sites
  • Bandwidth rules — streaming and large downloads
  • Download rules — only from trusted sources, scanned by antivirus
  • Public Wi-Fi — use VPN for any company work
  • Social media at work — limited personal use, no company statements
  • Web filtering and logs — what is recorded and who sees it

When to use it

  • Office bandwidth is consumed by streaming and large downloads
  • Introducing a web filter or firewall categories
  • Employees work from cafés or co-working spaces on public Wi-Fi
  • Setting expectations on social media use during work hours

How to customise this template

  1. 1List the blocked categories configured in your firewall
  2. 2Set guest Wi-Fi rules for visitors
  3. 3Insert your VPN tool and how to request site unblocking
  4. 4Define reasonable personal use limits
  5. 5Name who can access browsing logs

HR tips

  • Provide a simple process to unblock a business-relevant site
  • Separate guest Wi-Fi from the corporate network
  • Teach staff to spot fake download buttons and phishing sites
  • Do not use browsing logs to embarrass employees; keep them for security

Web filtering and logging involve employee data. Ensure monitoring is disclosed and proportionate under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023; consult legal advisers.

For HR & hiring managers

Hire top talent from BetterJobs

Experienced and fresher candidates across India — blue, grey and white collar. Post a job in 5 minutes and start receiving applications.

  • Post in 5 minutesDescribe the role in one line — we write the job description.
  • Verified applicantsEvery applicant has a verified mobile number.
  • Resume databaseSearch experienced candidates by skill, city and experience.

Frequently asked questions

Can employees use social media at work?+

Many companies allow brief personal use during breaks while prohibiting posting confidential information or speaking on behalf of the company without approval.

Why should a VPN be used on public Wi-Fi?+

Public networks can be intercepted. A company VPN encrypts traffic between the device and the company, protecting logins and data.

Can a company block websites?+

Yes. Companies commonly block categories that pose security, legal or productivity risks on their own networks and devices.

All 50 hr policies →