Whether you're a Managed Service Provider (MSP), an educational institution, or a small-to-medium business (SMB), the right content filtering solution can help safeguard against online threats, improve productivity, and ensure compliance with regulations.
This guide explores the best content filtering software and alternatives available in 2024, focusing on their features, benefits, and use cases.
Let’s dive into the top solutions and see why Control D stands out as a leader in the field.
The 8 Best Content Filtering Software
Our recommendations are:
- Control D
- WebTitan
- Cisco Umbrella
- Cloudflare Gateway
- DNSFilter
- SafeDNS
- NextDNS
- DefensX
Let’s examine each in detail to determine which tool best suits your needs.
1. Control D (Best All-Round Solution)
Control D’s Features
Control D stands out as a versatile web filtering solution that combines DNS-based filtering, threat protection, and advanced customization into one powerful platform. Unlike traditional content filtering, which can be restrictive and cumbersome, Control D allows users to create highly tailored filtering policies without compromising privacy or speed.
With unparalleled flexibility in rule creation, its customizability allows you to tailor filtering policies to your specific needs.
Here’s a rundown of its key features:
Superior Malware and Threat Protection
Threat intelligence from multiple sources are combined with machine-learning algorithms to block all malicious content in real time. Independent tests show a 99.97% malware block rate – the highest amongst all competitors.
Ad & Tracker Blocking
Block ads and trackers on all websites and apps that utilize DNS.
Granular Customization
With over 1,000 blockable Filters and Services, Control D offers granular control over which apps, platforms, and groups of websites are accessible on your network or device.
Multi-Tenancy
Manage end-user devices and network settings across different teams, subsidiaries, or client accounts for easier organization. You can even manage user access settings for different parts of your organization.
Advanced Geo-Custom Rules
These location-based rules allow you to block, redirect, or bypass DNS queries that are either made from, or resolve to, IPs (not) in a specific ASN/country.
Integration of Third-Party Blocklists
Save time with 15 ready-to-use blocklists by well-known names like Hagezi, OSID, AdGuard, and more. These are made available as a Filter, or alternatively, you can import your own curated blocklist.
👉 Start building a content filtering program for your company
Traffic Redirection
Redirect DNS queries through one of 100 global proxy locations in over 69 countries, thus masking your IP address.
Support for Modern Protocols
Fully compatible with DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH), DNS-over-TLS (DoT), and dual-stack IPv4/IPv6 networks.
Comprehensive Analytics, Logging, and Monitoring
Review real-time or historical query log data, enforce policies, and schedule daily, weekly, or monthly reports. You can also stream query log data to SIEM tools for unified threat analysis and immediate alerting.
Cross-Platform Support
Control D is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, as well as most browsers and routers.
Full API Access
Integrate Control D into custom software.
Control D also offers cost-effective pricing with all features included, starting at $2/endpoint/month for businesses, $1/endpoint/month for MSPs, and further discounted rates for schools and non-profits – no hidden add-ons required.
Whether you’re blocking distractions for employees, ensuring compliance in a school environment, or defending against cyber threats, with Control D you have full control over what gets through to your network and devices.
Summary
Pros:
- Easy setup that can be completed in as little as five minutes
- Extensive privacy and security features
- Granular customization for advanced filtering
Cons:
- Geared towards SMBs.
2. WebTitan
WebTitan is a DNS-based filtering solution that primarily targets MSPs. It's a good solution for businesses that need a blanket approach to their content filtering. It supports a multitude of devices, offers detailed reporting, and is also scalable based on your organization’s size and requirements.
Pros:
- Advanced machine learning-based malware detection
- Modern DNS protocol support
- Scalable for your use case
Cons:
- No list of blockable services for granular control
- No geo-based blocking
3. Cisco Umbrella
Cisco Umbrella is one of the largest web filtering services on the market. It’s a premium product that targets large enterprises, offering a robust set of features including flexible content blocking, full API access, advanced threat detection capabilities, as well as detailed reporting.
It integrates seamlessly with other Cisco products, making it a great choice for those already embedded in the Cisco ecosystem. But, this is also it’s drawback due to its complicated and overwhelming onboarding experience.
Pros:
- Enterprise-level security and threat detection capabilities
- Easy integration into Cisco’s ecosystem
- Compatibility with desktop and mobile operating systems
Cons:
- Expensive for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Lackluster after-sales customer support
Cisco Umbrella is the perfect choice for large organizations with extensive budgets looking for enterprise-grade security.
4. Cloudflare Gateway
Cloudflare Gateway is similar to Cisco Umbrella in many ways. It offers web filtering and DNS-based security for large enterprises and is designed to integrate with Cloudflare’s broader security solutions.
Where Gateway stands out is in its performance. Thanks to its extensive global server network, it has one of the fastest DNS query speeds.
Pros:
- Extensive server network that provides fast performance
- Strong content filtering features
- Offers remote browser isolation as a purchasable add-on
Cons:
- Expensive
- Does not block ads and trackers
- Advanced analytics features reserved for higher-priced plans
- Ineffective malware filter
Like Umbrella, Cloudflare Gateway is ideal for large organizations that need fast and secure web protection.
👉 Read a head-t0-head comparison of Control D vs Cloudflare Gateway
5. DNSFilter
DNSFilter is one of the most well-known solutions out there, offering DNS-based content filtering for businesses, MSPs, and educational institutions. It provides a feature set that includes malware and phishing protection, a list of 80+ blockable services, and threat detection for remote and on-site personnel.
Pros:
- Fast performance
- AI-powered malware and threat detection
- User-friendly service with smooth onboarding
Cons:
- Does not support all modern DNS protocols
- Mobile device compatibility reserved for higher-priced plans
- Some analytics and support features must be purchased as add-ons
DNSFilter is a solid choice for small to medium-sized businesses that require robust content filtering on a user-friendly platform.
👉 Read our head-to-head comparison between Control D and DNSFilter.
6. SafeDNS
SafeDNS is a DNS filtering solution that targets everyone from personal power users and WiFi hotspots to businesses and non-profits. It includes malware and phishing protection, efficient content filtering, and real-time monitoring of DNS traffic, with many users complimenting the service’s ease of use and customer support.
Pros:
- Quality customer support
- Affordable pricing
- Ease of use with straightforward onboarding
Cons:
- Fewer advanced content filtering features
- Some essential features are limited to higher-priced plans
7. NextDNS
NextDNS has multiple plans on offer, ranging from Free, Pro (personal use and close family), Business (organizations), and Education (educational institutions). With customizable content filtering, flexible plans, and a strong focus on privacy and tracker blocking, NextDNS is an excellent choice for those looking to limit their digital footprint and keep their network/devices secure.
Pros:
- Full device compatibility
- Focus on parental control and blocking ads and trackers
- Support for all modern protocols
- Real-time threat detection
Cons:
- Cannot enforce per-service restrictions
- Does not offer geo-based blocking features
- Limited documentation for non-technical users
👉 Read our comparison of Control D vs NextDNS.
8. DefensX
DefensX is a DNS-based filtering service that offers protection from online threats. It differentiates itself from competitors by also offering a secure web browser with remote browser isolation capabilities and file protection. However, it should be noted that DefensX is only available to MSPs, not businesses or personal users.
Pros:
- Real-time malware and threat detection
- Offers secure web browser and file protection
- Easy onboarding
Cons:
- Only available to MSPs
- Slow product development cycle
- Lacks depth in customization
Why Content Filtering is Important for Businesses
Content filtering plays a pivotal role in safeguarding businesses from online threats, maintaining productivity, and ensuring compliance. Here’s why content filtering is a must-have for modern businesses.
1. Protection Against Cyber Threats
Businesses face a constant barrage of cyber threats, including phishing scams, ransomware, and malware attacks. Content filtering acts as a frontline defense by blocking access to malicious domains and websites, so your network and devices aren’t exposed to bad actors or malicious content.
2. Enhanced Employee Productivity
Unrestricted access to the internet can lead to lost productivity due to distractions like social media, streaming services, or gaming websites. Content filtering helps enforce usage policies by:
- Blocking non-work-related content during office hours.
- Allowing exceptions for specific roles or teams that may require access to social platforms for business purposes.
3. Regulatory Compliance
Many industries, such as healthcare, finance, and education, are subject to strict regulations regarding data protection and internet use. Content filtering helps businesses:
- Comply with frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and CIPA by restricting access to inappropriate or non-compliant content.
- Generate reports that demonstrate adherence to these regulations in case of audits.
4. Improved Network Performance
Unnecessary browsing can consume significant bandwidth, slowing down network speed and performance. Content filtering ensures:
- Priority is given to business-critical applications.
- Bandwidth is not wasted on streaming, downloads, or other high-data activities unrelated to work.
5. Customizable Policies
Modern content filtering solutions allow businesses to set policies at a granular level. For instance, Control D allows you to choose from 1,000+ Filters and Services that can block apps, websites, and groups of websites.
This ensures that filtering rules are tailored to your specific organization’s needs or to different teams, clients, and devices, providing flexibility without compromising security.
How Does Content Filtering Compare to Advanced Web Filtering?
Content filtering is a type of web filtering that examines the text, images, and keywords on a webpage to determine whether it violates your block policies. The terms content filtering and web filtering are sometimes used interchangeably. It can block access effectively, particularly for webpages not already present in existing blocklists. However, content filtering has several limitations: it relies on scanning content, which can lead to false positives and a rigid experience, as well as potential privacy concerns due to deep inspection.
👉 Read our blog on web filtering vs content filtering for a detailed breakdown
How Individuals Use Content Filtering
While businesses benefit greatly from content filtering, individuals are increasingly using these tools to enhance their personal online experience. Here’s how content filtering is utilized in everyday life:
Personal Security
Individuals also use content filtering to protect against malicious websites, phishing attempts, and other online threats. By leveraging tools like content filtering, users can enhance their personal cybersecurity without relying solely on antivirus software.
Ad and Tracker Blocking
Individuals use content filtering to enhance their privacy and browsing speed. By blocking intrusive ads and trackers, users can:
- Browse the web faster, as ads consume fewer resources.
- Protect personal data from being collected by third-party trackers.
- Improve security by reducing exposure to ads that direct users to phishing sites or contain malware.
Avoiding Online Distractions
Remote workers and students often use content filtering to stay focused. Tools like Control D can block access to distracting sites like social media or streaming platforms during work or study hours.
Parental Controls
Parents rely on content filtering to protect children from inappropriate or harmful content online. By using tools that filter based on content categories, parents can:
- Block adult content, gambling sites, violent material, etc.
- Set time-based restrictions to limit screen time for kids.
Final Thoughts
Tools such as Control D do a great job of blending advanced filtering features with an easy-to-use interface, whereas services like Cisco Umbrella and Cloudflare Gateway are targeted toward large enterprises with sizable budgets and technically proficient IT teams.
As such, the best content filtering software for you will depend on your requirements. Each tool mentioned in this list takes a unique approach to content filtering, so it’s best first to determine your use cases and work backward from there.