8 Best DNS Anti-Malware Solutions in 2025

If your business connects to the internet (which it does), you need to stop malware and other threats before they even reach your network. One of the smartest ways to do this is with DNS anti-malware solutions.

This article rounds up the best DNS anti-malware solutions currently available, including their pros and cons, as well as what sets each one apart, helping you choose the right solution for your needs.

Summary: Best DNS Anti-Malware Solution in 2025

Here’s a quick comparison of the top DNS anti-malware tools:

Before we dive into the list, here's a quick recap on what DNS anti-malware is and why it's so important.

What Is DNS Anti-Malware Protection?

DNS anti-malware works by filtering your internet traffic at the Domain Name System (DNS) level. When you visit a website, your device first asks a DNS resolver to translate the website's name into an IP address. DNS anti-malware solutions intercept this request and check if the domain is known to host malware, phishing sites, or other security threats.

If the domain is dangerous, the DNS service blocks the connection before it reaches your device. This prevents malware from ever reaching your network, making it one of the most effective protection methods out there.

Why DNS Anti-Malware Matters in 2025

DNS filtering is like having a security guard at the entrance of your building. It provides several key advantages:

• Proactive Protection: Blocks threats and malicious content before they reach your network, as opposed to reacting once an attack has occurred
• Fast Response: Updates happen in real-time as new threats are discovered
• Network-Wide Coverage: Protects all connected devices on your network automatically – even remote or mobile users
• Low Resource Usage: Doesn't slow down your devices like traditional solutions
• Easy Setup: Works with any device that uses the internet

1. Control D – Best Overall DNS Anti-Malware Solution

Control D is a modern DNS security platform that combines powerful threat protection with user-friendly management tools. The service provides comprehensive malware blocking, web content filtering, and network analytics in a single, easy-to-use dashboard.

Here’s why Control D is the go-to choice for industry experts.

Best-in-Class Malware Protection

Control D excels where it matters most: stopping threats before they ever touch your network. Its DNS filtering engine blocks access to domains associated with malware, phishing, botnets, and command-and-control infrastructure in real time. 

With a 99.98% malware block rate, Control D leads the industry, confirmed by independent evaluations that benchmarked it against top-tier providers.

Unlike services that rely on static blocklists, Control D uses a multi-layered approach that incorporates proprietary intelligence, community feeds, and AI-enhanced machine learning to proactively shut down malicious domains.

Granular Filtering & Customization

Control D offers fine-grained control over content categories and specific Services. 

You can block or allow from 20+ categories – such as Malware, Phishing, Adult Content, and more – at the flip of a toggle, while also getting targeted control over 1,000+ Services (specific apps, tools, and platforms).

This means you can tailor your filtering policies and DNS settings exactly to your needs and use cases.

Third-Party Blocklists

Many organizations already utilize external threat feeds to supplement their internal network security. Control D makes this seamless by supporting 15+ third-party blocklists from reputable sources like Hagezi, StevenBlack, and OISD. 

You can also import your own blocklists as custom Filters, ensuring continuity and flexibility during migrations or when tailoring your security posture to your specific industry threats.

Advanced Geo-Custom Rules

Control D’s Geo-Custom Rules let you control access based on geographic location, IP, and network. For instance, create rules such as:

• Block DNS queries resolving to IPs in a specific country or ASN
• Redirect queries that don't resolve to IPs in a specific country or ASN
• Bypass queries made from IPs in a specific country or ASN
• Block queries made from IPs not in a specific country or ASN
• Or any combination of the above

This allows you to block access from high-risk regions, ensure sensitive services resolve only through approved locations, and route DNS traffic in line with your specific data requirements.

Traffic Redirection

Control D doesn’t just stop bad traffic; it lets you control where your traffic goes via its Traffic Redirection feature. 

With over 100 proxy servers across 60+ countries, you can steer DNS traffic for compliance, speed, or threat avoidance. Set global defaults or drill down to route traffic differently for specific apps or domains. 

Multi-Tenancy

Control D’s multi-tenancy features allow you to create and manage multiple tenants (clients, departments, users, or offices), each with its own DNS policies, all from a single dashboard.

It’s perfect for MSPs, schools, agencies, or any business managing segmented environments.

Ad & Tracker Blocking

Beyond malware, Control D shields you from digital surveillance. By cutting off ads and trackers at the DNS level, it improves user experience, boosts network speed, and eliminates a common malware vector: malvertising.

Choose from three modes – Relaxed, Balanced, and Strict – to match your privacy and productivity goals.

Dual-Stack Ready & Modern Protocol Support

Security should never be bottlenecked by outdated tech. Control D supports both IPv4 and IPv6 and is fully compatible with all modern DNS encryption protocols, including DoH, DoT, DoH/3, and DoQ. 

Whether you’re future-proofing or just staying compliant, Control D ensures your DNS traffic stays private and tamper-proof.

Comprehensive Analytics & Monitoring

Control D delivers in-depth logging and analytics, with real-time and historical insights into:

• Blocked domains
• Filter triggers
• Endpoint behavior
• Potential malicious behavior
• Service-specific activity

This visibility provides you with the information you need to make data-driven decisions that keep your business and entire network secure.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Control D is compatible with all devices and operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and browsers, ensuring full and consistent protection at all times.

Full API Access

For developers and sysadmins, Control D offers full API access from day one. Automate endpoint provisioning, update blocklists, push new rules, or integrate with SIEMs and EDRs. No feature is hidden behind a paywall or enterprise gate.

Transparent & Affordable Pricing

Control D’s pricing is refreshingly simple. There are no tiers, no hidden features, and no forced upgrades, meaning you get access to Control D’s full feature set from the moment you sign up:

• Enterprises: $2/endpoint/month
• MSPs: $1/endpoint/month
• Schools & Non-Profits: Special discounted rates available

Summary

✅ Pros:

• Exceptional malware detection rates with real-time AI-powered threat intelligence
• Unmatched depth and breadth of features
• Intuitive interface that's easy for both technical and non-technical users
• Granular control over filtering policies
• Advanced analytics and reporting features
• Multi-platform support, including mobile devices, routers, and browsers
• High-performance global network infrastructure
• Affordable and scalable for businesses of any size
• Easy setup (no agents, no software)

❌ Cons:

• Newer to the market compared to legacy competitors
• No free plan (only a 30-day free trial)
• No URL filtering

Bottom line: If you want maximum DNS-level security with full customization and low complexity, Control D is the best option in 2025.

2. DNSFilter

DNSFilter is a cloud-based DNS security service that provides web filtering and threat protection. The platform targets MSPs and businesses looking for DNS-based security.

✅ Pros:

• MSP-friendly features and pricing
• AI-powered threat detection
• API access for integration

❌ Cons:

• Limited advanced features compared to top competitors
• Inconsistent performance across different regions
• Basic reporting capabilities
• Important features like SIEM log streaming and exporting data require purchasing an add-on

Best for: Companies looking for quick setup and light-to-moderate DNS security.

3. Cloudflare

Cloudflare is known for its CDN and DDoS protection, but it also offers DNS security through Cloudflare Gateway. It blocks known malware and phishing domains and integrates with Cloudflare’s zero-trust platform.

✅ Pros:

• Large global network infrastructure
• Integration with other Cloudflare security services
• Fast, low-latency DNS resolution

❌ Cons:

• Pricing can get expensive for small teams
• Poor post-sales customer support
• Complex setup for non-technical users
• DNS filtering is just one part of a larger, more complex platform

Best for: Large enterprises that prioritize fast DNS performance.

4. Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella is an enterprise-focused DNS security solution that's part of Cisco's broader cybersecurity portfolio. It provides DNS filtering along with other security features for large organizations.

✅ Pros:

• Trusted legacy solution
• Strong enterprise-grade security features beyond DNS filtering
• Integration with other Cisco security products

❌ Cons:

• Very expensive, especially for smaller businesses
• Complex setup with a steep learning curve
• Requires Cisco ecosystem for full features
• Heavy focus on enterprise features that many businesses don't need
• Lackluster post-sales support

Best for: Large IT teams already using Cisco products.

5. SafeDNS

SafeDNS is a content filtering and DNS security service that targets both business and educational markets, like schools and libraries. The platform focuses on web filtering with some anti-malware capabilities.

✅ Pros:

• Simple setup process
• Good for basic content and category-based filtering needs
• Reasonable pricing

❌ Cons:

• Limited advanced threat detection compared to competitors
• Basic reporting and analytics features
• Limited customization and integration options
• Primarily focused on content filtering rather than advanced security

Best for: Small teams and schools with simple filtering needs.

6. DefensX

Compared to others on this list, DefensX is a newer DNS filtering solution that focuses on protecting remote workforces. It filters out malware and risky websites using a browser extension and DNS security policies.

✅ Pros:

• Focused on hybrid work and remote protection
• Offers browser-level controls
• Simple deployment process
• Higher-tiered plans also provide email protection

❌ Cons:

• Limited threat intelligence compared to industry leaders
• Limited customization
• Minimal reporting and analytics capabilities
• Lacks some advanced features

Best for: Small remote teams with basic DNS filtering needs.

7. WebTitan

WebTitan is a web filtering and DNS security solution from TitanHQ. The platform offers DNS filtering and content filtering for businesses and educational institutions, with a primary focus on MSPs.

✅ Pros:

• Designed for resellers and MSPs
• Strong threat intelligence
• Good content filtering capabilities

❌ Cons:

• Interface feels dated and clunky
• Performance can be inconsistent
• Customization is limited compared to newer tools
• No support for Linux or mobile devices

Best for: MSPs that need a white-labeled DNS filter.

8. ScoutDNS

ScoutDNS is a DNS security service that focuses on providing basic malware protection and content filtering. The platform targets small businesses and home users.

✅ Pros:

• Simple UI and fast setup 
• Affordable pricing for basic plans
• Lightweight solution

❌ Cons:

• Very limited advanced features
• Lacks advanced threat detection
• Minimal reporting and analytics
• Lacks enterprise-grade features and integration capabilities

Best for: Small organizations that just need a simple and easy web filtering solution.

How to Choose the Right DNS Anti-Malware Solution

When selecting a DNS anti-malware solution, consider these key factors:

• Threat Detection Quality: Look for solutions with high detection rates and real-time threat intelligence updates. The best services use multiple threat feeds and machine learning to identify new threats quickly.
• Ease of Use: Choose a solution that your team can actually use effectively. Complex interfaces and difficult setup processes can reduce the effectiveness of even the best security tools.
• Performance: DNS filtering should not slow down your internet connection. Look for services with global server networks and fast response times.
• Reporting and Analytics: Good reporting helps you understand your security posture and identify potential issues. Look for detailed logs and easy-to-understand reports.
• Customer Support: When security issues arise, you need quick help. Choose providers with responsive support teams and multiple contact methods.
• Scalability: Pick a solution that can grow with your business. Avoid services that require major changes as your needs evolve.
• Price: Consider both upfront costs and long-term value. The cheapest option isn't always the best if it doesn't provide adequate protection.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to protecting your business from malware, ransomware, phishing, and other threats, DNS-level protection is one of the fastest, most effective solutions available.

While all the solutions in this guide provide some level of protection, they vary significantly in features, ease of use, and value.

Legacy tools like Cisco Umbrella and Cloudflare are trusted in large enterprise environments, but they can be costly and complex for smaller businesses or those that simply need a DNS filtering service.

That’s why Control D stands out in 2025 as the best DNS anti-malware tool for companies of all sizes. It’s fast, flexible, affordable, and it gives you more control over your DNS policies than any other solution on the market.

If you're looking for the right blend of security, privacy, and simplicity, start with Control D.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will DNS anti-malware slow down my internet?

No. Good DNS anti-malware services are faster than most regular DNS servers. You might actually notice faster browsing.

2. Can I use DNS anti-malware with my existing antivirus?

Yes. DNS anti-malware works alongside antivirus software. They protect different parts of your system.

3. What happens if the DNS service goes down?

Quality services have backup servers. Your internet will keep working, but you'll temporarily lose protection.

4. Can employees bypass DNS filtering?

It's possible but difficult. Most employees won't have the technical knowledge to bypass it.

5. How often are threat databases updated?

The best services update their databases every few minutes, sometimes in real-time.