Web filtering is a cybersecurity technique that allows organizations to control and manage access to websites and online content. 

Deploying web filtering, a cybersecurity process that controls the types of websites and content that users can access on the Internet, can address the growing threats posed by malicious websites and the need to maintain productivity. 

How Does Web Filtering Work?

Web filtering restricts access to specific URLs, websites, or categories of content based on predefined rules, often to prevent exposure to harmful or inappropriate material. Most web filtering services are hosted in the cloud and act as barriers to access to undesirable sites. They examine traffic and optionally block some of it. 

Here’s a breakdown of how web filtering functions:

  • URL Filtering: This method blocks access to specific websites by filtering out URLs that match a list of disallowed sites. This is commonly used in workplaces or schools to manage productivity and ensure compliance with acceptable use policies.
  • Content Filtering: Instead of blocking entire URLs, content filter software examines a webpage's actual content and blocks access if the content is deemed inappropriate. This restricts access to specific types of information, such as violence, hate speech, or pornography.
  • DNS Filtering: Web filtering can also be DNS-based, where domain names are blocked at the DNS resolution stage. This is a quick and scalable way to prevent users from visiting malicious or unwanted sites. When a user tries to visit a restricted website, the DNS server either blocks the request or redirects it to a different webpage.

Web filtering is employed by a wide range of users, including businesses, educational institutions, and individuals to create safer, more controlled internet usage environments. It enhances security by blocking harmful sites, and it enforces content access policies to improve productivity and protect against legal liabilities.

The 8 Top Web Filtering Tools

In this article, we'll review eight top web filtering solutions: 

  1. Control D
  2. WebTitan
  3. Cisco Umbrella
  4. Cloudflare Gateway
  5.  DNSFilter
  6. SafeDNS
  7. NextDNS
  8. DefensX

Each offers a unique approach to protect networks, block harmful websites, and keep users safe online.

1. Control D (Best All-Round Solution)

Control D is a versatile DNS-based web filtering service that allows organizations to control access to websites and online services by blocking specific categories or URLs. It’s highly customizable and is especially useful for businesses that seek fine-tuned control over their web traffic.

The methodology of Control D

Control D operates as a DNS filtering and traffic redirection service that gives users advanced control over their internet browsing experience. It does this by manipulating DNS queries. Here's how it works:

  1. DNS Resolution: This tool converts domain names (like "example.com") into IP addresses so browsers can load websites. However, it goes beyond basic DNS because it allows users to customize the responses they receive for specific queries.
  2. Customizable Filtering: Users can set rules to block or allow specific websites or entire categories of content. Control D has a catalog of over 950 predefined services, which makes it easy to manage access to popular websites and online services.
  3. Traffic Redirection: This tool diverts DNS queries through proxies in over 100 global locations, bypassing geographic restrictions or masking their location without needing a VPN. It replaces DNS query responses with the IP addresses of proxy servers.
  4. Geo-Blocking and Geo-Unblocking: These are location-based rules that block or redirect traffic based on the requestor’s location or the location of the requested site. They enforce regional compliance or enable access to geo-restricted content.
  5. Security and Privacy: This tool integrates threat intelligence to automatically block known malicious domains and prevent malware, phishing, or other online threats. Secure protocols include DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) and DNS-over-TLS (DoT).
  6. Advanced Customization: Users can create detailed filtering rules. For instance, they can block specific domains, redirect certain websites to IPs of their choosing, or even allow certain sites but limit access to specific subdomains or services within them. 
  7. Logging and Monitoring: Query logging offers detailed reports on traffic patterns. They monitor employee web usage, enforce policies, or detect potential security risks.

In summary, Control D works by giving users full control over DNS traffic. This allows for content filtering, traffic redirection, geo-based controls, and real-time threat protection—all through a user-friendly platform designed for flexibility.

Control D features

Control D is a customizable DNS service that offers advanced filtering and traffic management features. Here’s an overview of its key features:

  1. Malware and Threat Protection: Threat intelligence from multiple sources blocks malicious domains and IP addresses automatically. Machine learning detects and blocks malware.
  2. Service and Content Blocking: More than 950 predefined services can be blocked or unblocked; it offers granular control over which sites or services are accessible.  
  3. Geo-Based Rules: These are rules based on geographic locations. It can block or redirect requests based on the country of origin or destination.
  4. Modern DNS Protocols: DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH), DNS-over-TLS (DoT), and DNS-over-QUIC ensure encrypted and secure DNS queries. 
  5. Traffic Redirection: This redirects DNS traffic through proxies in 69 countries without the need for a VPN.  
  6. Extensive Logging and Analytics: This feature logs DNS queries and stores them for review, offering both real-time monitoring and historical data retention. 
  7. Cross-Platform Support: Control D offers setup applications for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and various routers to ensure wide compatibility. 
  8. Full API Access and Admin Logs: An API allows service integration into custom software; administrative actions can be tracked through detailed logs.

This feature set makes Control D particularly suited for businesses and power users looking for robust, customizable DNS filtering and traffic control solutions​.

Forward-thinking businesses love Control D

Summary

Pros:

  • Easy setup with customizable blocklists
  • Includes privacy features such as IP masking
  • Flexible configuration across multiple devices

Cons:

  • Fewer enterprise-level features compared to competitors

In 2024, Control D is ideal for small to mid-sized businesses looking for flexible web filtering solutions that allow detailed control over online access. It's a strong option for those needing easy-to-use, customizable filtering without extensive cybersecurity requirements.

💡
Schedule a product strategy call to learn how Control D can help your business stay protected and secure

2. WebTitan

WebTitan is a cloud-based web filtering solution designed for businesses, schools, and ISPs to block access to harmful content, ensure security, and manage internet usage. It provides advanced URL filtering, malware protection, and real-time monitoring to help organizations safeguard their networks against threats like phishing, ransomware, and inappropriate content. WebTitan offers easy integration, detailed reporting, and scalable filtering for small to enterprise-level businesses, making it ideal for securing internet access in controlled environments.

Pros:

  • Advanced malware detection and phishing protection
  • Detailed reporting and analytics
  • Scalable to meet the needs of large enterprises

Cons:

  • Can be complex to configure for smaller businesses
  • No free plan or trial beyond a limited demo

WebTitan is well-suited for medium to large enterprises looking for robust web content filtering solutions with advanced reporting and security features. Its scalability makes it ideal for businesses looking to grow.

3. Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-delivered web filtering and security platform that protects users against malware, phishing, and other online threats. It uses DNS-layer security to block malicious traffic before it reaches your network. With real-time threat intelligence and URL filtering software, Umbrella provides comprehensive protection for businesses, and it helps to enforce acceptable use policies and prevent data breaches. Its ease of deployment, scalability, and seamless integration with existing IT infrastructures make it a top choice for enterprise security.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive threat intelligence and security features
  • Integration with Cisco's broader security ecosystem
  • Cloud-based for easy deployment across multiple locations

Cons:

  • Expensive for smaller businesses
  • Steep learning curve for non-technical users

Cisco Umbrella is best suited for large enterprises and organizations that need robust, enterprise-grade web filtering solutions combined with threat intelligence. It's a premium product geared toward businesses with high-security demands.

4. Cloudflare Gateway

Cloudflare Gateway is a secure web filtering and DNS-based security solution that protects organizations from malware, phishing, and other online threats. It acts as a secure gateway for internet traffic; it allows businesses to monitor, filter, and control user access to specific websites and services. Cloudflare Gateway also offers real-time threat intelligence and policy enforcement, ensuring a safe and compliant browsing experience for users. Its ease of deployment, scalability, and integration with other Cloudflare products make it ideal for enterprises.

Pros:

  • Real-time traffic monitoring and URL filtering
  • Integrated DDoS protection
  • Fast and reliable performance due to Cloudflare’s global network

Cons:

  • Fewer advanced features for complex environments
  • No built-in endpoint protection

Cloudflare Gateway is ideal for businesses that prioritize performance and need basic web filtering alongside robust DDoS protection. It’s well-suited for companies that require fast, reliable, and secure web access control.

👉 Read our blog on the best Cloudflare alternatives

5. DNSFilter

DNSFilter is a cloud-based security solution that protects organizations from online threats such as malware, phishing, and botnets. By utilizing DNS-based content filtering and real-time threat detection, DNSFilter allows businesses to block harmful websites and control user access to specific content categories. With AI-driven threat intelligence and easy deployment, it provides granular control over internet usage. DNSFilter is suitable for businesses of all sizes, offering flexible protection for remote and on-site users.

Pros:

  • Real-time AI-driven threat detection
  • Easy to deploy and manage via a user-friendly interface
  • Excellent phishing and malware protection

Cons:

  • Limited advanced reporting features
  • More suited for small to mid-sized businesses than large enterprises

DNSFilter is perfect for small and medium-sized businesses looking for smart, AI-driven website filtering software that can protect against evolving threats. Its ease of use makes it a top choice for organizations without dedicated IT teams.

6. SafeDNS

SafeDNS is a cloud-based web filtering solution that provides businesses, schools, and households with advanced content filtering and online threat protection. It uses DNS-layer technology to block access to inappropriate or dangerous websites, including malware, phishing, and spyware. SafeDNS offers customizable filtering options, easy deployment, and real-time monitoring to ensure secure and controlled internet access. It is ideal for organizations seeking scalable, efficient content filtering and enhanced security for both on-premises and remote users.

Pros:

  • Easy to use with customizable filters
  • Suitable for both business and personal use
  • Provides reliable DNS-level protection

Cons:

  • Limited advanced threat detection compared to competitors
  • Fewer enterprise-level features

SafeDNS is an excellent solution for small businesses and organizations looking for straightforward, effective web filter software to manage internet access without needing complex configurations. It’s a cost-effective choice for businesses that want basic content filtering and security.

7. NextDNS

NextDNS is a cloud-based web filtering and security solution designed to protect users from online threats like malware, phishing, and trackers. By leveraging DNS-layer security, it offers customizable content filtering, it blocks malicious domains, and it provides privacy protection by preventing third-party tracking. NextDNS works across all devices and platforms; it offers detailed analytics and real-time monitoring for a comprehensive browsing experience. It's ideal for both individuals and businesses seeking a lightweight, flexible, and privacy-focused web filtering tool.

Pros:

  • Strong focus on privacy and tracker blocking
  • Highly customizable and easy to configure
  • Works on a wide range of devices, including mobile

Cons:

  • Lacks some advanced enterprise-grade features
  • Can be overwhelming for novice users due to its depth of customization

NextDNS is ideal for businesses with a strong emphasis on privacy and security. Its broad device compatibility and powerful content filtering features make it a great option for small to medium-sized organizations, especially those handling sensitive information.

👉 Read our blog on the best NextDNS alternatives

8. DefensX

DefensX is a cloud-based web filtering and cybersecurity solution that protects users from online threats such as malware, phishing, and malicious websites. By leveraging DNS-layer filtering, it enables businesses to block harmful content, enforce internet usage policies, and secure remote workforces without the need for hardware installations. DefensX also provides real-time threat detection, customizable filtering policies, and detailed analytics, making it a comprehensive solution for organizations seeking strong web protection and management across all devices.

Pros:

  • Effective real-time malware and phishing protection
  • Cloud-based with an intuitive interface
  • Protects against web-based and email threats

Cons:

  • Lacks the depth of customization some larger enterprises may need
  • No offline protection

DefensX is a great fit for small to medium businesses seeking reliable, real-time protection against malicious content and online threats. It’s an excellent choice for organizations looking for a simple yet effective solution for managing internet access and safeguarding users.

How individuals use web filtering

Individuals use web filtering to control and secure their personal browsing environments. This can be particularly beneficial in households with children or for individuals concerned about privacy, productivity, and safety. Here's how and why individuals use web filtering:

  • Parental Controls: Parents often implement web filters software to restrict access to inappropriate or harmful content and ensure safe browsing for their children. Content filtering software offers customizable options to block entire categories of content based on the child’s age.
  • Ad Blocking and Privacy: Individuals use web filters to block intrusive ads and prevent tracking by third-party cookies or malicious websites. This enhances privacy and reduces exposure to harmful or misleading ads that may contain malware.
  • Productivity Management: Some individuals use web filtering to block distracting sites like social media or streaming platforms to enhance personal productivity. This is especially useful for students or remote workers who want to limit distractions during study or work hours.
  • Security: Web filtering helps protect personal devices from accessing malicious sites that could infect them with viruses, malware, or ransomware. DNS-based filtering can block phishing sites that attempt to steal personal information like credit card details or login credentials.

Why web filtering is important for businesses

Web filtering is crucial for businesses because it enhances security, productivity, and regulatory compliance. Here are the main reasons web filtering is vital for business environments:

  • Network Security: One of the primary functions of enterprise web filtering software is to prevent access to malicious websites that could introduce threats like malware, ransomware, or phishing attacks. Many cyberattacks originate from unsuspecting employees clicking on harmful links. Web filters block these threats before they reach the network​.
  • Improves Productivity: A software web filter reduces time-wasting activities by blocking access to distracting websites like social media, gaming platforms, or streaming services during work hours. This ensures that employees remain focused on their tasks, which improves overall productivity.
  • Compliance and Policy Enforcement: In industries with strict regulatory requirements, like finance or healthcare, web filtering ensures compliance with regulations such as HIPAA or GDPR. Because it controls what employees can access, it prevents the sharing of sensitive information on unsecured sites. This helps businesses avoid costly fines and legal liabilities.
  • Bandwidth Management: Businesses with limited bandwidth may use web filters to block bandwidth-heavy sites (e.g., video streaming or large downloads) to ensure optimal network performance for mission-critical tasks. This helps avoid sluggish internet performance, which can impact productivity.
  • Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Web filtering can help prevent data breaches by restricting access to unsecured or inappropriate sites where employees may inadvertently upload or expose confidential information. By filtering outbound web traffic, businesses can reduce the risk of sensitive data being leaked or shared on unauthorized platforms.

In conclusion, web filtering software for business is essential to ensure secure, productive, and compliant work environments. Individuals benefit because it enhances personal privacy, security, and focused browsing.

Final Thoughts

The best web filtering software depends on your business's size and specific security needs. Tools like Control D, SafeDNS, and NextDNS offer businesses easy-to-manage web content filtering solutions without the complexity of enterprise systems. For larger enterprises, platforms like WebTitan, Cisco Umbrella, and Cloudflare Gateway provide advanced security features and detailed reporting.

No matter the size or industry, a reliable website filtering system helps ensure productivity, compliance, and security across all devices and networks. Each of these solutions offers a unique approach, so businesses can select the most appropriate tool to meet their needs.