Threat Prevention (Web/DNS Filtering)
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Key Features of Threat Prevention (Web/DNS Filtering)
- Real-Time Analysis and Blocking
DNS filtering operates by analysing web traffic in real-time, identifying harmful sites and immediately preventing access. This proactive stance ensures that threats are mitigated before they can reach the user’s network or devices.
- Customisable Control
Organisations can tailor DNS filtering to meet their specific needs, creating custom blacklists or whitelists, and setting policies that reflect their security requirements. This level of control is pivotal in enforcing internet usage policies and protecting against a tailored threat landscape.
- User Activity Reporting
In addition to blocking threats, DNS filters provide comprehensive reporting on user activity. This transparency is indispensable for monitoring web traffic, spotting trends in data, and making informed decisions to fortify security protocols further.
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About Threat Prevention (Web/DNS Filtering)
DNS filtering offers a comprehensive security solution that empowers businesses and educational institutions to preserve the integrity and security of their network. By effectively blocking access to malicious websites and domains at the DNS level, DNS filters prevent a host of internet threats from compromising user devices and sensitive data. When a DNS query is made, DNS filtering services scrutinize the requested domain against a constantly updated global network of threat intelligence. If the domain is identified as harmful or part of phishing attacks, users are prevented from accessing it, thereby mitigating the risk of data loss and other security breaches.
A DNS filtering system integrates seamlessly with Active Directory, allowing for granular control over internet access and the ability to set filtering policies that align with the organisation’s security needs and values. Furthermore, DNS security solutions, like Cisco Umbrella, extend protection to roaming clients and remote workers, ensuring that threats are neutralized off the main network, which is particularly vital in today’s mobile and flexible working environments.
This level of DNS protection also offers the advantage of detailed logs which provide insights into the DNS traffic, enabling administrators to monitor and manage internet use. The implementation of such solutions creates a robust security layer which not only blocks malicious content at the point of entry but also offers a secure web gateway for all web-based threats. As such, DNS filtering vendors play a pivotal role in maintaining a secure, efficient, and user-friendly internet access control for an entire network, safeguarding against both existing and emerging dangers.
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What Services include Threat Prevention (Web/DNS Filtering)?
You can purchase this product separately or as part of one of our support packages. You can find out more about these support packages below.
Cyber Security 7
Business IT Support
Frequently Asked Questions About Threat Prevention (Web/DNS Filtering)?
What is DNS filtering?
DNS filtering is a highly effective security measure that blocks access to malicious or unwanted websites by preventing DNS resolution for known harmful domains. It operates at the DNS level, filtering DNS queries and traffic to protect users from internet threats, such as phishing attacks and harmful websites.
Implemented as a DNS filtering service or system, it integrates with the domain name system and works as a secure web gateway. By blocking access to malicious domains and harmful sites, it adds an additional layer of security to the entire network, including remote workers and roaming clients.
DNS filtering services, provided by various vendors like Cisco Umbrella, employ threat intelligence and machine learning to continuously identify and block new threats. They use block lists and filtering policies to customize protection for different users and organizations, such as educational institutions or those working remotely.
With detailed logs and user-friendly interfaces, DNS filtering solutions allow administrators to monitor and analyze DNS traffic, providing insights into internet usage and potential security threats. By blocking malicious content and adult sites, they also support data loss prevention and create a safer web browsing experience for users on their devices, including iOS devices.
Overall, DNS filtering plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and integrity of internet access, protecting users and networks from a wide range of web-based threats.
How does DNS filtering enhance cybersecurity?
DNS filtering is a crucial security measure that helps protect against a wide range of cyber threats. By blocking access to harmful websites and malicious domains, DNS filters safeguard users and their devices from malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other internet-based threats.
Here’s how DNS filtering works: When a user makes a DNS query, the DNS resolver checks the requested domain name against a database of known malicious websites and harmful domains. If a match is found, access to the site is blocked, preventing the user from accessing potentially dangerous content.
DNS filtering services offer a comprehensive security solution by integrating with the existing network infrastructure, such as active directory integration, to provide protection across the entire network. With detailed logs and user-friendly filtering policies, administrators can effectively manage and monitor internet traffic, ensuring a secure web gateway for all users.
DNS filtering vendors, like Cisco Umbrella, leverage threat intelligence and machine learning to constantly update their block lists and identify new threats. This global network of DNS resolvers adds an additional security layer, especially for remote workers and users on iOS devices, who may be more vulnerable to internet threats.
In addition to blocking malicious websites, DNS filtering can also be used to enforce content filtering policies, restricting access to certain domains, such as adult sites, in educational institutions or workplaces. This data loss prevention measure helps maintain a safe and productive online environment.
Overall, DNS filtering is an essential component of a comprehensive security strategy, providing proactive protection against internet-based threats and ensuring a safer online experience for users.
Is DNS filtering effective against zero-day threats?
While DNS filtering is effective against many threats, zero-day attacks may not be immediately recognised. However, with real-time updates, DNS filters can quickly adapt to newly identified threats.
Can DNS filtering affect internet speed?
DNS filtering can sometimes introduce a minimal latency during the domain resolution process, but it generally does not significantly impact internet speeds.
How is DNS filtering different from a firewall?
A firewall is a security measure that filters internet traffic based on IP addresses and ports. On the other hand, DNS filtering operates at the domain level, blocking requests to entire domains known for hosting threats.
DNS filtering is a crucial component of DNS security and works by analyzing DNS queries and blocking access to malicious websites and harmful domains. It provides an additional layer of security for internet access by preventing users from accessing phishing websites and other malicious content.
DNS filtering services, offered by various vendors, integrate with DNS resolvers to protect users and their devices from internet threats. These services can be integrated with Active Directory and provide detailed logs of DNS traffic and filtering activities.
By blocking access to harmful sites and filtering web content, DNS filtering solutions help protect users, whether they are working remotely or within an educational institution. They use threat intelligence and machine learning to continuously update block lists and detect new threats.
Implementing DNS filtering adds an extra security layer to your network, safeguarding against data loss prevention and blocking access to adult content and other potentially harmful domains. It is user-friendly and can be deployed on various platforms, including iOS devices.
In summary, DNS filtering is an effective security solution that protects users from internet threats by filtering DNS traffic and blocking access to malicious websites and domains. Whether you are an organization or an individual, implementing DNS filtering can significantly enhance your online security and protect your network from various threats.
Can organisations customise their DNS filtering policies?
Yes, organisations can create custom policies by setting up blacklists or whitelists and adjusting filtering rules to meet their specific needs.
Does DNS filtering offer protection for remote employees?
Many DNS filtering solutions extend protection to remote workers by filtering their web traffic no matter where they are connected.
Are there any privacy concerns with DNS filtering?
Some DNS filtering services collect logs of DNS queries, which could raise privacy concerns. However, reputable providers implement safeguards and privacy policies to protect user data.
Is DNS filtering suitable for schools and educational institutions?
Yes, DNS filtering is highly suitable for educational environments, as it helps ensure students and staff can safely access the internet without being exposed to inappropriate content.
What should one look for in a DNS filtering service?
When looking for a DNS filtering service, consider a comprehensive solution that offers real-time threat intelligence, custom policy creation, activity reporting, and support for remote users. Ensure the service’s privacy policy is robust, and assess the provider’s reputation in the industry.
A reliable DNS filtering service should provide protection against malicious websites, harmful domains, and phishing attacks. It should employ web filtering techniques to block access to dangerous websites and filter out malicious content. Look for a DNS filtering system that operates at the DNS level and can handle DNS queries and requests effectively.
Consider features like active directory integration, secure web gateway, and DNS security solution for enhanced protection. The service should offer DNS filtering services for the entire network, including roaming clients and remote workers. Look for a global network of DNS resolvers to handle internet traffic and protect users from internet threats.
An effective DNS filtering service should provide detailed logs and reports for monitoring purposes. It should offer user-friendly interfaces and support for various devices, including iOS devices. Look for a service that employs machine learning techniques to detect and block new threats.
Consider the needs of your organization or educational institution when selecting a DNS filtering service. Ensure it can enforce filtering policies and block access to certain domains or categories such as adult content. Look for data loss prevention features to protect sensitive information.
Some popular DNS filtering vendors to consider are Cisco Umbrella and other reputable providers in the industry. By choosing the right DNS filtering service, you can add an essential security layer to your network and protect your users from internet threats.