URL filtering software is used to block or limit access to certain websites or types of content on the internet. This can be done for a number of reasons, such as enforcing rules about how an organization uses the internet or keeping kids from seeing inappropriate content.
An Internet filter is a tool that makes it easier to control what’s on the web. You can block some websites and apps while still letting others through. The best filters let you make changes for different users, like each member of your family.
It’s important to know that this software will work on all of your children’s devices. Most of the tools below will protect them whether they use the best smartphones, the best laptops, or the best home computers.
Best URL Filtering Software in 2023
- DNSFilter
- Cisco Umbrella
- Webroot DNS Protection
- Net Nanny
- Surfie
DNSFilter
It is a cloud service that is used by a lot of people, especially because the price is so low. One of DNSFilter’s best features is that it is easy to use and has a lot of different functions. The offer has a Basic plan and a Pro plan. Pro costs a lot of money, but it gives you more advanced analytics tools and more specialized reports.
DNSFilter has strong URL filtering because it uses threat intelligence and scans for viruses. URL filtering can be set up to match the rules of a company, which decides which websites users can visit. The way DNSFilter is made is one of its main strengths.
The basic plan seems to be enough for most people because it lets users see weekly threat reports. In addition to reports, it gives desktops the ability to roam. If you want advanced analytical reports, you’ll need to buy the Pro plan.
This shows in the reports, which are short, clear, and easy to read and navigate. The service protects clients who work from home when they are not on the network.
Cisco Umbrella
Cisco Umbrella is another great piece of software that Cisco has made to block URLs. This cloud service automatically updates, and there haven’t been many times when it’s been down. In other words, if your PC has great uptime, it will always be safe from threats.
Cisco Umbrella is a service that is based in the cloud and uses a predictive model to find threats. This means using complex algorithms to figure out what the threats will be before they can hurt the network.
Cisco is easy to manage because it has three levels of content filtering that admins can choose from. This lets you choose how much filtering you want for your service: low, medium, or high. Customers like umbrella a lot. We’d recommend it to companies that don’t mind paying more for a trusted filtering service that’s easy to use.
The interface is well-made, but it can be hard to use for the first time. Still, it is easy to use once you get used to it, and it gives consistent reports and monitoring that is easy to see. Pricing is made to order.
Webroot DNS Protection
Webroot’s URL filtering service is fast, light, and easy to use. Clients who already use Webroot Endpoint Protection can easily switch over to this service. Webroot scans the web for threats by using machine learning and a contextual analysis engine.
WebRoot stands out because of how well it works with other programs and how open its environment is. For better customization and integration with the IT architecture, you can also use the SDK.
Other features are that it is easy to scale, has a large database that is always up-to-date, and is easy to use with a centralized console that has updated data in real time and full reports that can be customized.
Webroot DNS protection is a great service that doesn’t cost much money. It’s popular with MSPs because it’s easy to set up and doesn’t need much help afterward. Businesses that want the best threat protection on the market, detailed reporting and logging, and flexible admin policies should use this service.
Net Nanny
Net Nanny is thought to be one of the best pieces of software for blocking websites. It is the best because of many things, including the fact that it’s easy to use. In terms of actual features, it has a lot of options that help parents filter out content and stop cyberbullying.
The profanity blocker is one of Net Nanny’s most interesting features. It hides swear words on websites so your child can’t see or read them. It also stops kids from typing these words into chat messages and search fields.
You can set the program to change funny words or symbols as they are typed, or it can erase the word completely.
The biggest problem with Net Nanny is that some important tools, like monitoring social media, capturing chat messages, and sending parents text messages, require you to buy a separate program that works with Net Nanny.
Surfie
Surfie can be used on Android and iOS phones and tablets, and it also has a version for Windows computers. You can filter and block websites that you don’t want your kids to see on all of them.
Pure Site made the software, and the developer doesn’t seem to care much about keeping a support line open for users who have questions or problems. In fact, if you have problems with Surfie, you have to learn to get by with just the online user guide.
One of the best things about Surfie is its keyword monitor, which lets you know if someone sends your child a test, email, or instant message with words or phrases that are usually red flags.
You can also send the developer an email, but that isn’t the fastest or most effective way to get results.
Criteria for Evaluation
Key factors to consider when choosing URL filtering software
Effectiveness in blocking malicious websites
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing URL filtering software is its effectiveness in blocking malicious websites. The software should have advanced web filtering capabilities to detect and block known and unknown threats. Look for features such as real-time threat detection, integration with threat intelligence databases, and the ability to keep up with emerging threats.
Customization options and flexibility
The URL filtering software should provide customization options and flexibility to meet your specific business needs. Look for software that allows you to create and manage custom URL filtering policies. It should offer granular control over website categories and content types, allowing you to tailor the filtering rules to match your organization’s requirements. Additionally, support for whitelisting and blacklisting URLs is crucial for fine-tuning the filtering process.
Scalability and performance
Consider the scalability and performance of the URL filtering software. It should be able to handle the network traffic volume without compromising performance and causing latency issues. Look for software that offers high scalability, allowing it to grow with your business. Additionally, features such as load balancing and high availability support can ensure optimal performance even during peak traffic periods.
User-friendly interface and ease of management
A user-friendly interface is essential for efficient management of the URL filtering software. Look for software that provides an intuitive dashboard and easy-to-navigate interface. Clear visibility into filtering rules and policies is important for effective management. Additionally, centralized management capabilities allow for streamlined administration and configuration across multiple devices or locations.
Integration with existing security infrastructure
Consider the integration capabilities of the URL filtering software with your existing security infrastructure. It should be compatible with your firewall, proxy server, or other security tools. Seamless integration allows for a more comprehensive security ecosystem and ensures smooth data flow between different components. Look for software that offers APIs and automation capabilities to facilitate integration and enable efficient workflows.
By considering these key factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing URL filtering software for your business, ensuring enhanced security and protection against malicious websites while maintaining flexibility and ease of management.
Conclusion
The URL filtering software can block all of the web pages and content that you don’t want to see. To block websites with these programs, you either need to enter the URL of the site or a list of keywords.
The URL filtering software keeps employees or students from going to dangerous websites that could put a virus on a computer. These tools check the websites regularly and keep track of links that look sketchy. All websites with harmful content are blocked by the people in charge of the network.
