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SharpRhino Ransomware: A New Threat to Small Businesses and MSPs

Key Takeaways:

– Small Businesses at Risk: SharpRhino targets IT professionals, creating significant vulnerabilities for small businesses relying on MSPs for cybersecurity.

– MSP Challenges: Sophisticated attack methods like typosquatting and legitimate-looking software installers make it increasingly difficult for MSPs to protect their clients.

– Guardz Ransomware Protection: Guardz offers comprehensive ransomware protection, including real-time monitoring, automated threat detection, and incident response tools designed to safeguard small businesses and their MSPs.

The SharpRhino Ransomware Attack: What You Need to Know

The Hunters International ransomware group has unleashed a new threat in the form of SharpRhino, a sophisticated Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that specifically targets IT professionals. This attack methodically compromises networks by using fake versions of legitimate tools, such as Angry IP Scanner, distributed through deceptive websites—a technique known as typosquatting.

How the Attack Operates:

1. Distribution via Typosquatting:

   – Attackers set up fake websites mimicking legitimate software download sites. IT professionals, seeking to download tools they use regularly, may inadvertently download SharpRhino, which appears as a legitimate 32-bit installer (`ipscan-3.9.1-setup.exe`).

2. Initial Compromise and Persistence:

   – Once installed, SharpRhino modifies the Windows registry to ensure it persists on the infected system. It uses PowerShell scripts to execute C# code in memory, making detection difficult.

3. Command and Control (C2) Communication:

   – The malware communicates with its command and control server, allowing attackers to issue remote commands, which can include deploying additional malware or ransomware.

4. Privilege Escalation and Ransomware Deployment:

   – After securing elevated privileges, attackers can deploy ransomware, encrypting critical data and demanding a ransom for its release.

The Impact on Small Businesses and MSPs

For small businesses, the consequences of a successful ransomware attack can be devastating. Without the resources to quickly respond and recover, a ransomware attack can lead to significant operational downtime, financial loss, and even permanent closure. Small businesses often rely on MSPs to manage their IT and cybersecurity needs, but the sophistication of attacks like SharpRhino poses a severe challenge even for experienced MSPs.

MSPs are under increasing pressure to protect their clients from these evolving threats. The use of seemingly legitimate tools by attackers makes it difficult to detect and prevent these attacks before they cause harm. When an MSP is compromised, all of its clients are at risk, which could result in a catastrophic ripple effect across multiple businesses.

Practical Tips for MSPs and Small Businesses to Protect Against Ransomware

1. Regular Software Audits and Updates:

   – Ensure that all software used by your business or clients is up-to-date. Regularly audit software to confirm that only authorized applications are installed and running. Pay close attention to the sources from which software is downloaded, and avoid downloading from unverified websites.

2. Implement Network Segmentation:

   – Divide your network into segments to limit the spread of ransomware. This means that even if one part of your network is compromised, the ransomware cannot easily spread to other parts.

3. Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans:

   – Regularly back up your data and ensure that backups are stored securely and separately from your main network. In the event of a ransomware attack, having a reliable backup can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major catastrophe.

4. Continuous Monitoring and Threat Detection:

   – Utilize real-time monitoring tools that can detect suspicious activity before it leads to a full-blown attack. Automated threat detection systems that leverage AI can identify new and emerging threats like SharpRhino and take action before they cause damage.

5. Educate and Train Staff:

   – Human error is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. Regularly train your staff on the latest threats and best practices for avoiding phishing attempts and other social engineering attacks. For MSPs, ensuring that your clients are also educated about these risks is crucial.

6. Incident Response Planning:

   – Have a detailed incident response plan in place so that your team knows exactly what to do in the event of a ransomware attack. This should include steps for isolating infected systems, notifying affected parties, and restoring data from backups.

7. Use Advanced Security Solutions:

   – Consider implementing comprehensive security platforms like Guardz, which offer a range of tools designed to protect against ransomware. Guardz provides real-time monitoring, automated threat detection, and incident response capabilities that are essential for defending against sophisticated threats like SharpRhino.

Guardz Ransomware Protection Solutions

Guardz understands the unique challenges faced by small businesses and MSPs in the current cybersecurity landscape. Our platform offers a suite of ransomware protection tools tailored to provide comprehensive defense against threats like SharpRhino. Key features include:

– Real-Time Monitoring: Stay ahead of potential threats with continuous monitoring of your systems.

– Automated Threat Detection: Leverage AI to detect and neutralize emerging threats before they can cause harm.

– Incident Response: Equip your team with the tools needed to quickly isolate infected systems, restore data, and minimize the impact of an attack.

In an era where ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your business. With Guardz, you can fortify your defenses and ensure that your business or your clients’ businesses remain resilient in the face of evolving cyber threats.

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About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Guardz
Guardz is on a mission to create a safer digital world by empowering Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Their goal is to proactively secure and insure Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) against ever-evolving threats while simultaneously creating new revenue streams, all on one unified platform.

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24.6.8 Voyager released

Changes compared to 24.6.7

Enhancements

  • Disabled selecting Hyper-V ‘All VM Snapshots’ mode on operating systems where it is not supported

Bug Fixes

  • Fixed an issue preventing individual files to be selected during the granular restore process on the Comet Backup desktop app
  • Fixed a cosmetic issue with translations not applying for some detailed error messages

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Comet
We are a team of dedicated professionals committed to developing reliable and secure backup solutions for MSP’s, Businesses and IT professionals. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, we understand the importance of having a reliable backup solution in place to protect your valuable data. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive suite of backup solutions that are easy to use, scalable and highly secure.

Cloud Control: Why Your NAC Needs a Serious Upgrade

This article was originally posted by VMBlog. 

In the ruthless arena of cybersecurity, only the adaptable survive. Traditional methods of network protection are fast becoming obsolete as cyber threats evolve in complexity and cunning. To stay ahead, businesses must embrace a radical shift – moving their Network Access Control (NAC) to the cloud. Cloud-native NAC isn’t just a step forward; it’s a leap into a new era of security, scalability, and efficiency. It’s time to break free from the constraints of the past and future-proof your defenses against the relentless onslaught of digital threats.

The Evolution of Network Access Control

Network Access Control has been a cornerstone of enterprise security for years. Traditional NAC solutions operate within the boundaries of on-premises networks, leveraging a mix of hardware and software to monitor and manage network access. These systems have served their purpose – often clumsily – but as business operations increasingly migrate to the cloud, the limitations of on-prem NAC are becoming apparent. The need for scalability, flexibility, and enhanced security measures has led to the rise of cloud-native NAC.

Why Cloud-Native NAC?

Enhanced Security Against Sophisticated Threats

The cybersecurity landscape is dynamic, with new threats emerging constantly. Traditional NAC systems, rooted in static, perimeter-based defenses, struggle to keep pace with these evolving threats. Cloud-native NAC, however, is built to leverage the dynamic nature of cloud environments.

Cloud-native NAC also benefits from continuous updates and improvements delivered directly by the provider. This ensures that the latest access intelligence and security patches are always in place, future-proofing your network against new vulnerabilities.

Scalability and Flexibility

In today’s digital age, businesses need to be agile. Traditional NAC solutions are rigid, requiring significant hardware investments and complex configurations. Scaling these systems to accommodate growth or changes in network architecture is both time-consuming and costly.

Cloud-native NAC, on the other hand, offers unparalleled scalability. Whether you’re a small startup experiencing rapid growth or a large enterprise with fluctuating network demands, cloud-native NAC can scale up or down effortlessly. This flexibility ensures that your network security adapts in real-time to meet your business needs without the need for extensive manual intervention.

Cost Efficiency

Budget constraints are a reality for most organizations, and traditional NAC solutions can be a significant financial burden. The upfront costs of hardware, ongoing maintenance, and the need for specialized IT staff to manage these systems add up quickly.

Cloud-native NAC operates on a subscription-based model, significantly reducing capital expenditure. There are no hefty upfront costs for hardware, and the service provider manages maintenance. This model not only spreads out costs over time but also offers predictable budgeting, making it easier to manage finances. Moreover, reducing administrative overhead frees up your IT team to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance tasks.

Simplified Management and Deployment

Deploying and managing traditional NAC systems can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring specialized knowledge and significant effort to maintain. In contrast, cloud-native NAC solutions are designed for simplicity and can be deployed quickly and managed through intuitive, user-friendly interfaces.

These systems offer centralized management, providing a unified view of network activity and security posture across the entire organization. This centralized approach simplifies policy enforcement, auditing, and compliance, ensuring that your network remains secure and compliant with industry regulations. Plus, network security teams are not burdened by hardware management, but rather given the proper time to focus on what matters – determining security policies and enforcing them.

Improved User Experience

In today’s hybrid work environment, employees expect seamless access to resources, regardless of their location. Traditional NAC solutions can create bottlenecks, leading to frustration and decreased productivity.

Cloud-native NAC leverages the power of the cloud to deliver fast, reliable access to network resources. By integrating with cloud services and utilizing advanced identity and access management protocols, these solutions ensure that users have the access they need, when they need it, without compromising security. This improved user experience translates to higher productivity and satisfaction among employees.

Future-Proofing Your Organization

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the shift to cloud-native solutions is not just a trend but a necessity. The agility, scalability, and advanced security features offered by cloud-native NAC make it an essential component of a modern cybersecurity strategy. By embracing cloud-native NAC, organizations can ensure they are well-equipped to handle the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The move to cloud-native NAC is a strategic imperative for any organization looking to stay ahead of the curve. The benefits are clear: enhanced security, cost efficiency, scalability, simplified management, and improved user experience. By future-proofing your network with cloud-native NAC, you position your organization to thrive in an increasingly complex and hostile digital landscape. It’s time to make the shift – the cloud is calling.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

Best web content filtering software for business

Imagine a school facing problems with students accessing inappropriate websites during class. Teachers feel frustrated, and IT admins try to find a solution. This situation is common in many places that need secure and controlled internet access through URL filtering.

Finding the best internet filtering software can seem hard, but the right choice protects against malicious content and data loss. Web content filtering software creates a safe online environment by reducing cyber threats. This guide highlights the top 10 web content filtering solutions that, in our opinion, based on the public sources we analyzed, offer strong features and ease of use. Each solution is evaluated based on user feedback and cost. Explore these options to improve your business’s online security and productivity with URL filtering and a secure web gateway.

How we chose the best content filtering solutions (in our opinion)

We reviewed the websites of various content filtering solutions and read user reviews on platforms like Gartner, G2, and Capterra. We focused on what users mentioned most about value, speed, performance, and cost.

Here are the seven most important characteristics we used to pick the best content filtering solutions.

  1. Key features. Does the DNS layer security providers offer enough capabilities, like specific URL filtering to implement Secure Web Gateway strategies?

  2. User feedback. We paid attention to what users generally liked and disliked. We focused on ease of use, customer support, effectiveness, and reliability.

  3. Cost and business type. We analyzed cost and overall value for different organization types by considering user comments on pricing models and expenses.

  4. Deployment and management. We examined user comments on how easy it was to deploy and manage each solution. We prioritized solutions that users found simple to set up and manage.

  5. Security and compliance features. We reviewed the security features based on user experiences. We looked at threat detection, DNS filtering, deep packet inspection, and compliance with industry standards.

  6. Scalability and flexibility. We evaluated how well each solution scaled to meet the needs of different-sized businesses. We considered user reviews about flexible deployment options and support for various devices.

  7. Performance and reliability. Based on user feedback, we considered performance and reliability and prioritized solutions with robust infrastructure, high uptime, and fast response times.

Top 10 web content filtering solutions

Different solutions suit different business types. Here’s a detailed look at our top web content filtering solutions available today, listed in no particular order.

  • NordLayer

  • DNSFilter

  • ScoutDNS

  • SafeDNS

  • Twingate

  • GoodAccess

  • Cloudflare

  • Zscaler

  • Cato Networks

  • Netskope

NordLayer

 

NordLayer DNS filtering scheme

NordLayer provides advanced DNS filtering, which helps businesses control employee web traffic and protect against unwanted content through URL filtering. This is crucial because unrestricted internet access can endanger the entire network.

DNS filtering by category acts as a gatekeeper, preventing access to inappropriate websites. A specially configured DNS resolver checks requests against a blocklist of unsafe domains. When a domain is flagged, the resolver blocks the request and stops potential cyber threats before they reach the network.  This customized filtering allows businesses to block specific categories, such as violence or adult content. It also helps increase employee productivity, maintain business reputation, and boost network performance.

NordLayer

With NordLayer, businesses can easily manage and customize security policies from a single central point, regardless of location. NordLayer’s unique, patented DNS filtering technology ensures reliable and effective categorization and blocking of unwanted content, enhancing compliance capabilities. Multiple DNS filtering options allow the blocking of over 50 inappropriate, distracting, or malicious content categories, helping to maintain a clean, more compliant digital environment.

The ThreatBlock solution extends DNS filtering by blocking malicious domains. Using various malware libraries and deny lists, ThreatBlock continuously updates to recognize and block new threats. Even if an employee clicks on a malicious link, ThreatBlock intercepts the request and displays an error message.

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Granular control over categories

  • Over 50 content categories available

  • Broad range of topics for restriction

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Multiple platform support

  • User-friendly interface

  • 24/7 support team response

  • Reasonable pricing

  • Regular updates

  • Compatible with various infrastructures

  • Integrates with popular IAM platforms

  • Scalability

  • Low latency

  • Free trial or money-back guarantee

Some complaints:

  • Need to request DNS filtering by category manually

NordLayer stands out as a solid choice due to its strong filtering software, including DNS security and secure web gateway features.

DNSFilter

DNSFilter helps organizations filter internet content and protect against online threats like malware and phishing through URL filtering. Founded in 2015, the company now supports thousands of brands worldwide.

DNSFilter performs content filtering at the DNS level with its machine-learning engine, Webshrinker. This technology categorizes new and unknown sites, ensuring accurate content filtering. Users can choose from over 35 content categories and 7 threat categories to customize what they block or allow.

DNSFilter

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Flexible filtering options

  • Fast logging and reporting

  • Possibility to import domain names in CSV format

  • Domain whitelisting

  • Detailed reports, intuitive layout

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Multiple platform support

  • User-friendly interface

  • Reasonable pricing

  • Regular product updates

  • Integration with Active Directory

  • Simple client setup

  • Free trial

Some complaints:

  • Failing auto-updates

  • Deployment challenges

  • Blocking legitimate sites

  • VPN compatibility

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the DNSFilter website, VPN review sites such as Gartner and G2, and user feedback from Reddit, accessed on June 20, 2024.

ScoutDNS

ScoutDNS is a tool that provides DNS security and URL filtering for organizations. It offers a simple way to manage and protect internet access by controlling which sites can be visited.

ScoutDNS helps organizations with content filtering, DNS layer security, and network visibility. It manages over 67 content categories and allows custom allow/block lists for different needs. Users can add items from logs, block harmful sites like those with phishing and malware, and manage suspicious domains. It provides real-time logs for 30 days, shows detailed activity, and inspects DNS messages for more control.

ScoutDNS

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Whitelist/Blacklist management

  • Reporting and analytics

  • Roaming client available

  • SSL certificate integration

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Responsive support team

  • User-friendly interface

  • Reasonable pricing

  • Quick issue resolution

  • Free trial

Some complaints:

  • Lack of real-time alerts for blocked pages

  • DNS rerouting can slow down browsing

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Capterra and G2, accessed on June 20, 2024.

SafeDNS

Since 2010, SafeDNS has provided content filtering for thousands of businesses. It helps organizations keep their data safe with reliable web filtering and DNS security services.

SafeDNS offers features that enhance online security and control, such as DNS layer security, content filtering, and app blocking. The AI-powered categorization filters inappropriate content across a vast database and provides detailed reports and analytics for monitoring internet usage. The Anycast network ensures fast and stable performance worldwide, and the solution supports roaming clients and scheduling for flexible management. SafeDNS focuses on content filtering, which makes it ideal for businesses that need to manage web access and online safety, but it is not a comprehensive cybersecurity solution.

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Comprehensive category options

  • Whitelist/Blacklist management

  • Monthly stats

  • Wi-Fi network integration

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Scalability

  • User-friendly interface

  • Reasonable pricing

  • Integration with other tools

  • Ease of maintenance

Some complaints:

  • Blocks good websites

  • Issues with detailed reporting

  • Inconsistent performance

  • Support issues

  • License starting from 15 seats

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the SafeDNS website and VPN review sites such as Gartner and Capterra, accessed on June 20, 2024.

Twingate

Twingate provides a secure remote access solution designed to meet modern security challenges. Developed in 2019, Twingate aims to address the limitations of traditional VPNs by offering a Zero Trust Network Access model that is both user-friendly and easy to deploy.

Twingate automatically flags, detects, and blocks malicious web threats, protecting users from malware, phishing, and other online dangers. It blocks malicious websites and thwarts phishing attempts while keeping users’ internet traffic safe with customizable filters for both managed and BYOD items. The platform consolidates tools into a single agent, centralizing management for internet security and remote access without the need for multiple solution-specific agents.

Twingate

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Granular control over categories

  • Reporting and analytics

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • User-friendly interface

  • Scalability

  • Integration with other tools

  • Great documentation

  • Lightweight and efficient

Some complaints:

  • Frequent disruptions

  • Not cost-effective

  • Lack of Linux VPN client

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Gartner and G2 and user feedback from Reddit, accessed on June 20, 2024.

GoodAccess

GoodAccess is a startup founded in 2020 and has since developed an affordable Zero Trust Network Access solution.

GoodAccess’ DNS filter, Threat Blocker, prevents ransomware attacks. GoodAccess uses its own DNS system to handle all DNS resolutions for every connected client. Threat Blocker, part of the larger Secure Shield package, combines open-source and commercial lists of malicious domains. It checks every DNS request against these lists. When it finds a match, Threat Blocker redirects the user to a safe website that informs them that an attempt to access a malicious domain was blocked.

GoodAccess

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Real-time data monitoring

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Stable and reliable

  • Multiple platform support

  • Responsive support team

  • Reasonable pricing

Some complaints:

  • Newer versions cause service issues, and updates need manual intervention

  • High costs when adding more gateways

  • Limited connections per user

  • Hard to use for less tech-savvy people

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Capterra, Gartner, and G2, accessed on June 20, 2024.

Cloudflare

Cloudflare One is a web filter and security solution with a secure web gateway. It is from Cloudflare, a well-known and long-standing provider, which has a global presence and higher cost.

Cloudflare One provides an authoritative DNS service, a public DNS resolver, and DNS filtering. It includes Cloudflare Gateway, a secure web gateway that offers DNS filtering, browser isolation, and other technologies. This web filter helps protect internal users and keep data secure. Cloudflare Gateway improves network security and restricts what employees access on the internet.

Cloudflare

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Customizable filtering options

  • Whitelist/Blacklist management

  • Bypass methods control

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • User-friendly interface

  • Responsive support team

  • Free trial

Some complaints:

  • Blocks the right websites and users

  • Complex setup

  • Interrupts communication

  • Customer support issues

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the Cloudflare website and VPN review sites such G2 as Gartner, accessed on July 3, 2024.

Zscaler

Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) has a web filter designed to improve organizations’ internet security. The tool includes many advanced features to protect users from online threats.

Zscaler offers powerful URL filtering as part of Zscaler Internet Access. It also includes a secure web gateway, data loss prevention, cloud-gen firewall, and more. Zscaler Internet Access is part of the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange platform, which allows fast, secure connections for employees working from anywhere. This filtering software uses dynamic content categorization, integrated browser isolation, and safe search enforcement to control web traffic effectively.

Zscaler

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Granular control features

  • Real-time threat protection

  • Whitelist/Blacklist management

  • Reporting and analytics

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Multiple platform support

  • Responsive support team

Some complaints:

  • Complex and time-consuming setup

  • Managing security policies is complex

  • Logging for different modules isn’t separate, making troubleshooting hard

  • Sometimes blocks essential sites

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the Zscaler website and VPN review sites such as Gartner, G2, and Trustradius, accessed on July 4, 2024.

Cato Networks

Cato SASE Cloud is a comprehensive solution that also provides businesses with web content filtering. It offers a cloud-based service that integrates various features to ensure safe and efficient network management.

Cato’s DNS Security inspects all DNS traffic and blocks requests to malicious destinations before a connection occurs. AI-based DNS inspection delivers in-line phishing protection by analyzing webpage components, domain age, and other factors. This solution blocks malicious domains and command-and-control sites using updated threat intelligence.

Cato Networks

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Reporting and analytics

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Multiple platform support

  • Responsive support team

  • Integrations with other products

Some complaints:

  • Few technical documents available for troubleshooting

  • Need for careful implementation planning

  • Complex cloud management console navigation

  • Login issues with the app

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the Cato Networks website, and VPN review sites such as Gartner and G2, accessed on June 20, 2024.

Netskope

Netskope One SASE provides a web filtering solution for enforcing acceptable use policies (AUPs) in various locations, including headquarters, remote offices, and mobile workers using company-managed devices. Netskope’s NewEdge private cloud network spans over 70 regions.

Netskope’s web filtering software helps organizations enforce AUPs using predefined and custom categories for apps, security risks, YouTube, and silent ad blocking. It covers over 120 categories and supports 200+ countries. The solution includes dynamic web page categorization, custom categories, and API-enabled updates. Netskope uses machine learning to rate new and unknown web content. Netskope Intelligent SSE, built on the Netskope Security Cloud, offers real-time data and threat protection for cloud services, websites, and private apps.

Netskope

Most mentioned product strengths:

  • Granular policy controls

  • Reporting and analytics

Most mentioned overall product benefits:

  • Responsive support team

  • Integrations with other products

  • Low system impact

Some complaints:

  • Lack of granular threat protection and packet analysis

  • Syncing issues

  • Pricing structure

  • Lack of integration with certain tools

  • Limited help articles

  • Regular outages

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the Netskope website and VPN review sites such as Gartner and G2, accessed on June 20, 2024.

How to choose the best content filtering solution for your business

Choosing the best web content filtering solution involves looking at your specific needs, budget, and the size of your organization. Here are seven steps to help IT admins make the best choice.

  1. Identify your business needs. Assess what your organization requires. A small business with 20 employees might need basic web filtering software to block malicious content, while a large enterprise with over 1,000 employees may need a secure web gateway to manage complex threats and ensure compliance.

  2. Evaluate security features. Look for solutions that provide strong security features. DNS filtering helps protect against malware and ransomware, as well as improves productivity and network performance. Real-time protection against new online threats is also helpful for high security.

  3. Consider ease of use and management. The content filtering software should be easy to set up and manage. Simple deployment and a user-friendly interface are important, especially for businesses with limited IT resources.

  4. Check scalability and future-proofing. Ensure the solution can grow with your business. Choose a tool that is good for scaling: the one that supports flexible deployment and integration with more Security Service Edge (SSE) frameworks like Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS).

  5. Evaluate customization options. Your content filtering solution should allow customization to meet specific business needs. Flexibility is essential for organizations that need tailored filtering policies based on their industry, such as schools needing to block adult content while allowing educational resources.

  6. Consider cost-effectiveness. Budget is a key factor. Look for solutions that provide comprehensive security features at a competitive price. Small businesses with tight budgets can start with minimal filtering capabilities and upgrade to more advanced solutions as they grow.

  7. Assess support and reliability. Reliable customer support and high uptime are crucial, especially during setup and troubleshooting. Responsive support teams and detailed dashboards and analytics help IT admins manage their networks effectively.

  8. Check provider credibility. Choose a trustworthy solution with a good track record. Look at customer reviews and brand awareness to ensure reliability and effectiveness.

Conclusion

Filtering is crucial for many reasons. Security is a major one, but it’s not the only benefit. Even if internet threats aren’t a concern, these tools boost employee productivity, protect business reputation, and improve network performance.

Whether you need comprehensive security, ease of implementation, or scalable solutions, the options listed here offer reliable and effective ways to filter content and ensure secure internet access. Evaluating your specific needs and the features of each solution helps you make an informed decision that enhances your organization’s web security and productivity.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available third-party reviews, user feedback, and online sources as of July 5, 2024. While we strive for accuracy and completeness, Nord Security Inc. and its affiliates make no guarantees regarding the information’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. The product rankings and comparisons are our opinions, based on our analysis of public sources and publicly described product features, and should not be considered definitive or permanent. We do not warrant or represent that any product is or will remain the best, top, or highest-ranked in any list or rating for any period of time. Product features, pricing, and other details may change, and we advise readers to verify these directly with vendors. We disclaim liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this information. The inclusion of competitor products does not imply endorsement, and all trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. Readers should conduct their own research and seek independent advice before making purchasing decisions.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Scale Computing Pumps Ease of Edge Computing into Convenience & Fuel Retail Industry, Announces New Customer Royal Farms

Scale Computing Pumps Ease of Edge Computing into Convenience & Fuel Retail Industry with Innovative Technology and Ecosystem Partners, Announces New Customer Royal Farms

August 6, 2024 – INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Scale Computing, a market leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions, announced today its latest success in the convenience and fuel retail industry, with new customer Royal Farms. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Scale Computing is revolutionizing the landscape of IT infrastructure in this sector by delivering a single platform for unparalleled performance, reliability, and ease of use for the deployment, management, and growth of on-premises applications like POS, IoT, pump monitoring, video surveillance, and customer experience.

Royal Farms is a renowned operator of fast and friendly neighborhood convenience stores with 260 locations throughout Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and New Jersey. Most locations are open 24 hours, 365 days a year. To keep those stores open and productive at all times, Royal Farms wanted to run their applications in a fully integrated platform with the following industry-leading features:

  • High Availability: Scale Computing HyperCore (SC//HyperCore) technology ensures uninterrupted operations and optimal performance, introducing high availability even in the most demanding and remote environments.
  • Ease of Use: Scale Computing Fleet Manager (SC//Fleet Manager) simplifies IT infrastructure management tasks, providing retailers with a centralized interface to oversee their application infrastructure at the distributed edge effortlessly.
  • Speed of Deployment: Scale Computing Platform (SC//Platform) enables rapid deployment across hundreds and thousands of stores, streamlining operations and driving efficiency.
  • Scalability: Simply mix and match old and new hardware and applications on the same infrastructure for a future-proof environment that can scale up or down as needed.

Another reason Royal Farms selected Scale Computing is its Scale Computing Fleet Manager, the first cloud-hosted monitoring and management tool built for hyperconverged edge computing infrastructure at scale. It allows customers to quickly identify areas of concern using a single pane of glass, scaling from 1 to over 50,000 clusters. Zero-touch provisioning and Secure Link features allow administrators to centrally and securely monitor and manage hundreds or thousands of distributed edge infrastructure deployments, with few or no on-site IT personnel. This is exactly what Royal Farms needed.

“Our focus is to be available to our customers whenever they need us. Downtime is not an option, nor is having IT personnel available at our sites. We need to be able to centrally monitor and manage the applications at our stores so that we can deliver the experience our customers have come to expect,” said Jesse Wolcott, IT Infrastructure Manager, Royal Farms. “We were challenged with updating outdated IT infrastructures, fragmented systems, and manual processes and wanted a completely modern solution. Scale Computing is helping us optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and achieve unparalleled scalability and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.”

SC//Platform is being delivered across all Royal Farms locations on small form factor NUC hardware provided by Simply NUC. The integration partnership between Simply NUC and Scale Computing provides ease of doing business for distributed enterprises on right-sized hardware for size constrained locations. Simply NUC is the leader in the small form factor hardware industry and continues to innovate alongside Scale Computing for expanded edge computing offerings.

Advancing growth in this industry vertical is Scale Computing’s strategic alliance partnership with Mako Networks to address easier edge networking and PCI compliance challenges for the distributed enterprise. Scale Computing and Mako Networks partner to offer edge computing and edge networking management with strong customer support that fuels bottom line growth for these locations. Mako Networks technologies helps bridge the gap and secure networking with features like:

  • Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)
  • Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN)
  • Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW)
  • Intrusion Detection and Prevention (IDS/IPS)

Scale Computing has also established OEM partnerships with industry leader DUMAC, who is providing fully virtualized solutions for Point of Sale (POS) systems. With the knowledge, expertise and services teams that understand the convenience and fuel retail market, DUMAC is delivering a fully integrated, easy to use solution that supports thousands of stores and can be managed with minimal IT overhead. DUMAC partners with both Scale Computing and Mako Networks and continues to innovate for leading brands with these strategic technology relationships that have been developed.

“We are excited to bring our innovative technology and strategic partnerships to customers like Royal Farms in the convenience and fuel retail industry,” said Jeff Ready, CEO at Scale Computing. “With our platform’s unmatched capabilities and ecosystem partners, we are empowering distributed retailers to embrace the future of edge computing, driving efficiency, compliance, and profitability.”

For more information about Scale Computing’s solutions for the convenience and fuel retail industry, visit https://www.scalecomputing.com/scale-computing-for-convenience-and-fuel-retail-stores.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Scale Computing 
Scale Computing is a leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions. Scale Computing HC3 software eliminates the need for traditional virtualization software, disaster recovery software, servers, and shared storage, replacing these with a fully integrated, highly available system for running applications. Using patented HyperCore™ technology, the HC3 self-healing platform automatically identifies, mitigates, and corrects infrastructure problems in real-time, enabling applications to achieve maximum uptime. When ease-of-use, high availability, and TCO matter, Scale Computing HC3 is the ideal infrastructure platform. Read what our customers have to say on Gartner Peer Insights, Spiceworks, TechValidate and TrustRadius.