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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Data breaches usually start with an employee mistake. Someone may click a dangerous link or send data via an unprotected connection. Soon, that error becomes a crisis. Websites fail, customer data spreads across the Dark Web, and regulators become involved.

Most of the time, all of this can be avoided. Proper cybersecurity training and cybersecurity tabletop exercise tools prepare staff to deal with threats.

The shocking thing is that almost one-third of US companies don’t provide cybersecurity training for employees. Worse still, over half of SMBs have no cybersecurity plan at all.

Don’t follow their example. Create a cybersecurity awareness training program that educates employees and puts security policies into action.

This article will explain how to raise cybersecurity awareness across your organization. So pull a chair up to the whiteboard as we deliver our 10-step cybersecurity training roadmap.

Key takeaways

• Raising cybersecurity awareness is a vital business goal. Start by building a foundation. Create comprehensive cybersecurity policies and aim to ensure every employee is aware of their security role.

• Cybersecurity training should focus on urgent data security threats. List relevant risks and train employees to identify and minimize them.

• Device security awareness training is critical–especially in companies that rely on remote workers. Train employees to secure devices from digital and physical threats.

• Educating employees on password security is a priority. Most cybersecurity breaches target weak credentials. Ensure staff know how to use strong passwords and access network assets safely.

• Focus training on confidentiality and data protection. Define company data and instruct employees how to handle data securely. This includes regular backups, secure storage, and tools like Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

• Update training programs annually. Cybersecurity threats evolve, and training should keep pace. Refresh employee knowledge, taking advantage of free cybersecurity training when possible.

Step 1: Ensure employees understand their cybersecurity role

Cybersecurity training must include every employee, no matter how junior (or senior). Every network user must be aware of their security responsibilities. Communicate that one slip-up or policy breach can lead to data theft and regulatory action.

Guide employees on how to meet security requirements. For instance, you may require a VPN and Secure Remote Access for remote workers. Inform staff how to report security issues and reassure them. Reporting accidental policy breaches is a good thing–not something to fear.

Step 2: Create watertight data security policies

Cybersecurity training rests on comprehensive and easy-to-follow security policies. Create formal policies on handling confidential data, incident response, password management, remote work, and other relevant areas.

Security awareness training should cover employee knowledge of security policies. But one-time testing is not enough. Schedule regular meetings to discuss policies. Test knowledge annually to ensure staff remain aware of policy requirements.

Remember: policies are worthless if they are just documents. They need to be part of everyday professional practice. Make policies available in a central library for staff to access, and double-check the language to avoid technical jargon.

Step 3: Train employees to identify data security threats

Cybersecurity training can’t necessarily create an army of technical experts, but raising overall awareness is vital. Well-trained employees understand cyber threats and know how to prevent or mitigate them.

Train staff to identify email phishing, fake websites, insecure document transmission, and the risks of using unsecured public Wi-Fi. Make it clear that adding unauthorized software to the network is out of bounds.

Real-life examples help employees understand the nature of cyber threats. For example, sessions could include visual material on pop-ups, sudden device slow-downs, or unrequested browser extensions.

Above all, employee training must communicate the consequences of cyber-attacks and emphasize the need to follow security policies. By educating staff, you build a human firewall that adds an extra layer of defense against attackers.

This is a critical point and a key recommendation in Gartner’s 2024 Cybersecurity Trends Report. Human firewalls complement technology by changing employee behavior to mitigate potential threats. Properly-educated employees understand the threat reporting process. Training involves everyone in network protection efforts. A human firewall of engaged employees is much more likely to identify cybersecurity problems before a data breach occurs.

Step 4: Tighten up your password hygiene

Weak, rarely-changed passwords often expose businesses to information security threats. Robust password policies are the only reliable protection.

Don’t assume employees understand password risks. Two-thirds of Americans re-use passwords across accounts. Up to 80% of data breaches result from easily guessed or stolen passwords. People tend to be lazy about password hygiene. Don’t give them that option.

Instead, consider assigning passwords to employees and rotating these passwords regularly. Train staff and password managers to use strong passwords. Add multi-factor authentication to network logins and ensure employees know how to use it.

Step 5: Fine-tune device security

Training employees on cybersecurity must cover device security. Remote and off-site staff often rely on mobile devices. If a device contains sensitive data or allows network access, security policies apply.

Take action to minimize the risk of device loss. Mandate separate work and personal devices when cybersecurity risks are high. Include training modules explaining the difference between personal and business use.

Cybersecurity training should cover physically securing devices and protecting remote connections. It’s also wise to use remote monitoring tools and inform employees that their business accounts are transparent.

Step 6: Make sure employees backup critical data

Employees must back up company data, preferably every day. During employee training, make it clear that local backups are insufficient. Employee devices are vulnerable to theft or external attacks. Instead, use secure cloud storage systems to hold critical documents or customer data.

Step 7: Put in place authorization and access management systems

Authorization and authentication technology should always shield central data centers and cloud-hosted apps. However, it’s important to instruct employees in proper access security practices.

For instance, employees should never share work devices with colleagues or external individuals without authorization. Writing down passwords or authentication codes is out of the question. Adding new devices without agreement from network admins should also be prohibited.

Sometimes, employees complain about time-consuming authorization systems. Outflank those issues by explaining why MFA and VPNs are so important. When they know what is at stake, employees will quickly adopt secure access routines.

Step 8: Ensure secure web development and website updating

SQL and web application exploits are common security breach vectors, making secure coding a vital element of cybersecurity awareness training.

Deliver a secure training program to every staffer with access to web backends and coding tools. Even those without direct coding responsibilities can allow access to attackers. If employees update web assets in any way, they must do so safely.

Authorization is also important. Employees should know who is authorized to change web code or update websites and how to request permission to make changes.

Step 9: Make sure employees use email securely

Email is another critical weak point in business cybersecurity. Cybersecurity awareness training should help employees spot potential threats like phishing attempts and links to suspicious websites.

If necessary, test employee competence with phishing simulations that generate false social engineering emails. Simulations are great because they prove users can spot dangerous messages from authentic business communications.

Separate training applies if employees use email to transmit sensitive information. In these cases, ensure workers use VPNs and email encryption to safeguard data.

It should go without saying, but you should also test employees on what constitutes “sensitive data.” Many email users send confidential information via unsafe personal accounts, and that should end when they understand how you classify information.

Step 10: Update your training program regularly

Cybersecurity awareness tends to wane after a few months. Around 10% of employees say they remember all of their cybersecurity training. The other 90% have likely drifted back to unsafe passwords or unsecured remote connections.

Refreshing cyber security training is the only viable solution, but it can be challenging for businesses with a limited security awareness budget.

However, refreshing knowledge does not need to be expensive. Cybersecurity awareness training often costs virtually nothing if you know where to look.

Keep costs low by checking out free cybersecurity training listed at the National Institute for Science and Technology (NIST). For example:

• The Cisco Networking Academy offers 6 hours of free cybersecurity training covering all core themes.

• Evolve Academy provides free cybersecurity awareness training focused on practical technical skills.

• Microsoft Technologies Training offers refresher courses to boost information security awareness when using Microsoft products.

These are just a few of many free or low-cost cybersecurity education options. You can also listen to podcasts about security awareness. Combine external courses with internal training to manage cybersecurity costs.

How can NordLayer help?

Companies are never alone when delivering cyber security awareness training, so don’t feel isolated. Instead, work with trusted partners like NordLayer to build internal knowledge and upskill your workforce.

NordLayer’s Learning Center is the perfect bookmark for trainers and employees. Use our accessible security checklists and in-depth explainers to understand concepts and tick off cybersecurity tasks. And stay on top of emerging threats thanks to cutting-edge intelligence.

It also helps to add video elements to training sessions. In that case, explore NordLayer’s YouTube channel. Our channel covers cybersecurity essentials like device posture security and secure remote access—supplementing tests and in-person training.

Whatever you do, don’t struggle alone. Share the cybersecurity challenge by enlisting expert assistance. If you’d like to find out more, get in touch with NordLayer today. We’ll help you find the right training and security solutions.