Best DNS Filtering Solutions – 2025

Effective cybersecurity is crucial in today’s digital world, and businesses must prioritize online security for their teams. One practical approach is implementing a DNS filtering solution.

High-profile data breaches causing significant financial and reputational damage are not mere tales; they can affect any company, regardless of size or location, as cybercriminals operate globally.

These malicious actors employ various tactics such as virus injection, phishing campaigns, malware distribution, and ransomware attacks. Therefore, it is essential to safeguard employees and team members through robust cybersecurity measures. Implementing DNS filtering or a DNS-based web gateway is highly beneficial.

What Is DNS Filtering?

The Domain Name System (DNS) is an Internet directory facilitating smooth website access.

When users enter a domain name, such as securitynews.com, the DNS server translates it into an IP address, enabling them to reach the desired site. DNS filtering utilizes this system to block harmful, inappropriate, and malicious websites.

By implementing DNS filtering, businesses can enhance network security, prevent cyberattacks, and exercise greater control over employees’ internet access, resulting in improved productivity.

How DNS Filtering Works?

Enabling DNS filtering on the user’s network ensures a comprehensive evaluation of incoming and outgoing web traffic. This approach permits only secure traffic to enter or leave your network.

While entering a website’s domain, DNS filtering actively filters traffic between the IP address and the requested page. By categorizing incoming and outgoing traffic, the DNS filter checks for news, social media, unsuitable content, unlawful sites, harmful websites, and phishing efforts.

Suspicious or risky traffic is effectively blocked based on predefined parameters, while safe traffic can pass. Additionally, DNS filtering protects against exploits for your Internet and Wi-Fi networks.

How Do We Choose The Best DNS Solutions?

Experts from Cyber Security News choose the best DNS solutions based on several factors of the following:

• Reliability and Uptime
• Performance by Evaluate the provider’s global network coverage
• Robust Security Features
• A DNS provider that effortlessly can scale with your needs
• How easy is it to configure DNS records, make changes, and troubleshoot
• Test the features such as easy record management, API access, load balancing, and geolocation routing.
• Consider the level of support provided by the DNS provider.
• Compare the pricing plans of different DNS providers.
• User-Friendly Integration
• Reputation and Reviews

Here Are Our Picks For The Best DNS Filtering Solutions And Their Feature

• Perimeter81: Provides cloud-based DNS filtering with customizable policies to block malicious sites and ensure secure internet access for remote teams.
• Cisco Umbrella: Offers comprehensive DNS and IP layer protection, blocking threats before they reach your network with advanced intelligence and analytics.
• OpenDNS: Delivers DNS security and web filtering with real-time threat intelligence to protect against phishing, malware, and inappropriate content.
• BlueCat DNS Integrity: Ensures DNS data accuracy and security, providing real-time threat detection and protection against DNS-based attacks.
• CleanBrowsing: Offers free and premium DNS filtering options to block adult content, malware, and phishing sites, tailored to various user needs.
• Quad9: Provides DNS filtering with threat intelligence to block access to known malicious domains, enhancing security and privacy.
• Cloudflare Gateway: Combines DNS filtering and secure web gateway features to protect against threats and enforce content policies across devices.
• Norton ConnectSafe: Delivers DNS-based protection by blocking access to harmful websites and filtering out malicious content to safeguard users online.
• Comodo Dome Shield: Provides DNS filtering and secure web access by blocking malicious sites and preventing data breaches through real-time threat intelligence.
• AdGuard DNS: Offers customizable DNS filtering to block ads, trackers, and malicious sites, enhancing privacy and browsing experience.
• Neustar UltraDNS Firewall: Provides DNS-based security with threat intelligence and filtering to prevent access to harmful domains and protect network integrity.
• Quadranet CleanBrowsing: Offers DNS filtering to block adult content and malicious sites, providing a safe browsing experience with customizable settings.
• DNSFilter: Delivers cloud-based DNS filtering with real-time threat intelligence and customizable policies to block malicious domains and protect users.
• SafeDNS: Provides DNS filtering with customizable security settings to block harmful content and phishing attempts and ensure a safe online experience.
• Surfshark DNS Filtering: Offers DNS filtering with built-in security features to block malicious websites and ensure safer internet browsing.
• NextDNS: Provides customizable DNS filtering with comprehensive threat protection and content control options to enhance online security.
• Akamai Enterprise Threat Protector: Delivers DNS filtering with advanced threat detection and protection capabilities to secure enterprise environments against cyber threats.
• Yandex.DNS: Provides DNS filtering with various security levels, including options to block malicious sites and filter out unwanted content.
• IBM Security DNS Protection: Delivers advanced DNS filtering and threat intelligence to protect against cyber threats and ensure secure internet usage.
• DNSFilter by WebTitan: Offers cloud-based DNS filtering with real-time threat detection and customizable policies to block harmful websites and enforce content control.

Best DNS Filtering Solutions 

Best DNS Filtering Solutions	Features	Stand Alone Feature	Pricing	Free Trial / Demo
1. Perimeter81	1. Access to a secure network 2. Cloud-native security with zero trust network architecture 3. MFA stands for multi-factor authentication. 4. Segmentation of a network 5. Web gateway security 6. Integration of threat intelligence	Cloud-based DNS filtering with integration into broader security platforms.	Contact for pricing details.	No
2. Cisco Umbrella	1. DNS safety 2. Web gateway security 3. Cloud-based firewall 4. Malware and phishing protection based on threat intelligence 5. Filtering of content	Threat intelligence-driven DNS filtering with real-time protection.	Starts at $2.20/user/month.	Yes
3. OpenDNS	1. DNS safety 2. Filtering of web content 3. Malware and phishing defense 4. Botnet defense 5. Access to the internet that is secure 6. intelligence on threats	Customizable content filtering and security with global threat intelligence.	From $1/user/month.	Yes
4. BlueCat DNS Integrity	1. DNS safety 2. Detection and prevention of threats 3. DNS traffic examination 4. Malware and phishing defense 5. DNS firewall capabilities with real-time threat intelligence	Enterprise DNS with advanced threat detection and prevention.	Contact for pricing details.	No
5. CleanBrowsing	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Filtering for families 3. Malware and phishing defense 4. Adult content is restricted. 5. Filtering thresholds that can be customized 6. Enforcement of safe searches	Family-safe DNS filtering with predefined categories for content blocking.	Free and paid plans are available.	Yes
6. Quad9	1. Malware and phishing defense Secure DNS resolution 2. Filtering of content 3. Integration of threat intelligence 4. DNS provider that prioritizes privacy 5. Domains known to be harmful should be blocked.	DNS service blocks access to malicious domains using threat intelligence.	Free DNS filtering service.	No
7. Cloudflare Gateway	1. DNS resolution that is secure 2. Web filtering and content management 3. Malware and phishing defense 4. Web surfing security 5. Advanced threat defense 6. Control at the application level	DNS filtering with privacy-focused, fast, and reliable performance.	Contact for pricing details.	Yes
8. Norton ConnectSafe	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Advanced threat detection 4. Cloud-based security for secure web browsing URL categorization and filtering	DNS filtering with configurable protection levels for enhanced security.	Discontinued.	No
9. Comodo Dome Shield	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Advanced Threat detection 4. Cloud-based security for secure web browsing URL categorization and filtering	DNS filtering with malware protection and web filtering options.	Free and paid plans are available.	Yes
10. AdGuard DNS	1. DNS-based ad filtering 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Filtering for parental control 4. Analytics and tracking blocking 5. DNS resolution that is secure 6 Filtering rules that can be customized	Ad-blocking and privacy protection through customizable DNS filtering.	Free and paid plans are available.	Yes
11. Neustar UltraDNS Firewall	1. DNS-based protection 2. DDoS mitigation Malware and threat protection 3. Policy-based DNS resolution is secure. 4. Threat intelligence in real-time	DNS protection with advanced threat detection and mitigation.	Contact for pricing details.	No
12. Quadranet CleanBrowsing	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Filtering for families 3. Malware and phishing defense 4. Filtering thresholds that can be customized 5. Enforcement of safe searches 6. DNS resolution that is secure	Predefined content filtering DNS for safe browsing experiences.	Free and paid plans available.	No
13. DNSFilter	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Policies for granular filtering 4. Enforcement of safe searches 5. Integration of threat intelligence 6. Unwanted domains should be blocked.	AI-driven DNS filtering is used to block harmful content and threats.	Starts at $1.50/user/month.	Yes
14. SafeDNS	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Filtering for parental control 4. Filtering thresholds that can be customized 5. URL classification and blocking 6. Enforcement of safe searches	Flexible DNS filtering with customizable policies and reporting features.	From $3.99/user/month.	Yes
15. Surfshark DNS Filtering	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Filtering for parental control 4. Filtering options that can be customized 5. URL classification and blocking 6. Enforcement of safe searches	DNS protection is integrated with VPN services to enhance privacy.	Included with VPN subscription.	Yes
16. NextDNS	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Filtering for parental control 4. Filtering options that can be customized 5. Reporting and analytics 6. Management of blocklists and allowlists	Highly customizable DNS filtering with analytics and threat detection.	Free and paid plans are available.	Yes
17. Akamai Enterprise Threat Protector	1. Detection of malware and threats 2. Advanced threat intelligence based on DNS 3. Malicious domains are blocked in real-time. 4. DDoS attack mitigation 5. DNS resolution that is secure	Highly customizable DNS filtering with analytics and threat detection.	Contact for pricing details.	No
18. Yandex.DNS	1. Malware and phishing defense Secure DNS resolution 2. Filtering of content 3. Filtering for parental control 4. Filtering thresholds that can be customized 5. Enforcement of safe searches	Free DNS service offering security and content filtering options.	Free DNS filtering service.	No
19. IBM Security DNS Protection	1. Detection of malware and threats 2. Advanced threat intelligence based on DNS 3. Malicious domains are blocked in real-time. 4. DDoS attack mitigation 5. DNS resolution that is secure	Enterprise-grade DNS security with advanced threat intelligence.	Contact for pricing details.	No
20. DNS Filter by WebTitan	1. Content blocking with DNS 2. Malware and phishing defense 3. Filtering options that can be customized 4. URL classification and blocking 5. Enforcement of safe searches 6. Analytics and reporting	Intelligent DNS filtering with real-time threat detection and reporting.	Free and paid plans are available.	Yes

1. Perimeter81

Perimeter81 offers secure access service edge (SASE) options, such as DNS filtering. It enhances security by blocking malicious sites and controlling internet access through advanced, customizable DNS filtering solutions

The DNS filtering solution from Perimeter81 lets organizations implement content filtering policies, block malicious websites, and protect themselves from online threats. It also gives you information about new and rising threats in real-time.

The DNS filtering system from Perimeter81 has a database of known bad domains and URLs. It instantly blocks access to these sites so users aren’t infected with malware or phished.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Perimeter81 provides secure remote access to business resources, enabling employees to connect to the company’s network from any location and device.
• It connects to on-premises servers, cloud environments, and other resources smoothly and securely.
• It adheres to the Zero Trust security concept, which checks and authenticates every person and device seeking to access the network.
• Based on user identity, device posture, and other contextual parameters, granular access controls are provided to guarantee that only authorized users can access specific resources.

Pros	Cons
1. Enhanced Security	1. Limited Feature Set
2. Easy Deployment and Management	2. Pricing
3. Scalability and Flexibility	3. Learning Curve
4. Cloud-native Architecture	4. Reliance on Internet Connectivity

2. Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella is a DNS filtering solution that offers good value for its price. It boasts a vast database of millions of websites categorized into nearly 90 categories, facilitating easier categorization and blocking.

One of its notable features is the ability to implement policy-based blocking and create custom policies for specific users. This allows fine-grained control over website access, enabling certain users to access necessary sites while blocking access for others who don’t require them.

The solution offers customizable content filtering and policy enforcement to ensure compliance and control over user internet activity, with easy integration into existing security frameworks.

Cisco Umbrella features advanced reporting and analytics capabilities, enabling detailed insights into DNS traffic, threat activity, and potential vulnerabilities to help organizations make informed security decisions.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• It employs DNS (Domain Name System) security to prevent connections to malicious domains and IP addresses.
• It is a secure online gateway that analyzes web traffic for risks and enforces web access regulations.
• It enables enterprises to get visibility into and control cloud applications.
• It integrates with Cisco Talos, a well-known threat intelligence firm, to offer current information on developing threats and malicious domains.

Pros	Cons
1. Global Threat Intelligence	1. Complexity for Some Organizations
2. Secure Web Gateway	2. Single Vendor Dependency
3. DNS Filtering	3. Latency
4. Cloud-Based Deployment	4. Cost

3. OpenDNS

OpenDNS offers comprehensive DNS filtering solutions that protect users from malicious sites, phishing attempts, and unwanted content, enhancing overall network security and compliance.

The platform provides customizable filtering policies and threat intelligence, allowing organizations to tailor protection levels and block content categories relevant to their needs.

With robust analytics and reporting features, OpenDNS enables administrators to monitor network activity, identify potential threats, and make informed decisions about security and content access.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• OpenDNS provides content filtering features, allowing businesses to monitor and restrict access to specific categories of websites based on their content.
• OpenDNS detects and blocks connections to known harmful domains and IP addresses using threat intelligence and real-time analysis.
• OpenDNS contains a botnet protection capability that detects and blocks connections to botnet command and control (C&C) servers.
• This helps to secure DNS traffic’s privacy and integrity by preventing eavesdropping, tampering, and DNS-based attacks.

Pros	Cons
1. DNS Security	1. Limited Granularity
2. Content Filtering	2. Latency
3. Scalability	3. Single Vendor Dependency
4. Reporting and Insights	4. Cost

4. BlueCat DNS Integrity

BlueCat Integrity is a comprehensive DNS security solution that offers visibility and control over DNS traffic on your network. It provides real-time threat detection and response, ensuring compliance with security standards. Integrity helps proactively identify and mitigate security risks.

It seamlessly integrates with other security tools, creating a robust security ecosystem. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, BlueCat Integrity protects your network from DNS-based attacks and ensures the integrity of your DNS infrastructure.

With detailed analytics and reporting features, BlueCat DNS Integrity helps organizations gain valuable insights into network traffic patterns and security incidents, facilitating better decision-making and enhancing overall network security.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• BlueCat DNS Integrity features a DNS firewall that defends against DNS-based attacks such as DNS cache poisoning, DNS spoofing, and DNS tunneling.
• DNSSEC is a collection of DNS extensions that provides cryptographic security to DNS answers. BlueCat DNS Integrity supports DNSSEC.
• DDoS protection capabilities are provided by BlueCat DNS Integrity to limit the impact of DDoS attacks on DNS infrastructure.
• BlueCat DNS Integrity gives administrators detailed insight into DNS traffic, allowing them to analyze and monitor DNS requests and responses.

Pros	Cons
1. Enhanced DNS Security	1. Learning Curve
2. DNS Performance Optimization	2. Complexity for Small Environments
3. Policy-Based DNS Management	3. Cost
4. Integrated IP Address Management (IPAM)	4. Limited Integration

5. CleanBrowsing

CleanBrowsing offers a DNS filtering solution that blocks access to harmful and inappropriate content by leveraging pre-configured and customizable filtering categories. This ensures a safer online experience for users of all ages.

The service includes options for family protection, malware blocking, and security-focused filters, providing comprehensive coverage against various online threats and unwanted content.

CleanBrowsing’s easy-to-implement solution integrates seamlessly with existing network infrastructure, requiring minimal configuration. It delivers robust protection and enhances overall internet safety across devices.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• CleanBrowsing includes a Family Filter that prevents access to adult materials, explicit websites, and other inappropriate information.
• It contains a Security Filter that protects against malware, phishing, and harmful websites.
• CleanBrowsing allows users to construct custom filters by selecting particular categories to ban or allow.
• CleanBrowsing supports DNS encryption technologies such as DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT).

Pros	Cons
1. Content Filtering	1. DNS-only Solution
2. Malware and Phishing Protection	2. Potential False Positives or Negatives
3. Customizable Policies	3. Limited Granularity:
4. DNS-based Implementation:	4. Reliance on DNS Infrastructure

6. Quad9

Quad9 DNS Filtering is a security solution that provides enhanced protection against malicious websites and online threats. It is a free public DNS (Domain Name System) service that offers DNS filtering capabilities to protect users from accessing malicious or harmful websites.

Quad9 DNS Filtering provides robust security by blocking access to known malicious domains and phishing sites, enhancing protection against online threats and malware.

The solution is easy to implement, requiring simple DNS server configuration changes, and is compatible with most devices and operating systems, offering robust security with minimal setup effort.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Quad9 uses threat intelligence and real-time analysis to prevent connections to known harmful domains and IP addresses.
• Quad9 offers phishing protection by preventing connections to recognized phishing websites.
• DNSSEC is a set of DNS extensions that adds cryptographic security to DNS answers. DNSSEC protects DNS data against spoofing and tampering by ensuring its integrity and validity.
• Users’ personally identifiable information (PII) is not collected or stored.
• Quad9 operates a global network of DNS resolvers strategically placed throughout the world.

Pros	Cons
1. Privacy Protection	1. Limited Customization:
2. Security Filtering	2. Potential False Positives
3. DNS Encryption	3. Lack of Advanced Features
4. Global Network	4. Reliance on Quad9 Infrastructure

7. Cloudflare Gateway

Cloudflare Gateway provides DNS filtering with real-time threat intelligence, blocking access to malicious websites and harmful content to protect users and networks.

It offers customizable filtering policies to enforce security rules and ensure compliance across various organizational needs. The solution integrates seamlessly with Cloudflare’s global network, delivering fast and reliable protection with minimal latency or impact on user experience.

Cloudflare Gateway includes detailed analytics and reporting features, giving administrators insights into network activity and potential security threats for more informed decision-making.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Cloudflare Gateway enables businesses to enforce web access regulations by filtering and limiting access to specified types of websites.
• Malware protection is provided by Cloudflare Gateway, which offers advanced threat intelligence and malware scanning capabilities.
• It prevents users from downloading malicious files and bans access to websites notorious for transmitting malware, providing malware protection and lowering the chance of infection.
• Cloudflare Gateway detects and blocks connections to phishing websites and botnet command-and-control (C2) servers.

Pros	Cons
1. Robust Security	1. Cost
2. Scalability and Performance:	2. Learning Curve
3. DNS Filtering and Security	3. Reliance on Cloudflare Infrastructure
4. Cloud-Native Architecture	4. Limited Customization

8. Norton ConnectSafe

Norton ConnectSafe is a free public DNS service provided by Symantec Corporation. It aimed to offer a faster and more reliable web browsing experience while protecting against threats.

To safeguard devices, it blocked known unsafe, fraudulent, phishing, and infected websites. Additionally, it offered content filtering to block unwanted and inappropriate content, making it suitable for child safety.

Users could set their DNS server addresses to Norton ConnectSafe servers or use client software for automatic configuration on Windows, Mac OS X, and Android devices.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Norton ConnectSafe will prevent users from accessing known harmful websites, safeguarding them from malware attacks and phishing attempts.
• The service enabled parents to set up filters to block inappropriate or harmful websites, protecting their children’s online experience.
• Protection levels that can be customized: Users can select different degrees of protection based on their needs.
• High blocked all dangerous and unsuitable websites; Medium blocked just malicious sites, and Low blocked only sites with a high risk of infection.
• Norton ConnectSafe was compatible with various devices and operating systems, including computers, cell phones, and tablets.

Pros	Cons
1. Strong security against malicious sites.	1. Discontinued service with no updates
2. Easy to configure and use.	2. Limited customization options for filtering
3. Effective content filtering options.	3. Basic protection compared to competitors
4. Free service with reliable protection.	4. Lack of support for modern features

9. Comodo Dome Shield

Comodo Cybersecurity, or Comodo, offers a DNS-based security solution called Comodo Dome Shield (CDS). It combines web filtering and anti-malware software to provide an extra layer of protection against web-based threats.

CDS is notable for being entirely free, making it an attractive option for users seeking cost-effective security solutions. It blocks access to known malware-infected websites and offers web filtering, regular reporting, and advanced analytics features.

The solution features real-time threat intelligence and updates, ensuring the protection adapts to emerging threats and maintains high security.

With an easy-to-use dashboard, Comodo Dome Shield simplifies managing and monitoring DNS traffic. It provides detailed insights and analytics to help identify and address potential security issues.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Comodo Dome Shield provides DNS filtering features to prevent access to malicious websites, phishing sites, and other harmful online content.
• Comodo Dome Shield enables enterprises to impose content filtering policies to restrict access to specified types of websites.
• Comodo Dome Shield contains advanced malware defense features.
• By limiting access to known phishing websites, Comodo Dome Shield protects users from phishing assaults.
• Comodo Dome Shield detects and blocks botnet command-and-control (C&C) server connections.

Pros	Cons
1. Comprehensive Threat Protection	1. Limited Free Version
2. Multilingual Filtering	2. Learning Curve
3. Intuitive User Interface	3. Lack of Current Information
4. Granular Policy Controls

10. AdGuard DNS

AdGuard DNS is a comprehensive web traffic control solution that enhances online safety and privacy. It effectively blocks ads, trackers, and malicious domains, ensuring a secure browsing experience for users at home and in the workplace.

AdGuard DNS offers features such as ad and tracker blocking, protection against analytics systems, and content filtering, making it suitable for individuals and families.

The ability to manage web traffic for each device and schedule screen time for kids provides additional control and customization options. Users can access request statistics, utilize AdGuard’s default filters, or manually block specific domains based on their preferences.

AdGuard DNS uses powerful filters to eliminate ads and trackers across all connected devices, providing a safer and more enjoyable internet experience.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• AdGuard DNS restricts adverts at the DNS level, preventing them from being displayed on websites, applications, and other online platforms.
• AdGuard DNS offers malware protection, which prevents connections to known dangerous domains and IP addresses. It protects users from malware infections, phishing attacks, and other online hazards by stopping them from visiting potentially risky websites.
• By limiting access to known phishing websites, AdGuard DNS protects consumers from phishing assaults.
• AdGuard DNS provides optional parental control capabilities to protect children from inappropriate or hazardous content.

Pros	Cons
1. Ad Blocking	1. Limited Granularity
2. Privacy Protection	2. Potential False Positives
3. Simple Setup	3. No Advanced Features
4. Cross-Platform Compatibility	4. Limited Support

11. Neustar UltraDNS Firewall

Neustar UltraDNS Firewall provides robust DNS filtering to block access to malicious websites and prevent cyber threats by leveraging a comprehensive threat intelligence database, ensuring enhanced security for enterprise networks.

The solution offers customizable policies and real-time threat detection, allowing organizations to tailor filtering rules according to their specific security needs and regulatory requirements.

With its scalable architecture and seamless integration into existing network infrastructures, Neustar UltraDNS Firewall helps maintain consistent and reliable protection without disrupting business operations or user experience.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• The Neustar UltraDNS Firewall is equipped with DDoS mitigation features.
• Neustar UltraDNS Firewall includes a DNS firewall that defends against DNS-based attacks such as DNS cache poisoning, DNS amplification, and DNS tunneling.
• Neustar UltraDNS Firewall interfaces with a threat intelligence feed to deliver real-time information on known dangerous domains and IP addresses.
• The Neustar UltraDNS Firewall supports DNSSEC, a set of DNS extensions that provides cryptographic security to DNS answers.

Pros	Cons
1. High level of security	1. Expensive
2. Fast speeds	2. Difficult to set up
3. Reliable connection	3. Outdated interface
4. Highly customizable

12. Quadranet CleanBrowsing

Quardranet CleanBrowsing is a DNS Filtering solution that ensures safe browsing experiences by providing threat protection and content filtering.

It provides inexpensive, easy-to-deploy enterprise content filtering without contracts. Quardranet CleanBrowsing lets users quickly set up network-level security policies to protect against web-based malware, phishing attempts, botnets, and C&C communication.

The solution provides real-time threat intelligence and analytics, allowing administrators to monitor and manage DNS queries effectively while ensuring a secure browsing experience.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• CleanBrowsing enables users to enact content filtering policies that restrict access to specified websites such as adult content, violence, gambling, and social networking sites.
• By limiting connections to known harmful sites and IP addresses, CleanBrowsing protects users against malware attacks.
• CleanBrowsing supports DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT), which provide DNS query and response encryption.
• CleanBrowsing may enforce SafeSearch on prominent search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo.

Pros	Cons
1. Customizable content filtering options are available.	1. Limited customization options for content filtering.
2. Effective protection against harmful websites.	2. May affect website loading speeds.
3. Real-time threat monitoring and analytics.	3. Potential for false positives in blocking.
4. Easy integration with existing network setups.	4. Limited integration with other security tools.

13. DNSFilter

DNSFilter is a cloud-based DNS protector that prevents online threats like malware, viruses, and phishing attacks. It employs advanced features like AI-powered content filtering to regulate users’ access.

DNSFilter provides a user-friendly dashboard where users can conveniently monitor their websites and network activity and generate comprehensive security reports.

It offers a straightforward and effective solution for protecting against online threats. It utilizes AI-powered content filtering and provides a user-friendly dashboard for easy management and monitoring.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• DNSFilter detects and blocks connections to known harmful domains and IP addresses using threat intelligence and real-time analysis.
• It enables enterprises to impose content filtering policies to block access to specified categories of websites.
• DNSFilter can enforce SafeSearch on prominent search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo.
• It includes facilities for granular policy administration, allowing administrators to set and enforce different filtering policies based on user groups, devices, or IP addresses.

Pros	Cons
1. Effective Content Filtering	1. False Positives
2. Customizable Policies	2. Limited Visibility into Encrypted Traffic
3. Real-time Threat Protection	3. Dependency on DNS:
4. User-Friendly Interface:	4. Advanced Features and Integration

14. SafeDNS

SafeDNS is a cost-effective DNS filtering solution suitable for budget-conscious users. It offers protection for both workplace environments and public Wi-Fi hotspots.

While it supports content categorization for enhanced filtering efficiency, it remains functional without that feature. SafeDNS incorporates advanced AI-infused machine learning capabilities, enabling seamless and automated detection of malware and dangerous websites.

SafeDNS includes real-time monitoring and detailed reporting tools, providing insights into web activity and potential threats, which helps maintain security and compliance while managing internet usage effectively.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• It categorizes websites using extensive URL categorization and threat intelligence to prevent users from accessing hazardous or unauthorized information.
• Malware protection capabilities in SafeDNS allow it to restrict connections to known dangerous domains and IP addresses.
• SafeDNS protects against phishing attacks by preventing access to recognized websites.
• SafeDNS enables enterprises to impose content filtering policies based on predefined categories or custom criteria. Categories.

Pros	Cons
1. Strong Content Filtering:	1. False Positives
2. Customizable Filtering Policies	2. Lack of Advanced Features
3. Malware and Phishing Protection:	3. Dependency on DNS
4. Scalability and Performance	4. Limited Visibility into Encrypted Traffic

15. Surfshark DNS Filtering

Surfshark DNS Filtering provides robust protection by blocking access to malicious websites and harmful content, enhancing user security and privacy across all devices connected to your network.

The solution offers customizable filtering options to tailor content restrictions according to specific needs, ensuring a safer online experience for users.

With Surfshark DNS Filtering, users benefit from a straightforward setup process and integration with Surfshark’s VPN service, delivering comprehensive security and privacy features in one unified platform.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Surfshark provides a VPN service that encrypts and routes your internet traffic through secure servers, shielding your data and online activities from eavesdropping and spying.
• The VPN also conceals your IP address, giving you privacy and eliminating tracking.
• Surfshark features an ad blocker that helps to block unwanted and intrusive adverts.
• Surfshark uses robust threat detection and blocking algorithms to prevent users from visiting harmful websites and preventing connections to known malware-infected domains and phishing sites.

Pros	Cons
1. Free to use	1. Limited to mobile devices
2. Wide selection of DNS servers (100+)	2. No categorized server list for more accessible selection

16. NextDNS

NextDNS provides advanced DNS filtering by blocking malicious websites, intrusive ads, and trackers, enhancing privacy and security across all devices connected to your network.

It offers customizable filtering profiles and granular control, allowing users to tailor protection based on specific needs or preferences.

With real-time analytics and detailed reporting, NextDNS helps monitor network activity, providing insights into potential threats and usage patterns for better management and security.

NextDNS integrates seamlessly with various platforms and devices, offering easy setup and management through a user-friendly interface. It ensures comprehensive protection without complicated configurations.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• NextDNS has powerful ad-blocking capabilities that block advertising and other undesirable information at the DNS level.
• It speeds up browsing, saves data, and improves the user experience.
• NextDNS blocks connections to known harmful domains and IP addresses using threat information and real-time analysis.
• It enables users and organizations to impose content filtering policies to restrict access to specified types of websites.

Pros	Cons
1. Global network for enhanced resilience	1. Pricing information requires contacting the sales team
2. Two-factor authentication

17. Akamai Enterprise Threat Protector

Akamai Technologies, Inc. has launched Enterprise Threat Protector, a cloud-based solution offering fast and manageable protection against sophisticated targeted threats. The solution addresses malware, ransomware, phishing, and DNS-based data exfiltration.

It provides customers with a quick and easy deployment process. Akamai is the world’s largest and most trusted cloud delivery platform. Akamai’s Enterprise Threat Protector is a solution that aims to bridge the “intelligence gap” in DNS infrastructure.

The solution enhances a company’s recursive DNS requests by adding critical intelligence and leveraging threat data gathered through Akamai’s Cloud Security Intelligence capabilities. This prevents users from accessing malicious domains and reduces business risk.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• ETP uses DNS-based security to detect and prevent connections to known malicious domains and IP addresses.
• Web filtering tools are included in ETP to enforce content policies and control access to particular categories of websites.
• It helps protect against malware infections and attacks by limiting connections to websites implicated in malware distribution or hosting phishing efforts.
• ETP includes data loss prevention tools to prevent sensitive information from being lost or exfiltrated.

Pros	Cons
1. Enhance security defenses by proactively blocking DNS requests	1. Limited customer support
2. Hassle-free solution for instant and scalable protection.

18. Yandex.DNS

Yandex DNS is a comprehensive and reliable DNS server that offers fast performance and robust protection. Its extensive range of customizable features stands out, allowing users to tailor their DNS experience according to their needs.

With its impressive speed, Yandex DNS can significantly improve productivity. It provides a cost-effective solution for those seeking a reliable and efficient DNS service.

Yandex.DNS is easy to configure and integrates seamlessly with most devices and operating systems, making it accessible for personal and business use without requiring complex setups.

It also includes protection against phishing attacks and other security threats, contributing to a safer online browsing experience for users.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• Yandex provides security.DNS helps consumers avoid visiting harmful websites by blocking connections to known malicious domains
• It provides content filtering.DNS allows users to enable content filtering and restrict access to specified websites.
• Yandex provides DNS spoofing protection.DNS aids in the prevention of DNS spoofing attacks, which involve changing DNS replies to route consumers to fraudulent websites.
• Yandex protects your privacy.DNS protects the privacy of its users by not monitoring individual DNS queries or retaining personal information associated with DNS requests.

Pros	Cons
1. High speed	1. Setting it up may require initial learning and familiarity with the configuration process.
2. Effective blocking of malware and bots

19. IBM Security DNS Protection

IBM Security DNS Protection is a comprehensive cloud-based security solution that protects organizations from various cyber threats at the DNS (Domain Name System) level.

IBM Security DNS Protection leverages threat intelligence and machine learning capabilities to identify and block malicious DNS requests, ensuring that users are not directed to malicious websites or domains.

Filtering and inspecting DNS traffic helps prevent the execution of malicious code and the exfiltration of sensitive data. It offers advanced DNS security features to detect and prevent malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and data exfiltration attempts.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• IBM Security DNS Protection utilizes threat intelligence feeds and real-time analysis to identify and block connections to known malicious domains and IP addresses.
• It includes a DNS firewall that enforces security policies to filter and block malicious DNS traffic.
• It offers content filtering capabilities to control access to specific categories of websites.
• IBM Security DNS Protection employs advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to detect and block zero-day malware threats.

Pros	Cons
1. Comprehensive Threat Protection	1. Pricing
2. Customizable Filtering Policies	2. Complexity for Small Organizations
3. Cloud-Based Deployment	3. Support and Documentation:
4. Real-Time Monitoring and Reporting	4. Limited Visibility into Encrypted Traffic

20. DNSFilter by WebTitan

DNSFilter by WebTitan Cloud is a robust web filtering solution that offers advanced DNS filtering controls and comprehensive threat protection.

It effectively safeguards against malicious webpages, phishing, viruses, ransomware, and harmful web content. Its database of over 500 million URLs provides extensive filtering capabilities.

The platform includes a flexible policy engine, enabling administrators to configure precise content filtering rules and categories. WebTitan Cloud is user-friendly and offers strong threat protection for office and remote users.

Why Do We Recommend It?

• DNSFilter helps protect users and organizations from malware infections by blocking connections to known malicious domains and IP addresses.
• It includes features that block access to known phishing websites.
• DNSFilter allows organizations to enforce content filtering policies to control access to specific categories of websites.
• DNSFilter can enforce SafeSearch on popular search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo.

Pros	Cons
1. Robust threat protection	1. Limited customization options
2. Advanced DNS filtering controls