18 Best Web Filtering Solutions – 2024

Web filtering solutions involve monitoring and filtering internet traffic to prevent users from accessing specific websites, applications, or types of content that may be deemed inappropriate, unsafe, or non-compliant with organizational guidelines.

In today’s digital era, where Internet access is pervasive and essential for personal and professional purposes, ensuring a secure and productive online environment has become paramount.

Web filtering solutions are crucial in managing and controlling internet usage, allowing organizations to safeguard their networks, protect sensitive information, enforce acceptable use policies, and optimize productivity. 

Web filtering software is designed to monitor and filter internet traffic, enabling organizations to control access to websites, applications, and content based on predefined rules and policies.

These solutions employ various techniques such as URL filtering, keyword filtering, category-based filtering, and content analysis to determine the appropriateness and safety of web content.

By implementing effective web filtering solutions, businesses can mitigate risks associated with cyber threats, prevent unauthorized access to malicious or inappropriate websites, and reduce the potential impact of phishing attacks, malware infections, data breaches, and compliance violations.

Furthermore, best web filtering solutions help organizations optimize bandwidth usage by restricting access to non-business-related websites, streaming platforms, or other resource-intensive applications.

Selecting the best web filtering Tools requires careful consideration of factors such as filtering accuracy, ease of deployment and management, scalability, reporting and analytics capabilities, integration with existing infrastructure, and compliance with industry regulations.

Organizations must assess their requirements and choose a solution that aligns with their objectives, industry regulations, and workforce needs.

What is Web Filtering?

Web filtering refers to controlling and managing access to websites and online content based on predetermined rules and policies.

Web filtering can be implemented at different levels, such as network, device, or browser.

It typically involves filtering technologies and techniques to analyze URLs, web content, keywords, categories, and other attributes to determine whether a website or content should be allowed or blocked.

How Do Web Filtering Solutions Work?

Web filtering solutions are tools or systems for controlling and managing access to websites and online content.

They are widely used in businesses, schools, and homes to enforce acceptable use restrictions, protect against malware and phishing, and assure regulatory compliance.

The specifics of web filtering solutions vary based on the product or service provider. However, the following are the main steps:

• URL Categorization: Most web filtering programs keep a large database of categorized URLs. Websites are categorized into several categories, including social media, gaming, adult content, news, and so on.
• Filtering Policies: Administrators or users define filtering policies that govern which websites or content are permitted or prohibited. These restrictions can be based on specific URLs, keywords, or other criteria. Different filtering levels or profiles can be created for different user groups or devices.
• Analysis and Decision Making: The web filtering solution compares the requested URL or content to its database and filtering policies. It determines whether the website fits into any restricted categories or matches any restricted criteria.
• Real-Time Updates: To keep up with the ever-changing nature of the web, web filtering solutions frequently update their database and policies in real time. This includes adding new websites to good categories, deleting incorrectly classified sites, and remaining current on developing dangers.

Many web filtering solutions include extra capabilities like malware detection and prevention, phishing protection, bandwidth control, reporting and analytics, and SSL decryption to analyze encrypted data.

What are Web Filtering Solutions?

There are various sorts of web filtering solutions available, such as:

• DNS-Based Filtering: These solutions limit access to specified websites based on their domain names or IP addresses at the DNS (Domain Name System) level.
• Proxy-Based Filtering: Web traffic is intercepted and filtered using proxy servers. Users must connect to the proxy server, which filters and restricts their internet access according to established rules.
• URL Filtering entails keeping a database of categorized URLs and comparing the requested URLs to this database. Access is forbidden if a requested URL matches a restricted category.
• Keyword Filtering: Web filtering systems can restrict or allow access to websites based on the presence or absence of specific keywords in the content or URL of the website.
• Content Analysis: These solutions scan website content and decide its suitability based on established policies using powerful algorithms and machine learning approaches.

Web Filtering Solutions Advantages

Web filtering technologies have numerous advantages, including:

• Keeping users away from hazardous or unsuitable content.
• Restricting access to non-work-related websites improves productivity.
• Blocking access to harmful websites to prevent malware and phishing assaults.
• Meeting legal or regulatory criteria.
• Allowing parents to keep their children away from inappropriate content.

Best Web Filtering Solutions and its Features

Best Web Filtering Solutions	Key Features
1. Perimeter81	1. Secure Network Access 2. Zero Trust Architecture 3. Software-Defined Perimeter 4. Cloud VPN 5. Multi-Factor Authentication 6. Network Segmentation 7. Threat Intelligence Integration 8. Centralized Management 9. User Activity Monitoring 10. Secure Web Gateway
2. Cisco Umbrella	1. Cloud-based Security 2. Secure Web Gateway 3. URL Filtering 4. Advanced Threat Protection 5. Data Loss Prevention 6. Cloud Application Control 7. SSL Inspection 8. User and Device Authentication 9. Policy-based Access Control 10. Content Filtering
3. Zscaler Internet Access	1. Web Content Filtering 2. Malware Protection 3. Application Control 4. SSL Inspection 5. User Authentication 6. Bandwidth Management 7. Reporting and Analytics 8. Virus and Spyware Protection 9. URL Filtering 10. Cloud-based Management
4. Symantec WebFilter	1. Web Content Filtering 2. Advanced Threat Protection 3. Data Loss Prevention 4. SSL Inspection 5. Application Control 6. User Authentication 7. Malware Protection 8. URL Filtering 9. Reporting and Analytics
5. Barracuda Web Security Gateway	1. Web content filtering 2. Malware and virus protection 3. SSL inspection 4. Application control 5. User authentication and policy enforcement 6. Bandwidth management and QoS 7. Reporting and analytics 8. Mobile and remote filtering
6. Forcepoint Web Security	1. Web Content Filtering 2. Malware Protection 3. SSL Inspection 4. URL Filtering 5. Application Control 6. Data Loss Prevention 7. User Authentication 8. Reporting and Analytics 9. Bandwidth Management
7. McAfee Web Gateway	1. Web Content Filtering 2. Malware Protection 3. URL Filtering 4. Application Control 5. SSL Inspection 6. Data Loss Prevention 7. User Authentication 8. Reporting and Analytics 9. Bandwidth Management 10. Cloud-based Management
8. Sophos Web Appliance	1. URL Categorization 2. Malicious URL Detection 3. Application-based Filtering 4. Custom URL Filtering Policies 5. SSL Inspection 6. User Authentication 7. Reporting and Logging 8. Granular Policy Control 9. Real-time Threat Intelligence
9. Palo Alto Networks URL Filtering	1. Web Content Filtering 2. SSL Inspection 3. Malware Protection 4. URL Filtering 5. Application Control 6. Data Loss Prevention 7. User Authentication 8. Reporting and Analytics
10. Smoothwall Web Filter	1. Web Content Filtering 2. URL Filtering 3. Malware Protection 4. Application Control 5. User Authentication 6. Reporting and Analytics 7. Bandwidth Management 8. Time-based Policies 10. Custom Blacklists and Whitelists
11. iBoss Web Security	1. Application Control 2. User Authentication 3. Reporting and Logging 4. Bandwidth Management 5. Threat Intelligence Integration 6. Cloud-based Management 7. Mobile and Remote Filtering 8. Customizable Policies
12. Fortinet FortiGate Web Filtering	1. Web Content Filtering 2. URL Filtering 3. Malware Protection 4. Application Control 5. User Authentication 6. Reporting and Analytics 7. Bandwidth Management
13. GFI WebMonitor	1. Web content filtering 2. Malware and virus protection 3. SSL inspection 4. Application control 5. Bandwidth management 6. Real-time monitoring and reporting 7. User authentication and policy enforcement 8. Mobile device support
14. OpenDNS	1. Web Content Filtering 2. URL Filtering 3. Malware Protection 4. Application Control 5. User Authentication 6. Reporting and Analytics 7. Bandwidth Management
15. Untangle Web Filter	1. Application control 2. Bandwidth management 3. Reporting and analytics 4. User authentication and policy enforcement 5. URL categorization and blacklisting 6. Safe search enforcement 7. Active Directory integration.
16. WebTitan	1. Malware and phishing protection 2. SSL inspection 3. Application control 4. Bandwidth management 5. Reporting and analytics 6. User authentication and policy enforcement 7. URL categorization and blacklisting
17. DNSFilter	1. DNS filtering 2. Content filtering 3. Malware and phishing protection 4. Advanced threat intelligence 5. Reporting and analytics 6. Roaming protection 7. Granular policy control 8. Integration and API support
18. McAfee Web Protection	1. Malware and virus protection 2. SSL inspection 3. Application control 4. Data loss prevention (DLP) 5. Advanced threat defense 6. Reporting and analytics 7. User authentication and policy enforcement 8. Bandwidth management

Best Web Filtering Solutions 2024

• Perimeter81
• Cisco Umbrella
• Zscaler Internet Access
• Symantec WebFilter
• Barracuda Web Security Gateway
• Forcepoint Web Security
• McAfee Web Gateway
• Sophos Web Appliance
• Palo Alto Networks URL Filtering
• Smoothwall Web Filter
• iBoss Web Security
• Fortinet FortiGate Web Filtering
• GFI WebMonitor
• OpenDNS
• Untangle Web Filter
• WebTitan
• DNSFilter
• McAfee Web Protection

1. Perimeter81

Perimeter81 offers web filtering solutions as part of its network security platform.

These solutions provide organizations with control over internet access by filtering URLs, content, and applications.

It includes features like URL filtering, content filtering, malware and phishing protection, application control, reporting, and VPN and network security integration.

Perimeter81’s web filtering solutions enable organizations to enhance security, productivity, and compliance by managing and controlling web access effectively.

Features

• Provides secure and controlled access to network resources for remote and on-premises users.
• Implements a zero-trust security model, requiring authentication and authorization for every access attempt.
• Utilizes software-defined networking to create a flexible and scalable security framework.
• Establishes secure connections between remote users and cloud resources, ensuring encrypted data transmission.
• Requires multiple authentication factors, such as passwords, biometrics, or tokens, for enhanced user verification.
• Divides the network into smaller segments, reducing the potential impact of security breaches and limiting lateral movement.

Pros	Cons
User-friendly interface.	Higher cost for small businesses.
Robust security features.	Complexity for smaller teams.
Highly scalable.	Dependence on cloud infrastructure.
Multi-platform support.	Limited physical hardware options.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

2. Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-based web filtering and security platform. It uses DNS to filter and block access to malicious or inappropriate websites.

It provides advanced threat protection, content filtering, and secure web gateway capabilities.

Umbrella allows organizations to create custom policies, offers flexible deployment options, and integrates with the Cisco security ecosystem.

It helps protect against online threats, enforce web access policies, and enhance security.

Features

• Protects the DNS and IP layers, blocking connections to malicious sites and IPs.
• Implements web content filtering to enforce acceptable use policies and block access to inappropriate or risky websites.
• Detects and blocks malware infections, including ransomware, and prevents phishing attacks.
• Offers secure internet access for users, regardless of location, by redirecting traffic through Cisco Umbrella.
• Utilizes extensive threat intelligence to identify and block known malicious domains, IPs, and URLs.
• Prevents infected devices from communicating with command-and-control servers.
• Protects against DNS-based attacks, such as DNS hijacking and DNS tunneling.

Pros	Cons
Comprehensive threat protection.	Can be expensive for small businesses.
Broad coverage across devices and locations.	Complexity in configuration and management.
Integrates with existing security tools.	May have overblocking issues.
Cloud-delivered for easy deployment.	Limited customization for smaller organizations.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

3. Zscaler Internet Access

Zscaler Internet Access is a cloud-native web filtering and security platform. Its cloud-native architecture ensures scalability and global coverage.

It offers URL and content filtering, malware protection, application control, SSL inspection, and reporting capabilities.

The platform helps organizations enforce acceptable use policies, protect against web-based threats, and optimize internet access.

Zscaler Internet Access provides comprehensive web filtering solutions for enhanced security and control.

Features

• Zscaler operates as a cloud-based security platform, providing security services without the need for on-premises hardware or appliances.
• Implements robust web content filtering capabilities to enforce acceptable use policies and block access to inappropriate or malicious websites.
• Blocks access to specific URLs or categories of websites based on customizable policies and predefined categories.
• Detects and blocks known and unknown malware threats in real-time, ensuring the security of network and user devices.
• Acts as a secure web gateway, inspecting web traffic for threats and protecting against malicious downloads and phishing attacks.
• Prevents sensitive data from leaving the network through web-based channels, ensuring data protection and compliance.

Pros	Cons
Cloud-native architecture.	Configuration complexity.
Extensive security features.	Higher cost for comprehensive coverage.
Seamless scalability.	Potential latency issues.
Real-time threat intelligence.	Learning curve for new users.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

4. Symantec WebFilter

Symantec WebFilter is a web filtering solution offered by Symantec. It helps organizations protect their networks by controlling and filtering web access based on predefined policies.

It offers features such as content filtering, malware protection, bandwidth control, URL filtering, and reporting.

Symantec WebFilter ensures a secure and productive online environment by blocking malicious content, enforcing acceptable use policies, and providing insights into web usage.

Features

• Filters web content based on predefined or custom policies to block access to inappropriate or malicious websites.
• Controls access to specific URLs or categories of websites to enforce acceptable use policies and prevent access to unauthorized or high-risk sites.
• Detects and blocks known and unknown malware threats, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, from accessing the network.
• Manages and controls access to web applications, allowing organizations to restrict or block specific applications based on policy requirements.
• Performs SSL/TLS decryption and inspection to detect and prevent threats hidden in encrypted traffic.

Pros	Cons
Robust web filtering capabilities.	Complexity in setup and management.
Wide range of security features.	Can be expensive for some organizations.
Integration with other Symantec products.	Performance impact on network speed.
Strong reputation and reliability.	Limited flexibility in customization.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

5. Barracuda Web Security Gateway

The Barracuda Web Security Gateway is a web filtering and security solution provided by Barracuda Networks. It ensures a secure and productive web browsing environment for users.

It offers features such as web content filtering, malware protection, application control, SSL inspection, and reporting.

The solution helps organizations enforce acceptable use policies, protect against web-based threats, and gain insights into web usage.

Features

• Filters web content based on categories and custom policies to enforce acceptable use policies and block access to inappropriate websites.
• Detects and blocks known and zero-day malware threats, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, preventing them from entering the network.
• Controls access to web applications, allowing organizations to define policies and restrict or block specific applications based on their requirements.
• Performs SSL/TLS decryption and inspection to identify and prevent threats hidden in encrypted web traffic.

Pros	Cons
Comprehensive content filtering.	Cost can be high for full features.
Malware and threat protection.	Hardware-based solutions may require additional infrastructure.
Easy to deploy and manage.	Configuration complexity for advanced features.
Good customer support.	Potential latency in web traffic processing.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

6. Forcepoint Web Security

Forcepoint Web Security is a web filtering and security solution provided by Forcepoint.

It helps organizations protect their networks by filtering web content, blocking malicious websites, and enforcing acceptable use policies.

It offers web content filtering, threat protection, application control, SSL inspection, and reporting features.

Forcepoint Web Security ensures a secure web browsing environment, helps mitigate web-based threats, and provides insights into web activity.

Features

• Filters web content based on policies and categories to enforce acceptable use policies and block access to inappropriate or malicious websites.
• Uses advanced threat detection techniques, including sandboxing and behavioral analysis, to identify and block sophisticated malware and zero-day threats.
• Prevents the unauthorized transmission of sensitive data through web channels, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
• Decrypts and inspects encrypted web traffic to detect and prevent threats hidden within SSL/TLS connections.

Pros	Cons
Advanced threat protection.	Complex configuration and management.
Data loss prevention integration.	Higher cost for premium features.
Customizable policies and controls.	Potential impact on network performance.
Cloud and hybrid deployment options.	Learning curve for new administrators.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

7. McAfee Web Gateway

McAfee Web Gateway is a web filtering and security solution provided by McAfee.

It helps organizations protect their networks by controlling and monitoring web traffic, blocking harmful websites, and enforcing usage policies.

It offers features like web content filtering, threat protection, SSL inspection, application control, and reporting.

McAfee Web Gateway ensures users a safe and productive web browsing experience by filtering out malicious content and managing access to web applications.

Features

• Filters web content based on policies and categories to enforce acceptable use policies and block access to inappropriate or malicious websites.
• Detects and blocks known and unknown malware threats, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, preventing them from entering the network.
• Performs SSL/TLS decryption and inspection to identify and prevent threats hidden within encrypted web traffic.
• Utilizes advanced techniques, such as sandboxing and behavioral analysis, to detect and block sophisticated malware and zero-day threats.
• Prevents the unauthorized transmission of sensitive data through web channels, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.

Pros	Cons
Strong malware and threat protection.	Complex setup and configuration.
High-performance web filtering.	Higher cost for comprehensive features.
Flexible deployment options.	Potential latency issues.
Integration with McAfee ecosystem.	Learning curve for advanced features.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

8. Sophos Web Appliance

Sophos Web Appliance is a web filtering and security solution provided by Sophos.

It helps organizations protect their networks by filtering web content, blocking malicious websites, and enforcing acceptable use policies.

The solution includes features such as web content filtering, malware protection, application control, reporting, and bandwidth management.

Sophos Web Appliance ensures a secure web browsing environment, mitigates web-based threats, and provides insights into web activity for organizations.

Features

• Filters web content based on policies and categories to enforce acceptable use policies and block access to inappropriate or malicious websites.
• Detects and blocks known and unknown malware threats, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, preventing them from entering the network.
• Decrypts and inspects encrypted web traffic to identify and prevent threats hidden within SSL/TLS connections.
• Utilizes advanced techniques, such as sandboxing and behavioral analysis, to detect and block sophisticated malware and zero-day threats.
• Controls access to web applications, allowing organizations to define policies and restrict or block specific applications based on their requirements.

Pros	Cons
Effective malware and threat protection.	Limited customization options.
Easy to use management interface.	Can be expensive for full feature set.
Good integration with Sophos ecosystem.	Some reports of false positives.
Real-time threat intelligence.	Requires additional hardware for on-premises deployment.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

9. Palo Alto Networks URL Filtering

Palo Alto Networks URL Filtering is a web security feature allowing organizations to control and filter website access based on URLs or categories.

It helps protect against web-based threats by blocking malicious or inappropriate websites.

The solution provides customization options, advanced threat prevention, and reporting capabilities to enhance web security and enforce acceptable use policies.

Palo Alto Networks URL Filtering allows organizations to manage and monitor web activity effectively.

Features

• Offer detailed reports and analytics on web usage, user activities, and security events for compliance monitoring and better visibility.
• Incorporates threat intelligence feeds and real-time updates to identify and block known malicious websites, IPs, and domains.
• Extends web filtering and security policies to mobile and remote users, ensuring consistent protection across different environments.
• Manages and optimizes network bandwidth usage by controlling and prioritizing web traffic, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.
• Provides centralized cloud-based management for easy policy configuration, monitoring, and updates across distributed environments.

Pros	Cons
High accuracy in threat detection.	High cost.
Extensive URL categorization.	Complexity in configuration.
Seamless integration with other Palo Alto services.	Dependency on Palo Alto ecosystem.
Detailed reporting and analytics.	Occasional overblocking of sites.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

10. Smoothwall Web Filter

Smoothwall Web Filter is a software solution designed to control and manage internet access within an organization.

It acts as a web filtering tool that monitors and restricts user access to specific websites or web content based on predefined policies and rules. 

The primary purpose of Smoothwall Web Filter is to enhance network security, increase productivity, and enforce acceptable use policies.

It analyzes web traffic in real-time, categorizes websites into different categories (such as social media, gaming, adult content, etc.), and applies filtering rules accordingly.

These rules can be customized based on the organization’s requirements and can be adjusted to allow or block specific websites or types of content.

By implementing Smoothwall Web Filter, organizations can prevent users from accessing inappropriate or malicious websites, control bandwidth usage, reduce distractions caused by non-work-related browsing, and protect against web-based threats like malware or phishing attacks.

Features

• Utilizes advanced techniques, such as sandboxing and behavioral analysis, to detect and block sophisticated malware and zero-day threats.
• Validates user identities through various authentication methods, such as LDAP integration or single sign-on (SSO), ensuring secure access to web resources.
• Controls access to specific URLs or categories of websites, allowing organizations to enforce web browsing policies and prevent access to high-risk sites.
• Controls access to web applications, allowing organizations to define policies and restrict or block specific applications based on their requirements.
• Manages and optimizes network bandwidth usage by controlling and prioritizing web traffic, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.

Pros	Cons
Real-time content analysis.	Can be complex to configure.
Customizable filtering policies.	Some reports of latency issues.
User-friendly interface.	Limited reporting features.
Good scalability options.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

11. iBoss Web Security

Cipafilter Web Filter is a web filtering solution designed to manage and control internet access in educational institutions and other organizations.

It is a hardware or virtual appliance that monitors and filters web traffic based on predefined policies and rules.

The main purpose of the Cipafilter Web Filter is to provide a safe and productive online environment by blocking access to inappropriate or harmful websites and content.

It uses advanced filtering technologies to analyze web traffic in real-time and categorize websites into different categories, such as social media, gaming, or adult content.

Organizations can customize the filtering rules to align with their specific requirements. The solution also protects against web-based threats like malware and phishing attacks.

Cipafilter Web Filter offers URL filtering, content categorization, SSL inspection, bandwidth management, and reporting capabilities.

It allows administrators to create user-based policies, enforce acceptable use policies, and monitor internet activity.

Cipafilter Web Filter can be deployed as a hardware appliance within the organization’s network or as a virtual appliance in a virtualized environment.

It integrates with existing network infrastructure and authentication systems, allowing for seamless integration and user management.

Features

• Detects and blocks known and unknown malware threats, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, preventing them from entering the network.
• Performs SSL/TLS decryption and inspection to identify and prevent threats hidden within encrypted web traffic.
• Provide detailed reports and analytics on web usage, user activities, and security events for compliance monitoring and better visibility.
• Extends web filtering and security policies to mobile and remote users, ensuring consistent protection across different environments.
• Prevents the unauthorized transmission of sensitive data through web channels, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
• Offers centralized cloud-based management for easy policy configuration, monitoring, and updates across distributed environments.

Pros	Cons
Stable and easy to install.	Setup and management can be complex.
Effective web filtering capabilities.	Pricing may be considered high compared to competitors.
Scalable for various organization sizes.	Mixed reviews on technical support quality.
Positive return on investment reported by users.	Occasional software issues requiring agent reinstallation.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

12. Fortinet FortiGate Web Filtering

Fortinet FortiGate Web Filtering is a web filtering feature offered by Fortinet’s FortiGate network security appliances.

Organizations can monitor, control, and filter internet traffic based on defined policies.

The primary purpose of Fortinet FortiGate Web Filtering is to enhance security and productivity by managing web access within the organization.

It analyzes web traffic in real-time, categorizes websites into different categories, and applies filtering rules accordingly.

FortiGate Web Filtering offers many features, including URL filtering, content categorization, malware protection, and reporting capabilities.

It allows administrators to create customized filtering policies based on user groups, time restrictions, or specific content categories.

The solution integrates with Fortinet’s security fabric, enabling seamless communication and cooperation with other security components.

This integration enhances the overall security posture by leveraging the collective intelligence and threat intelligence feeds of the Fortinet ecosystem.

Features

• Validates user identities through various authentication methods, ensuring secure access to web resources.
• Controls access to specific URLs or categories of websites, allowing organizations to enforce web browsing policies and prevent access to high-risk sites.
• Controls access to web applications, allowing organizations to define policies and restrict or block specific applications based on their requirements.
• Manages and optimizes network bandwidth usage by controlling and prioritizing web traffic, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.
• Provide detailed reports and analytics on web usage, user activities, and security events for compliance monitoring and better visibility.

Pros	Cons
Comprehensive web filtering capabilities.	Cost can be high for full feature access.
High performance with minimal latency.	Some users report false positives.
Easy integration with Fortinet security ecosystem.	Requires ongoing subscription for updates.
Extensive reporting and analytics tools.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

13. GFI WebMonitor

GFI WebMonitor is a web filtering and internet monitoring solution designed to help organizations control and secure internet usage within their networks.

It provides real-time monitoring, web filtering, and reporting capabilities to manage and enforce internet access policies.

The primary purpose of GFI WebMonitor is to enhance productivity, enforce acceptable use policies, and protect against web-based threats.

It enables organizations to monitor and analyze internet activity, block or restrict access to specific websites or content categories, and generate detailed reports on web usage.

GFI WebMonitor offers features such as URL filtering, content categorization, bandwidth management, malware protection, and SSL inspection.

It allows administrators to create custom policies, set time-based restrictions, and apply filtering rules based on user groups or individual users.

Features

• Detects and blocks known and unknown malware threats, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, preventing them from entering the network.
• Performs SSL/TLS decryption and inspection to identify and prevent threats hidden within encrypted web traffic.
• Utilizes advanced techniques, such as sandboxing and behavioral analysis, to detect and block sophisticated malware and zero-day threats.
• Validates user identities through various authentication methods, ensuring secure access to web resources.

Pros	Cons
Detailed web activity monitoring.	Limited scalability for larger organizations.
Customizable web filtering policies.	Relies on Windows platform.
Good malware and threat protection.	Some features require additional licensing.
Easy to install and manage.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

14. OpenDNS

OpenDNS is a cloud-based DNS (Domain Name System) service that provides enhanced security, control, and performance for organizations’ internet connections.

It acts as a protective layer between users and the internet by offering advanced DNS resolution and filtering capabilities.

The primary purpose of OpenDNS is to improve security and control over internet access.

It replaces the default DNS servers provided by internet service providers (ISPs) and offers additional features, such as content filtering and threat protection.

OpenDNS utilizes a global network of servers to resolve domain names into IP addresses, enabling users to access websites and online services.

However, it goes beyond traditional DNS by providing security features like blocking access to known malicious websites, detecting and blocking phishing attempts, and offering protection against malware and botnets.

Features

• Offers encrypted DNS queries to ensure privacy and protect against DNS-based attacks, such as DNS hijacking and DNS spoofing.
• Provide detailed reports and analytics on DNS requests, web usage, security events, and threat intelligence for better visibility and compliance monitoring.
• Integrates with other security solutions to enhance overall security posture and enable centralized management and visibility.
• Enforces granular policies based on user, device, location, or group, allowing organizations to customize their security settings.
• Offers centralized cloud-based management for easy policy configuration, monitoring, and updates across distributed environments.

Pros	Cons
Easy setup and deployment.	Limited advanced security features.
Wide coverage of threat protection.	Configuration can be less intuitive for complex setups.
Customizable content filtering.	Dependency on external DNS infrastructure.
Good speed and reliability.	Some users report overblocking issues.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

15. Untangle Web Filter

Untangle Web Filter is a comprehensive web filtering solution that allows organizations to monitor, control, and filter internet traffic.

It enables administrators to enforce acceptable use policies, block access to inappropriate or malicious websites, and protect against web-based threats.

Untangle Web Filter offers features such as URL filtering, content categorization, malware protection, and reporting capabilities to ensure a secure and productive online environment.

Features

• It uses URL categorization databases and advanced algorithms to analyze web page content and determine its category.
• It allows administrators to create custom whitelists and blacklists, giving them control over specific websites or categories that should be allowed or blocked.
• Untangle Web Filter can enforce safe search settings on popular search engines, ensuring that inappropriate content is filtered out from search results.
• It enables administrators to allocate bandwidth resources effectively by controlling and limiting access to bandwidth-intensive websites and applications.
• This helps prevent network congestion and ensures fair distribution of resources.

Pros	Cons
Comprehensive content filtering.	Low device limits and resource constraints on lower-end appliances.
Easy to use interface.	Limited multi-factor authentication implementation.
Customizable policies.	Complex reporting can overwhelm new users.
Good integration with other Untangle services.	Web filtering policies require improvements.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

16. WebTitan

WebTitan is a web filtering and security solution designed to protect organizations from web-based threats, enforce internet usage policies, and ensure a safe online environment.

It offers advanced filtering capabilities, content categorization, and real-time monitoring to control and secure internet access within the organization.

WebTitan helps block malicious websites, filter inappropriate content, and provide reporting and analytics on web usage.

It is a comprehensive tool that enables organizations to enhance security, increase productivity, and enforce acceptable use policies effectively.

Features

• Manages and optimizes network bandwidth usage by controlling and prioritizing web traffic, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.
• Provides detailed reports and analytics on web usage, user activities, and security events for compliance monitoring and better visibility.
• Extends web filtering and security policies to mobile and remote users, ensuring consistent protection across different environments.
• Enforces safe search policies on popular search engines to prevent users from accessing explicit or inappropriate search results.
• Offers centralized cloud-based management for easy policy configuration, monitoring, and updates across distributed environments.

Pros	Cons
Simple setup and easy management.	Policy management could be more flexible.
Effective web filtering capabilities.	Active Directory setup required for individual profiles.
Customizable alerts and easy domain whitelisting.	User interface and reporting improvements needed.
Cost-effective solution.	Subscription and licensing management can be challenging.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

17. DNSFilter

DNSFilter is a cloud-based DNS filtering and security solution that gives organizations enhanced control over internet access and protection against web-based threats.

It filters DNS requests, allowing or blocking access to specific websites or categories based on predefined policies.

DNSFilter helps organizations enforce internet usage policies, prevent access to malicious or inappropriate content, and improve network security.

Its cloud-based architecture enables easy implementation, scalability, and real-time updates to ensure effective web filtering and threat protection.

Features

• The platform includes built-in protection against malware and phishing attacks.
• DNSFilter leverages a continuously updated threat intelligence database to stay ahead of emerging threats.
• It employs machine learning algorithms and behavior-based analysis to detect and block zero-day attacks and other advanced threats in real-time.
• DNSFilter provides comprehensive reporting and analytics to gain insights into your network’s DNS activity.
• DNSFilter offers roaming protection to secure devices outside of your organization’s network.

Pros	Cons
Cost-effective.	Increased costs with pricing model change.
User-friendly.	Overly strict filtration.
Effective filtering.	Lacks real-time reporting.
Detailed reporting.	No email alerts.

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

18. McAfee Web Protection

McAfee Web Protection is a comprehensive web security solution designed to safeguard organizations from web-based threats, enforce acceptable internet usage policies, and provide advanced content filtering capabilities.

It offers features such as web filtering, malware protection, data loss prevention, and granular policy controls.

McAfee Web Protection helps organizations mitigate risks, prevent data breaches, and ensure a safe and productive online environment.

Features

• It enables administrators to control and manage access to specific web applications and protocols.
• This includes blocking or allowing access to popular applications such as instant messaging, peer-to-peer file sharing, or streaming media.
• McAfee Web Protection Filter includes real-time scanning of web content for malware and other malicious code.
• It helps prevent users from accessing websites that contain malware, viruses, or other forms of malicious content.
• It offers DLP capabilities to detect and prevent the unauthorized transmission of sensitive or confidential data.
• Administrators can define policies to monitor and block the transfer of sensitive information over web-based channels.

Pros	Cons
Dependable anti-malware and intrusion prevention​	Complex setup with steep learning curve​
Easy deployment with granular configuration via central console​	Lack of transparency in filtering processes​
Effective firewall protection​	Mobile version less seamless than desktop​
Good accessibility and overload management​	Configuration process could be simplified​

Price

You can get a free trial and personalized demo from here.

Conclusion 

Several effective web filtering solutions are available in the market to meet organizations’ security and productivity needs.

The best web filtering solution will depend on each organization’s specific requirements, budget, and preferences.

Solutions such as Untangle Web Filter, DNSFilter, and McAfee Web Protection offer robust web filtering capabilities, advanced threat protection, and customizable policies.

When selecting a web filtering solution, organizations should consider factors such as the level of security provided, ease of implementation and management, scalability, reporting, analytics capabilities, and cost considerations.

It is crucial to evaluate the pros and cons of each solution in relation to the organization’s unique requirements.

Also Read

• 10 Best Open Source Intelligence Tools (OSINT Tools) for Penetration Testing
• 10 Best Advanced Endpoint Security Tools
• 10 Dangerous DNS Attacks Types and The Prevention Measures
• 10 Best Open Source Firewall to Protect Your Enterprise Network
• 10 Best Open Source Intelligence Tools (OSINT Tools) for Penetration Testing
• 10 Best Free Web Application Penetration Testing Tools
• 10 Best Free Penetration Testing Tools