What are Web Content Filtering Solutions?
Web content filtering solutions are useful tools that censor and/or prevent access to restricted web content deemed offensive or inappropriate. They also provide overall domain name system (DNS) security protection that prevents users from accessing potentially dangerous web pages or IP addresses.
Access to web content can be limited for employees, guests, and customers while using the business’s wired or wireless network connection. Web content filtering solutions are commonly used by businesses today and contain a variety of features helpful for all types of organizations.
This type of software is commonly used to monitor employee behavior while at work. Businesses can’t always keep track of what websites their employees are visiting while in the office or working remotely. Therefore, they rely on web content filtering solutions to limit the amount and type of sites, such as social media and gaming sites, employees can visit. This helps prevent employees from slacking off and increases productivity. Most firewall software also offers web content filtering features that assist with the prevention of viruses, phishing attacks, malware, and ransomware.
Web Content Filtering Solution Features
Many of the features offered by web content filtering solutions are standard and help fit the needs of just about every business type. They include:
Web content filter list
Content filtering rules and patterns
DNS filtering
Manual URL blocking
Web keyword monitoring and filtering
Whitelisting
Alerts/Notifications
Behavioral Analytics
Content Monitoring
Intrusion Detection System
Intrusion Prevention System
Malware Blocking
Network Monitoring
Phishing Prevention
Log Access
Policy Management
Scalable
Technical & Customer Support
Web Content Filtering Solutions Comparison:
Before investing in a new web content filtering or firewall solution, consider the following key points:
Compatibility: It’s important to know that the web content filtering solution you purchase will be compatible with your current operating system, including both the hardware and software you currently have in place. Some solutions may be designed to integrate with certain systems and therefore this is an important factor before making any purchases.
Scalability: It’s also important to note the scalability of the filtering solution before making a purchase. Over time, there will be different and new malware and viruses that evolve, as well as new websites you don’t want your employees visiting during work. Rather than having to frequently update your software, make sure to choose a solution that will stay up to date on new cybersecurity threats.
Content controls: Certain web content filtering tools may have more fine-grained controls and filtering options than others. For example, some vendors offer user-level controls while others may only provide web content controls. Make sure to find a solution that offers the level of filtering your business needs, whether that be high-level content controls or more granular user-based controls.
Pricing Information
Many web content filtering products do not provide pricing upfront. In these cases, potential buyers should request custom quotes. The software vendors that do offer pricing information usually offer monthly or annual payment plans or one-time payments for two or three years. Price may also be determined by the number of users or devices the web content filtering solution will be protecting.
