DNS filtering blocks access to malicious or unauthorised websites by checking DNS requests against a list of allowed or blocked domains, enhancing cybersecurity and preventing threats like malware and phishing.

With incidents of malware, phishing attacks, and ransomware on the rise, safeguarding sensitive information and providing a safe browsing experience are crucial now more than ever.

DNS filtering is a simple yet powerful solution to prevent such attacks. But what is DNS filtering, and why is it essential for online security? This article lists how DNS filtering can protect us from evolving cyber risks.

What is DNS Filtering?

Domain Name System (DNS) filtering is a security technique prohibiting users from accessing malicious and unauthorised websites.

Domain Name System

Every website has an IP address by which other computers can locate it. However, we cannot remember the numbers for all the websites we visit. So, the DNS changes the domain name into an IP address that a web server recognises. 

These numbers demonstrate that a DNS check is important to prevent such attacks. DNS management is a system that prevents unauthorised access to, management, and modification of DNS records.

Also Read: Why DNS Check Is Important and How to Do It

How Does DNS Filtering Work?

DNS filtering sends our DNS requests through a filtering system that compares the requested domain with a blocked or allowed list of domains. 

  • If the requested domain is on the allowed list, the DNS filtering system resolves the domain and provides the corresponding IP address.
  • If the domain is not found on the list or is present in the blocked list of websites, the DNS filtering solution blocks access to the website.
Also Read: How to Manage DNS for Hosting Account

The Importance Of DNS Filtering For Enhanced Online Security

DNS filtering enhances cybersecurity and creates safer online environments. Here is how they do it.

Blocking Malicious Websites

A website with malware will either attempt to deceive users into downloading it or automatically download the malicious software when the web page loads. 

When businesses implement DNS filtering, it acts as a frontline defense against malware and prevents these attacks by blocking users from accessing malicious domains. The DNS filtering reduces the chances of malware infection, compromising the system’s security.

Blocking Phishing Websites

A phishing website mimics legitimate domains and deceives most users to reveal sensitive information such as login credentials and personal data to the attacker. DNS filtering identifies and blocks access to known phishing domains, thus protecting users from falling into fraudulent schemes and other cyber threats. 

  • DNS filtering blocks inappropriate, non-work-related, or harmful websites for organisations seeking to implement a safe and productive environment.
  • Businesses implement DNS filtering to adhere to industry regulations and data protection laws. 
  • DNS filtering complements other security measures, including firewalls and antivirus tools, to secure websites against multiple cyber threats. 

Types of DNS Filtering

Here are some types of DNS filtering that businesses can use for a secure online environment.

Blacklist-based DNS Filtering

This type of DNS filtering maintains a list of known malicious or inappropriate domains offering preemptive protection against recognised threats. Access is denied if the domain is found in the blocked list of websites.

Whitelist-based DNS Filtering

Whitelist-based filtering focuses on permitting access only to approved websites and allows organisations to have strict control over what users can access.

Category based Filtering

Content is evaluated against predefined categories to see if it’s approved for access.

Custom Policies

Businesses can create custom policies to block or allow websites based on their requirements.

Best Practices for DNS Filtering

  1. Regularly update Blacklists and Whitelists.
  2. Follow customisable filtering policies that align with the needs of the organisation.
  3. Review filtering policies and logs periodically to adjust rules and understand user behaviour.
Pro Tip:  There are multiple layers of DNS caching within any network. Flushing internal DNS systems will ensure end users benefit from DNS policy changes better.

DNS Filtering – Advantages and Disadvantages

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of DNS filtering.

Advantages  Disadvantages  
  • Improved online security
  • Unwanted pages are filtered even before they enter the infrastructure, leading to faster page loads
  • Implementation of DNS filtration is simple and quick
  • VPNs and alternate DNS services can bypass the DNS filtering
  • DNS filtering systems can misclassify websites, leading to legitimate content being blocked
  • Achieving a balance in filtering policies can be a challenge

Wrapping Up

DNS filtering protects networks and users against online attacks by blocking access to malicious and harmful websites. It allows businesses to tailor their access policies, accelerate browsing speeds, reduce website downtime instances, and ensure their networks fulfill IT compliance requirements.

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Crazy Domains gives users multiple DNS management options to manage DNS records and reduce DNS security threats effortlessly. With several available platforms like Account Manager, cPanel, Exchange Manager, and Plesk, you can choose the perfect way to manage your domain’s DNS setting. 

Contact us to learn more about DNS management and how to protect your website from cyber-attacks.