The internet may have opened the door to unfathomable amounts of information but it has also opened the door to cyber attackers. When browsing online, it only takes one stray click to find yourself the target of malware or a phishing attempt. Using DNS protection solutions is becoming standard practice as enterprises attempt to protect themselves against cybercrime.
Here is our list of the best DNS Protection Solutions for your network:
- CleanBrowsing EDITOR’S CHOICE This DNS resolver offers content filtering and phishing protection through a DNS management service that guarantees constant availability. This system runs on the cloud and is easy to set up.
- Vercara UltraDNS An enterprise DNS solution that ensures constant availability. And includes DDoS protection. This is a cloud-based service.
- Comodo Dragon Secure Internet Gateway This protection service against malicious sites is implemented through a hosted DNS service, which guarantees constant availability and also allows content filtering.
- Cloudflare A selection of edge services offered by a leading DDoS protection provider that includes a free DNS service and related failover and load balancing.
- Palo Alto Networks DNS Security A scalable cloud-based DNS system that uses AI processes to block DNS tampering attempts.
- Nexusguard DNS Protection A global network of DNS servers provides constant availability and fast responses from this secure system.
- DNSFilter An edge service that manages DNS references and pre-checks Web pages before returning its IP address. This cloud-based service also enables custom filtering rules.
DNS protection solutions have become one of the core tools that enterprises use to protect themselves against threats online and avoid unnecessary costs. In this article, we’re going to look at the eight best DNS protection solutions for your network, but first, let’s look at what DNS is and what protection tools do.
What is DNS?
The Domain Name System or DNS acts as an online phonebook. The DNS is used to convert a domain name into an IP address for a device to connect to. DNS is used because it’s easier for the user to remember a domain name rather than a long-winded IP address. When you enter a search query into your web browser the DNS server translates it into the IP protocol that enables the computer to open the site.
What are DNS Protection Tools and Why Do I Need Them?
If left unprotected, the DNS is vulnerable to being tampered with by cybercriminals. For example, malicious entities can create false DNS records and fool legitimate users into visiting fake websites and downloading malware. An unfortunate interaction between the DNS server and a compromised site can result in:
- DDoS attacks
- DNS hijacking
- Cache poisoning
- Botnets
- Man-in-the-middle attacks
DNS protection tools are designed to prevent cyber attacks by acting as an intermediary between your web browser and the websites/content you access online. DNS protection software can block compromised sites, block known botnet servers, filter content such as advertisements or adult sites, correct domain typos, and more.
The Best DNS Protection Solutions
Our methodology for selecting a DNS protection solution for your network
We reviewed the market for DNS protection systems and analyzed tools based on the following criteria:
- A cloud-based system
- Threat intelligence that is constantly updated
- A resolver that will handle all of your user’s external DNS requests
- Safe browsing features that scan Web pages for malware
- Optional content filters
- A free trial or a money-back promise so you can try a service before committing to it
- Value for money that is provided by a solid and reliable service but at a fair price
With these selection criteria in mind, we looked for reliable systems that will provide a constant DNS resolver for your users when accessing external Web destinations.
Essentially, a DNS protection tool acts as a buffer that limits your exposure to online threats. Ultimately, how safe you are, depends on the quality of the product that you’re using. Let’s take a closer look at what’s available.
1. CleanBrowsing
CleanBrowsing is a DNS resolver that performs filters and blocks on Web requests before responses are delivered back to the Web browser.
A DNS resolver doesn’t store the cross-references between URLs and IP addresses, it fetches the relevant record from another DNS service. On receiving the address of the requested Web page, the CleanBrowsing system scans that page and checks that it is genuine and doesn’t include downloaders for Trojans or other malware. If the page checks out, the DNS resolver returns its IP address to the requestor.
Key Features
- DNS-Based Filtering: Blocks harmful or inappropriate websites at the DNS level before they load.
- Customizable Filters: Provides various filtering options, including Family Filter, Adult Filter, and Security Filter.
- Real-Time Threat Detection: Monitors and blocks threats in real time, ensuring a safer browsing experience.
- Specialized Plans: Protects families, schools, and businesses.
- Global Anycast Network: Utilizes a high-performance global network with over 50 data centers for reliable service.
Why do we recommend it?
CleanBrowsing provides an easy-to-manage solution to a very complex function. You can control the websites that your users can access with this tool, which is provided in the cloud and offers a series of pre-set filters for ease of use. The package also allows an administrator to fine-tune the Web filters.
The DNS service offers an opportunity to perform other controls at the point of verifying a page. CleanBrowsing offers pre-set filters that can be applied just be activating a package. These are an Adult content filter and a Family content filter. It is also possible to create your own filtering rules.
Who is it recommended for?
CleanBrowsing is designed for home use, for public institutions, and for businesses. The company offers four different plans: Families, Schools and Libraries, Organizations, and Custom. There is also an option for managed service providers, which levies a fee per MSP client. The tool is particularly aimed at users who have no technical skills.
Pros:
- Easy Setup: Simple to configure by switching DNS servers, with no complex installations required.
- Parental Controls: Allows parents to set custom rules and restrictions, ensuring a safe browsing experience for children.
- Activity Reporting: Provides detailed reports on browsing activity, helping users monitor internet usage and detect any potential issues.
- Whitelist/Blacklist Management: Easily create and manage lists of allowed and blocked websites to customize filtering according to individual needs.
- Cross-Device Protection: it offers internet safety across various devices—phones, tablets, laptops—shielding them from harmful online content.
Cons:
- Potential Overblocking: DNS filters like CleanBrowsing might mistakenly block good websites, making it hard for users who need detailed control over what gets filtered.
There are four plans for CleanBrowsing that cater to different types of users. None of the plans offer a free trial, a demo, or a money-back guarantee. However, CleanBrowsing offers a free public DNS service for those who don’t want to pay and you don’t even need to set up an account – you just change the DNS settings on your network or endpoint. This service is supposed to be only for use by private individuals, but as there is no account requirement, they can’t really scrutinize who is using the service.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
CleanBrowsing is our top pick for a DNS protection solution for your network because it has a strong focus on security and content control while still being incredibly easy to set up. This makes the tool suitable for small businesses and even private individuals, offering complicated communications concepts to non-technical users. The package is designed to protect networks from malicious sites while offering customizable content filtering, CleanBrowsing is an ideal choice for families, schools, and businesses seeking safe and secure internet usage. CleanBrowsing’s DNS filtering technology blocks access to harmful sites such as those hosting malware, phishing scams, or inappropriate content. Its pre-configured filtering options, including Family, Adult, and Security filters, make it easy to tailor the service to your needs without extensive configuration. You can get access to the standard preset filters without having to set up an account. For businesses and institutions, the solution provides granular controls, allowing administrators to create policies that align with organizational standards. Another advantage of CleanBrowsing is its simplicity and accessibility. Setting up CleanBrowsing requires only a quick change to the DNS settings on your devices or router, making it a user-friendly option even for those with limited technical expertise. CleanBrowsing’s cloud-based infrastructure ensures high-speed DNS resolution and reliable uptime, crucial for maintaining network performance while enforcing strict security measures. Its lightweight approach also avoids the complexity of additional hardware or software installations.
OS: Cloud-based
2. Vercara UltraDNS
Vercara UltraDNS is one of the top DNS protection solutions for enterprise users that guarantees 100% website availability. Vercara UltraDNS is a high-performance solution with next to no latency and instant cache hosts for enterprises located next to Vercara hosts.
Key Features
- Advanced Threat Protection: This acts as a security guard for your network traffic. It constantly checks web addresses (URLs) and incoming data streams against a giant list of real-time threat intelligence.
- Geo-filtering: Imagine you only want customers from specific countries to access your company website. Geo-filtering allows you to do just that. It acts like a digital gatekeeper, checking the IP address (location identifier) of any device trying to connect to your network.
- Security Intelligence: This feature is like a constantly updated encyclopedia of threats. It gathers information about new and emerging security risks from various reliable sources, such as cybersecurity firms, government agencies, and other security specialists.
- Detailed Analytics and Reporting: This feature provides you with valuable insights into what’s happening on your network. It tracks things like DNS traffic patterns, security threats encountered, and how effectively your DNS protection is working.
Why do we recommend it?
Vercara UltraDNS is a secure solution for business websites that are at risk from attack. Another risk is that your site’s entries on the global DNS system can get messed up for reasons beyond your control. If your site’s DNS entry points to the wrong IP address, no one can access it.
The service is resistant to failure with 29 nodes distributed across six continents providing resistance to technological and geographical events. The program has built-in DDoS protection with local mitigation to stop attackers in their tracks.
Who is it recommended for?
The UltraDNS system is an insurance policy for enterprises that are dependent on their websites for their business. The global DNS system should just work, so, in theory, there shouldn’t be any need for this product. However, you should sign up for the service just in case. It also protects against DDoS attacks.
Pros:
- Robust Security: Versara UltraDNS is likely to be an enterprise-grade solution, so it should offer robust security features like advanced threat protection, which can block malware, phishing attempts, and botnets.
- Reliable Performance: Because it’s an enterprise solution, Versara UltraDNS prioritizes uptime and redundancy to ensure your DNS service remains available even if there are technical issues.
- Detailed Reporting: You might get in-depth analytics about your network traffic and security threats. This can help you identify areas for improvement and understand how effectively Versara UltraDNS is working.
- Geo-filtering (Potential Pro): This can be a benefit if your business needs to comply with specific data privacy regulations or restrict access based on location.
Cons:
- Integration Complexity: While Versara UltraDNS offers robust security, integrating it with your existing network infrastructure might be challenging.
The price of Vercara UltraDNS depends on the number of queries that you want to support. Prices start at 500,000 queries for $30 (£24) per month. The next package supports one million queries for $50 (£41). The last package supports two million queries at $90 (£73) per month. You can learn more on the product page.
3. Comodo Dragon Secure Internet Gateway
Comodo Dragon Secure Internet Gateway is an edge service that is based around a DNS service.
You change the default DNS server settings in your network’s internet gateway to activate the platform’s services. Remote workers need to change the DNS server settings on their home computers to get protection from the service. The system can also be used to protect mobile devices running iOS and Android.
Key Features
- Blocks Web Threats: It acts as a security barrier, guarding your devices against malware downloads, phishing schemes, nefarious websites, and other internet risks.
- Centralized Management: From a single location, administrators can control user access and security restrictions. This guarantees uniform protection for your entire organization and streamlines security administration.
- Safe Browsing for Everyone: Even for individuals who are not physically on your company’s network, Comodo offers safety.
- Real-time Threat Detection: In addition to blocking known dangers, Comodo has real-time detection and prevention capabilities for questionable activity. This provides an additional line of defense against fresh and developing online dangers.
Why do we recommend it?
The Comodo Secure Internet Gateway is a similar system to the CleanBrowsing service. This service operates as a Web filter from the cloud. It provides content controls for businesses and bans specific types of websites being loaded into the browsers of users. The tool also provides whitelisting and blacklisting.
As well as providing automatic protection for DNS entries, ensuring that no masquerading takes place, the DNS service offers a number of Web access management options.
The console for the service is based in the cloud and includes a comprehensive monitoring screen that summarizes all recent Web access transactions made from within your network. It is also possible to drill down and examine each access event.
Requested URLs are all validated before the system passes back the corresponding IP address. This validation also includes scanning the destination page for malicious content.
The user-specified controls represent a firewall system. They allow you to create your own blocklist and whitelist and it is possible to block entire categories of sites. The Comodo system offers a list of categories from which you can choose. The system also makes it possible to set up your own screens that your users will see if they try to access a blocked site or page.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is able to protect devices on multiple sites and also the computers of remote workers. It will also function for mobile devices. The service is suitable for businesses of all sizes because it is priced per protected device. Companies with scattered workers and roaming agents will particularly benefit from this system.
Pros:
- API Integration: Comodo comes with seamless API integration feature which allows to integrate it with existing security infrastructure. This can streamline security management and automate tasks.
- Sandboxing Technology (Potential Pro): Some Comodo products utilize sandboxing technology. This creates a virtual isolated environment to safely detonate suspicious files or websites, further analyzing them without risking harm to your actual system.
- Content Filtering: You might have granular control over what type of web content users can access. This could be helpful to restrict access to social media, gambling, or other productivity-sapping websites.
- Threat Intelligence Feeds: this tool uses threat intelligence to stay tuned with the latest threats and phishing threats. This ensures your protection stays current.
Cons:
- Potential Performance Impact: While cloud-based solutions offer advantages, there’s a chance that internet latency (delay) could be slightly affected by relying on Comodo’s cloud-based security checks. This might be negligible for most users, but it’s a technical consideration for applications sensitive to lag.
4. Cloudflare
Cloudflare is another top DNS provider. You can manage all your domains through one user interface or API. Cloudflare is widely used because it can process domain name queries lightning-fast with an average DNS lookup speed of 11ms. Cloudflare can be configured as a secondary DNS provider and will automatically update records when the primary DNS provider is updated.
Key Features
- Content Delivery Network (CDN): enables faster access to your website for people worldwide by keeping cached versions of your content on servers located closer to the users.
- DDoS protection: keeps your website safe against efforts to flood it with traffic so that only people with permission may view it.
- Web Application Firewall (WAF): acts as a security guard, preventing frequent internet incursions and undesired traffic to protect your website from hackers.
- SSL/TLS Encryption: Cloudflare provides free SSL/TLS certificates, allowing users to your website to communicate securely. It helps to protect sensitive information, such as credit card details and login passwords.
Why do we recommend it?
Cloudflare has grown to be one of the biggest We protection services in the world and it offers a range of tools that can be combined – all are edge services that are delivered from the cloud. The DNS service is free and can be combined with DDoS protection and a content delivery network.
When using Cloudflare you aren’t subject to any query limits so you stay protected no matter what. For added security, Cloudflare uses built-in load balancing and automatic failover. These features help to keep your DNS available even if there is an outage or failure.
Who is it recommended for?
Cloudflare creates packages for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses could get away with the Free edition of the Cloudflare package, which also includes a free SSL certificate. Cloudflare has partnered with many Web hosting services and offers its Free package to all new website owners.
Pros:
- Global Anycast Network: Situated in key locations throughout the globe, Cloudflare has a vast worldwide network of servers. Regardless of the visitor’s location, this guarantees effective content delivery and DDoS mitigation.
- Edge Workers: Cloudflare’s Edge Workers provide developers the ability to run custom scripts closer to users at the network edge.
- API for Automation: Cloudflare’s broad API enables developers to connect its features with existing apps and processes, as well as automate actions.
- Detailed Analytics: Cloudflare’s robust analytics allow you to understand more about website traffic, security threats, performance indicators, and other issues. You may utilize this important data to identify areas for improvement.
Cons:
- Vendor Lock-in: Because of the close connection with Cloudflare’s services, a future switch to another CDN provider may be more challenging. Businesses that want to expand in the future, as well as those with highly specialized needs, should consider this tool.
There are four versions of Cloudflare available: Free, Pro, Business, and Enterprise. The Free version doesn’t cost anything and supports personal websites. The Pro version costs $20 (£16) per month per domain for professional websites.
The Business version costs $200 (£163) per month per domain for eCommerce websites and other businesses that require advanced security and performance functionality. The Enterprise version is for enterprises requiring enterprise-grade security and 24/7/365 support. You can sign up for the program.
5. Palo Alto Networks DNS Security
Palo Alto Networks DNS Security is a DNS protection tool that uses URL filtering, predictive analytics, and machine learning to block the latest online threats. Palo Alto Networks DNS Security automatically blocks malicious domains and identifies DNS tunneling attacks in real-time.
Key Features
- AI-powered Threat Detection: Blocks dangerous domains before they have a chance to cause damage to your network by using machine learning and threat intelligence to find suspicious trends in DNS traffic.
- Advanced Threat Recognition: Finds methods that hackers use to get beyond conventional protections, such as DNS tunneling and Domain Generation Algorithms (DGA).
- Sinkholing: Effectively neutralizes identified threats by redirecting attempts to access malicious domains to a harmless location, rendering them useless.
- Seamless Firewall Integration: Integrates smoothly with Palo Alto Networks firewalls, simplifying security management and providing a unified defense system.
Why do we recommend it?
Palo Alto Network DNS Security is a product from a leading network cybersecurity leader. This tool is resident in the cloud and it protects the links between your internet gateway and the DNS servers that provide your users with IP addresses for the Web pages that they want.
The service is scalable, with a cloud-based database that means there’s no limit to the number of domains it can block. If you’re looking for an intelligent DNS protection solution with machine learning capabilities, Palo Alto Networks DNS Security is a product worth considering. In order to purchase Palo Alto Networks DNS Security, you’ll have to contact the sales team directly. You can request a demo.
Who is it recommended for?
This system is an add-on to the Palo Alto Next-Generation Firewall. So, you would need to be a subscriber to the NGFW system in order to get the DNS Security package. The Palo Alto service is most suited to mid-sized businesses but it can also scale up to work for very large organizations.
Pros:
- Advanced Logging & Reporting: The system offers comprehensive reports and fine-grained logs on DNS traffic and security incidents. This makes it possible to thoroughly analyze risks, user behavior, and the general health of the network.
- Threat Quarantine: In addition to sinkholing, it provides the option to quarantine dubious domains for additional examination prior to permitting or prohibiting access. This gives threat response greater flexibility.
- Granular Policy Controls: Palo Alto Networks DNS Security allows advanced users to configure granular policy settings.
- Threat Intelligence Feeds Integration: It likely integrates with various threat intelligence feeds, ensuring your system stays updated with the latest information on emerging threats and malicious domains.
Cons:
- Potential for False Positives: While machine learning is powerful for threat detection, it’s not perfect. There’s a chance that Palo Alto Networks DNS Security might occasionally identify legitimate domains as malicious (false positives).
6. Nexusguard DNS Protection
Nexusguard DNS Protection is another well-reputed DNS protection program. Nexusguard DNS Protection is powered by a global network of distributed nodes to ensure resistance against performance issues or outages. The fast-track setup process allows you to enter the IP addresses of your DNS servers and be ready to go.
Key Features
- Global Network & Performance: Nexusguard’s globally distributed network ensures fast response times for DNS requests and protects against disruptions with always-on service.
- DDoS Protection: Shields your website and online services from DDoS attacks, keeping them operational even during heavy traffic spikes.
- Malicious Query Detection: Blocks suspicious DNS queries that might be attempting to access malicious websites or launch cyberattacks.
- Easy Deployment & Analytics: Offers straightforward setup options and provides insights into your network security and DNS traffic patterns.
Why do we recommend it?
Nexusguard DNS Protection is a service that looks after the DNS distribution for a website. So, this is different from the scenario of CleanBrowsing because it isn’t a service that protects Web visitors from fake sites but protects websites from those trying to manipulate their DNS records on the global DNS system.
You can monitor the status of your DNS via the customer portal. The customer portal shows you stats on DNS queries and bandwidth consumption. It is here that you will configure which domains are protected.
Nexusguard DNS Protection comes with Two-Factor Authentication to keep your account safe from unauthorized access. The tool is recommended to those who want a leaner DNS management experience. If you’re interested in downloading Nexusguard DNS Protection you’ll have to contact the sales team directly. You can contact them on their site to request a demo.
Who is it recommended for?
This package serves the owners of websites. It will prevent others from trying to divert your site’s traffic by altering its DNS records to point to a different IP address. This is similar to the Vercara UltraDNS package in that it is an insurance against DNS attacks.
Pros:
- Geographic Load Balancing: Nexusguard’s global network likely utilizes geographic load balancing. This means DNS requests are routed to the nearest server location, reducing latency (delay) and improving overall performance.
- Rate Limiting: Nexusguard might offer rate-limiting features. This can help prevent DDoS attacks by automatically throttling suspicious traffic spikes that exceed normal usage patterns.
- Customizable Security Policies: For advanced users, Nexusguard might allow you to configure custom security policies. This could involve defining rules to block specific types of DNS requests or enabling additional security measures based on your needs.
- Threat Intelligence Feeds: Integration with reliable threat intelligence feeds ensures Nexusguard’s system stays updated with the latest information on emerging threats and malicious domains.
Cons:
- Potential for Logging Overhead: While Nexusguard offers valuable analytics, extensive logging of DNS traffic can create additional storage and processing overhead. This might be a concern for businesses with very high traffic volumes or limited server resources.
7. DNSFilter
DNSFilter is a cloud-based DNS protector designed to stop malware, viruses, phishing attacks, and other online threats. DNSFilter uses features such as AI powered-content filtering to control what content the user can access. DNSFilter also has a dashboard where you can view your sites, network activity, and generate security reports.
Key Features
- Real-time Threat Blocker: Think of DNSFilter as a security guard that watches every website your devices try to access. Using super-smart AI, it can instantly recognize and block suspicious websites before they even load, stopping malware, phishing scams, and other online nasties in their tracks.
- Customizable Content Control: Unlike some security solutions that are like a locked box, DNSFilter lets you choose what kind of content you want to block.
- Detailed Security Report Card: DNSFilter doesn’t just block threats; it tells you all about them! You get reports on what threats were blocked, where they came from, and how many times they tried to sneak in.
- Easy Setup, Big Protection: Setting up a DNSFilter is like putting training wheels on your internet safety. It’s designed to be user-friendly, so even if you’re not a tech whiz, you can get powerful protection with just a few clicks.
Why do we recommend it?
DNSFilter is a similar service to CleanBrowsing. It operates as an edge service and blocks certain website types from being accessed by your users. You can blacklist sites as well as rely on pre-defined filters. The DNSFilter server maintains a list of known malicious sites, which are also automatically blocked by the system.
You can configure content filtering policies to determine what content you see. For instance, you can choose what type of websites you want to block. Whether that is illegal sites, adult sites, streaming sites, and more. These lists are maintained by algorithms so you don’t have to manually update them regularly.
Who is it recommended for?
This package is suitable for any business. It has a low rate per user that gets even lower if you choose to pay annually instead of per month. There is also a version for managed service providers, a discount rate for educational institutions, and a special version for operation on guest Wi-Fi systems.
Pros:
- Recursive DNS Resolution: DNSFilter acts as a recursive DNS resolver. This means it can handle the entire process of finding the IP address for a website, taking the load off your local DNS server, and improving performance.
- Customizable Security Policies: For advanced users, DNSFilter might allow you to configure custom security policies.
- Threat Intelligence Feeds: Integration with reliable threat intelligence feeds ensures DNSFilter’s system stays updated with the latest information on emerging threats and malicious domains.
- Active Directory Integration: For businesses using Active Directory, DNSFilter might offer integration for centralized user and group management, simplifying security policy applications across your network.
Cons:
- Limited Logging Granularity: While DNSFilter offers analytics and reporting, the level of detail provided in the logs might be limited compared to some competitors. This could be a drawback for security professionals who require in-depth analysis of DNS traffic patterns or threat investigations.
There are three Standard Plans for DNSFilter; Basic, Pro, and Enterprise. The Basic version costs $0.90 (£0.74) per month per user. The Pro version costs $1.80 (£1.48) per month, per user with additional features like per client reports. The Enterprise version costs $2.70 (£2.22) per month, per user with additional data retention. You can start the 14-day free trial.
Best DNS Protection Solutions
Choose a DNS protection solution that best matches your budget and your business requirements. Deploying content filtering will not only keep you safe online but help to make for a more positive browsing experience. Deploying a DNS security program will stop malicious entities from being able to negatively affect your online activity.
Tools like Comodo Dome Shield, Cyren DNS Security, and StackPath DNS are all good choices for enterprise users. With the right configurations, you’ll be able to give yourself the best line of defense against cyber attackers.
DNS Protection FAQs
Is DNS a security risk?
DNS isn’t a security risk directly but manipulation of DNS records is a deception technique that can lead a Web user to a fake site or can be used to block access to sites.
How do I secure my DNS traffic?
It is possible to secure DNS traffic by applying encryption for the connection between your network gateway and the DNS resolver.
Does VPN prevent DNS hijacking?
Quality VPN services include a private DNS system. This performs DNS fetches within the VPN tunnel, removing reliance on the ISP’s DNS system, which could be controlling your internet access through DNS hijacking.
