Although DNS filtering has become a crucial tool for businesses trying to protect their online presence, there are still some common misconceptions about it. Despite its shown efficacy, there are numerous misconceptions and myths about DNS filtering that impede businesses from utilizing this potent technology to its fullest potential.
Due to its numerous benefits, implementing a DNS filtering solution is the approach you need to safeguard your cyber security. Therefore, it is imperative to make wise choices about your online security approach, regardless of whether you are new to DNS filtering or have been using it for some time. This article dispels four common myths about DNS filtering and explains its true purpose.
What is DNS Filtering?
DNS filtering, commonly referred to as DNS blocking or DNS-based web filtering, is a method for restricting access to particular websites or material by screening requests based on the domain name system (DNS) being used to access them. The DNS, also known as the internet’s address book, converts human-readable domain names into IP addresses that computers understand.
Despite its many advantages, DNS filtering is the subject of several myths and misconceptions. These fallacies may make it difficult for businesses to decide on their online security strategy and may even result in the use of inefficient security measures. Given below are the four widespread misconceptions concerning DNS filtering. Businesses can decide on their internet security strategy and safeguard their assets by being aware of the real facts concerning DNS filtering.
Myth #1: DNS filtering is unnecessary because there are other ways to block websites
It’s a frequent misconception that DNS filtering isn’t essential to ban websites because there are alternative techniques to do it. While firewalls and browser extensions are other options for blocking websites, DNS filtering has a number of special benefits that make it a desirable addition to any business’s online security plan.
First off, DNS filtering operates at a network level. It blocks access to websites throughout an entire organization, irrespective of the device or browser being used. This makes sure that an employee is protected by the same security measures regardless of where they are accessing the internet from. In contrast, browser extensions are susceptible since they only function on the device that they are installed on.
Second, DNS filtering is a powerful technique for preventing access to harmful websites that may not be identified by other security measures. DNS filters recognize and restrict access to websites that might have just been developed to disseminate malware or conduct phishing attacks. This is achieved by leveraging threat intelligence feeds and machine learning algorithms.
Myth #2: DNS filtering is too complex and difficult to implement
Another widespread misconception about DNS filtering is that it is very complicated, challenging to implement, and necessitates in-depth technical expertise. But this is far from the truth. Even for businesses without a dedicated IT department, DNS filtering can be simple to set up and manage.
Using a user-friendly DNS filtering system with little administration and upkeep is one method to make DNS filtering simpler. These systems are simple to use, and they have user interfaces that are straightforward to navigate and set up rules in. Numerous DNS filtering programs also include predefined filter lists that are easily adaptable to a company’s unique requirements.
Additionally, a lot of DNS filtering systems are cloud-based, which makes them even simpler to use because there is no hardware to install or maintain. The scalability of cloud-based solutions gives businesses the freedom to add or remove people or devices as required without the need for extra equipment.
Myth #3: DNS filtering slows down internet speed
DNS filtering is frequently misunderstood to slow down the internet speed. This misconception might have originated from the notion that DNS filtering generates more network traffic, which could impede internet connections. Surprisingly, DNS filtering can occasionally boost internet performance and speed.
DNS filtering can boost internet performance by preventing access to websites with ample ads that use a lot of data. Due to the volume of data exchanged when consumers view these websites, internet speed can be severely slowed down. DNS filtering lowers data transmission by preventing access to these websites, which can enhance overall internet speed.
Additionally, cache functionality is offered by several DNS filtering programs, which can speed up internet connection even more. To cut down on the time it takes to retrieve data from faraway servers, caching includes storing frequently visited data on local servers. DNS filtering can lower bandwidth and enhance internet performance by caching DNS requests.
Myth #4: DNS filtering is ineffective against advanced cyber threats
Businesses are continuously searching for the best cybersecurity strategies to shield themselves from a threat landscape that is constantly changing. This strategy, according to some critics, is ineffective against advanced threats.
Firstly, DNS filtering has substantially improved recently, combining cutting-edge methods like AI and machine learning to find and stop even the most complex threats. DNS filters can detect harmful activity and stop it from entering a company’s network by examining the behavior of websites and the associated domains.
Second, multiple high-profile cyber attacks have shown DNS filtering to be successful. For instance, DNS filtering enabled the WannaCry ransomware outbreak to be stopped in its tracks in 2017. The malware’s attempt to connect to its command and control site was blocked by the filters, which stopped the attack from propagating.
The Real Truth: DNS filtering can benefit organizations of all sizes
DNS filtering is not just for larger businesses with complicated security requirements but for businesses of all sizes. An additional layer of defense against malware, phishing, and other online risks is offered by DNS filtering. Blocking harmful or distracting websites also aids in boosting productivity.
Using DNS filtering to shield staff members and clients from online dangers might be advantageous for small firms. Additionally, it could assist in limiting unauthorized access to private data.
The global DNS filtering market is anticipated to increase from $2.50 billion in 2017 to $5.40 billion in 2023 at a compound yearly growth rate of 13.4%. One of the major forces driving market expansion, according to the report, is the rise in demand for cloud-based DNS filtering services.
Businesses of all sizes may benefit from the increased security and efficiency that DNS filtering provides without needing a lot of technical know-how or resources, thanks to the user-friendly solutions that are readily available.
The Bottom Line
DNS filtering has become a hot topic in recent years, but amidst the hype, there are still many misconceptions floating around. However, those myths are nothing but FALSE claims. DNS filtering does not have to be complicated or challenging to deploy. Additionally, it boosts internet speed and is an effective option against advanced cyber attacks.
All in all, DNS filtering can be a useful tool for businesses of all sizes to increase productivity and internet security. Organizations may safeguard their network, data, and users from online threats and foster a secure and productive online environment using DNS filtering.
