Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cisco Umbrella - Cloud-delivered DNS-layer security that blocks malicious domains, phishing, and malware before they reach users.
- 2#2: Cloudflare Gateway - Secure Web Gateway with DNS filtering that protects against threats using global network intelligence and zero-trust access.
- 3#3: Palo Alto Networks DNS Security - Advanced DNS security service leveraging threat intelligence to detect and block malicious DNS queries in real-time.
- 4#4: Infoblox BloxOne Threat Defense - Cloud-managed DNS security that defends against DDoS, malware, and ransomware using predictive threat analytics.
- 5#5: DNSFilter - AI-powered DNS filtering platform that blocks harmful websites and phishing attacks with machine learning.
- 6#6: BlueCat Adaptive DNS - DNS security and management solution that provides threat protection and resilient resolution services.
- 7#7: EfficientIP SOLID DNS - Integrated DNS security platform that detects anomalies, blocks threats, and ensures high availability.
- 8#8: Quad9 - Privacy-focused secure DNS resolver that blocks malicious domains using threat intelligence feeds.
- 9#9: NextDNS - Configurable DNS resolver with security features like malware blocking, tracking protection, and analytics.
- 10#10: ThreatSTOP - DNS firewall service that automatically blocks threats using crowdsourced intelligence and IP reputation.
Tools were ranked based on threat detection efficacy, integration capabilities, usability, and value, ensuring the list reflects top performers across critical metrics.
Comparison Table
DNS security is vital for safeguarding networks in complex digital landscapes, and selecting the right tool demands clarity on key differentiators. This comparison table evaluates leading solutions—such as Cisco Umbrella, Cloudflare Gateway, and Palo Alto Networks DNS Security—analyzing features, effectiveness, and adaptability to help readers identify the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cisco Umbrella Cloud-delivered DNS-layer security that blocks malicious domains, phishing, and malware before they reach users. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Cloudflare Gateway Secure Web Gateway with DNS filtering that protects against threats using global network intelligence and zero-trust access. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 3 | Palo Alto Networks DNS Security Advanced DNS security service leveraging threat intelligence to detect and block malicious DNS queries in real-time. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Infoblox BloxOne Threat Defense Cloud-managed DNS security that defends against DDoS, malware, and ransomware using predictive threat analytics. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | DNSFilter AI-powered DNS filtering platform that blocks harmful websites and phishing attacks with machine learning. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 6 | BlueCat Adaptive DNS DNS security and management solution that provides threat protection and resilient resolution services. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | EfficientIP SOLID DNS Integrated DNS security platform that detects anomalies, blocks threats, and ensures high availability. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Quad9 Privacy-focused secure DNS resolver that blocks malicious domains using threat intelligence feeds. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 10/10 |
| 9 | NextDNS Configurable DNS resolver with security features like malware blocking, tracking protection, and analytics. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | ThreatSTOP DNS firewall service that automatically blocks threats using crowdsourced intelligence and IP reputation. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.9/10 |
Cloud-delivered DNS-layer security that blocks malicious domains, phishing, and malware before they reach users.
Secure Web Gateway with DNS filtering that protects against threats using global network intelligence and zero-trust access.
Advanced DNS security service leveraging threat intelligence to detect and block malicious DNS queries in real-time.
Cloud-managed DNS security that defends against DDoS, malware, and ransomware using predictive threat analytics.
AI-powered DNS filtering platform that blocks harmful websites and phishing attacks with machine learning.
DNS security and management solution that provides threat protection and resilient resolution services.
Integrated DNS security platform that detects anomalies, blocks threats, and ensures high availability.
Privacy-focused secure DNS resolver that blocks malicious domains using threat intelligence feeds.
Configurable DNS resolver with security features like malware blocking, tracking protection, and analytics.
DNS firewall service that automatically blocks threats using crowdsourced intelligence and IP reputation.
Cisco Umbrella
enterpriseCloud-delivered DNS-layer security that blocks malicious domains, phishing, and malware before they reach users.
Predictive DNS blocking powered by Talos' massive Security Intelligence Grid, analyzing 19 trillion+ requests yearly to stop emerging threats proactively
Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-delivered DNS-layer security platform that protects organizations by intelligently routing and blocking DNS queries to malicious domains, preventing threats like malware, phishing, ransomware, and C2 communications from reaching endpoints. Leveraging the world's largest security intelligence network from Cisco Talos, it analyzes billions of daily queries to deliver real-time, predictive blocking. Beyond core DNS security, it extends to secure web gateway, firewall-as-a-service, and roaming client protection for comprehensive network defense.
Pros
- Unmatched threat intelligence from Cisco Talos with predictive blocking of zero-day threats
- Seamless cloud deployment with minimal hardware requirements and rapid scalability
- Robust integrations with SIEM, EDR, and Cisco Secure ecosystem for unified security
Cons
- Premium pricing tiers can be costly for SMBs without enterprise scale
- Advanced features like full SWG require higher-tier subscriptions
- Occasional policy complexity for highly customized environments
Best For
Large enterprises and mid-sized organizations needing scalable, DNS-first security with deep threat intelligence and hybrid work support.
Pricing
Starts at ~$3.35/user/month for DNS Security Essentials; Advantage (~$7.65/user/month) adds SWG/Firewall; Premier (~$11+/user/month) includes full suite; volume/enterprise custom pricing.
Cloudflare Gateway
enterpriseSecure Web Gateway with DNS filtering that protects against threats using global network intelligence and zero-trust access.
Real-time, policy-driven DNS threat blocking leveraging Cloudflare's unparalleled global threat intelligence dataset
Cloudflare Gateway, part of the Cloudflare Zero Trust platform, delivers enterprise-grade DNS security by filtering malicious domains, malware, phishing, and other threats at the DNS resolution stage using Cloudflare's global Anycast network for sub-millisecond performance. It enables administrators to create granular, policy-based DNS filtering rules that apply across devices, locations, and users without requiring on-premises hardware. The solution integrates seamlessly with broader Zero Trust controls like secure web gateway and access policies, providing comprehensive visibility through detailed logs and analytics.
Pros
- Ultra-fast DNS resolution via global Anycast network with 300+ cities
- Powered by Cloudflare's massive threat intelligence from 30+ million domains
- Seamless Zero Trust integration with no hardware required
Cons
- Full advanced features require paid Zero Trust plans beyond 50 users
- Setup involves Cloudflare account and agent deployment learning curve
- Limited standalone DNS focus; optimized within broader Cloudflare ecosystem
Best For
Mid-to-large organizations needing scalable, cloud-native DNS security integrated with Zero Trust architecture.
Pricing
Free for up to 50 users with core DNS filtering; paid Zero Trust plans start at $7/user/month for 101+ users, scaling to enterprise custom pricing.
Palo Alto Networks DNS Security
enterpriseAdvanced DNS security service leveraging threat intelligence to detect and block malicious DNS queries in real-time.
Precision AI for real-time zero-day DNS threat detection using behavioral analysis and global threat intelligence from Unit 42.
Palo Alto Networks DNS Security is a cloud-delivered service that provides inline inspection of all DNS queries to block malicious domains, IPs, and C2 communications before threats reach the network. Leveraging Precision AI, WildFire malware analysis, and Unit 42 threat intelligence, it detects zero-day attacks, phishing, and ransomware with high accuracy. It integrates seamlessly with Palo Alto's Next-Generation Firewalls, Prisma Access, and Cortex XDR for comprehensive security across hybrid environments.
Pros
- Advanced ML-driven threat detection with near-perfect accuracy on known threats
- Seamless integration with Palo Alto's ecosystem for unified security management
- Scalable cloud-native architecture handling massive query volumes without latency
Cons
- High enterprise pricing requires custom quotes and may not suit SMBs
- Complex setup for organizations outside the Palo Alto ecosystem
- Limited standalone flexibility without broader Palo Alto deployments
Best For
Large enterprises with existing Palo Alto infrastructure needing enterprise-grade, AI-powered DNS threat prevention.
Pricing
Subscription-based, quote-only pricing typically $5-15 per user/month or bandwidth-based for Prisma Access integration, with minimum commitments for enterprises.
Infoblox BloxOne Threat Defense
enterpriseCloud-managed DNS security that defends against DDoS, malware, and ransomware using predictive threat analytics.
Proprietary threat intelligence from billions of daily global DNS queries enabling predictive, high-accuracy blocking
Infoblox BloxOne Threat Defense is a cloud-native DNS security solution that delivers real-time protection against malware, phishing, ransomware, and C2 communications by blocking malicious domains at the resolver level. It leverages Infoblox's massive global sensor network, processing billions of DNS queries daily, to provide high-fidelity threat intelligence and predictive blocking capabilities. Integrated with the BloxOne DDI platform, it offers seamless management, analytics, and reporting for enterprise-scale deployments.
Pros
- Superior threat intelligence from Infoblox's global DNS dataset for accurate blocking
- Cloud-managed with anycast delivery for low-latency performance worldwide
- Advanced analytics and integration with DDI for comprehensive visibility
Cons
- Enterprise pricing can be steep for SMBs
- Full value requires BloxOne ecosystem adoption
- Limited standalone customization options
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, integrated DNS security within a cloud DDI platform.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise model, priced per endpoint or traffic volume; custom quotes start around $2-5 per user/month.
DNSFilter
enterpriseAI-powered DNS filtering platform that blocks harmful websites and phishing attacks with machine learning.
AI-driven real-time threat intelligence that predicts and blocks zero-day attacks
DNSFilter is a cloud-based DNS security platform that uses AI and machine learning to block malicious domains, phishing sites, and malware at the DNS level in real-time. It provides content filtering, threat intelligence, policy enforcement across devices, and detailed reporting without needing software agents. Designed for businesses of all sizes, it protects endpoints, networks, and roaming users seamlessly.
Pros
- Agentless deployment via simple DNS changes
- AI-powered threat detection with low false positives
- Robust reporting and analytics dashboard
Cons
- Limited to DNS-layer protection, bypassable by custom DNS
- Pricing can escalate for large-scale deployments
- Fewer advanced automation options than enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to medium businesses and MSPs seeking easy-to-deploy DNS security with strong threat blocking.
Pricing
Starts at ~$0.90/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $2.50+/user/month for advanced features; volume discounts available.
BlueCat Adaptive DNS
enterpriseDNS security and management solution that provides threat protection and resilient resolution services.
Machine learning-powered adaptive threat intelligence that dynamically updates blocklists without manual intervention
BlueCat Adaptive DNS is a cloud-native DNS security platform that uses AI and machine learning to detect and block malicious DNS traffic in real-time, protecting against threats like phishing, malware, ransomware, and C2 communications. It integrates seamlessly with BlueCat's DDI (DNS, DHCP, IPAM) solutions, providing enterprise-grade visibility, analytics, and policy enforcement across hybrid environments. The service emphasizes adaptive threat intelligence that evolves with new attack vectors, making it suitable for large-scale deployments.
Pros
- AI-driven real-time threat detection and blocking
- Seamless integration with BlueCat DDI platform
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for security teams
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for setup and management
- Higher cost compared to basic DNS firewalls
- Best suited for users already in BlueCat ecosystem
Best For
Large enterprises with complex hybrid networks needing integrated DDI and advanced DNS security.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $5-10 per protected endpoint/month with volume discounts.
EfficientIP SOLID DNS
enterpriseIntegrated DNS security platform that detects anomalies, blocks threats, and ensures high availability.
Seamless DDI convergence with embedded DNS firewall and threat intelligence for automated, zero-touch security.
EfficientIP SOLID DNS is an integrated DDI (DNS, DHCP, IPAM) platform with advanced DNS security capabilities, designed to protect networks from threats like malware, phishing, and DDoS attacks. It features a DNS firewall that blocks malicious domains in real-time using curated threat intelligence and behavioral analytics. The solution emphasizes high availability through Anycast DNS, automation for operational efficiency, and seamless scalability for enterprise environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive DDI integration with DNS security reduces management overhead
- Real-time threat blocking with high-performance Anycast deployment
- Strong automation and analytics for large-scale operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced configuration
- Pricing is opaque and geared toward enterprises only
- Limited flexibility for small deployments or hybrid cloud scenarios
Best For
Large enterprises with complex networks seeking unified DDI and robust DNS threat protection.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically quote-based starting at $50,000+ annually depending on scale.
Quad9
otherPrivacy-focused secure DNS resolver that blocks malicious domains using threat intelligence feeds.
Zero personal data logging combined with real-time threat intelligence from multiple global sources
Quad9 is a free, public DNS resolution service that enhances online security by blocking access to known malicious domains associated with malware, phishing, and other threats using threat intelligence from over 20 sources. It prioritizes user privacy by not logging IP addresses or queries, and supports advanced protocols like DNSSEC and DNSCrypt for encrypted queries. Designed for easy integration into devices, networks, or routers, it serves as a straightforward alternative to default ISP DNS with built-in security.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits
- Strong privacy protections including no IP logging
- Effective blocking of malicious domains via extensive threat feeds
- Simple setup on any device or router
Cons
- Limited customization options compared to paid enterprise DNS solutions
- Public service may experience occasional latency during high loads
- No built-in parental controls or content filtering beyond security threats
- Lacks dedicated customer support
Best For
Privacy-conscious individuals, families, or small teams seeking a no-cost, set-it-and-forget-it DNS security solution.
Pricing
Entirely free for all users with no paid tiers or subscriptions.
NextDNS
specializedConfigurable DNS resolver with security features like malware blocking, tracking protection, and analytics.
Fully customizable real-time analytics and per-device logging with granular control over 100+ pre-built blocklists
NextDNS is a cloud-based DNS resolver designed to enhance privacy and security by blocking ads, trackers, malware, phishing, and other threats at the DNS level before they reach your devices. It provides a user-friendly web dashboard for customizing blocklists, enabling parental controls, and configuring logging/analytics tailored to individual needs. Supporting unlimited devices per configuration, it's ideal for homes, small businesses, or mobile users seeking network-wide protection without hardware.
Pros
- Highly customizable blocklists and security profiles
- Strong privacy focus with configurable no-logs and analytics
- Cross-platform support for unlimited devices per config
Cons
- Manual setup required on routers or devices
- Free tier limited to 300k queries/month
- DNS-level blocking can be bypassed by VPNs or DoH/DoT changes
Best For
Tech-savvy individuals, families, or small teams wanting flexible, privacy-centric DNS security across multiple devices.
Pricing
Free (300k queries/month); Pro $1.99/month or $19.90/year per config (unlimited queries, up to 300 devices).
ThreatSTOP
enterpriseDNS firewall service that automatically blocks threats using crowdsourced intelligence and IP reputation.
Massive real-time blocklist with 100M+ IOCs updated every 5 minutes from 200+ sources
ThreatSTOP is a cloud-based DNS security platform that delivers threat intelligence-driven blocking of malicious domains, IPs, and URLs to prevent malware, phishing, and ransomware at the DNS level. It functions as a DNS Firewall-as-a-Service (DFaaS), allowing organizations to redirect DNS queries to their secure resolvers without hardware changes. The solution aggregates data from over 200 sources into a massive blocklist exceeding 100 million indicators of compromise (IOCs), with real-time updates every 5 minutes.
Pros
- Extensive threat intelligence from 200+ global sources with frequent updates
- Simple deployment via DNS changes, no agents or hardware required
- Scalable policy engine supporting granular controls for enterprises
Cons
- Limited native analytics and reporting depth compared to top competitors
- Pricing scales poorly for small businesses or low-volume users
- Heavy reliance on cloud DNS introduces potential single-point-of-failure risks
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises seeking cost-effective, easy-to-deploy DNS blocking with robust threat feeds.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$2.50 per protected IP/month (Essentials plan), with Premium and Enterprise tiers up to $10+/IP/month; custom quotes for large deployments.
Conclusion
The review highlights that Cisco Umbrella claims the top spot, providing strong cloud-delivered DNS security to block a range of threats. Cloudflare Gateway and Palo Alto Networks DNS Security follow closely, offering unique strengths like global intelligence and real-time threat detection that cater to diverse user needs.
Take the first step to enhance your DNS security by trying Cisco Umbrella—its robust features make it a top choice for safeguarding against malicious activities.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
