Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cisco Umbrella - Cloud-delivered DNS-layer security platform that filters URLs to block malicious, phishing, and unwanted websites.
- 2#2: Zscaler Internet Access - Cloud-native secure web gateway providing advanced URL filtering, threat prevention, and SSL inspection.
- 3#3: Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access - SASE platform with next-generation URL filtering using machine learning for threat detection and policy enforcement.
- 4#4: Forcepoint Web Security - Web security solution offering real-time URL categorization, filtering, and data loss prevention.
- 5#5: Netskope - Cloud access security broker that inspects and filters URLs inline for comprehensive web protection.
- 6#6: Check Point Harmony - Cloud security platform with anti-bot and URL filtering to prevent access to malicious sites.
- 7#7: Fortinet FortiGate - Next-generation firewall with integrated web filtering engine for granular URL control and blocking.
- 8#8: Symantec Web Security Service - Cloud-based web gateway that delivers URL filtering, malware scanning, and policy-based access control.
- 9#9: Trend Micro InterScan Web Security - Virtual appliance for URL filtering, sandboxing, and protection against web-based threats.
- 10#10: McAfee Web Gateway - Cloud and virtual appliance solution for URL categorization, filtering, and advanced threat defense.
We prioritized tools based on threat detection accuracy, ease of deployment and management, feature set (including ML and SSL inspection), and overall value, curating a list that balances cutting-edge performance with practical usability.
Comparison Table
URL filter software is essential for organizations to manage internet access, strengthen security, and streamline online activity oversight. This comparison table evaluates top tools like Cisco Umbrella, Zscaler Internet Access, Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access, Forcepoint Web Security, Netskope, and more, helping readers understand key differences, performance, and suitability for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cisco Umbrella Cloud-delivered DNS-layer security platform that filters URLs to block malicious, phishing, and unwanted websites. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Zscaler Internet Access Cloud-native secure web gateway providing advanced URL filtering, threat prevention, and SSL inspection. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access SASE platform with next-generation URL filtering using machine learning for threat detection and policy enforcement. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 4 | Forcepoint Web Security Web security solution offering real-time URL categorization, filtering, and data loss prevention. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Netskope Cloud access security broker that inspects and filters URLs inline for comprehensive web protection. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Check Point Harmony Cloud security platform with anti-bot and URL filtering to prevent access to malicious sites. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Fortinet FortiGate Next-generation firewall with integrated web filtering engine for granular URL control and blocking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | Symantec Web Security Service Cloud-based web gateway that delivers URL filtering, malware scanning, and policy-based access control. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Trend Micro InterScan Web Security Virtual appliance for URL filtering, sandboxing, and protection against web-based threats. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | McAfee Web Gateway Cloud and virtual appliance solution for URL categorization, filtering, and advanced threat defense. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
Cloud-delivered DNS-layer security platform that filters URLs to block malicious, phishing, and unwanted websites.
Cloud-native secure web gateway providing advanced URL filtering, threat prevention, and SSL inspection.
SASE platform with next-generation URL filtering using machine learning for threat detection and policy enforcement.
Web security solution offering real-time URL categorization, filtering, and data loss prevention.
Cloud access security broker that inspects and filters URLs inline for comprehensive web protection.
Cloud security platform with anti-bot and URL filtering to prevent access to malicious sites.
Next-generation firewall with integrated web filtering engine for granular URL control and blocking.
Cloud-based web gateway that delivers URL filtering, malware scanning, and policy-based access control.
Virtual appliance for URL filtering, sandboxing, and protection against web-based threats.
Cloud and virtual appliance solution for URL categorization, filtering, and advanced threat defense.
Cisco Umbrella
enterpriseCloud-delivered DNS-layer security platform that filters URLs to block malicious, phishing, and unwanted websites.
Predictive DNS blocking using Talos Intelligence to stop threats pre-connection based on global sensor data
Cisco Umbrella is a leading cloud-delivered DNS security platform that excels in URL filtering by blocking access to malicious and categorized websites at the DNS layer. It provides granular policy controls based on users, devices, networks, and locations, leveraging Cisco's vast threat intelligence from global sensors. The solution integrates seamlessly with existing networks for both fixed and roaming users, offering predictive blocking and real-time analytics to prevent phishing, malware, and productivity-draining sites.
Pros
- Unmatched threat intelligence from billions of daily queries for proactive URL blocking
- Scalable cloud deployment with native support for roaming clients and Active Directory integration
- Comprehensive reporting and policy granularity for enterprises
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for SMBs
- Advanced features like full proxy inspection require add-ons
- Relies primarily on DNS, so may need complementary tools for full HTTP inspection
Best For
Large enterprises seeking scalable, DNS-based URL filtering with deep integration into Cisco ecosystems and global threat protection.
Pricing
Starts at ~$2.50/user/month for DNS Security; scales to $5-20+/user/month for premium tiers with custom enterprise quotes.
Zscaler Internet Access
enterpriseCloud-native secure web gateway providing advanced URL filtering, threat prevention, and SSL inspection.
Global cloud proxy network enabling inline SSL inspection and filtering without traffic backhaul to on-premises appliances
Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) is a cloud-native secure web gateway platform that delivers advanced URL filtering capabilities to block malicious and unproductive web content. It leverages AI-driven categorization of over 100 URL categories, real-time threat intelligence, and granular policy controls based on users, devices, locations, and applications. Beyond basic filtering, ZIA integrates SSL inspection, sandboxing, and malware prevention for comprehensive web security.
Pros
- Scalable cloud architecture with global PoPs for low-latency filtering
- AI-powered real-time URL categorization and threat blocking
- Seamless integration with Zero Trust and SASE frameworks
Cons
- Complex setup and policy management for beginners
- Higher cost for smaller organizations
- Requires agent or GRE tunnels for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, cloud-based URL filtering integrated with broader security stacks.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$96/user/year for basic plans; enterprise tiers with advanced features require custom quotes.
Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access
enterpriseSASE platform with next-generation URL filtering using machine learning for threat detection and policy enforcement.
Inline deep learning engine for dynamic URL categorization and zero-day threat blocking
Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access is a cloud-delivered Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform that includes advanced URL filtering as a core component, enabling secure web access control for distributed workforces. It leverages machine learning and real-time threat intelligence to categorize over 2 million URLs across 100+ predefined categories, blocking malicious sites and enforcing granular policies. Integrated with firewall-as-a-service and other security features, it provides comprehensive protection beyond basic filtering.
Pros
- Highly accurate ML-powered URL categorization with real-time updates
- Global scale with low-latency PoPs for optimal performance
- Seamless integration with Palo Alto's broader security ecosystem
Cons
- High cost unsuitable for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for setup and management
- Pricing opacity requires custom quotes
Best For
Large enterprises with distributed workforces needing integrated SASE including enterprise-grade URL filtering.
Pricing
Subscription-based on bandwidth/users, starting at ~$10/user/month but often $50K+ annually for mid-tier deployments; custom quotes required.
Forcepoint Web Security
enterpriseWeb security solution offering real-time URL categorization, filtering, and data loss prevention.
TruThreat ML-powered real-time URL classification engine that dynamically analyzes and blocks uncategorized threats
Forcepoint Web Security is a comprehensive cloud-based secure web gateway (SWG) solution specializing in URL filtering, malware protection, and threat intelligence for enterprises. It categorizes over 900 million URLs daily across more than 140 predefined categories using machine learning and a massive threat database, enabling granular policy enforcement. The platform integrates URL filtering with data loss prevention (DLP) and cloud access security broker (CASB) capabilities for holistic web security.
Pros
- Extensive real-time URL categorization with 140+ categories and ML-driven accuracy
- Integrated threat protection against malware, phishing, and zero-day exploits
- Scalable cloud deployment with seamless integration into existing security stacks
Cons
- Complex setup and management requiring IT expertise
- Premium pricing that may not suit small businesses
- Occasional false positives in categorization leading to user friction
Best For
Large enterprises needing advanced, policy-driven URL filtering with integrated threat intelligence and compliance controls.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically $6-12 per user per month depending on features and volume.
Netskope
enterpriseCloud access security broker that inspects and filters URLs inline for comprehensive web protection.
AI-powered Steering with real-time malware and phishing URL detection across encrypted traffic
Netskope is a cloud-native Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform that includes advanced URL filtering through its Secure Web Gateway (SWG), categorizing over 100 web categories and billions of domains to block malicious, uncategorized, or policy-violating URLs. It leverages AI and machine learning for real-time threat detection, SSL decryption, and granular policy enforcement based on users, groups, locations, and devices. Beyond basic filtering, it integrates with CASB, DLP, and firewall-as-a-service for comprehensive web security.
Pros
- AI-driven real-time URL categorization and zero-day threat blocking
- Scalable cloud architecture with global points of presence
- Deep integration with broader SASE features like DLP and CASB
Cons
- Enterprise-focused pricing that's opaque and high for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for policy configuration
- Overkill for simple URL filtering needs without full platform adoption
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring integrated cloud security with advanced, scalable URL filtering.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $12-25 per user per month depending on features and volume.
Check Point Harmony
enterpriseCloud security platform with anti-bot and URL filtering to prevent access to malicious sites.
Infinity Threat Cloud for real-time, hyperscale URL intelligence processing over 80 billion events daily
Check Point Harmony is a cloud-native Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform that includes advanced URL filtering to protect users from malicious websites, phishing attacks, and inappropriate content. It uses AI-driven threat intelligence from the Infinity Threat Cloud to categorize and block over 80 billion daily security events in real-time. Integrated with endpoint, email, and collaboration security, it provides unified policy management for enterprises.
Pros
- Superior threat intelligence with daily analysis of billions of events
- Granular URL categorization across 80+ categories with AI/ML accuracy
- Seamless integration within Check Point's ecosystem for unified security
Cons
- Complex management interface requiring cybersecurity expertise
- Enterprise-focused pricing less ideal for SMBs
- Full capabilities often require additional Check Point modules
Best For
Large enterprises needing integrated SASE with enterprise-grade URL filtering and threat prevention.
Pricing
Subscription-based; typically $5-10 per user/month for Harmony Browse, with custom enterprise quotes required.
Fortinet FortiGate
enterpriseNext-generation firewall with integrated web filtering engine for granular URL control and blocking.
FortiGuard AI-powered machine learning for zero-day URL threat detection and evasion prevention
Fortinet FortiGate is a next-generation firewall appliance that delivers advanced URL filtering through its FortiGuard Web Filtering service, categorizing over 90 million URLs into 90+ dynamic categories for precise blocking of malicious or inappropriate content. It supports real-time cloud lookups, custom allow/block lists, and AI-driven evasion detection to combat sophisticated threats. As part of a unified security platform, it integrates URL filtering seamlessly with IPS, antivirus, and application control for comprehensive network protection.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy with 90+ URL categories and real-time FortiGuard updates
- Scalable performance for high-traffic enterprise environments
- Deep integration with NGFW features like sandboxing and threat intelligence
Cons
- Steep learning curve for configuration and management
- High upfront hardware and subscription costs
- Overkill for organizations needing only basic URL filtering
Best For
Large enterprises and managed service providers requiring integrated, high-performance URL filtering within a full-stack security platform.
Pricing
Entry-level hardware from $500+, FortiGuard URL Filtering subscriptions start at ~$120/year per device; enterprise models and bundles range from $5,000 to $100,000+ annually.
Symantec Web Security Service
enterpriseCloud-based web gateway that delivers URL filtering, malware scanning, and policy-based access control.
AI-powered real-time URL categorization across 90+ categories with morphing malware detection
Symantec Web Security Service (WSS) is a cloud-based web security platform that delivers advanced URL filtering capabilities, blocking access to over 90 web categories including malware, phishing, and productivity risks. It provides real-time threat intelligence, granular policy enforcement, and visibility into user web activity for enterprises. Integrated with CASB, DLP, and firewall-as-a-service features, it scales seamlessly for distributed environments via global points of presence.
Pros
- Comprehensive 90+ URL categories with AI-driven accuracy
- Global cloud delivery for low-latency performance worldwide
- Deep integrations with endpoint security and threat intelligence
Cons
- Complex setup and management for smaller teams
- Premium pricing may not suit SMB budgets
- Occasional false positives in dynamic category filtering
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, enterprise-grade URL filtering with advanced threat protection for remote workforces.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $3-6 per user/month for URL filtering bundles, with volume discounts and annual contracts.
Trend Micro InterScan Web Security
enterpriseVirtual appliance for URL filtering, sandboxing, and protection against web-based threats.
Deep Discovery Inspector for sandbox-based analysis of unknown threats and zero-day exploits
Trend Micro InterScan Web Security is an on-premises web security gateway solution designed for enterprises, offering advanced URL filtering to block access to malicious, phishing, and policy-violating websites. It leverages Trend Micro's global threat intelligence for real-time categorization across over 90 URL categories, including malware, adult content, and social media. The software also integrates anti-malware scanning, data loss prevention, and application control to provide comprehensive web protection for corporate networks.
Pros
- Robust real-time URL categorization with 90+ categories
- Integrated threat intelligence from Trend Micro's Smart Protection Network
- Scalable deployment for large enterprises with high traffic
Cons
- Complex on-premises setup and management requiring IT expertise
- Higher costs compared to cloud-native competitors
- Limited native support for remote/mobile users
Best For
Large enterprises with existing on-premises infrastructure needing robust, customizable URL filtering and web threat protection.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $20-50 per user/year plus appliance hardware costs.
McAfee Web Gateway
enterpriseCloud and virtual appliance solution for URL categorization, filtering, and advanced threat defense.
Real-time URL categorization via McAfee Global Threat Intelligence network covering billions of URLs daily
McAfee Web Gateway is a secure web gateway solution that delivers robust URL filtering capabilities to protect organizations from malicious and non-compliant web content. It leverages McAfee's Global Threat Intelligence for real-time categorization of billions of URLs across numerous categories, enabling granular policy enforcement. Available in cloud, virtual, and on-premises deployments, it integrates URL filtering with anti-malware scanning, SSL inspection, and data loss prevention for comprehensive web security.
Pros
- Extensive URL categorization with real-time updates
- Strong integration with McAfee ecosystem and threat intelligence
- Flexible deployment options for enterprise scalability
Cons
- Complex configuration and steep learning curve
- Higher pricing unsuitable for small businesses
- Resource-heavy for on-premises installations
Best For
Large enterprises requiring advanced, policy-driven URL filtering integrated with broader security stacks.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $2-5 per user/month for cloud; varies by volume and features.
Conclusion
Evaluating url filter software reveals a standout trio: Cisco Umbrella, Zscaler Internet Access, and Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access. Cisco Umbrella leads with its cloud-delivered DNS-layer security, excelling at blocking malicious and phishing sites, while Zscaler and Palo Alto offer unique strengths in cloud-native protection and SASE integration, respectively, making them strong alternatives for varied needs.
Take control of your online security by trying Cisco Umbrella first—its robust url filtering capabilities can help safeguard your network and users from a wide range of threats.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
