Top 10 DNS Filter Alternatives for Enhanced Web Security in 2025

Are you worried about cyber threats, phishing, and harmful websites slipping through your network defenses? In 2025, DNS filtering is a must-have for businesses that want to block malicious domains, enforce web policies, and keep users safe—no matter where they work. If you’re searching for the best DNS Filter alternatives, you’re in the right place to make a smart, secure choice.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler, a platform that helps companies hire through assignment. In this article, I’ll walk you through the top DNS Filter alternatives for 2025, highlighting their features, pricing, and what makes each one stand out. Beyond just picking a tool, how you document your cybersecurity projects is your proof of skill, your credibility, and your shortcut to trust in today’s digital world.

1. Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella is a leading DNS security solution trusted by enterprises worldwide. It blocks malicious domains, prevents phishing, and offers cloud-delivered firewall and secure web gateway features. Cisco’s global threat intelligence ensures fast, accurate protection.

• Real-time threat intelligence and malware blocking
• Cloud-based, easy to deploy for remote and office users
• Content filtering and application visibility
• Integrates with existing security stacks

Pricing: Starts around $2.20 per user/month for basic DNS security, with advanced packages available.

Why it matters: Cisco Umbrella’s broad threat coverage and reliability make it a top choice for organizations needing robust, scalable DNS protection.

2. Cloudflare Gateway

Cloudflare Gateway is a modern DNS filtering and firewall solution that protects users from malware, phishing, and unwanted content. It leverages Cloudflare’s global network for speed and resilience.

• DNS filtering, firewall, and secure web gateway in one
• Blocks threats, enforces web policies, and logs activity
• Free SSL certificates and DLP features
• Simple setup and integration with Cloudflare’s other services

Pricing: Free tier available; paid plans start at $7/user/month for advanced features.

Why it matters: Cloudflare Gateway combines speed, security, and ease of use, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes looking for cloud-first protection.

3. WebTitan DNS Filtering

WebTitan is a cloud-based DNS filtering solution designed for businesses and MSPs. It blocks malware, phishing, and inappropriate content, and provides detailed reporting for compliance.

• Per-user pricing, scalable for any business size
• Customizable policies and AI-driven threat detection
• Real-time analytics and reporting
• Integrates with Active Directory and other tools

Pricing: Starts at $1.58 per user/month.

Why it matters: WebTitan’s affordability, flexibility, and strong analytics make it a favorite for organizations wanting granular control and compliance-ready reporting.

4. Control D

Control D offers customizable DNS filtering with a focus on privacy, security, and user control. It blocks malware, phishing, and adult content, and lets you tailor filtering to your needs.

• Customizable filtering by category or domain
• Real-time protection and privacy-focused design
• Works on desktops, mobiles, and routers
• Whitelist/blacklist and traffic monitoring

Pricing: Starts at $2/month for individuals; business plans available.

Why it matters: Control D’s flexibility and privacy features make it great for businesses and families needing secure, personalized web filtering.

5. Infoblox Advanced DNS Protection

Infoblox is an enterprise-grade DNS security platform focused on stopping DNS-based attacks, data theft, and malware. It’s known for its advanced analytics and integration with network infrastructure.

• Automated threat protection and DDoS mitigation
• Centralized management and reporting
• Integrates with SIEM and security tools
• Advanced analytics for threat hunting

Pricing: Enterprise pricing; typically higher, but negotiable via resellers.

Why it matters: Infoblox is ideal for large organizations with complex networks and high compliance demands.

6. Zscaler Internet Access

Zscaler Internet Access is a cloud-delivered secure web gateway with built-in DNS filtering. It blocks threats, controls access, and provides deep visibility into user activity.

• Cloud-native, always-on protection
• DNS filtering, SSL inspection, and advanced threat defense
• Real-time analytics and reporting
• Integrates with identity and security tools

Pricing: Starts at $2/user/month for basic DNS filtering; advanced features cost more.

Why it matters: Zscaler’s integrated platform is perfect for companies embracing remote work and zero-trust security.

7. Webroot DNS Protection

Webroot DNS Protection is a cloud-based DNS filtering service that blocks malicious websites and content. It’s simple to deploy and manage, making it popular among SMBs.

• Real-time threat intelligence and malware blocking
• Cloud-based management and reporting
• Works on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices
• Scalable for growing businesses

Pricing: Starts at $1.50 per user/month.

Why it matters: Webroot’s ease of use and affordability make it a strong choice for small and mid-sized businesses.

8. NextDNS

NextDNS is a hosted DNS firewall that blocks malicious sites, trackers, and ads. It offers customizable blocklists and advanced privacy controls for businesses and individuals.

• DNS-over-HTTPS for secure queries
• Custom blocklists and parental controls
• Real-time analytics and logs
• Works on all devices and networks

Pricing: Free for up to 300,000 queries/month; paid plans start at $1.99/month.

Why it matters: NextDNS is great for organizations and families wanting privacy, security, and detailed control over web access.

9. Forcepoint Secure Web Gateway

Forcepoint provides a secure web gateway with DNS filtering, malware scanning, and data loss prevention. It’s designed for enterprises needing advanced threat protection.

• Blocks malware, phishing, and risky sites
• Inline scanning of downloads and uploads
• Zero-trust threat protection
• Detailed policy controls and analytics

Pricing: Enterprise pricing; contact sales for a quote.

Why it matters: Forcepoint’s advanced protection and compliance features make it a top pick for regulated industries.

10. ScoutDNS

ScoutDNS is a cloud-based DNS filtering and malware protection solution for businesses and schools. It uses AI-powered feeds and provides deep DNS insights for network admins.

• AI-powered threat intelligence and content filtering
• Detailed DNS layer reporting and analytics
• Easy deployment and management
• Flexible for different network sizes

Pricing: Starts at $1.25 per user/month.

Why it matters: ScoutDNS’s smart filtering and reporting help organizations of all sizes protect users and manage web access effectively.

Promote Your Cybersecurity Wins with Fueler

After you choose and deploy a DNS filtering solution, document your cybersecurity improvements with Fueler. Building a portfolio of real-world security projects demonstrates your expertise and helps you win new clients, partners, or roles.

• Build a digital portfolio of security deployments and outcomes
• Share analytics, compliance wins, and user impact
• Attract business opportunities and top talent
• Use assignment-based hiring to grow your IT team

Why it matters: Showcasing your cybersecurity work builds trust and positions you as a leader in web security and digital transformation.

Final Thought

Choosing the right DNS Filter alternative in 2025 is crucial for protecting your users, data, and reputation. Compare features, pricing, and support to find the solution that fits your needs—then document your success to stand out in the cybersecurity world.

FAQs

1. What is DNS filtering and why is it important for web security?

DNS filtering blocks access to harmful or inappropriate websites by filtering DNS requests, protecting users from malware, phishing, and data leaks.

2. Which DNS Filter alternative is best for small businesses?

Webroot DNS Protection, ScoutDNS, and WebTitan are affordable, easy to use, and ideal for small and mid-sized businesses.

3. How does DNS filtering protect remote workers?

Cloud-based DNS filtering enforces security policies and blocks threats for users working from any location or device.

4. Can DNS filtering help with compliance requirements?

Yes, many solutions offer detailed reporting and policy controls to help meet industry compliance standards.

5. How do I showcase my DNS security projects to clients or employers?

Use platforms like Fueler to document your deployments, results, and analytics, building a portfolio that proves your cybersecurity expertise.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talents for their organization based on their proof of work.

You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

Sign up for free on Fueler or get in touch to learn more.