DNS Filtering: Block Threats Without Slowing Teams Down
Hook: Most Attacks Start With a Single Bad Click
Many SMBs in Montréal are exposed to drive-by malware, phishing pages, and malicious redirects triggered simply by visiting compromised websites. Because these threats activate before traditional antivirus tools can react, blocking them at the DNS layer is one of the most effective ways to keep teams secure while maintaining productivity. DNS filtering quietly prevents dangerous domains from loading so employees stay focused on work instead of cyber risks.
How DNS Filtering Works (Resolver, Policy, Logging)
DNS Resolver
When someone types a website address, the device asks a DNS resolver to translate the domain into an IP address.
Policy Engine
Instead of allowing every request to the internet, a DNS filtering solution checks whether the domain is linked to malware, phishing attempts, newly registered or suspicious websites, cryptomining activity, or sits in a blocked content category.
If the domain is safe, the website loads normally.
If the domain is risky, access is blocked instantly before any connection occurs.
Logging and Reporting
Each request is logged, giving IT teams clarity into attempts, user patterns, and possible risks without disrupting day-to-day work.
Policy Design for SMBs (Categories, Exceptions, Roles)
An effective DNS filtering policy supports security and productivity together.
Recommended categories to block for SMBs include:
• Malware, botnets, and command and control callbacks
• Phishing campaigns and newly registered domains
• Cryptomining, proxies, and known malicious activities
• Adult content
• Gambling and high-risk entertainment
• Optional productivity drains depending on company culture
Smart exceptions are equally important.
Examples include allowing approved cloud apps, vendor portals, research tools, and specific websites required by marketing, development, or other specialized teams.
A well-designed policy is strong enough to keep your environment safe yet flexible enough for employees to work without interruption.
Rolling Out DNS Filtering With Minimal Friction
A modern DNS filtering rollout is simple and smooth.
Deploy lightweight agents on laptops and desktops, set baseline policies based on roles or departments, run a monitor-only phase for visibility, then enable blocking gradually starting with the most dangerous categories.
Provide employees with an easy way to request access to blocked sites so productivity is never hindered.
Reporting and Coaching Moments
DNS reports create visibility into:
• The number of phishing attempts blocked
• Emerging threats targeting the company
• Repeated risky browsing behaviour
• Departments that may need extra cybersecurity coaching
These insights become positive coaching opportunities that strengthen overall security awareness.
FAQ
Q1: Will DNS filtering slow down my internet?
No. Modern resolvers are extremely fast and often outperform the default DNS provided by internet service providers.
Q2: Can it block only dangerous websites and leave the rest alone?
Yes. Policies are fully customizable with categories, exceptions, and role based rules.
Q3: Do employees need to use a VPN?
No. With endpoint agents, protection follows them anywhere.
Q4: How fast can this be deployed?
Most SMBs in Montréal can activate full protection in under one business day.
Q5: Is this the same as a firewall?
No. DNS filtering works at a different layer and blocks threats before they reach your network.