# Best DNS Security Solutions

## How Many DNS Security Solutions Products Does G2 Track?

**Total Products under this Category:** 86

### Category Stats (Aug 2026)

- **Average Rating:** 4.49/5 (↓0.01 vs Jul 2026) The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings
- **Top Trending Product:** IBM NS1 Connect (+0.38%) - Among all products in this category, IBM NS1 Connect recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month

_Last updated: August 31, 2026_

## How Does G2 Rank DNS Security Solutions Products?

**Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:**

- 30 Analysts and Data Experts
- 2,900+ Authentic Reviews
- 86+ Products
- Unbiased Rankings

G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category.

## G2 Grid® for DNS Security Solutions
 ![G2 Grid® for DNS Security Solutions plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/dns-security-solutions/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=10700&focus%5B%5D=30548&focus%5B%5D=23936&focus%5B%5D=56950&focus%5B%5D=1386549&focus%5B%5D=65970&focus%5B%5D=99424&focus%5B%5D=55957)

Highlighted products: Cloudflare Application Security and Performance, Cisco Umbrella, DNSFilter, DigiCert ONE, Cloud-Delivered Security Services, IBM NS1 Connect, Verizon DNS Safeguard, and Webroot DNS Protection.

Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/dns-security-solutions/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=cloudflare-application-security-and-performance&focus%5B%5D=cisco-umbrella&focus%5B%5D=dnsfilter&focus%5B%5D=digicert-one&focus%5B%5D=cloud-delivered-security-services&focus%5B%5D=ibm-ns1-connect&focus%5B%5D=verizon-dns-safeguard&focus%5B%5D=opentext-webroot-dns-protection)

**Sponsored**

### DNSFilter

DNSFilter is a cybersecurity solution designed to enhance internet safety and workplace productivity by actively blocking malicious online threats. By leveraging advanced artificial intelligence, DNSFilter provides protective Domain Name System (DNS) services that effectively shield users from a wide range of cyber threats, including phishing attacks, malware, and other advanced security risks. With its robust infrastructure, DNSFilter processes an impressive volume of queries, resolving upwards of 130 billion queries daily while blocking an average of 12 million threat queries each day. The target audience for DNSFilter includes businesses of all sizes, educational institutions, and any organization that seeks to safeguard its network from cyber threats. As cyberattacks increasingly leverage DNS, DNSFilter serves as a critical line of defense for organizations looking to protect sensitive data and maintain operational integrity. By implementing DNSFilter, organizations can not only mitigate risks but also enhance overall productivity by reducing the potential for downtime caused by security incidents. One of the standout features of DNSFilter is its unique machine learning models which block threats an average of 10 days faster than traditional threat feeds. This rapid response is crucial in a landscape where cyber threats evolve quickly, and timely intervention can prevent significant damage. The AI-driven technology behind DNSFilter continuously analyzes and adapts to emerging threats, ensuring that users are protected with the most current security measures available. This proactive approach to threat detection and blocking is a key differentiator that sets DNSFilter apart from other cybersecurity solutions. In addition to its threat-blocking capabilities, DNSFilter offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies management and monitoring for IT administrators. The platform provides detailed reporting and analytics, allowing organizations to gain insights into their network's security posture and make informed decisions regarding their cybersecurity strategies. With over 35 million users placing their trust in DNSFilter, the solution not only enhances security but also fosters a more productive work environment by minimizing distractions and interruptions caused by cyber threats. Overall, DNSFilter represents a comprehensive and effective solution for organizations seeking to bolster their cybersecurity defenses while promoting a safer and more efficient online experience. Its speed, intelligence, and ease of use make it a valuable asset in the ongoing battle against cyber threats.

[Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list_llm&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=1952&secure%5Bchosen_at%5D=2026-08-31T18%3A47%3A35Z&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=1952&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=page_category&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=1952&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=23936&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=1952&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fdns-security-solutions&secure%5Btoken%5D=517eda94081f36845e373d524e124dcce2fbe61849048b24354cac2844abb983&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fexplore.dnsfilter.com%2FG2-free-trial%3Futm_source%3DG2%26utm_medium%3Dpaid-social%26utm_campaign%3Ddnsf_dg_2026-07_All_G2_free-trial&secure%5Burl_type%5D=custom_url)

### [Cloudflare Application Security and Performance](https://www.g2.com/products/cloudflare-application-security-and-performance/reviews)

Cloudflare is the connectivity cloud for the "everywhere world," on a mission to help build a better Internet. We provide a unified platform of networking, security, and developer services delivered from a single, intelligent global network that spans hundreds of cities in over 125 countries. This empowers organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to the world's largest enterprises, to make their employees, applications, and networks faster and more secure everywhere, while significantly reducing complexity and cost. Our comprehensive platform includes: - Advanced Security: Protect your online presence with industry-leading DDoS protection, a robust Web Application Firewall (WAF), Bot mitigation, and API security. Implement Zero Trust security to secure remote access, data, and applications for your entire workforce. - Superior Performance: Accelerate website and application loading times globally with our Content Delivery Network (CDN), intelligent DNS, and smart routing capabilities. Optimize images and deliver dynamic content with unparalleled speed. - Powerful Developer Tools: Empower your developers to build and deploy full-stack applications at the edge using Cloudflare Workers (serverless functions), R2 Storage (object storage without egress fees), and D1 (serverless SQL database). Cloudflare helps connect and protect millions of customers globally, offering the control, visibility, and reliability businesses need to work, develop, and accelerate their operations in today's hyperconnected landscape. Our global network continuously learns and adapts, ensuring your digital assets are always protected and performing at their best.

**Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 732

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Cloudflare Application Security and Performance?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 7.1/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Cloudflare Application Security and Performance?

- **Seller:** [Cloudflare, Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cloudflare-inc)
- **Company Website:** www.cloudflare.com
- **Year Founded:** 2009
- **HQ Location:** San Francisco, California
- **Twitter:** @Cloudflare  
286,254 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=9ff5cfe687bc4033753bbb82d49b4ac651d4582458542d4a881a39a74fc7cad2&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F407222%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
7,190 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Who Uses This:** Web Developer, Software Engineer
- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer Software
- **Company Size:** 62% Small, 27% Medium

#### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Cloudflare Application Security and Performance?

_AI-generated summary from verified user reviews_

##### Pros

- Users value the **robust security features** of Cloudflare, appreciating its effective protection against attacks and fast page loads.
- Users appreciate the **user-friendly interface** of Cloudflare, making management of security and performance settings effortless.
- Users appreciate the **user-friendly interface** of Cloudflare, making security and performance management easy and efficient.
- Users appreciate the **enhanced site performance** provided by Cloudflare, leading to faster page load times and improved security.
- Users value Cloudflare's **DDoS protection** , as it effectively secures websites and significantly improves page load times.

##### Cons

- Users find the **complex user interface** of Cloudflare challenging, often leading to confusion and a steep learning curve.
- Users find the **high pricing for advanced features** to be a significant drawback, restricting access to essential tools.
- Users find the **complex setup** challenging, particularly with advanced configurations that require extra time and support.
- Users find the **complexity of advanced configurations** challenging, impacting user-friendliness for those new to security platforms.
- Users experience a **steep learning curve for advanced features** in Cloudflare Application Security and Performance, complicating user experience.

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Cloudflare Application Security and Performance?

**["Easy Edge Security & Performance with Cloudflare Workers and Global Infrastructure"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudflare-application-security-and-performance-review-13374289)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Mohamed S._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudflare-application-security-and-performance-review-13374289)

**["Fast, Reliable CDN and Security with a Smooth Setup"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudflare-application-security-and-performance-review-13347280)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Ramesh C._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudflare-application-security-and-performance-review-13347280)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Cloudflare Application Security and Performance?

- [What is Cloudflare Spectrum used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-cloudflare-spectrum-used-for) - 1 comment
- [What is Cloudflare Bot Management used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-cloudflare-bot-management-used-for) - 1 comment
- [Does Cloudflare provide hosting?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/does-cloudflare-provide-hosting) - 2 comments
- [How good is Cloudflare DNS?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-good-is-cloudflare-dns) - 2 comments, 1 upvote
- [What does DDoS protection do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-ddos-protection-do)

### [Cisco Umbrella](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-umbrella/reviews)

Cisco Umbrella simplifies cybersecurity and compliance by providing a converged set of capabilities in a single, cloud-native solution. Its combination of DNS-layer security, secure web gateway, CASB, and more delivers an end-to-end experience that delights customers. Processing over 600 billion internet requests per day and leveraging the world’s largest cyber threat intelligence team in Cisco Talos, Umbrella has achieved AV-TEST’s #1 security efficacy ranking multiple times. Whether you need to strengthen your current security stack or want to transition to a more SASE-based architecture, Umbrella empowers you to confidently meet today’s cloud security goals and embrace tomorrow’s opportunities.

**Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 267

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Cisco Umbrella?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Cisco Umbrella?

- **Seller:** [Cisco](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cisco)
- **Year Founded:** 1984
- **HQ Location:** San Jose, CA
- **Twitter:** @Cisco  
720,366 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=476aeabc5a712d049453edd5c54ea0318890d9e60d93782e37fe028224df1cbd&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fcisco%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
95,545 employees on LinkedIn®
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ:CSCO

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Who Uses This:** Network Engineer, Software Developer
- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer & Network Security
- **Company Size:** 48% Medium, 31% Large

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Cisco Umbrella?

**["Reliable DNS-Level Protection Anywhere, with Windows Agent and Mobile App"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cisco-umbrella-review-12679658)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Aman A._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cisco-umbrella-review-12679658)

**["Strong, Cloud-Based Security with Centralized Visibility and Control"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cisco-umbrella-review-13240292)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— anirudh D._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cisco-umbrella-review-13240292)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Cisco Umbrella?

- [What is Cisco Umbrella used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-cisco-umbrella-used-for) - 1 upvote
- [What is Open DNS Personal Internet Security used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-open-dns-personal-internet-security-used-for)

### [DNSFilter](https://www.g2.com/products/dnsfilter/reviews)

DNSFilter is a cybersecurity solution designed to enhance internet safety and workplace productivity by actively blocking malicious online threats. By leveraging advanced artificial intelligence, DNSFilter provides protective Domain Name System (DNS) services that effectively shield users from a wide range of cyber threats, including phishing attacks, malware, and other advanced security risks. With its robust infrastructure, DNSFilter processes an impressive volume of queries, resolving upwards of 130 billion queries daily while blocking an average of 12 million threat queries each day. The target audience for DNSFilter includes businesses of all sizes, educational institutions, and any organization that seeks to safeguard its network from cyber threats. As cyberattacks increasingly leverage DNS, DNSFilter serves as a critical line of defense for organizations looking to protect sensitive data and maintain operational integrity. By implementing DNSFilter, organizations can not only mitigate risks but also enhance overall productivity by reducing the potential for downtime caused by security incidents. One of the standout features of DNSFilter is its unique machine learning models which block threats an average of 10 days faster than traditional threat feeds. This rapid response is crucial in a landscape where cyber threats evolve quickly, and timely intervention can prevent significant damage. The AI-driven technology behind DNSFilter continuously analyzes and adapts to emerging threats, ensuring that users are protected with the most current security measures available. This proactive approach to threat detection and blocking is a key differentiator that sets DNSFilter apart from other cybersecurity solutions. In addition to its threat-blocking capabilities, DNSFilter offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies management and monitoring for IT administrators. The platform provides detailed reporting and analytics, allowing organizations to gain insights into their network's security posture and make informed decisions regarding their cybersecurity strategies. With over 35 million users placing their trust in DNSFilter, the solution not only enhances security but also fosters a more productive work environment by minimizing distractions and interruptions caused by cyber threats. Overall, DNSFilter represents a comprehensive and effective solution for organizations seeking to bolster their cybersecurity defenses while promoting a safer and more efficient online experience. Its speed, intelligence, and ease of use make it a valuable asset in the ongoing battle against cyber threats.

**Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 244

#### How Do G2 Users Rate DNSFilter?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind DNSFilter?

- **Seller:** [DNSFilter](https://www.g2.com/sellers/dnsfilter)
- **Company Website:** www.dnsfilter.com
- **Year Founded:** 2015
- **HQ Location:** Washington, DC
- **Twitter:** @DNSFilter  
2,067 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=cd667b61e014ba282c3cc34eb7954551a72e5501ba75886fc8778678b761cf96&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fdnsfilter%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
175 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Who Uses This:** Owner, IT Director
- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer & Network Security
- **Company Size:** 61% Small, 34% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of DNSFilter?

**["Decentralized Protection and Easy Configuration"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnsfilter-review-12544168)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Edgar P._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnsfilter-review-12544168)

**["Best-in-Class DNS Security for Professional and Enterprise Environments"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnsfilter-review-12865515)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Eduardo R._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnsfilter-review-12865515)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About DNSFilter?

- [What is DNSFilter used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-dnsfilter-used-for) - 1 comment, 1 upvote

### [DigiCert ONE](https://www.g2.com/products/digicert-one/reviews)

DigiCert ONE is a cloud-native digital trust platform that helps organizations automate, manage, and secure certificates, identities, software, devices, DNS infrastructure, documents, and email communications from a single platform. Designed to simplify complex trust environments, DigiCert ONE provides centralized visibility, policy-based governance, and automation to reduce operational risk, improve compliance, and accelerate digital transformation initiatives. The platform includes: - Trust Lifecycle Manager for CA-agnostic certificate lifecycle management, certificate discovery, automation, and public and private PKI. - Software Trust Manager for secure code signing, software supply chain protection, and automated signing workflows. - Device Trust Manager for establishing and managing trusted device identities throughout the IoT and device lifecycle. - Content Trust Manager for digital signatures, electronic seals, timestamping, and document trust services. - UltraDNS for highly available, secure DNS infrastructure, intelligent traffic management, and application resiliency. - Messaging Trust for email authentication, domain protection, phishing prevention, and improved email deliverability. DigiCert ONE also integrates with CertCentral®, enabling organizations to streamline the issuance, management, and automation of publicly trusted TLS/SSL certificates alongside their broader digital trust operations. Built on a scalable, container-based architecture, DigiCert ONE supports cloud, on-premises, hybrid, and air-gapped deployments, enabling organizations to meet security, operational, and regulatory requirements while maintaining agility. Organizations use DigiCert ONE to eliminate manual trust management processes, prevent certificate-related outages, secure software and connected devices, protect critical infrastructure, and build trusted digital experiences at scale.

**Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 71

#### How Do G2 Users Rate DigiCert ONE?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind DigiCert ONE?

- **Seller:** [DigiCert](https://www.g2.com/sellers/digicert)
- **Company Website:** www.digicert.com
- **Year Founded:** 2003
- **HQ Location:** Lehi, UT
- **Twitter:** @digicert  
6,675 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=5fe45d5f7f2edf0d7733dbb4b395d486660bd817f0f62c0d8755e403b32def6f&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F357882%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
1,901 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services
- **Company Size:** 40% Small, 37% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of DigiCert ONE?

**["Intuitive UI, But Manual DNS Validation for SANs Slows Renewals"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/digicert-one-review-12475495)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Saurabh J._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/digicert-one-review-12475495)

**["Centralized Certificate Lifecycle Management in One Intuitive Dashboard"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/digicert-one-review-12464328)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Saurabh J._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/digicert-one-review-12464328)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About DigiCert ONE?

- [What is GeoTrust SSL used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-geotrust-ssl-used-for)
- [What is DigiCert Acme?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-digicert-acme)
- [How do DigiCert certificates work?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-digicert-certificates-work)
- [Is DigiCert a software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-digicert-a-software) - 1 comment
- [Is RapidSSL a DigiCert?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-rapidssl-a-digicert) - 1 comment

### [Cloud-Delivered Security Services](https://www.g2.com/products/cloud-delivered-security-services/reviews)

Overview Our Cloud-Delivered Security Services are natively integrated, offering consistent best-in-class protection everywhere. Backed by our world-renowned Unit 42® Threat Research team, this one-of-a-kind protection uses the network effect of 70,000+ global customers to share intelligence across all threat vectors to stop known, unknown and zero-day threats 180X faster than any other platform or point solution and prevent patient zero. What are Cloud-Delivered Security Services? A comprehensive suite of natively-integrated security services delivered from the cloud that provide protection for a customer’s entire network, securing all users, applications, devices, and data, regardless of the location. Our security services are powered by Precision AI™ and analyze real network traffic inline and stop threats in real time, including phishing, malware, command and control, ransomware, DNS-layered threats, and much more. These services include: Advanced Threat Prevention, the industry’s leading intrusion prevention system that addresses known and unknown command-and-control attacks from red team tools, as well as injection attacks and vulnerability exploits. Advanced WildFire, the industry’s largest malware analysis engine that stops the first instance of known, unknown and highly-evasive malware. Advanced URL Filtering, the industry’s first web security engine to stop unknown phishing attacks in real time. Advanced DNS Security, the industry’s most comprehensive DNS security solution that offers over 2x more threat coverage than the next leading security vendor and is also the industry’s first solution to stop network-based DNS hijacking attacks in real time. IoT/OT Security, the industry’s most comprehensive zero trust solution for IoT devices, helping you see and secure all connected devices in your network. NG-CASB, our SaaS application and data security solution that allows you to discover and control all of the SaaS consumption in your network. AI Access Security, our solution that ensures safe use of GenAI apps with access control, data protection and real-time visibility of over 600 applications, so that your employees can securely use AI to increase their productivity. With the power of AI and a robust global cloud infrastructure, Palo Alto Networks Cloud-Delivered Security Services can scale to stay ahead of today's threats and keep up with your organization's network security needs.

**Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 101

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Cloud-Delivered Security Services?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Cloud-Delivered Security Services?

- **Seller:** [Palo Alto Networks](https://www.g2.com/sellers/palo-alto-networks)
- **Year Founded:** 2005
- **HQ Location:** Santa Clara, CA
- **Twitter:** @PaloAltoNtwks  
128,951 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=283fa006a7b7db5565e608e4d1bc1dafae45bdf4b312f2cd5bb208ac9271f81d&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F30086%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
22,313 employees on LinkedIn®
- **Ownership:** NYSE: PANW

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Who Uses This:** Network Engineer
- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer & Network Security
- **Company Size:** 41% Medium, 34% Large

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Cloud-Delivered Security Services?

**["Simple and fast"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloud-delivered-security-services-review-11356080)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Pharmaceuticals_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloud-delivered-security-services-review-11356080)

**["Good Security Service with Strong Cloud Features"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloud-delivered-security-services-review-11484417)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Komal P._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloud-delivered-security-services-review-11484417)

### [IBM NS1 Connect](https://www.g2.com/products/ibm-ns1-connect/reviews)

IBM NS1 Connect is a managed authoritative DNS and traffic steering service built on an always-on, API-first architecture. It ensures fast, secure, and reliable global connectivity, ideal for enterprises prioritizing uptime and seamless digital experiences. With a global anycast DNS network spanning 26 points of presence, NS1 Connect minimizes latency worldwide and offers 100% uptime backed by an SLA. It delivers up to 3x DNS performance improvement in China and safeguards availability even during large-scale DDoS attacks. Its API-first architecture enables easy integration and automation for efficient operations. To manage consistent DNS configurations across providers like IBM NS1 Connect and Amazon Route 53, IBM Cloud Sync is the solution. It provides continuous, bidirectional synchronization of DNS zones, records, and traffic policies — whether your primary DNS is on NS1 Connect or Amazon Route 53. Free trials are available for both solutions on product page. With preconfigured integrations for leading DevOps tools like Ansible and Terraform, IBM® NS1 Connect supports automation of routine maintenance tasks, further streamlining DNS management for enterprises looking to optimize their performance and reliability.

**Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 92

#### How Do G2 Users Rate IBM NS1 Connect?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind IBM NS1 Connect?

- **Seller:** [IBM](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ibm)
- **Company Website:** www.ibm.com
- **Year Founded:** 1911
- **HQ Location:** Armonk, New York, United States
- **Twitter:** @IBMSecurity  
74,660 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=14b544adaece4fdbc987f1d7f7028048c22259946811200cc751263825586af9&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F1009%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
328,202 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Who Uses This:** Software Engineer
- **Top Industries:** Computer & Network Security, Information Technology and Services
- **Company Size:** 46% Medium, 27% Small

#### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About IBM NS1 Connect?

_AI-generated summary from verified user reviews_

##### Pros

- Users appreciate the **ease and efficiency** of DNS management in IBM NS1 Connect, enhancing their workflow significantly.
- Users appreciate the **intelligent DNS traffic management** of IBM NS1 Connect, enhancing performance and reliability in various scenarios.
- Users value the **ease of use** of IBM NS1 Connect, enhancing productivity and simplifying DNS management for teams.
- Users appreciate the **strong traffic control and various built-in features** of IBM NS1 Connect for effective network management.
- Users appreciate the **high reliability** of IBM NS1 Connect, ensuring consistent performance and stability under heavy traffic.

##### Cons

- Users find the **complex user interface** of IBM NS1 Connect challenging, especially when onboarding and configuring settings.
- Users struggle with a **steep learning curve** due to complex configurations and a lack of clear support.
- Users find the **high costs** of IBM NS1 Connect to be a significant drawback impacting their overall satisfaction.
- Users find **limited features** in IBM NS1 Connect, which hampers effective reporting and complicates the onboarding process.
- Users experience **compatibility issues** with IBM NS1 Connect, leading to messy synchronization and inconveniences.

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of IBM NS1 Connect?

**["Reliable, Intelligent Traffic Management with Powerful Automation"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ibm-ns1-connect-review-13258266)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Brianne K._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ibm-ns1-connect-review-13258266)

**["Intelligent Traffic Steering and API-First DNS Automation with IBM NS1 Connect"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ibm-ns1-connect-review-13337152)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Rushikesh S._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ibm-ns1-connect-review-13337152)

### [Webroot DNS Protection](https://www.g2.com/products/opentext-webroot-dns-protection/reviews)

What if you could stop up to 88% of known malware BEFORE it hit endpoints and networks? Well, you can. Webroot® DNS Protection works at the DNS layer to prevent malicious traffic and block malware before it infiltrates your networks, endpoints, and end users. Plus, it’s the first DNS filtering product on the market to combine privacy and security by handling DNS over HTTPS (DoH) requests. Here’s a real-world testimonial from a Webroot partner case study: “We blocked 135,470 risky DNS lookups in the first 30 days.” – Bobby Sowder, Director of Client Success, Greystone Technology With over 5000 endpoints under management, Greystone Technology has seen first-hand how a layered approach to cybersecurity makes their business and customers more resilient against cyber threats. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Powered by the proprietary Webroot® Platform, our proprietary threat intelligence architecture that is trusted by industry-leading network and security providers worldwide, DNS Protection is a lightweight, easy-to-implement domain filtering service designed to improve security with more granular control over internet access. Get the visibility and control you need to successfully stop cyberattacks at the DNS layer — before they hit your business or clients.

**Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 68

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Webroot DNS Protection?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Webroot DNS Protection?

- **Seller:** [OpenText](https://www.g2.com/sellers/opentext)
- **Year Founded:** 1991
- **HQ Location:** Waterloo, ON
- **Twitter:** @OpenText  
21,565 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=6c339a6555764b5ffce77c3df08d6ed9c9b1cb1ee1baeebac8435f0485b7cca5&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F2709%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
23,048 employees on LinkedIn®
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ:OTEX

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer & Network Security
- **Company Size:** 71% Small, 23% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Webroot DNS Protection?

**["Webroot provides comprehensive DNS protection for DoH Resolver Servers without compromising demands"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/webroot-dns-protection-review-7550148)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Meghna S._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/webroot-dns-protection-review-7550148)

**["Using DNS Filtering is key to a solid Security Stack"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/webroot-dns-protection-review-9967471)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Jim B._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/webroot-dns-protection-review-9967471)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Webroot DNS Protection?

- [Is Webroot SecureAnywhere a virus?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-webroot-secureanywhere-a-virus)
- [What is Webroot Endpoint Protection?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/webroot-dns-protection-what-is-webroot-endpoint-protection)
- [What is DNS protection?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-dns-protection)
- [What is Webroot DNS protection?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-webroot-dns-protection)

### [Verizon DNS Safeguard](https://www.g2.com/products/verizon-dns-safeguard/reviews)

DNS Safeguard is a cloud-based DNS security platform that blocks unsafe internet destinations at the earliest point of contact, before a connection is made. Protect your network from web content and sites known for malware, phishing, ransomware, and other common and uncommon threats.

**Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 14

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Verizon DNS Safeguard?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Verizon DNS Safeguard?

- **Seller:** [Verizon Enterprise](https://www.g2.com/sellers/verizon-enterprise)
- **Year Founded:** 1988
- **HQ Location:** Basking Ridge, NJ
- **Twitter:** @VerizonEnterpr  
7 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=32c2ef4b0503c1e083833676e491ac42edef7577ccd78938f7f25da81fadf7f8&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F1094%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
15,489 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 43% Small, 29% Large

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Verizon DNS Safeguard?

**["Perfect Solution to Secure the DNS"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/verizon-dns-safeguard-review-5470985)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Mayursinh J._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/verizon-dns-safeguard-review-5470985)

**["Cloud-Based DNS Security That Blocks Malicious Sites Before You Connect"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/verizon-dns-safeguard-review-13095361)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Information Technology and Services_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/verizon-dns-safeguard-review-13095361)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Verizon DNS Safeguard?

- [What is Verizon DNS Safeguard used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-verizon-dns-safeguard-used-for)

### [BloxOne DDI](https://www.g2.com/products/bloxone-ddi/reviews)

BloxOne™ DDI is the first and only cloud-native DDI solution that simplifies DDI control and management at scale.

**Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 27

#### How Do G2 Users Rate BloxOne DDI?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind BloxOne DDI?

- **Seller:** [Infoblox](https://www.g2.com/sellers/infoblox)
- **Company Website:** www.infoblox.com
- **Year Founded:** 1999
- **HQ Location:** Santa Clara, California
- **Twitter:** @Infoblox  
11,290 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=cc9c12faaef75aae4f52bf5bbf0d340e8afa942613ad0f91ef0814414df059ac&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F8697%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
3,303 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer & Network Security
- **Company Size:** 52% Large, 26% Small

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of BloxOne DDI?

**["Infoblox DDI"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bloxone-ddi-review-8253111)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Zafer G._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bloxone-ddi-review-8253111)

**["Best Solution Automation - DDI"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bloxone-ddi-review-7131682)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Chandan R._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bloxone-ddi-review-7131682)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About BloxOne DDI?

- [Why is BloxOne defense a threat?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/why-is-bloxone-defense-a-threat)
- [What is DDI protocol?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-ddi-protocol)
- [What is DDI software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-ddi-software)
- [What is BloxOne DDI?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-bloxone-ddi)

### [Infoblox NIOS DDI](https://www.g2.com/products/infoblox-nios-ddi/reviews)

Infoblox NIOS DDI is the industry-leading platform for managing and securing the mission-critical DNS, DHCP and IP address management, or “DDI” services, that keep every user, device and application connected. Trusted by more than 13,000 customers worldwide—including most of the Fortune 500—NIOS provides a purpose-built, enterprise-grade platform for critical network service visibility, automation, control and resiliency in on-premises, hybrid and multi-cloud network environments. Whether organizations are transitioning beyond traditional data centers or simply seeking to improve uptime and manageability on-premises, NIOS simplifies management, reduces errors and outages, speeds deployments and ensures five-nines reliability for the critical network services that keep the business running.

**Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 19

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Infoblox NIOS DDI?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Infoblox NIOS DDI?

- **Seller:** [Infoblox](https://www.g2.com/sellers/infoblox)
- **Company Website:** www.infoblox.com
- **Year Founded:** 1999
- **HQ Location:** Santa Clara, California
- **Twitter:** @Infoblox  
11,290 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=cc9c12faaef75aae4f52bf5bbf0d340e8afa942613ad0f91ef0814414df059ac&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F8697%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
3,303 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer & Network Security
- **Company Size:** 58% Large, 29% Medium

#### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Infoblox NIOS DDI?

_AI-generated summary from verified user reviews_

##### Pros

- Users value the **automation features** of Infoblox NIOS, which streamline management and minimize manual errors effectively.
- Users value the **robust centralized management** of Infoblox NIOS, enhancing efficiency and reducing manual errors significantly.
- Users appreciate the **intuitive dashboard features** of Infoblox NIOS, enabling easy management and quick troubleshooting of networking resources.
- Users find the **intuitive DNS management** of Infoblox NIOS DDI enhances efficiency and simplifies network administration.
- Users appreciate the **intuitive interface** of Infoblox NIOS DDI, making management of DNS, DHCP, and IP spaces effortless.

##### Cons

- Users face a **complex configuration** process that leads to a steep learning curve for new administrators.
- Users find the **complex setup** challenging, facing a steep learning curve and potential service interruptions during updates.
- Users find the **complex user interface** challenging, particularly during initial setup and for new administrators.
- Users find the **configuration difficulty** challenging, especially for new administrators facing a steep learning curve.
- Users find the **high costs** of Infoblox NIOS DDI prohibitive, especially for smaller organizations needing budget-friendly solutions.

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Infoblox NIOS DDI?

**["Excellent DNS AND DHCP server"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/infoblox-nios-ddi-review-8450136)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Erick Salvador P._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/infoblox-nios-ddi-review-8450136)

**["Reliable and centralized DNS/DHCP/IPAM platform"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/infoblox-nios-ddi-review-11696694)**

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Education Management_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/infoblox-nios-ddi-review-11696694)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Infoblox NIOS DDI?

- [What is the latest version of Infoblox?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-latest-version-of-infoblox)
- [What is Infoblox used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-infoblox-used-for)
- [What is Infoblox most known for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-infoblox-most-known-for)
- [What is Nios Infoblox?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-nios-infoblox)

### [MXToolbox](https://www.g2.com/products/mxtoolbox/reviews)

MxToolbox Delivery Center gives organizations Comprehensive Email Reputation Protection: the visibility and tools needed to monitor and manage email reputation, adopt and maintain DMARC, comply with bulk sender rules, and consistently get email to the inbox. Built on more than 20 years of email delivery expertise, the platform is trusted by 42,000+ domains, checks against 100+ blacklists, supports 500+ DMARC-compliant inbox providers, and processes 114 million+ DMARC digests annually across senders in 120+ countries. Delivery Center organizes protection around five layers of the email stack: Transport (TLS and MTA-STS encryption in transit), Blacklist Reputation (real-time monitoring across 100+ blacklists), DMARC Compliance (aggregate and forensic report analysis), DMARC Reject Policies (a guided, staged rollout from monitoring to full enforcement), and proprietary blocklist and inbox-placement algorithms that show exactly where campaigns land at major providers. Together these layers give a single, continuously monitored view of everything that affects whether email reaches the inbox. For Email Marketers Campaigns depend on inbox placement, not just delivery. Delivery Center lets marketers test campaigns before they send, showing whether a message will land in the inbox, spam, or junk folder at Google, Outlook.com, and Yahoo!, along with a DMARC compliance check and a comparison against bulk sender best practices for links, images, and content. BIMI support displays a verified brand logo directly in the inbox, with continuous monitoring to catch any configuration drift once BIMI is live. Because Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft now enforce formal bulk sender requirements, Delivery Center tracks the three pillars marketers are held to — spam complaint rates, DMARC authentication, and one-click unsubscribe — so compliance gaps surface before they trigger blocked campaigns. Adaptive Blacklist Monitoring automatically detects every sending source behind a domain, including ESPs, CRMs, and marketing automation platforms, and checks all of them continuously so a listing on any one sender doesn't go unnoticed. Feedback loop integrations and Google Postmaster data reveal how recipients are actually responding, and DMARC-based domain protection flags unauthorized senders attempting to spoof the brand before fraud and phishing erode the reputation a marketing program depends on. For DMARC-Aware Teams Moving from a DMARC monitoring policy to full enforcement is the goal, but doing it too early can block legitimate mail. Delivery Center processes the dense XML aggregate reports (RUA) inbox providers send and turns them into a clear view of which senders are passing, which are failing, and why — tracking overall DMARC compliance alongside SPF and DKIM pass rates broken out by sender. Automatic sender discovery identifies known platforms (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Marketo, Salesforce, HubSpot, Mailchimp, and hundreds more) directly from DMARC report data, flags unauthorized senders using the domain, and distinguishes misconfigured legitimate senders from active bad actors. SPF alignment analysis catches the common stumbling block of senders that pass SPF but fail alignment, plus SPF Flattening to resolve lookup-limit failures; DKIM alignment tracking works at the sender and selector level, since DKIM signatures survive forwarding and are often the stronger path to compliance. When it's time to tighten policy, Delivery Center shows precisely which senders would be blocked today and guides the staged move through p=none to p=quarantine to p=reject, monitoring the impact after each step. DMARC forensic reports (RUF) add per-message detail — sending IP, envelope domain, and failure reason — for troubleshooting specific authentication failures. Reaching p=reject also unlocks BIMI eligibility. For IT Email Administrators Email problems rarely announce themselves before a user complains. Mailflow Monitoring gives continuous round-trip visibility into inbound and outbound mail paths, including hop-by-hop latency, with instant alerts when performance falls outside defined thresholds. DNS record management brings SPF, DKIM, DMARC, MX, BIMI, MTA-STS, and TLS-RPT records into a single view with expert recommendations, so ongoing changes — a new SaaS sender, a DKIM key rotation, an SPF record creeping toward its lookup limit — don't quietly break delivery. Continuous configuration checks validate SPF syntax and include chains, DKIM selector health, DMARC policy impact, and BIMI record and certificate requirements, with change detection that alerts on unexpected modifications to any existing record. When a user reports an issue, Delivery Center consolidates mailflow status, blacklist status, and authentication results into one place, so administrators can move from report to root cause by checking mailflow, then blacklist listings, then SPF/DKIM/DMARC alignment, and finally applying the recommended fix — in minutes rather than hours. Granular, configurable alerting covers blacklist listings, mailflow latency and availability, DMARC compliance drops and new unauthorized senders, configuration changes, spam rate trends, and broader system health across MX records, sending IPs, and mail infrastructure, including geolocation visibility to catch unexpected sending locations.

**Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 29

#### How Do G2 Users Rate MXToolbox?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind MXToolbox?

- **Seller:** [MXToolbox.com](https://www.g2.com/sellers/mxtoolbox-com)
- **Year Founded:** 2003
- **HQ Location:** Austin, TX
- **Twitter:** @MXToolBox  
1,941 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=c4a59e1e4c19bd3804bf37e6bd999b5a49e1ad903a8629bcd388b6a3c3d974a4&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F1403914%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
14 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services
- **Company Size:** 52% Small, 34% Medium

#### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About MXToolbox?

_AI-generated summary from verified user reviews_

##### Pros

- Users value the **comprehensive data analysis** features of MXToolbox, enhancing network security and operational insights.
- Users find MXToolbox's **DMARC management** essential for effective network security and comprehensive analysis integration.
- Users value the **evergreen toolset** of MXToolbox, benefiting from its extensive network security functionalities.
- Users value the **accuracy** of MXToolbox in providing comprehensive details and diagnosing email delivery issues.
- Users find the **Deliverability Improvement** feature of MXToolbox essential for enhancing domain reputation and mail diagnostics.

##### Cons

- Users feel the service can be overly expensive, requiring a **costly pay version** for in-depth features and insights.
- Users find the **email wording misleading** , causing unnecessary alarm when there are no blacklisted IPs.
- Users find the **email alerts alarming** due to confusing messages about blacklisting status, causing unnecessary stress.

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of MXToolbox?

**["Great use - insightful information"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mxtoolbox-review-10733220)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Matt C._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mxtoolbox-review-10733220)

**["Reviewing Best Tool for Contextual Lookup and Network Diagnostics"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mxtoolbox-review-11701412)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Diku N._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/mxtoolbox-review-11701412)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About MXToolbox?

- [How much does MxToolbox cost?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-much-does-mxtoolbox-cost)
- [Is MxToolbox good?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-mxtoolbox-good)
- [How does MxToolbox work?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-does-mxtoolbox-work)
- [What is MxToolbox used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-mxtoolbox-used-for)

### [ScoutDNS](https://www.g2.com/products/scoutdns/reviews)

ScoutDNS is a next-generation Protective DNS platform designed to secure networks and users from online threats, inappropriate content, and emerging risks, both on and off-network. With both agent-based and network-based deployment options, ScoutDNS offers flexible protection for any environment. It safeguards users on any device with a lightweight agent and secures entire networks through seamless DNS filtering, blocking malicious domains, inappropriate content, and shadow IT at the DNS layer. ScoutDNS delivers real-time visibility and actionable analytics, enabling enhanced threat detection and compliance. Integration with Active Directory and Entra ID simplifies user-based policy management and supports compliance frameworks like CIPA, NIST, and CMMC. Trusted by IT teams, MSPs, schools, and enterprises, ScoutDNS provides scalable, proactive DNS protection, helping organizations block threats before they reach endpoints while ensuring user productivity and network security.

**Average Rating:** 4.9/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 60

#### How Do G2 Users Rate ScoutDNS?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.8/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 9.5/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind ScoutDNS?

- **Seller:** [ScoutDNS](https://www.g2.com/sellers/scoutdns)
- **Company Website:** www.scoutdns.com
- **HQ Location:** Dallas, TX
- **Twitter:** @ScoutDNS  
97 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=b4f6defeb5c04aabae81ee343dc527e3d244e72c29074b2565c33af1cde1b3f2&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fscoutdns%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
5 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Religious Institutions, Information Technology and Services
- **Company Size:** 65% Small, 22% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ScoutDNS?

**["Does What It Says on the Tin!"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scoutdns-review-11694348)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Daniel M._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scoutdns-review-11694348)

**["Best MSP Driven DNS Program in the market"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scoutdns-review-11365002)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Gus R._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scoutdns-review-11365002)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ScoutDNS?

- [What is ScoutDNS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-scoutdns-used-for)

### [CIRA DNS Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/cira-dns-firewall/reviews)

Uniquely Canadian cybersecurity delivered by CIRA. The CIRA DNS Firewall delivers protection against malware and phishing attacks by blocking access to malicious websites at the DNS layer. And it does this only from servers located in Canada to improve performance, data privacy, and sovereignty. Combining advanced data science, a global network for threat detection and decades of experience managing critical infrastructure to deliver a cost-effective and easy way to add to your defence-in-depth strategy. The unique threat intelligence is provided by Akamai and includes multiple additional feeds, like that from the Canadian Center for Cybersecurity. After-all you don't really have depth if your threat information all comes from the same source. On average we add more than 100,000 net new malicious URLs to the block list every day, and we do it within 14 minutes of the first query anywhere on the global internet. Protecting over 3 million Canadians and counting. As a non-profit, we work closely with network operators in Canada, keep all data sovereign and private, and give-back through grant programs and helps to build Canada's internet infrastructure.

**Average Rating:** 4.8/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 17

#### How Do G2 Users Rate CIRA DNS Firewall?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 9.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind CIRA DNS Firewall?

- **Seller:** [CIRA](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cira)
- **Year Founded:** 2000
- **HQ Location:** Ottawa
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=b0211037f147883cfae437784b535e53837b9664233844813cd05b19341e025f&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F899383%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
200 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 56% Medium, 39% Large

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of CIRA DNS Firewall?

**["Outstanding value"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cira-dns-firewall-review-4277659)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Jaymon L._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cira-dns-firewall-review-4277659)

**["Great Option to Limit Advertising and Unwanted Websites"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cira-dns-firewall-review-4545127)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Information Technology and Services_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cira-dns-firewall-review-4545127)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About CIRA DNS Firewall?

- [What is CIRA DNS Firewall used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-cira-dns-firewall-used-for)

### [Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions](https://www.g2.com/products/avast-small-business-cybersecurity-solutions/reviews)

Essential cyber protection and security control for your small business Avast Essential Business Security helps deliver device security for small businesses that want remote visibility and centrally controlled protection against viruses, phishing, ransomware, and advanced cyberattacks.  Avast Small Business Solutions deliver next-gen endpoint protection for business Windows PCs, Mac, and Windows servers that you can manage anywhere via a web browser. Our robust, easy-to-use security for devices and data is designed to keep small organizations and their employees safer online. Avast antivirus with multiple layers of security, online privacy, and remote-control features provides powerful cybersecurity controlled via a cloud-based management console.

**Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 109

#### How Do G2 Users Rate Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions?

- **Seller:** [Gen Digital](https://www.g2.com/sellers/gen-digital)
- **Year Founded:** 2022
- **HQ Location:** Tempe, Arizona
- **Twitter:** @GenDigitalInc  
4,481 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=f2c297c817665444dfa7cfa4f5e1986521f388aa438c5f762a76f26c52911aec&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fgendigitalinc&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
3,500 employees on LinkedIn®
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ: GEN

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Who Uses This:** IT Manager
- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Computer Software
- **Company Size:** 42% Medium, 39% Small

#### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions?

_AI-generated summary from verified user reviews_

##### Pros

- Users value the **easy accessibility** of Avast, enabling effortless management of security across multiple devices.
- Users value the **centralized management** of Avast for its simplicity in monitoring security across multiple devices.
- Users value the **easy-to-use cloud management** of Avast, which simplifies security oversight across multiple devices.
- Users appreciate the **cloud-based management console** of Avast, enabling remote security monitoring and easy management across devices.
- Users value the **seamless connectivity** of Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions for efficient real-time monitoring and protection.

##### Cons

- Users find the **compatibility issues** challenging during initial setup, complicating the overall experience with Avast Small Business Cybersecurity.
- Users find the **initial setup complex** , which affects compatibility and can lead to a frustrating experience.
- Users find the **initial setup and compatibility complex** , which can lead to a challenging start with the software.
- Users find the **initial setup complex** , causing challenges with compatibility during their experience with Avast Small Business solutions.
- Users experience **inadequate protection** on older devices, leading to occasional performance issues with Avast's solutions.

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions?

**["The Detailed View about Avast"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/avast-small-business-cybersecurity-solutions-review-11127160)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Blessed J._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/avast-small-business-cybersecurity-solutions-review-11127160)

**["Advanced protection with remote management capabilities"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/avast-small-business-cybersecurity-solutions-review-10465737)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Siddhant P._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/avast-small-business-cybersecurity-solutions-review-10465737)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions?

- [What is Avast Business CloudCare used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-avast-business-cloudcare-used-for)
- [What is Avast Business for Linux used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-avast-business-for-linux-used-for)
- [What is the difference between Avast Free and Pro?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-difference-between-avast-free-and-pro)
- [Is Avast a legitimate company?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-avast-a-legitimate-company)
- [Is Avast Pro worth?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-avast-pro-worth)

### [DNSSense](https://www.g2.com/products/dnssense/reviews)

DNSSense DNSEye is a sophisticated cybersecurity solution that uses AI to inspect outbound DNS traffic for anomalies indicating malicious DNS queries from any device, user, or application. With no need for agents or topology changes, it is easy to deploy and offers protection against both known and concealed threats. DNSEye integrates DNS, EDR, and xDR platforms to provide valuable insights into traffic activity and unveil hidden attack vectors and compromised users. DNSEye's early detection of unusual DNS requests offers crucial protection against zero-day attacks, thereby enhancing network security. By cross-referencing its findings with existing cybersecurity measures, DNSEye uncovers any overlooked threats, reinforcing the security layer and demonstrating its added value to your cybersecurity stack. When used with SIEM appliances, DNSEye serves as an intelligent filter for your DNS traffic, highlighting only the records that warrant attention. This feature enables SOC teams to manage large volumes of DNS traffic data without incurring additional licencing costs. DNSEye is compatible with various DNS server brands and can be deployed swiftly, even in large enterprise networks. This rapid deployment, coupled with significant savings on DNS log-related expenses, maximises the return on SIEM investments and makes DNSEye a valuable addition to any organisation's cybersecurity toolkit.

**Average Rating:** 4.9/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 65

#### How Do G2 Users Rate DNSSense?

- **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.7/10 (Category avg: 9.2/10)
- **Multi-Network Management:** 9.9/10 (Category avg: 8.9/10)
- **BYOD Protection:** 9.8/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
- **Incident Reports:** 9.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10)

#### Who Is the Company Behind DNSSense?

- **Seller:** [DNSSense](https://www.g2.com/sellers/dnssense-b595fa1a-990d-4143-9ca5-f3fcf9ae9960)
- **Year Founded:** 2016
- **HQ Location:** London, UK
- **Twitter:** @dnssense  
23 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=5f2b759b044ea13a8a9a10f2eed21a75b4a6678f6a97416fae3a5259a9d2c858&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fdnssense&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
28 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Information Technology and Services, Financial Services
- **Company Size:** 56% Large, 35% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of DNSSense?

**["DNSSense Makes DNS Traffic Monitoring and Threat Detection Easy"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnssense-review-13284857)**

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Information Technology and Services_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnssense-review-13284857)

**["Supports the Overall Cyber Security Operations"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnssense-review-8361319)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Sezgin K._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/dnssense-review-8361319)

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[Browse DNS Security Solutions Themes](/categories/dns-security-solutions/themes)

 ![Lauren Worth](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Lauren Worth")
LW

Researched and written by [Lauren Worth](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/lauren-worth)

Updated October 3, 2024

DNS (domain name system) security solutions are used to secure DNS servers and the websites they support. These tools redirect end-user web traffic through filters capable of identifying malware signatures and other characteristics of potentially dangerous websites and media. DNS security solutions provide IT personnel with tools to classify websites, categorize users, group devices, and customize usage policies. Companies use these tools to protect their employees’ endpoint devices and their own servers by blocking dangerous content, media, and websites. They can also be used to prevent employees from accessing unapproved content, such as adult or streaming sites, in the workplace.

DNS-based attacks have a variety of impacts and can cause significant disruptions. To combat this, DNS security software also possesses monitoring capabilities to identify unauthorized or malicious bots that may be capable of disrupting server performance, service availability, and network connectivity.

Many DNS protection solutions are capable of detecting and mitigating distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. DDoS attacks may target DNS servers but can attack virtually any kind of computer or network resource. DNS protections may not be able to protect against all kinds of DDoS attacks. DDoS-specific solutions include [cloud DDoS mitigation software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cloud-ddos-mitigation) and [DDoS protection software](https://www.g2.com/categories/ddos-protection).

To qualify for inclusion in the DNS Security category, a product must:

- Identify and block high-risk traffic at the DNS level
- Monitor traffic for dangerous sites and scan content for malware 
- Facilitate the classification of end users, endpoints, and digital content

Show More

### DNS Security Solutions Topics

- [What are DNS Security Solutions?](#what-are-dns-security-solutions)
- [What are the Common Features of DNS Security Solutions?](#what-are-the-common-features-of-dns-security-solutions)
- [What are the Benefits of DNS Security Solutions?](#what-are-the-benefits-of-dns-security-solutions)
- [Who Uses DNS Security Solutions?](#who-uses-dns-security-solutions)
- [Challenges with DNS Security Solutions](#challenges-with-dns-security-solutions)
- [How to Buy DNS Security Solutions](#how-to-buy-dns-security-solutions)

[
### DNS Security Solutions Topics
 Expand/Collapse ](#)
- [What are DNS Security Solutions?](#what-are-dns-security-solutions)
- [What are the Common Features of DNS Security Solutions?](#what-are-the-common-features-of-dns-security-solutions)
- [What are the Benefits of DNS Security Solutions?](#what-are-the-benefits-of-dns-security-solutions)
- [Who Uses DNS Security Solutions?](#who-uses-dns-security-solutions)
- [Challenges with DNS Security Solutions](#challenges-with-dns-security-solutions)
- [How to Buy DNS Security Solutions](#how-to-buy-dns-security-solutions)

## Learn More About DNS Security Solutions

### What are DNS Security Solutions?
 

DNS (domain name system) security solutions protect the infrastructure and the websites it supports. They can identify potentially dangerous websites and content by redirecting end-user web traffic through certain filters. They can also prevent other attacks, including DNS hijacking and DNS tunneling. Most DNS security software can also detect and mitigate distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks.

 

DNS is one of the oldest protocols of the internet. It’s a naming database that locates and translates domain names into IP addresses,&nbsp;similar to how a phone’s contacts list matches names to phone numbers. DNS is also one of the most utilized protocols, making it a common target of network attacks. Most internet activities, including web browsing, heavily depend on the DNS directory to quickly locate an IP address, connect with the web server, and access the website’s content.

 

Since the DNS functions as the backbone of internet connectivity, it’s natural to assume it is designed with the utmost cybersecurity features. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. When this infrastructure was created, malicious actors and security threats were not as prevalent as today. Organizations use DNS security solutions to protect against DNS server attacks, threats, and malware such as ransomware.

 

**What Does DNS Stand For?**

 

DNS stands for domain name system and acts as a translator between humans and computers. It is essentially a directory of domain names mapped with each website's IP addresses.

 

### What are the Common Features of DNS Security Solutions?
 

The following are some of the core features within DNS security tools that can help companies protect their networks from malicious actors:

 

**DNS filter:** DNS filter may be one of the many features offered by this type of protection solution or the only purpose of a specific tool. It’s also referred to as DNS-layer security and can be viewed as a way to cut off threats before they can attack. In other words, it is the first line of defense against cybersecurity infiltration. DNS filtering can help blacklist malicious and phishing websites and ultimately avoid the risk of being attacked. This feature doubles as a content filtering system, enabling companies to prevent employees from accessing harmful or inappropriate web content on company-managed devices and networks.

 

**Bot protection:** With IoT devices becoming more prevalent, bot attacks are increasing. Malicious attackers may use botnets to steal employee data, send spam, or initiate DDoS attacks. Most DNS security tools come with features to detect and mitigate botnet attacks.

 

**Prediction capabilities:** Some DNS security solutions utilize the power of machine learning to identify and predict malicious domains. These solutions can proactively identify newly staged attacker infrastructure and block them to protect against cyber threats by analyzing internet activity patterns.

 

**Typo correction:** DNS security solutions may have features for the typo correction, which is incredibly important as attackers may create domains with misleading names, for example, “gogle.com”, and use them for phishing attacks.

 

### What are the Benefits of DNS Security Solutions?
 

DNS security systems enable organizations to add an extra layer of protection between employees and the internet. With the increasing number of remote workers, DNS security applications help secure data inside and outside the office and make it safer to promote programs such as bring your own device (BYOD).

 

The DNS wasn’t created with security in mind, making it vulnerable to several security threats. For example, since DNS heavily depends on caching, attackers may utilize an advanced technique called cache poisoning to exploit the behavior of servers and cache to serve harmful HTTP responses to users. Most DNS security software tools are equipped with essential features to fight cache poisoning.

 

Another way to fight cache poisoning is with the help of DNS security extensions (DNSSEC). But buyers must be mindful not to confuse DNSSEC with DNS security systems, as the former is a feature that authenticates the responses to domain name lookups. This also means that DNSSEC doesn’t provide particular privacy protection for those lookups. Instead, it prevents attackers from poisoning or manipulating the responses to DNS queries.

 

The following are some of the notable benefits of utilizing a DNS security solution:

 

**Filter unwanted content:** As mentioned earlier, DNS security software solutions offer filtering, which is an excellent way to block malicious websites and reduce the chance of DNS attacks. Companies can use this feature to control how employees access the web. For instance, it can block unwanted websites with adult or inappropriate NSFW (not suitable for work) content. The main benefit of this feature is that buyers can implement it without installing any specific software on the devices.

 

**Block advertisements:** Another benefit of DNS filtering is ad blocking, which is also a type of content filtering. Ads may have malicious apps hidden inside them or could be a strategy to extract employee information. Even if there isn’t any malicious intent behind an advertisement, it can still distract employees and reduce their performance.

 

**Uncover shadow IT:** Shadow IT, which are IT systems deployed by employees without the approval of the IT department, can cause security and compliance issues and may also increase the IT spending at a company. Unsanctioned applications are also frequently targeted by attackers. Some DNS security software products help uncover shadow IT applications and provide insights into where the employees spend the most time online.

 

**Prevent malware downloads:** Controlling internet access also means that DNS security applications can help prevent malware downloads from hacked or malicious sites. If malware is downloaded somehow, it will typically send “callback” signals to a host server to receive further instructions. If there’s a DNS security platform in place, it can block such signals.

 

**Integrate with ease:** DNS security solutions easily integrate with a business’s existing network security ecosystem. These products typically come with flexible APIs and can be configured and deployed effortlessly.

 

### Who Uses DNS Security Solutions?

**IT administrators:** IT administrators, or more precisely, internal IT management departments of organizations, are the most common users of DNS security solutions. These tools help administrators secure DNS servers and protect their employees from DNS-based attacks and secure sensitive data.

#### Software Related to DNS Security Solutions

Related solutions that can be used together with DNS security solutions include:

[DDoS protection software](https://www.g2.com/categories/ddos-protection) **:** DDoS protection software solutions help prevent DDoS attacks and secure websites and applications. They monitor web traffic and set baselines for normal traffic loads. If the traffic inflow increases rapidly, botnet attack being one reason, the web filters will redirect web traffic to a controlled source.

[Website security software](https://www.g2.com/categories/website-security) **:** As the name suggests, website security software protects websites from numerous internet-based attacks. It combines the features of DDoS protection software, [content delivery networks (CDN)](https://www.g2.com/categories/content-delivery-network-cdn), and web application firewalls.

[Secure web gateways](https://www.g2.com/categories/secure-web-gateways) **:** Secure web gateways enable organizations to prevent internet-based threats and can help ensure employee compliance. They can filter websites and content to identify malware, block dangerous URLs, and prevent end users from engaging with them.

[Web application firewalls (WAF)](https://www.g2.com/categories/web-application-firewall-waf) **:** This tool filters and monitors incoming traffic to protect web applications against malicious traffic. These tools can inspect traffic flow at the application level and block cross-site scripting and SQL injection attacks.

[Bot detection and mitigation software](https://www.g2.com/categories/bot-detection-and-mitigation) **:** Bot detection and mitigation software monitors websites, applications, and networks to identify malicious bot activity. It’s an essential tool to prevent DDoS attacks, form submission abuse, web scraping, and other bot attacks.

### Challenges with DNS Security Solutions

Most DNS security products use the DNS as a low-bandwidth, low-latency, and basic filter to protect end users from phishing and other malicious attacks. Although DNS security platforms can prevent numerous cyber attacks, it can be viewed only as the first line of defense. In other words, it is only one of the many tools required to maintain a healthy and secure network ecosystem. Additionally, DNS security software systems come with numerous limitations and challenges.

**End-user circumvention:** End users may try to get around the filters enforced by a DNS security tool. And in many cases, they will succeed. This is a common limitation of DNS security systems and will defeat the purpose of having such a tool in place. Of course, businesses can overcome this limitation by setting up some firewall rules. But, it is better to look at the bigger picture and understand why end users are doing it in the first place. Educating end users about the benefits of having a DNS filter can help overcome this limitation.

**Registrar hijacking:** An attacker can take advantage of the weak security practices, vulnerabilities, or carelessness of an organization, which would instantly make a DNS security tool ineffective. For instance, a malicious attacker may perform social engineering on an organization’s domain registrar to ultimately perform domain hijacking. This method of domain hijacking is called registrar hijacking.

### How to Buy DNS Security Solutions

#### Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for DNS Security Solutions

Understanding the company’s requirements by performing an internal assessment should be the first step toward buying a DNS security software solution. In other words, buyers should try to understand what the tool means to their organization.

This step of understanding what a particular software should do for an organization is called requirements gathering, and its success can significantly impact the effectiveness of the chosen software solution. Along with requirements gathering, buyers should have a fair understanding of the budget to purchase the software. This will empower them to choose the best software solution that fits their needs and budget.

Unlike most other software, DNS security products may have a single purpose–DNS filtering. But, depending on the use case, businesses may want the DNS security tool to perform multiple functions, including content filtering, bot protection, and typo correction. Understanding whether the company requires advanced features such as real-time threat detection, predictive capabilities, or threat intelligence is essential. Not all DNS security systems come with artificial intelligence features.

#### Compare DNS Security Solutions

**Create a long list**

After requirements gathering, buyers should create a long list of potential DNS security software products. This initial list can include any software solutions that meet the company’s basic requirements. At this point, instead of finding the right solution, the focus should be on eliminating the products that don’t offer critical functionality. For instance, if a software product can perform DNS filtering, it should be added to this list, regardless of what else it offers.

**Create a short list**

A buyer can create a short list from the long list by eliminating DNS security software products that don’t meet the company’s requirements or, in other words, don’t have the must-have features. In this step, buyers can also remove software products that don’t fit their budget. To refine the list further, buyers can eliminate tools without the nice-to-have features. Companies can compare the remaining products based on usability, features, pricing, and vendor support. Ideally, creating a short list with five to seven products is better.

**Conduct demos**

Product demos help understand a product's usability and features. Additionally, demos help buyers compare the particular product with others on the short list. To be fair and square, buyers should test the DNS security software products using the same use cases. Along with understanding the usability, demos are useful to examine the user experience of the software, ask questions about the features buyers care the most about, and check whether the features work as advertised.

#### Selection of DNS Security Solutions

**Choose a selection team**

Like in the case of every software product, buying a DNS security software platform is a costly decision, so buyers should ensure that the right stakeholders are present to make the decision. For this reason, the organization should assemble a selection team, which includes IT administrators, security team professionals, IT managers, and key decision-makers. The team must consist of professionals who can use the DNS security solution, scrutinize it, and check whether it meets all the requirements.

**Negotiation**

After finding a product that fits the criteria, buyers should discuss the terms and conditions with the DNS security software vendor and negotiate the pricing. Negotiating is possible even if a vendor has mentioned specific pricing on their website. Buyers can request to lower the price by removing certain optional features. Vendors may also offer additional discounts for multi-year contracts.

**Final decision**

It’s advisable to test the software on a small scale for a short period before purchasing. It’s best to involve the day-to-day users of the software in this testing phase. They can be better judges of the usability and user experience of the software and offer valuable feedback.

Software vendors will offer a free, short-term product trial in most cases. If the end users and the selection team are satisfied with the software, buyers can proceed with purchasing or contracting. If not, the buyer must re-evaluate the software options.