In the digital world of today, cyber threats are increasing at a very fast rate, and perhaps the most neglected yet essential part of cybersecurity is DNS security.
The Domain Name System (DNS) is the core of internet connectivity, which converts the domain names into IP addresses. However, cybercriminals utilize DNS vulnerabilities to carry out attacks such as phishing, malware spreading, and data exfiltration.
That’s where DNS security solutions come into play—offering protection against malicious domains, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring a secure browsing experience.
In this blog, we’ll explore the 10 best DNS security solutions that can help safeguard your organization from cyber threats.
What is DNS Security Solutions?
Think of the Domain Name System (DNS) as the internet’s address book—it facilitates your computer accessing the correct websites when you enter a web address. But while scammers can mislead you with false phone numbers, hackers can use DNS to hijack you to malicious sites, steal your information, or distribute malware.
DNS security solutions act as a protective shield, ensuring that your internet requests go to the right places and blocking anything suspicious. They help prevent phishing attacks, malware infections, and unauthorized access, keeping your online experience safe and secure—whether you’re browsing, working, or handling sensitive data.
Here’s why you might consider having one:
- Blocks Malicious Websites – Stops phishing sites, malware-infected domains, and other online threats from being accessed.
- Prevents Data Theft – Prevents cybercriminals from hijacking your DNS traffic and stealing your sensitive data.
- Reduces Malware and Ransomware Risks – Provides a first line of defense by blocking malicious domains before they are a threat to your network.
- Improves Internet Performance – Blocks unwanted traffic, thus cutting down on congestion and enhancing browsing speed.
- Halts Command-and-Control (C2) Attacks – Blocks infected devices from connecting with hackers’ remote servers.
- Secures Remote Workers – Keeps security intact even beyond office networks, making it perfect for hybrid and remote work environments.
- Simple to Implement and Manage – Frequently cloud-based, with little setup required while offering ongoing protection.
- Functions in Conjunction with Other Security Tools – Complements firewalls and antivirus software for layered security.
- Reduces Business Disruptions and Downtime – Stops attacks that may disable your network, allowing for seamless operations.
- Enhances Security Policies and Compliance – Assists organizations in complying with regulatory security needs and implementing internet usage policies.
List of 10 Best DNS Security Solutions
1. BlueCat Edge
BlueCat Edge is a cloud-managed, lightweight software solution that boosts DNS functionality by distributing service points to the edge of your network.
The service points serve as first-hop DNS resolvers, applying security policies and forwarding rules to every query in a smart way, allowing DNS traffic to flow through the cloud securely and efficiently.
Features:
- Flexible Deployment
- Enhanced Visibility
- Comprehensive Control
- Intelligent Forwarding
- Cloud Discovery & Visibility
Pricing:
- BlueCat Edge Standard Subscription License (1-Year): Priced at $130,612.99. ​
- BlueCat Edge Cloud: Available for $1.99. ​
Website: https://bluecatnetworks.com/products/edge/
2. DNSEye
DNSEye is an innovative tool created by DNSSense that boosts cybersecurity through enhanced visibility of DNS traffic. It identifies malicious activity sources on networks of any size, creating user-specific reports and alerts to enhance security controls.
Features:
- Advanced Threat Detection
- Comprehensive Traffic Analysis
- Automated Data Enrichment
- Rule-Based Automation
- Security Gap Identification
Pricing: Tailored pricing
Website: https://www.dnssense.com/dnseye
3. Quad9
Quad9 is a public, free DNS service run by the Swiss-based Quad9 Foundation that aims to provide enhanced online privacy and security for users globally.
By substituting your current DNS setup with Quad9, the service denies access to malicious domains related to threats such as malware, phishing, spyware, and botnets based on threat intelligence from more than 25 of the industry’s top cybersecurity firms.
Features:
- Malware and Phishing Protection
- Privacy-Focused (No Logging of IP Addresses)
- Global Threat Intelligence Integration
- Fast and Reliable DNS Resolution
- Free and Easy to Use
- Compliance with GDPR and Privacy Standards
Pricing: Free
Website: https://www.quad9.net/
4. Akamai
Akamai Secure Internet Access Enterprise (SIA) is a cloud web gateway security solution that secures organizations against DNS and web threats.
Using Akamai’s real-time threat intelligence, SIA actively blocks malicious domains related to malware, ransomware, phishing, and DNS-based data exfiltration.
It streamlines security management by doing away with on-premises appliances and offers centralized policy enforcement for users on and off the network.
Features:
- Cloud-Based Secure Web Gateway
- Real-Time Threat Intelligence
- DNS and Web Threat Protection
- Centralized Policy Enforcement
- Eliminates Need for On-Premises Appliances
- Protection for On-Network and Remote Users
Pricing:
- Essentials: Starts at $600/month (1,000 users); +$300/month per extra 1,000 users.
- Standard: Starts at $600/month (750 users); +$400/month per extra 500 users.
- Advanced: Starts at $600/month (500 users); +$600/month per extra 500 users.
- Integration Fee: $3,900 (for Standard & Advanced editions).
Website: https://www.akamai.com/
5. OpenDNS
OpenDNS, a division of Cisco, provides a collection of consumer solutions that are designed to make your internet faster, safer, and more reliable. By overriding your original DNS settings with OpenDNS’s worldwide network, users get better speed and security.
The service includes protection from phishing, content filtering according to your needs, and DNS lookup, leading to a more secure and efficient web experience.
Features:
- Phishing and Malware Protection
- Custom Content Filtering
- Faster and More Reliable DNS Resolution
- DNSCrypt for Secure DNS Traffic
- Parental Controls
- Enterprise-Grade Security (Umbrella for Businesses)
Pricing:
For Home Users:
- OpenDNS Home & FamilyShield – Free, includes customizable filtering and malware protection.
- Home VIP – Previously $19.95/year, now free with enhanced features.
For Businesses:
- Umbrella Prosumer – Previously $20/user/year (up to 5 users), now merged into OpenDNS Home.
- Cisco Umbrella – Enterprise plans start at $1.50–$5.57/user/month based on users and license duration.
Website: https://www.opendns.com/
6. TitanHQ
TitanHQ is a renowned developer of cloud-based cybersecurity technologies, providing solutions for email protection, DNS security, and web filtering.
Since 1999, TitanHQ has crafted an array of products that are meant to protect companies against numerous online threats, such as phishing, malware, and ransomware.
TitanHQ’s solutions are designed for managed service providers (MSPs) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs), with ready integration capabilities into Microsoft 365 platforms.
Features:
- Spam and Phishing Email Protection
- DNS-Based Web Filtering
- Ransomware and Malware Protection
- Secure Email Archiving
- Cloud-Based Threat Intelligence
- Seamless Integration with Microsoft 365
- Designed for MSPs and SMBs
Pricing: Custom pricing
Website: https://www.titanhq.com/
7. DNSFilter
DNSFilter is a cloud solution for DNS security that provides content filtering, real-time domain categorization, and malicious domain protection.
It boasts flexible deployment options, such as roaming clients for different operating systems and integration with Active Directory, making it ideal for organizations with remote, hybrid, or office environments.
The service is easy to install and configure, offering to increase network security by blocking threats at the DNS layer.
Features:
- AI-Powered Threat Protection
- Real-Time Domain Categorization
- Content Filtering & Compliance
- DNS Encryption & Security
- Active Directory & Roaming Client Support
- Customizable Reporting & Analytics
- Global Anycast Network for Speed & Reliability
Pricing:
- Basic: $1.00/user/month
- Pro (Most Popular): $2.10/user/month
- Enterprise: $2.70/user/month
Website: https://www.dnsfilter.com/
8. Cloudflare DNS Firewall
Cloudflare DNS Firewall safeguards DNS infrastructure by countering DDoS attacks, increasing availability, and optimizing performance with network-edge caching.
It shields authoritative DNS servers, provides continuous website access, and hides origin IP addresses to avoid attacks. Built for speed and reliability, it enables organizations to retain control of their DNS traffic while enhancing security and resilience.
Features:
- DDoS Protection & Mitigation
- DNS Traffic Rate Limiting
- Caching for Faster DNS Resolution
- High Availability & Failover Support
- Origin IP Address Protection
- Global Anycast Network for Performance
- Easy Integration with Existing Infrastructure
Pricing:
- Pro: $20/month (annual billing) or $25/month (monthly billing).
- Business: $200/month (annual billing) or $250/month (monthly billing)
- Enterprise: Custom pricing (billed annually, tailored for mission-critical applications)
Website: https://www.cloudflare.com/dns/dns-firewall/
9. Cisco Umbrella
Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-delivered security service that offers DNS-layer protection, secure web gateway (SWG), cloud access security broker (CASB), data loss prevention (DLP), and a cloud firewall to protect users from threats on the internet.
It prevents malicious domains, scans web traffic, applies security policies, and provides visibility into cloud application usage. Built for both on-premises and remote users, it enables organizations to have safe internet access with minimal latency.
Features:
- DNS-Layer Security
- Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
- Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Cloud-Delivered Firewall
- Threat Intelligence & Analytics
- Secure Remote Access
- Shadow IT Discovery
- Customizable Security Policies
Pricing:
- DNS Security Essentials: Starts at ~$2.50/user/month (for 1,000+ users).
- DNS Security Advantage: Pricing varies based on features.
- Secure Internet Gateway (SIG) Essentials: Custom pricing for advanced security needs.
Website: https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/products/security/umbrella/index.html
10. Webroot DNS Protection
Webroot DNS Protection is a cloud service that aims to protect your network by filtering internet traffic at the domain level, blocking access to malicious sites before threats can affect your systems.
It provides functionality such as precise domain filtering utilizing BrightCloud Threat Intelligence, device, IP address, or group-based policy enforcement, and on-demand, comprehensive reporting.
The service is simple to deploy and manage, and it offers expanded support for VPN and complete protection without the extra cost of hardware or software.
Features:
- Domain-Level Threat Protection
- BrightCloud Threat Intelligence Integration
- Customizable Web Filtering Policies
- Device, IP, and Group-Based Policy Enforcement
- Expanded VPN Support
- Detailed Real-Time Reporting
- Easy Cloud-Based Deployment & Management
Pricing:
- 5 Seats: $150.00​
- 50+ Seats: $690.00​
- Custom Pricing: Available for larger deployments
Website: https://www.webroot.com/us/en/business/products/dns-protection
How to Choose the Best DNS Security Solutions?
Selecting the best DNS Security Solution is needed to guard your enterprise from cyber attacks via phishing, malware, as well as exfiltration data. These key considerations will serve to guide your correct choice:
1. Immune to Thieves
The entire purpose of DNS security is to prevent threats from getting in even in the first place. A good solution will block malware, phishing websites, and any other suspicious domains. It will defend against DDoS attacks and zero-day threats (those pesky ones nobody’s ever seen before). A plus if it includes content filtering, so you can decide what sites users can go to.
2. Real-Time Monitoring & Insights
You don’t merely need a tool to block bad stuff—you also require one that keeps you informed of what’s occurring in real time. Search for capabilities such as live threat intelligence, granular logging, and anomaly detection (which identifies unexpected patterns that may signal an attack). The greater the insights you have, the quicker you’ll be able to respond to likely threats.
3. Integrates Well with Other Security Tools
Your DNS security shouldn’t be an island. It needs to integrate smoothly with other security tools like firewalls, SIEMs (for logging and monitoring), and secure web gateways. If you’re using a cloud-based infrastructure, make sure your DNS security solution works with it effortlessly.
4. Fast, Reliable, and Always On
Security is great, but nobody wants sluggish internet. Your DNS security needs to provide quick resolution times so that users don’t get lag. It needs high availability and redundancy as well—i.e., if one server crashes, there’s another waiting in the wings. A worldwide Anycast network is a major plus—it guarantees uptime regardless of where you are.
5. Smart Access Controls
Not all members of your organization must have the same access level. An excellent DNS security solution allows you to implement individualized policies based on users, groups, and locations. Want to block social media sites during work hours? Done. Need to whitelist some websites? Easy. The more you can control it, the better.
6. Cloud vs. On-Prem—Choose What Suits You
Some companies like cloud-based DNS security since it is simple to implement and is automatically updated. Others require an on-premise firewall to have more control. If you wish to have both worlds, opt for a hybrid model. Consider your infrastructure and future requirements before you make a decision.
7. Scalable and Future-Proof
Your security solution must scale with your business. If you’re bringing on more users, offices, or remote workers, your DNS protection should scale effortlessly. It must also extend to IoT devices (smart devices) and mobile workers, so you don’t have gaps in security.
8. Easy to Set Up & Manage
No one wants a nightmare security tool that takes forever to set up. Be on the lookout for a friendly dashboard, auto-response against threats, and a solution simple to manage for even non-techie teams. Security is not meant to make life difficult.
9. Compliant with Industry Standards
If you are handling sensitive information (finance, health care, etc.), your DNS security should adhere to compliance standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO standards. Additionally, ensure where the organization holds your data—some institutions demand data sovereignty (holding data in one area).
10. Cost vs. Value
Security is an investment, so focus on more than price tags. Compare scalability, features, and long-term ROI. Some solutions are user-based, and some are device-based. Select a plan that does not tax your budget while sacrificing security.
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate DNS security solution is important to secure your organization against cyber attacks such as malware, phishing, and DNS-based attacks.
The most effective solutions provide real-time threat detection, effortless integration with existing security tools, high performance, and granular access controls. Regardless of whether you choose a cloud-based, on-premise, or hybrid solution, ensure that it supports your business needs, compliance mandates, and scalability objectives.
The 10 DNS security solutions we’ve discussed in this blog provide world-class protection, reliability, and user-friendliness. Now, it’s time to weigh your options and choose the one that best aligns with your security strategy. A robust DNS security solution isn’t an option—it’s a necessity in today’s changing cyber world.
FAQs
How does a DNS security solution function?
A DNS security solution filters and observes DNS requests in real-time. It prevents access to malicious websites, identifies malicious behaviors, and blocks DNS-based attacks such as DNS tunneling, cache poisoning, and DDoS attacks. There are content filtering features offered by some solutions to have greater control over internet usage.
Is DNS security required for small businesses?
Indeed! Small and medium-sized enterprises are the target of choice for cybercriminals due to poor security. Adding a DNS security solution provides a layer of defense without having to set up sophisticated configurations, a cost-effective option to enhance security.
How can DNS security enhance compliance?
Several sectors (finance, health, e-commerce) oblige companies to adopt stringent data protection rules such as GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO 27001. DNS security assists by prohibiting unauthorized data transfer, saving DNS queries for audits, and imposing secure browsing policies.
How does DNS security differ from a firewall?
A firewall defends your network by filtering unauthorized traffic on many levels, while DNS security attacks phishing from a different direction, filtering and protecting DNS requests. They are complementary, but DNS security intercedes earlier in the attack pipeline by blocking users from even visiting the malicious websites.
Is it possible that DNS security could defend against phishing attacks?
Yes! A good DNS security solution recognizes and blocks phishing sites before their access by users. It also identifies spoofed domains that aim to steal login credentials, limiting the possibility of credential theft.