Content filtering is an important layer of your overall IT security plan. It allows you to control content and block high risk websites, drive by malware, malicious downloads and other cyber threats. Content filtering for small business is usually automated via software programmed by your IT company.
From time to time, you or your IT provider will need to assist your team when trying to access a safe site marked as dangerous (false positive). A little time spent helping users experiencing issues accessing safe sites is well worth the extra layer of automated security content filtering provides.
What is the difference between content filtering and antivirus?
Content filtering relies on an application or hardware appliance to screen, allow or block access to web pages that are deemed high risk, or have a known threat embedded in them. It is a layer of IT security that works best to protect end users who search or browse the internet. It works against known threats as well as potential threats that IT managers block based on their own defined threat criteria.
Antivirus relies on programming to screen, allow or block incoming email messages with attachments. For antivirus to work the the application determines whether the incoming threat is either a recognized threat for which an identifying signature or algorithm already exists or it performs heuristic analysis (does this attachment have virus-like properties) in order to identify and block it.
Do I need content filtering if I already have antivirus?
In short – yes – absolutely.
It is strongly recommended that all businesses use multi layer cyber security processes that can work together to block a higher number of threats. Since antivirus and content filtering work in different ways, it is recommended both are incorporated into SMB IT policies.
How do I setup content filtering for my business?
Content filtering software services such as SafeDNS are marketed to business owners. You can set up and use these services on your own.
Many business owners prefer to have their content filtering and all other IT security management tools setup and overseen by experienced IT professionals. You can outsource on an hourly as needed basis, or go with the best recommendation, which is fully outsourced IT management to a Managed IT Services Provider who will implement and oversee all aspects of IT and cloud security for your company.
How much does content filtering cost?
Generally, content filtering is a program that has a small monthly cost in itself. However, such tools require installation, configuration and most importantly, ongoing monitoring for problem alerts. Since most SMB’s do not have in house IT staff, content filtering is bundled into a multi-layered IT security solutions offered by Managed Service Providers, designed to cost effectively meet security and support needs for SMB’s. This covers your need for content filtering and advanced IT security management, as well as help desk support services for your team.
Bonus Tip For Home Use: Tools like SafeDNS can be used for parental web control in the home. Stay safe online with the added protection of content filtering.
For Toronto IT Security Services and support, reach out to us today. TUCU Managed IT Services Inc has been serving SMB’s in the GTA since 2003.
In addition to security, we offer complete IT management services, including server management, network management and cloud management.
Our team of trusted IT professionals will help you assess your needs and manage your technology.
