Use OpenDNS For Corporate Network Content Filtering

OpenDNS is a free domain name system (DNS) service which offers speedy, rock solid service, in addition to content filtering and phishing protection. DNS servers translate addresses (like google.com) to their corresponding IP addresses (like 74.125.67.100), which we like to call "internet phone numbers". Content filtering is the technique whereby content is blocked or allowed based on analysis of its content, rather than its source or other criteria. It is most widely used on the internet to filter email and web access.

For those that understand, just change your DNS servers (on your computer, or better yes, your router) to read 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. For those that don't, OpenDNS has a fairly comprehensive how-to on their site. The basics are to either change your DNS settings on your local machine, or preferably on the network, usually on your router. You'll need to register on the site to enable filtering and control various settings. By default, the service only blocks phishing attempts. There are of course various restriction settings that can be customized to block multitudes of content, all the way down to politics and social networking, if necessary. You can also choose to white-list and black-list specific sites as well.

It's is important in your infrastructure to have multiple layers of security to prevent issues. OpenDNS can help filter malicious websites before users or employees ever visit them. A good firewall will also have content filtering. And an up to date version of Windows will also offer some content filtering. Three solid forms of content filtering to ensure that your network is secure.