URL Filtering Basics
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Advanced URL Filtering

URL Filtering Basics

Table of Contents

URL Filtering Basics

Fundamentals of URL Filtering and Palo Alto Networks Advanced URL Filtering Subscription—explore the mechanics, use cases, and essential components of our URL filtering solution.
Where can I use this?What do I need?
  • Prisma Access (Managed by Strata Cloud Manager)
  • Prisma Access (Managed by Panorama)
  • NGFW (Managed by Strata Cloud Manager)
  • NGFW (Managed by PAN-OS or Panorama)
Notes:
  • Legacy URL filtering licenses are discontinued, but active legacy licenses are still supported.
  • Prisma Access licenses include Advanced URL Filtering capabilities.
URL filtering technology protects users from web-based threats by providing granular control over user access and interaction with content on the Internet. You can develop a URL filtering policy that limits access to sites based on URL categories, users, and groups. For example, you can block access to sites known to host malware and prevent end users from entering corporate credentials to sites in certain categories.
For granular control over user access to categories, you can create a URL Filtering profile and define site access for predefined and custom URL categories; then, apply the profile to Security policy rules. You can also use URL categories as match criteria in Security policy rules. For a list of ways an Advanced URL Filtering subscription can meet your organization’s web security needs, see URL Filtering Use Cases.