How to Dynamically Populate Custom URL Blocking in Cisco Umbrella

Introduction

– Briefly explain what Cisco Umbrella is and its importance in network security.

– Discuss the need for custom URL blocking and how it can enhance security.

Understanding Custom URL Blocking

– Explain what custom URL blocking is and how it works.

– Discuss the benefits of custom URL blocking.

Dynamic Population of Custom URL Blocking in Cisco Umbrella

– Explain what dynamic population of custom URL blocking means.

– Discuss the advantages of using dynamic population.

Steps to Dynamically Populate Custom URL Blocking in Cisco Umbrella

– Explain the step-by-step process of dynamically populating custom URL blocking in Cisco Umbrella.

– Provide examples and screenshots to illustrate the process.

Best Practices for Custom URL Blocking in Cisco Umbrella

– Discuss some best practices for custom URL blocking in Cisco Umbrella.

– Provide tips for effective implementation and management.

Conclusion

– Summarize the importance of custom URL blocking in Cisco Umbrella.

– Encourage readers to implement custom URL blocking using dynamic population in their network security strategy.

Summary:

Cisco Umbrella is a cloud security platform that provides protection against threats like malware, phishing, and ransomware. One of the features of Cisco Umbrella is the ability to create custom URL blocking rules. In this article, we will discuss how to dynamically populate custom URL blocking in Cisco Umbrella.

1. Understand the Need for Custom URL Blocking:

Custom URL blocking allows organizations to block access to specific websites that may be harmful or inappropriate for their users. With the rise of remote work, it has become increasingly important for organizations to have control over what websites their employees can access. Custom URL blocking can help prevent employees from visiting websites that may compromise the security of their organization.

2. Create a Custom URL Category:

To create a custom URL blocking rule, you first need to create a custom URL category. This can be done by logging into your Cisco Umbrella dashboard and navigating to the policy settings. Under the policy settings, you will find an option to create a new URL category. You can then name the category and add URLs that you want to block.

3. Dynamically Populate the Custom URL Category:

Once you have created the custom URL category, you can dynamically populate it using a variety of methods. One of the most common methods is to use threat intelligence feeds. These feeds provide real-time information about websites that are known to be malicious or have a high risk of being compromised. By integrating threat intelligence feeds into your Cisco Umbrella policy, you can automatically block access to these websites.

Another method for dynamically populating your custom URL category is to use machine learning. Cisco Umbrella uses machine learning algorithms to analyze web traffic and identify patterns that may indicate a website is malicious. By using machine learning, Cisco Umbrella can automatically add websites to your custom URL category as they are identified as a potential threat.

4. Monitor and Adjust your Custom URL Blocking Rules:

Once you have created your custom URL blocking rules, it is important to monitor them regularly to ensure they are working as intended. Cisco Umbrella provides detailed reports on web traffic, allowing you to see which websites are being blocked and why. If you notice that a website is being incorrectly blocked, you can adjust your rules to allow access to the site.

In conclusion, custom URL blocking is an important feature of Cisco Umbrella that allows organizations to control access to specific websites. By creating custom URL categories and dynamically populating them, organizations can prevent their users from accessing harmful or inappropriate websites. With regular monitoring and adjustment of your custom URL blocking rules, you can ensure that your organization’s web traffic is secure and compliant with company policies.