URL Filtering vs. Advanced URL Filtering

Overview

Palo Alto Networks offers two levels of URL filtering services: URL Filtering and Advanced URL Filtering . While both aim to control and secure web access, they differ in capabilities, detection methods, and protection against web-based threats.

Comparison Table

Feature URL Filtering Advanced URL Filtering
Detection Method Database-driven (PAN-DB) Database + Real-time ML/Deep Learning Analysis
Threat Coverage Known threats based on URL categories Known and unknown threats, including zero-day and evasive attacks
Real-time Analysis No Yes, with inline machine learning and deep learning
Credential Phishing Prevention Limited Enhanced, with real-time detection of phishing sites
Inline Categorization No Yes, with cloud-based analysis for suspicious URLs
License Availability Discontinued Available and includes all features of URL Filtering

URL Filtering

Traditional URL Filtering relies on the PAN-DB database to categorize websites and enforce access policies based on predefined categories. It provides control over web access but lacks real-time analysis capabilities, making it less effective against newly emerging threats.

Advanced URL Filtering

Advanced URL Filtering enhances traditional URL Filtering by incorporating real-time analysis using machine learning and deep learning techniques. It can detect and block unknown and evasive web-based threats, including zero-day attacks and sophisticated phishing attempts. This service offers inline categorization, allowing the firewall to analyze web content in real-time and enforce security policies accordingly.

Sequence Diagram: Advanced URL Filtering Workflow 

sequenceDiagram
    participant User
    participant Firewall
    participant PAN-DB
    participant Advanced URL Filtering Cloud

    User->>Firewall: Requests URL
    Firewall->>PAN-DB: Check URL Category
    alt URL Category Known
        PAN-DB-->>Firewall: Return Category
        Firewall-->>User: Allow/Block based on policy
    else URL Category Unknown or Suspicious
        PAN-DB-->>Firewall: Unknown Category
        Firewall->>Advanced URL Filtering Cloud: Submit URL for Analysis
        Advanced URL Filtering Cloud-->>Firewall: Return Verdict
        Firewall-->>User: Allow/Block based on analysis
    end

References