In today’s digital landscape, managing network security and productivity is crucial. Implementing content filtering and URL categorization helps you prevent access to inappropriate or harmful websites, protect users from malware, and maintain a focused online environment. Cisco Meraki makes this easy with its intuitive cloud-based dashboard.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up content filtering and URL categorization using the Meraki GUI, ensuring your network stays safe and efficient.
What is Content Filtering and URL Categorization?
Content filtering controls the types of websites users can access based on categories, such as social media, gambling, or adult content. URL categorization is the process of grouping sites into these categories, often powered by extensive databases that track site reputations and classifications.
Meraki offers robust features allowing you to block or allow access to websites by category or specific URLs — all manageable via its sleek GUI.
Step 1: Log Into Your Meraki Dashboard
- Open your web browser and navigate to https://dashboard.meraki.com.
- Enter your login credentials (email and password) to access the dashboard.
Pro Tip: Use a laptop or desktop for the best experience — the dashboard has complex options that are easier to manage on a large screen.
Step 2: Select Your Network
If you manage multiple networks:
- From the top-left corner, click the network dropdown menu.
- Choose the network you want to configure for content filtering.
Step 3: Navigate to Content Filtering Settings
- In the left-hand menu, click Security & SD-WAN (or Wireless if you are configuring content filtering for wireless networks).
- Under Configure, select Content Filtering.
Note: The exact menu might vary slightly depending on your Meraki product (MX Security Appliance, MR Access Points, etc.).
Step 4: Enable Content Filtering
On the Content Filtering page:
- Toggle the switch to Enable Content Filtering.
- You’ll see default categories like “Pornography,” “Gambling,” “Social Media,” and more.
Step 5: Configure URL Categories
- Use the checkboxes to block or allow specific categories of websites by selecting or deselecting them.
- You can click on the category name to see a detailed description of the sites it includes.
- To customize further, use the Allow list and Block list fields to add specific URLs or domains.
- For example:
- Add
*youtube.comto the Allow list to ensure access even if “Streaming Media” is blocked. - Add
examplemalicioussite.comto the Block list to prevent access to a suspicious URL.
- Add
- For example:
Step 6: Apply SafeSearch and YouTube Restrictions (Optional)
- Scroll to Additional Restrictions.
- Enable Enforce SafeSearch for Google, Bing, and YouTube — this forces child-friendly search results.
- Use YouTube Restriction Mode to limit access to age-appropriate YouTube videos if needed.
Step 7: Save Your Settings
Once you’ve made your selections:
- Scroll down and click the Save Changes button at the bottom.
- Your new filtering policies will apply immediately across your network.
Extra Tips to Optimize Content Filtering
- Test your policies: Try accessing blocked and allowed sites from client devices to verify your setup.
- Update regularly: Websites and content categories evolve, so routinely review and adjust your filters.
- Leverage Meraki logs: Use the Network-wide > Event Log to monitor blocked URLs and adjust your lists as needed.
Final Thoughts
Setting up content filtering and URL categorization through the Meraki GUI is straightforward and powerful. It enables network administrators, IT professionals, and educators to tailor internet access easily, promoting safer and more productive online experiences.
Keep your network secure and your users focused by applying these simple steps today!
By embracing the Meraki dashboard’s user-friendly interface, you stay in control of what your users can access — with just a few clicks. So go ahead, safeguard your digital space with confidence!
