Kier Prior-Williams Experienced DNS Consultant

DNS is a cornerstone of our daily "technology life", and performs an essential role when we use the Internet and company networks. Practically every device uses DNS as a way of locating other systems, services and applications. When a user browses a website, or an automated process operates with another resource, a valid DNS response is critical to ensure a connection to the correct service. But it's not just about DNS responding, additional factors also influence users/applications DNS experience, including: The speed of DNS responses DNS uptime, and providing service even with a server or datacentre outage Geolocation, ensuring the returned DNS response is local to the user Secure, use DNS for content filtering, blocking malware and phishing I've spent 20 years helping companies and organisations of all different sectors and sizes - from global banks to local government, software houses to supermarkets - deliver a reliable and secure DNS service. I work with the leading commercial DNS-DHCP-IPAM (DDI) products - including Infoblox, BlueCat, Efficient IP, VitalQIP, and Microsoft DNS-DHCP - alongside Open Source solutions and Internet authoritative and recursive platforms. If you would like help and advice, either with an existing deployment or planning a new architecture, I can help you with the lifecycle of DNS services including: Design and Architecture Installation and Migration Training and Support "Your friendly DNS Expert, here if you need!" Icon made by eucalyp from www.flaticon.com

When it comes to network activity, DNS is everywhere. From a user browsing a website, applications connecting to an online service, IoT devices contacting the cloud - communication usually initiates with a DNS request. Which not only makes DNS a critical component of connectivity, it is increasingly crucial to security - of users, devices, data and more. As an example, Malware will use DNS through its lifecycle, from infecting clients when they visit a malicious site, when connecting to its Command-and-Control server, and then using DNS as a communications channel. DNS security is a crucial part of any Defence-in-Depth or Layered Security strategy. DNS query traffic can be monitored, reported on and, importantly, changed or blocked. Ways of doing this may include: Blocking DNS queries to Malware and Phishing domains Content Policy Filters Response Policy Zones Allow/Blocklists Multiple layers of security products are going to improve your protection, but ensure they use distinct threat feeds. If you are trying to protect your business from Malware and other threats but aren't sure about the best way to use DNS for this, then give me a call. Perhaps you have a question about how to integrate a solution into your existing network and also protect remote workers. Or maybe you want advice on deploying a new service. Let me know, and I'll help out. I've deployed and used commercial and open-source DNS products in many organisations, always with security in mind to protect businesses and users. Icon made by srip from www.flaticon.com

DNSFilter is an excellent service that utilises DNS to deliver threat protection for businesses, both on-premise and remote workers. It's quick and easy to implement and get protected! Instances of cybercrime are on the rise, and the cost of both financial loss and dealing with attacks run into the billions $$$. With remote working a central part of running a business these days, the network perimeter is gone, but employees still need to be protected when working remote. DNS threat protection is key to enabling your business to block new, questionable website content as well as known cyber threats. If you are trying to protect your business from Malware and other threats but aren't sure about the best DNS Security product for this, then give me a call. Perhaps you are considering using Cisco Umbrella for DNS protection? I'd be happy to discuss how DNSFilter compares and why it may be a better choice for you. Who are DNSFilter? DNSFilter offers DNS based filtering services. Rather than relying on large categorised databases of domains, DNSFilter uses a machine-learning algorithm to analyse domains in real-time and keep businesses secure. The service delivers security threat protection against malware, phishing and botnet attacks. The DNSFilter portal provides visibility of your DNS traffic, and easy to digest reports.

Need help ensuring your core networks services are resilient and designed correctly for your business? Devices use DNS as a way of locating other systems, services and applications. DHCP is used by devices to get an IP address and enable them to function on the network. Linked to these services is IP Address Management (IPAM), a process of documenting IP subnets and address allocations. IPAM integrates IP allocations with DNS and DHCP management, enabling centralised visibility and automated control of these core network services. Any issues with these services can lead to connectivity problems, application delays and authentication failures. For 20 years, I've worked with the leading commercial products, including Infoblox, BlueCat, Efficient IP, VitalQIP, and Microsoft DNS & DHCP. Plus cloud-based DNS providers. Alongside this, also open-source applications including BIND DNS & ISC DHCP. I can help out and advise on the "lifecycle" services, including Architecture Design & Review; Installation & Migration Projects; Security, Integration & Automation; Upgrades & Troubleshooting; Training. Getting DNS and DHCP right can deliver many business benefits, including: Providing resilient DNS and DHCP services to clients, minimising any impact on the business during server outages Streamlined, integrated management of DNS, DHCP and IPAM environments Simplifying the maintenance of the platform, including product updates and security patches Enabling automation and reducing manual operational requirements I look forward to talking to you!