What is the purpose of URL filtering in web protection?

The purpose of URL filtering in web protection is primarily to block harmful websites. This process involves examining request URLs to determine if they correspond to sites that are deemed unsafe or inappropriate based on predefined criteria. By implementing URL filtering, organizations can protect users from accessing malicious sites that may host malware, phishing scams, or inappropriate content, thereby safeguarding both network integrity and user safety.

In this context, URL filtering plays a crucial role in defining acceptable internet usage policies and enhancing overall cybersecurity posture. By blocking access to these harmful sites, it helps mitigate risks that can lead to data breaches, malware infections, or other security incidents. Hence, the choice that identifies blocking harmful websites accurately reflects the fundamental function of URL filtering in web protection.