Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

OpenDNS Umbrella VS Software Defined Labs (SDL)

Compare OpenDNS Umbrella VS Software Defined Labs (SDL) and see what are their differences

OpenDNS Umbrella logo OpenDNS Umbrella

Cloud Security

Software Defined Labs (SDL) logo Software Defined Labs (SDL)

Allied Telesis is proud to partner with Tokalabs to create software defined labs for hybrid network environments.
  • OpenDNS Umbrella Landing page
    Landing page //
    2020-01-02
  • Software Defined Labs (SDL) Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-14

OpenDNS Umbrella features and specs

  • Security
    OpenDNS Umbrella provides robust security features, including protection against malware, phishing, and botnets by blocking malicious domains before a connection is ever established.
  • Performance
    Since OpenDNS Umbrella redirects DNS requests through its network, users often experience faster and more responsive internet connections due to reduced latency and efficient routing.
  • Ease of Use
    The setup process for OpenDNS Umbrella is straightforward, requiring minimal configuration changes, typically just adjusting the DNS settings on a router or device.
  • Global Coverage
    With data centers strategically located around the globe, OpenDNS Umbrella ensures high availability and redundancy, offering consistent performance worldwide.
  • Reporting and Insights
    OpenDNS Umbrella offers detailed reporting and analytics, allowing administrators to gain insights into internet activity and potential security threats within their network.
  • Customizability
    Administrators can create custom filtering policies and block specific categories of content, providing tailored protection and control over internet usage.

Possible disadvantages of OpenDNS Umbrella

  • Cost
    While there is a free tier available, many of the advanced features and extended functionalities of OpenDNS Umbrella are part of subscription-based plans, which can be costly for some users.
  • Privacy Concerns
    As with any DNS service, using OpenDNS Umbrella means directing your internet traffic through their servers, raising potential privacy concerns about data collection and usage.
  • Dependency on Third-Party Service
    Relying on a third-party DNS provider can be a single point of failure; if OpenDNS Umbrella's services experience downtime or issues, it can disrupt the internet connectivity for its users.
  • Limited Granularity for Personal Usage
    While OpenDNS Umbrella offers extensive controls for enterprise environments, home users might find the level of granularity in customizations to be somewhat limited compared to other specialized service providers.
  • Initial Configuration
    Although setup is generally straightforward, less tech-savvy users may still encounter challenges or require assistance, especially when configuring more advanced settings on their routers or devices.

Software Defined Labs (SDL) features and specs

  • Flexibility
    Software Defined Labs allow for flexible configuration and reconfiguration of lab environments to suit different testing and development needs, enabling dynamic adaptation and evolution.
  • Cost-Effectiveness
    By virtualizing the lab environment, SDLs reduce the need for physical hardware, thereby cutting down on infrastructure costs and maintenance requirements.
  • Scalability
    SDLs can be easily scaled up or down depending on the project requirements, allowing for efficient resource management and utilization.
  • Rapid Deployment
    The software-defined nature of SDLs allows for quick setup and tear-down of lab environments, facilitating faster start times for projects.
  • Centralized Management
    SDLs provide a centralized interface for managing lab resources, which simplifies administration and oversight, leading to improved efficiency.

Possible disadvantages of Software Defined Labs (SDL)

  • Complexity
    The setup and management of Software Defined Labs can be complex, requiring specialized knowledge and expertise in virtualization and software-defined networking.
  • Initial Setup Cost
    Although SDLs can reduce costs in the long run, the initial investment in the necessary software tools and training can be significant.
  • Performance Limitations
    Virtual environments may not always perform as well as physical hardware, which can be a limitation for lab tests that require high computational power or real-time processing.
  • Security Concerns
    Virtualized environments can present additional security challenges, as they may be more susceptible to certain types of cyber-attacks if not properly secured.
  • Dependency on Network Infrastructure
    SDL performance heavily relies on the underlying network infrastructure, which means any weaknesses in the network can affect lab operations.

Analysis of OpenDNS Umbrella

Overall verdict

  • Yes, OpenDNS Umbrella is regarded as a good solution for organizations and individuals seeking enhanced security and reliable DNS filtering. Its combination of features and ease of use makes it a popular choice among cybersecurity professionals.

Why this product is good

  • OpenDNS Umbrella is considered a strong choice for DNS filtering and internet security due to its robust features aimed at protecting networks and users from malicious sites, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats. It offers advanced threat intelligence, customizable filtering options, and real-time monitoring. Its cloud-based infrastructure ensures high availability and quick updates, enhancing overall security posture.

Recommended for

  • Businesses of all sizes looking to improve their cybersecurity defenses
  • Educational institutions needing robust filtering and monitoring solutions
  • Anyone interested in protecting their network from online threats without significant hardware investments
  • Individuals or families who want to enhance home network security and manage internet access.

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenDNS Umbrella and Software Defined Labs (SDL))
Cyber Security
90 90%
10% 10
Security & Privacy
86 86%
14% 14
Monitoring Tools
89 89%
11% 11
Web Security
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenDNS Umbrella and Software Defined Labs (SDL), you can also consider the following products

Cisco Umbrella - Cisco Umbrella is a cloud security platform that provides the first line of defense against threats on the internet.

Zscaler Internet Access - Zscaler Internet Access offers cloud internet and web security solutions.

WebTitan - WebTitan is an advanced DNS based web content filter and web security layer that blocks malware, ransomware and phishing attempts as well as providing web content control. Cloud and gateway versions available.

FortiSandbox - Learn why Fortinet was commended by Frost & Sullivan for protecting the entire attack surface with its FortiSandbox line of cybersecurity solutions

McAfee SmartFilter - McAfee Web Protection is a web security solution that includes an on-premises secure web gateway and SaaS-based web security delivered from the cloud.

Falcon Sandbox - Submit malware for analysis with Falcon Sandbox and Hybrid Analysis technology. CrowdStrike develops and licenses analysis tools to fight malware.