Simplifying policy management with URL and Domain Category filtering on AWS Network Firewall

This article explains how to use URL and domain category filtering in AWS Network Firewall to simplify policy management without maintaining manual domain lists.

• AWS-managed categories automatically stay current as new domains register
• Domain category filtering uses TLS SNI field without requiring decryption
• Create rules using console builder or Suricata-compatible rule strings
• Manage exceptions for approved services within blocked categories
• Monitor traffic patterns using CloudWatch Logs Insights queries
• Single domains can belong to multiple categories simultaneously
• Logs include aws_category field for compliance and usage tracking

Domain category filtering enables organizations to control access to broad website classes like AI services without maintaining individual blocklists, with automatic updates and built-in audit trails.