How to Block a Website in ISA Server 2004

ISA servers serve as a proxy server.

Blocking unauthorized or inappropriate websites in a Windows domain is accomplished using the Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) server. This server software is included in the Microsoft Small Business Server application. The ISA server hosts proxy services, and it can be used to block unwanted sites. The filters block internal network users from browsing and downloading from the configured websites, which protects the client computer from malware.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "All Programs." Choose "Microsoft ISA Server" from the list of programs and click "ISA Management" to open your management console.

2. Click the plus sign adjacent to the icon labeled "Servers and Arrays." Click your ISA server name in the list of servers. Click the plus sign adjacent to "Policy Elements." This lists the current policies, including any websites you are currently filtered on the network.

3. Right-click the filter option labeled "Destination Sets." Click "New" to open a configuration window. Click "Set" and enter the website you want to block. Click "OK" to save your settings.

4. Open a web browser on the server or your local computer. Attempt to access the newly blocked website domain. The browser returns an "Unavailable" error, which confirms the ISA server settings.

References

• Microsoft: How To Prevent Users from Accessing Unauthorized Web Sites in ISA Server