Web Content Filtering has always been a massive issue with any Desktop Deployment, usually adding a layer of complexity. In the past, web filtering has often required a plugin installed on the device or some complex networking requirements which only works on-premise LANs.
I have always liked Defender ATP and what it provides to the Modern Desktop, almost killing the need to have multiple 3rd Party Management tools deployed across the desktop estate.
The news that Microsoft was integrating Web Content Filtering into Defender ATP was huge for me; it was one of the final pieces of the puzzle that was missing from the ATP suite. The only downside of this was the need to purchase a 3rd Party Partner Subscription; this was always going to be a blocker, especially as the cost of ATP is a lot for most organisations to stomach and majority will never see the benefits.
Now the news that Microsoft has taken on board the feedback from the Public Preview so far and removed the need for a 3rd Party Partner Subscription has suddenly made this a very attractive addition to the ATP Suite.
At present, Web Content Filtering is still in Public Preview but definitely, one to keep an eye out for when it drops into Mainstream Support.
For more information see the following: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-defender-atp/an-update-on-web-content-filtering/ba-p/1505445
