Which of the following is a best practice for URL Filtering?

The correct answer is D. A strong URL Filtering design uses Check Point’s built-in categories where appropriate, but also creates custom URL categories when the organization has specific business, compliance, or operational needs that are not covered cleanly by default categories. Official SmartConsole guidance supports creating custom applications, sites, categories, and groups in an Application and URL Filtering-enabled layer. Option A is poor practice because HTTPS Inspection often improves URL Filtering and threat visibility for encrypted traffic; it should be designed carefully, not disabled reflexively. Option B is wrong because URL Filtering depends on accurate, current categorization, not outdated databases. Option C is vague and not a best practice by itself; simplicity is good, but combining controls without clarity can create policy ambiguity. Custom URL categories allow precise policy design, such as allowing one vendor domain while blocking broader risky categories, or grouping approved SaaS sites for a business unit. Reference topics: URL Filtering, custom URL categories, Application and URL Filtering rule design, SmartConsole categories.