Kerio Control Web: Filter Is Not Activated Categorization Is Disabled Fixed
: Use the Test URL tool in the same tab to verify if a site (e.g., facebook.com ) is correctly categorized. Summary of Quick Fixes Primary Fix Invalid Authorization Error Switch DNS to Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) and reboot. Trial Expired/Disabled Purchase/import a valid license key. Frequent Timeouts/Disabling Disable "DetectReliability" via SSH command. Categorization Not Active
Click Update License Info to force the appliance to check in with the GFI servers. 2. Check DNS Resolution on the Firewall
The error is almost always resolvable without reinstalling the entire firewall. In most cases, the root cause is either a simple licensing expiration, a DNS failure, or a corrupted local database. : Use the Test URL tool in the
Large time drifts can cause certificate and token failures. Ensure the system time is synchronized. Verify Admin Settings: Navigate to Content Filter Applications and Web Categories
The Kerio Control web filter is an essential feature that helps to protect networks from malicious and non-productive websites. When the web filter is not activated, and categorization is disabled, it can lead to security risks and decreased productivity. By following the steps outlined in this article, administrators can fix the issue and ensure that the web filter is working correctly. Regularly updating the Kerio Control software and categorization database can help to prevent such issues in the future. Check DNS Resolution on the Firewall The error
The error message occurs when the system can no longer reach its update/categorization servers, often due to DNS timeouts or authorization failures . Solution 1: Disable Reliability Detection (Technical Fix)
Ensure your Kerio Control is using reliable DNS servers (like 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1) under Configuration > DNS . 3. Clear the Web Filter Cache and categorization is disabled
Enable SSH in Kerio Control: Hold the key and click on the System Health tab in the web admin interface. Click Enable SSH .
Test by visiting a site that belongs to a restricted category (e.g., facebook.com if you have social media blocked). Conclusion
Web Filter categorization disabled. Serial number: ko-197974
The "Kerio Control web filter is not activated" error is usually a result of license expiration, DNS failures, or time synchronization issues. By following the steps above—specifically checking license activation, verifying NTP, and ensuring outbound DNS connectivity—you can resolve the issue and restore content filtering to your network.