Historically referred to as whitelisting, Allowlisting is a ThreatLocker endpoint security module that blocks all applications from operating unless explicitly permitted.
Allowlisting is a security approach that blocks all applications by default and only permits those explicitly approved by the administrator. Unlike traditional antivirus, which tries to detect and stop “bad” files, Allowlisting focuses on trust: only the software you need and approve can run, everything else is denied. This deny-by-default model dramatically reduces the attack surface and neutralizes both known and unknown threats.
Allowlisting starts with identifying which applications your organization actually requires. Once those are defined, policies are created to allow them—and block everything else.
ThreatLocker CEO Danny Jenkins often describes Allowlisting as “flipping cybersecurity on its head.” Rather than playing cat-and-mouse with attackers, Allowlisting assumes every program is untrusted until proven otherwise. The result: malware, fileless attacks, and even zero-day exploits can’t execute if they’re not on the list.
“Antivirus is like trying to stop every mosquito in the world,” Jenkins says. “With Allowlisting, you simply close the window. Nothing gets in unless you decide to open it.”
By reducing the number of applications running in an environment, Allowlisting not only improves security but also increases operational stability. Users are less likely to install shadow IT tools, and IT teams maintain tighter control over software usage.
Implementing Allowlisting is easier than it sounds. Modern platforms like ThreatLocker simplify the process by automatically detecting applications in use and providing administrators with recommendations. Once in place, Allowlisting supports compliance frameworks, improves incident response readiness, and gives businesses confidence that only trusted tools are operating.
Allowlisting locks down your environment by default and only opens the door to what you explicitly approve, making it one of the most effective proactive security controls available.
Allowlisting is akin to a security guard at a concert making sure the only people that go backstage with the band are on the VIP list. Blocklisting is the opposite. The security guard welcomes everyone backstage except for a few untrusted people on the deny list. Here’s why it matters.
Blog: Allowlisting vs. blocklisting
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