Your smartphone depends on the Domain Name System (DNS) to connect you to the appropriate server each time you visit a website. The majority of consumers are not aware of the potential risks to their data. Traditional DNS is insecure by default. On public networks, this poses significant privacy and security problems. This blog post will explain private DNS, its significance, and how to configure it to safeguard your online behavior.
What Is Private DNS?
A private DNS encrypts the DNS queries that your device sends over the internet. It envelops your surfing behavior in a secure shell that keeps outsiders from prying into it. With this technology, most types of monitoring and manipulation cannot see your DNS traffic.
Whether you’re using public Wi-Fi or a home network, private DNS helps make sure that the websites you view stay your business and your business alone. It also shields you from going to undesirable or fraudulent websites.
DoH vs. DoT Encryption Protocols
Private DNS is classified into DNS over TLS (DoT) and DNS over HTTPS (DoH). Both offer encrypted communications. DoH uses regular HTTPS channels to send DNS requests. It is helpful on networks with restrictions because it is hard to identify or block, as it seems like normal online traffic. DoT employs a specialized encrypted connection via a particular port. In regulated settings, it may be simpler to handle, but firewalls and filters might still recognize it.
The best option depends on your device, network configuration, and provider, as each protocol has its own advantages.
Advantages of Using Private DNS
One of the simplest ways to block outside parties from tracking your online activities is to encrypt DNS requests. With this upgraded security, nobody can see the websites you visit. This extra privacy protection is handy when using public or shared internet connections. Let’s take a look at some other benefits:
- Enhanced Defense
Using a secure DNS provider aids in thwarting unwanted threats. Many private DNS services check domains for botnet control servers, malware, and phishing efforts. Some even provide ad-blocking and parental controls.
- Gains in Performance
Many private DNS providers provide faster response times than the default ISP servers. Faster page loading and more seamless browsing may result from this. Reliability increases and delays decrease when a high-quality provider is in the mix.
How to Set Up Your Devices for Private DNS
Now that you understand how vital it is to encrypt your DNS queries, it’s time to take a look at the necessary steps to protect yourself. Below, you’ll find instructions for how to configure some common devices and OSs to tap into the private DNS magic:
Android
Navigate to your network settings on Android to set up private DNS. Locate the Private DNS option, then input the custom provider configuration. A hostname from a supported provider, like DNS.google or one.one.one.one, should be useful. Your device will connect to the internet via encrypted DNS when saved.
All programs will use DNS encryption with this arrangement since it is system-wide and doesn’t need any extra configuration.
Using an App or Profile on iOS
Apple devices lack a native private DNS setting. By installing an app from a reliable provider like Cloudflare or NextDNS, however, you can still use private DNS. These apps enable extra customization and help set up this tool in the background.
Installing a mobile configuration profile, which uses encrypted DNS settings throughout the system, is another method. Although it is also accessible to ordinary users, this is useful in business or educational settings.
On Windows 10/11
Through the network settings on Windows, users can enable encrypted DNS through compatible providers. This is possible by changing the DNS server addresses on your network adapter and turning on the DoH option. The setting is an effective method of enhancing your network privacy because it is easy to install and impacts all internet programs on the device.
On Routers
Every device on your network will enjoy encrypted DNS without requiring individual configuration if you configure private DNS at the router level. To do this, you must specify custom DNS servers in the router’s settings by logging into the admin interface.
Some things to think about:
- Not every router is compatible with DNS encryption
- Update the firmware on your router first
- If your default router does not support encrypted DNS, third-party firmware such as OpenWRT or DD-WRT does.
Check out this guide to the best residential VPN if you’re also looking into VPN options for further privacy. It breaks down VPN services that are compatible with encrypted DNS setups.
Conclusion
Using private DNS is an effective solution to secure your online privacy. It hides your browsing activity from unauthorized tracking in an effective manner. If you’re new to network security, configuring it is a simple initial step. It requires little work but makes a significant difference whether you’re at home or utilizing public Wi-Fi.
