To configure private DNS, you should typically enter a hostname provided by a DNS over TLS (DoT) or DNS over HTTPS (DoH) service provider. These services enhance your online privacy and security by encrypting your DNS queries.
Understanding Private DNS
Private DNS, commonly found in device network settings (such as Android), allows your device to use a specific DNS server for all its network requests, bypassing your internet service provider's (ISP) default DNS. This offers several key benefits:
- Enhanced Privacy: Your DNS queries are encrypted, making it more difficult for your ISP or other third parties to monitor your online activity and see which websites you visit.
- Improved Security: Many private DNS providers offer integrated security features, such as blocking known malicious websites, phishing attempts, and unwanted advertisements, helping to protect your device from threats.
- Access Control: You can potentially bypass geo-restrictions or access content that might be blocked by your ISP's default DNS settings, depending on the provider.
- Potentially Faster Browsing: Some DNS servers can offer quicker response times for resolving domain names, which may lead to a slightly faster browsing experience.
Recommended Private DNS Addresses
You can choose from a variety of reputable private DNS providers. Below is a list of common hostnames or IP addresses that you can use in your device's private DNS settings:
| Provider Name | Private DNS Address (Hostname/IP) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Google Public DNS | dns.google |
A widely used and reliable public DNS service. |
| Quad9 | dns.quad9.net |
Focused on security, it blocks access to known malicious domains. |
| Cleanbrowsing DNS | security-filter-dns.cleanbrowsing.org |
Offers options for family-friendly content filtering and security protection. |
| Open DNS | 208.67.222.222 |
A long-standing DNS service that can be configured for content filtering. |
| NextDNS | 45.90.28.0 |
Provides a highly customizable DNS experience with extensive filtering capabilities. |
| Comodo Secure DNS | 8.26.56.26 |
Includes security features to protect against malware and phishing. |
| OpenNIC | 192.95.54.3 |
A community-driven, decentralized alternative DNS root. |
How to Choose a Private DNS Provider
When selecting a private DNS provider, consider these important factors:
- Privacy Policy: Examine their commitment to user data privacy and how they handle your DNS queries.
- Security Features: Look for providers that offer integrated protection against malware, phishing, and other online threats. Some also offer ad blocking or parental controls.
- Performance: Depending on your geographical location, some providers might offer faster resolution times than others.
- Reliability: Choose a provider with a proven track record of uptime and stable service.
Setting Up Private DNS
On Android devices, you can typically find the Private DNS setting by navigating to:
Settings>Network & internet>Private DNS- Select the "Private DNS provider hostname" option, then enter one of the hostnames or IP addresses listed in the table above, and save your changes.
For more detailed instructions on how to enable and configure Private DNS on Android, you can refer to resources like this ZDNET article.
