Best DNS over HTTPS (DoH) Providers in 2024: Privacy, Speed, and Security Compared

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a privacy-enhancing technique that encrypts your DNS queries, hiding your browsing activity from your internet service provider (ISP) and potential eavesdroppers. Choosing the right DoH provider is crucial, as it directly impacts your online privacy, security, and browsing speed. This guide compares some of the best DoH providers available in 2024, helping you make an informed decision.

What to Look for in a DoH Provider

Before diving into specific providers, let's discuss the key factors to consider:

Privacy Policy: A strong privacy policy is paramount. Look for providers with a clear commitment to user privacy and data minimization. Avoid providers that log your DNS queries or share your data with third parties.
Speed and Performance: A fast DNS resolver is essential for a smooth browsing experience. Choose a provider with a global network of servers to minimize latency.
Security Features: Consider providers that offer features like DNSSEC (DNS Security Extensions) to ensure the authenticity and integrity of DNS responses.
Transparency: A transparent provider will openly share information about its infrastructure, security practices, and data handling policies.
Open Source Software (Optional): Some providers utilize open-source software, allowing for greater community scrutiny and increased trust in their security.

Top DoH Providers Compared

This table compares some of the leading DoH providers based on the criteria mentioned above. Note that performance can vary based on your location and network conditions.

Provider	Privacy Policy	Speed	Security Features	Transparency	Open Source
Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1)	Strong, minimal data logging	Excellent, globally distributed servers	DNSSEC	High	Partially
Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8)	Good, but some data logging for security purposes	Good, widely available	DNSSEC	Moderate	No
Quad9	Strong, blocks malicious domains	Good to Excellent	DNSSEC	High	No
NextDNS	Excellent, highly customizable privacy settings	Good, customizable server selection	DNSSEC	High	No
AdGuard DNS	Good, focuses on ad blocking	Good	DNSSEC	Moderate	No

Choosing the Right Provider for You

The best DoH provider for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. If privacy is your top concern, Cloudflare and NextDNS are excellent choices due to their strong privacy policies and commitment to minimal data logging. If you prioritize speed and reliability, Cloudflare or Google Public DNS are strong contenders. Quad9 is a good option if you want a blend of privacy, security, and malicious domain blocking. Remember to always check the provider's privacy policy before making a decision.

Setting up DoH

Setting up DoH is relatively straightforward. You can typically configure it directly in your operating system's network settings or through your router. Many modern browsers also support DoH directly.

Conclusion

Using a DoH provider significantly improves your online privacy and security. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article and comparing the available options, you can choose the best DoH provider to protect your data and enhance your browsing experience.