Securing Your ASUS Router with DNS over HTTPS (DoH): A Comprehensive Guide

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a privacy-enhancing technique that encrypts your DNS queries, preventing your internet service provider (ISP) and other potential eavesdroppers from seeing which websites you visit. This guide will walk you through configuring DoH on your ASUS router, enhancing your online privacy and security.

Why Use DNS over HTTPS on Your ASUS Router?

Using DoH on your router offers several key advantages:

• Enhanced Privacy: Your DNS queries are encrypted, hiding your browsing activity from your ISP and potential network intruders.
• Improved Security: DoH protects against DNS spoofing and other attacks that could redirect you to malicious websites.
• Convenience: Configuring DoH at the router level protects all devices connected to your network, eliminating the need to configure it on each individual device.
• Bypass Censorship (Potentially): In some regions with internet censorship, DoH can help circumvent restrictions on accessing certain websites.

Configuring DoH on Your ASUS Router

The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your ASUS router model and firmware version. However, the general process is similar:

1. Access Your Router's Administration Interface:

Open your web browser and enter your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You'll need your router's username and password to log in.

2. Locate the DNS Settings:

The location of DNS settings varies across ASUS router models. Commonly, you'll find them under sections like "WAN," "Internet," "Network," or "Internet Settings." Look for options related to "DNS Server," "Primary DNS Server," and "Secondary DNS Server."

3. Choose a DoH Provider:

Several reputable DoH providers exist, including:

• Cloudflare (1.1.1.1): https://1.1.1.1/
• Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8): https://developers.google.com/speed/public-dns/
• Quad9 (9.9.9.9): https://quad9.net/

Select a provider and note their DoH addresses. These are usually provided as HTTPS URLs, like https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query for Cloudflare. Important: Your router might not directly support entering the HTTPS URLs. It might only accept traditional IPv4 addresses. In this case, you may need to find the specific IPv4 address corresponding to that DoH service. Consult the provider's documentation.

4. Configure the DNS Settings:

In your router's DNS settings, you may see options for 'Use DNS over HTTPS (DoH)' or similar. If this option is available, enable it and then enter the provider's DoH URL (or IPv4 address if that's what the router accepts). If not, some routers allow manual input of DNS addresses, where you would input the DoH provider's IPv4 address. If the router only accepts traditional IP addresses, you'll need to find the corresponding IPv4 addresses for your chosen DoH service.

5. Save the Changes:

Save your DNS settings and reboot your router to apply the changes. After rebooting, all devices connected to your network should now be using DoH.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter problems, check the following:

• Verify your router's settings: Double-check that the DoH settings are correctly configured.
• Reboot your router and devices: A simple reboot can often resolve minor issues.
• Check your internet connection: Ensure that your internet connection is stable.
• Consult your router's manual: Your router's manual should provide detailed instructions on configuring DNS settings.
• Check for firmware updates: Updating your router's firmware may resolve compatibility issues.

Conclusion

Implementing DoH on your ASUS router is a simple yet effective way to enhance your online privacy and security. By following these steps, you can protect your browsing activity and enjoy a more secure internet experience.