Many Android users are seeking enhanced privacy and security online, and DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a significant step in that direction. This guide explains what DoH is, why you might want to use it on your Android device with Brave browser, and how to configure it effectively.
The Domain Name System (DNS) is the internet's phonebook. When you type a website address (like www.example.com) into your browser, your device uses DNS to translate that human-readable name into a machine-readable IP address that your device uses to connect to the server hosting the website. Traditionally, this DNS lookup happens over unencrypted connections, making it vulnerable to eavesdropping and manipulation.
DNS over HTTPS (DoH) encrypts the DNS lookup process using HTTPS, the same protocol that secures your web browsing. This encryption prevents third parties, including your internet service provider (ISP), from seeing which websites you visit. This enhances your online privacy and security by protecting against DNS spoofing and other attacks.
Brave is a privacy-focused browser known for its built-in ad blocker and tracker blocker. Using DoH with Brave further strengthens your privacy by adding an extra layer of encryption to your DNS queries. Here are some key benefits:
Brave for Android doesn't have a built-in setting to directly choose a custom DoH provider like some desktop browsers. However, you can achieve the same level of privacy by using a VPN service that offers DoH or by setting up a custom DNS on your Android device itself (this affects all apps, not just Brave). Below are the best approaches:
Many VPN services now support DNS over HTTPS. When selecting a VPN, make sure to check their features and ensure they offer DoH. This is often the easiest solution as it handles the configuration automatically. The VPN's DoH server handles your DNS queries, providing encryption and potentially faster speeds. Make sure to choose a reputable VPN provider with a strong privacy policy.
This method requires more technical knowledge. You'll need to access your Android's network settings to configure a custom DNS server. Popular DoH providers include Cloudflare (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) and Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). Note that using Google's DNS might still raise some privacy concerns for some users.
Warning: Incorrectly configuring your DNS settings can prevent you from accessing the internet. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand the steps before making changes.
When selecting a DoH provider, consider factors such as privacy policy, security reputation, and performance. Research different providers and choose one that aligns with your privacy preferences.
Implementing DNS over HTTPS on your Android device using Brave enhances your online privacy and security significantly. Whether you choose the VPN route or manually configure your DNS, using DoH is a strong step towards better protecting your online activity. Remember to always choose reputable providers and be cautious when making changes to your network settings.