Disabling DNS over HTTPS (DoH): A Comprehensive Guide

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a protocol that encrypts DNS queries, enhancing privacy and security. However, some users may want to disable it for various reasons, including compatibility issues, network management needs, or specific security concerns. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to disable DoH across different operating systems and browsers.

Why Disable DoH?

While DoH offers benefits, disabling it might be necessary in certain situations:

• Network Management: Network administrators often need to monitor and control DNS traffic for security and troubleshooting. DoH's encryption can hinder these capabilities.
• Parental Controls: Some parental control software may not be compatible with DoH, making it difficult to filter inappropriate content.
• Corporate Firewalls: Corporate firewalls might not be configured to handle DoH traffic, leading to connectivity problems.
• Compatibility Issues: Older or less common software or devices might not support DoH.
• Specific Security Concerns (rare): In highly controlled environments, the encryption offered by DoH could potentially be seen as a hindrance, though this is less common than other reasons.

Disabling DoH in Different Browsers

Many modern browsers offer built-in settings to manage DoH. Here's how to disable it in popular browsers:

Chrome

Chrome doesn't offer a direct "disable DoH" option. However, you can disable it by specifying your own DNS server, which should bypass the browser's DoH settings. Go to chrome://settings/system and set the DNS settings to your preferred DNS server using the "Use the following DNS server addresses" option.

Firefox

Firefox typically has a dedicated DoH setting. Go to about:preferences#privacy. Look for "Network Settings", then under "Settings", you should find a section related to DNS. Select "Use system settings" or select a specific DNS server to override DoH.

Safari

Safari's DoH settings are primarily managed at the operating system level (macOS). See the macOS section below.

Edge

Similar to Chrome, Edge doesn't provide a direct toggle. You'll likely need to configure your DNS settings directly through the operating system or a router.

Disabling DoH at the Operating System Level

macOS

macOS's DNS settings are primarily configured using the Network settings. Go to System Settings > Network > Select your network interface (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) > Advanced > DNS. You can manually enter DNS server addresses here to override any DoH configuration.

Windows

In Windows, you can change your DNS settings using the Network and Sharing Center. This involves selecting your network adapter, selecting properties, then selecting IPv4 or IPv6. You can then set your preferred DNS server addresses directly.

Linux

The method for disabling DoH on Linux varies significantly depending on your distribution and desktop environment. You'll generally need to edit your network configuration files (usually located in `/etc/resolv.conf` or related files) to specify custom DNS servers. Consult your distribution's documentation for detailed instructions. You might also need to configure your network manager (e.g., NetworkManager) to prevent it from automatically enabling DoH.

Disabling DoH at the Router Level

Many modern routers allow you to configure DNS settings. Accessing your router's configuration (usually through a web interface) allows you to specify custom DNS servers, effectively bypassing DoH at the network level. Consult your router's documentation for specific instructions.