Configuring DNS over HTTPS (DoH) on your Ubiquiti EdgeRouter

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) enhances your network's privacy and security by encrypting DNS queries. While the EdgeRouter doesn't natively support DoH, we can achieve this functionality using a combination of techniques. This guide will explore several methods, outlining their pros and cons and providing detailed instructions.

Methods for Implementing DoH on an EdgeRouter

There isn't a direct, built-in DoH configuration option within the EdgeRouter's interface. Therefore, we must rely on external solutions. The most common approaches are:

  1. Using a DoH-capable DNS resolver upstream: This is the simplest method. Configure your EdgeRouter to use a public DNS provider that supports DoH (like Cloudflare or Google Public DNS). While this doesn't encrypt the traffic *between* your clients and the EdgeRouter, it does encrypt the communication between the EdgeRouter and the DoH resolver. This is often a sufficient level of security for many users.
  2. Using a client-side DoH configuration: This approach involves configuring each client device (computers, smartphones, etc.) to use a DoH resolver directly. The EdgeRouter acts only as a gateway, forwarding traffic. This offers more complete encryption but requires individual configuration on each device.
  3. Employing a proxy server: This is a more complex approach, requiring an additional server (physical or virtual) running proxy software with DoH capabilities. All DNS requests would be routed through this proxy, providing full end-to-end encryption. This is generally only recommended for advanced users.
  4. Using a custom script or plugin (advanced): For very advanced users with scripting experience, it's possible to write custom scripts or use plugins to intercept and forward DNS queries over HTTPS. This requires in-depth knowledge of the EdgeRouter's functionality and networking concepts.

Method 1: Using a DoH-capable DNS Resolver Upstream (Recommended for most users)

This is the easiest method. Many public DNS providers offer DoH. Here's how to configure it:

  1. Choose a DoH provider: Popular options include Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8, though they use DNS-over-TLS primarily), and Quad9 (9.9.9.9).
  2. Access your EdgeRouter's configuration interface: Log in using your EdgeRouter's IP address and credentials.
  3. Navigate to the DNS settings: This is usually under the Network section. The exact location might vary slightly depending on your EdgeRouter's firmware version.
  4. Set the upstream DNS servers: Change the primary and secondary DNS servers to the IP addresses of your chosen DoH provider.
  5. Save the configuration: Apply the changes and allow the EdgeRouter to restart if necessary.

Important Note: While this method uses a DoH provider, your clients' DNS requests to the EdgeRouter are still unencrypted. The encryption only protects the communication *between* the EdgeRouter and the upstream DoH resolver.

Method 2: Client-Side DoH Configuration

This involves manually configuring each device to use a DoH resolver. The instructions vary depending on the operating system:

Each operating system has detailed instructions online; search for "[Your OS] DNS over HTTPS configuration" for specific guides.

Conclusion

Implementing DoH on your Ubiquiti EdgeRouter requires a strategic approach. Choosing the right method depends on your technical skills and security requirements. For most users, utilizing a DoH-capable upstream DNS server (Method 1) provides a good balance of ease of implementation and increased privacy. Advanced users might explore client-side configuration or more complex solutions to achieve complete end-to-end encryption.

Remember to always consult your EdgeRouter's documentation and your chosen DoH provider's guidelines for the most up-to-date and accurate information.