Configuring DNS over HTTPS (DoH) with Google Public DNS on a Keenetic Router

Keenetic routers offer a robust and flexible platform for managing your home network. One increasingly important aspect of network security is DNS privacy, and using DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a significant step towards achieving this. This guide will walk you through configuring your Keenetic router to use Google Public DNS over HTTPS, enhancing your privacy and potentially improving DNS query speed.

Understanding DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

Traditional DNS queries are sent over unencrypted UDP or TCP, making them vulnerable to eavesdropping and manipulation. DoH encapsulates DNS queries within an HTTPS connection, encrypting them and protecting them from prying eyes. This means your internet service provider (ISP) and other potential network observers cannot see which websites you're accessing based on your DNS queries.

Google Public DNS provides a free and reliable DoH service, offering a fast and secure alternative to your ISP's DNS servers. Using Google's DoH service with your Keenetic router ensures that all devices on your network benefit from enhanced privacy and potentially faster resolution times.

Configuring DoH on your Keenetic Router

The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your Keenetic router's firmware version. However, the general process remains consistent. You will typically need to access your router's web interface.

Accessing the Keenetic Router's Web Interface

1. Connect to your Keenetic router's Wi-Fi network or connect to your network via Ethernet cable.
2. Open a web browser and enter your router's IP address in the address bar. This is usually 192.168.1.1 or 10.0.0.1, but it might be different. Check your router's documentation if you're unsure.
3. Log in using your router's administrator username and password. The default credentials are often printed on a sticker on the router itself. If you've changed them, use your custom credentials.

Locating the DNS Settings

The location of the DNS settings varies depending on the Keenetic firmware version. However, you should generally look for settings related to "Network," "WAN," "Internet," or "DNS." You may find options for specifying DNS servers directly or configuring advanced DNS settings.

Configuring Google Public DNS over HTTPS

There are two primary methods for enabling DoH on your Keenetic router. The first is to directly specify the DoH URLs, and the second is to use a custom DNS server that supports DoH (if your Keenetic firmware supports this directly).

Method 1: Direct DoH URL Entry (If Supported)

Some Keenetic firmware versions allow you to specify the DoH URL directly in the DNS settings. This typically involves entering the following URL:

https://dns.google/dns-query

If this option is available, you'll likely need to specify it for both IPv4 and IPv6. Refer to your router's documentation for specific instructions. This is often located in advanced DNS settings.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party DNS Server (If Supported)

Certain Keenetic firmware versions might directly support well-known DoH providers like Google Public DNS. If your router has such an option, select it from a dropdown menu or list of available DNS servers.

Important Considerations

• Router Compatibility: Ensure your Keenetic router firmware version supports DoH. Check the router's documentation or the Keenetic website for information on DoH support.
• Network Performance: While DoH generally improves privacy, it might slightly impact network performance. If you notice significant performance issues, you might consider reverting to traditional DNS.
• Firewall Rules: Make sure your Keenetic router's firewall allows outgoing HTTPS connections to the DoH server (dns.google).
• Device Compatibility: While most modern devices support DoH, some older devices may not. This is less common today.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after configuring DoH, try the following:

• Reboot your router: A simple reboot often resolves minor configuration problems.
• Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
• Review your firewall settings: Ensure that the firewall is not blocking outgoing connections to the DoH server.
• Consult the Keenetic documentation: The official Keenetic documentation provides detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips for your specific router model.
• Check your DoH URL (If applicable): Double-check that you've entered the DoH URL correctly.

By following these steps, you can successfully configure your Keenetic router to use Google Public DNS over HTTPS, enhancing your online privacy and security.