Why is DNS over HTTPS Greyed Out in Windows 11? Troubleshooting and Solutions

Many Windows 11 users encounter the frustrating issue of the DNS over HTTPS (DoH) setting being greyed out in their network adapter settings. This prevents them from enabling enhanced privacy and security features offered by DoH. This article will explore the common causes behind this greying out and provide comprehensive troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem.

Understanding DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

DNS over HTTPS encrypts your DNS queries, protecting your browsing history and preventing DNS spoofing and censorship. It's a significant privacy and security enhancement. However, its availability and functionality depend on several factors within your network configuration.

Reasons Why DNS over HTTPS Might Be Greyed Out

• Group Policy Restrictions: System administrators in corporate or educational environments often use Group Policy to manage network settings. A Group Policy setting might be disabling the ability to change DNS settings, including DoH.
• VPN or Proxy Server: If you are connected to a VPN or proxy server, these often override your system's DNS settings. The DoH option may be greyed out because the VPN or proxy is managing DNS resolution.
• Incompatible Network Adapter or Driver: In rare cases, an outdated or incompatible network adapter driver might prevent the DoH setting from becoming available. Updating your drivers is crucial.
• Third-Party Firewall or Security Software: Some third-party firewalls or security suites might interfere with network settings and prevent DoH from being enabled. Temporarily disabling these programs can help determine if they are the cause.
• Missing or Corrupted System Files: Occasionally, corrupted system files can lead to unexpected behavior, including the greying out of DoH settings. System file checker (SFC) can be used to repair these.
• Network Profile Settings: The network profile (Public, Private, or Metered) can affect the availability of certain settings. Ensure your profile is appropriately set.
• Incorrect Registry Settings (Advanced Users): While not recommended unless you are experienced with registry editing, incorrect registry settings can sometimes interfere with network configurations. Improper modifications can cause serious system problems. Proceed with extreme caution.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Group Policy (For Corporate/Managed Networks):

If you're on a corporate or managed network, contact your IT administrator. Group Policy settings often prevent users from modifying network settings like DoH. Your administrator can either grant you the necessary permissions or check for conflicting policies.

2. Disconnect from VPN or Proxy:

Temporarily disable any VPN or proxy server connections. Restart your computer and check if the DoH setting is now enabled. If it is, the VPN/proxy is the likely culprit. You may need to configure your VPN/proxy to support DoH if you want to use both.

3. Update Network Adapter Drivers:

Open Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar), expand "Network adapters," right-click on your network adapter, and select "Update driver." Follow the on-screen instructions. Restart your computer after the update.

4. Temporarily Disable Third-Party Security Software:

Disable any third-party firewalls or security suites temporarily. If the DoH setting becomes available, there's a conflict. Try configuring your security software to allow DoH traffic or consider switching to a different security solution.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC):

Open an elevated Command Prompt (search for "cmd," right-click, and select "Run as administrator"). Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Allow the process to complete. Restart your computer.

6. Check Network Profile:

Ensure your network profile is set to "Private" if you are on a trusted network. Metered connections often disable certain features to conserve bandwidth. Check your network settings to change the connection type if necessary.

7. (Advanced Users) Check Registry Settings (Proceed with Caution!):

Warning: Incorrectly modifying the registry can cause serious system problems. Only attempt this if you are experienced with registry editing. Back up your registry before making any changes.

Examine the registry keys related to network settings for any entries that might be preventing DoH. This requires deep technical knowledge and is beyond the scope of this basic troubleshooting guide.

8. Consider Using a Third-Party DNS Client:

If all else fails, consider using a third-party DNS client application that supports DoH. These clients often bypass system-level limitations and provide more control over your DNS settings.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the greyed-out DoH setting in Windows 11 and get it working correctly. Remember to restart your computer after each troubleshooting step to ensure changes take effect.