DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a privacy-enhancing protocol that encrypts your DNS queries, preventing your internet service provider (ISP) and other potential eavesdroppers from seeing which websites you visit. This guide will walk you through enabling DoH on various browsers and devices.
Traditional DNS queries are sent in plain text, making them vulnerable to interception and manipulation. DoH addresses this by encrypting your DNS queries using HTTPS, the same protocol used for secure web browsing. The benefits include:
The method for enabling DoH varies slightly depending on your browser. Here's a breakdown for popular choices:
Chrome doesn't have a built-in setting for DoH. You can achieve a similar effect using a privacy-focused DNS provider as your system's default DNS server in your operating system settings. (See the Operating System section below.)
Firefox offers built-in support for DoH. Go to about:preferences#privacy, and under the "Settings" section of "Privacy & Security," locate "DNS over HTTPS." Select "Use DNS over HTTPS" and choose a provider from the dropdown menu (Cloudflare, Google Public DNS, or custom). If your desired provider isn't listed, you can manually input the address.
Similar to Chrome, Edge doesn't have a built-in DoH setting. You'll need to configure this at the operating system level.
Safari doesn't have built-in support for DoH, you would need to change your DNS settings in your operating system.
Configuring DoH at the operating system level ensures all applications on your device use encrypted DNS. This is often the most effective method, especially for systems without browser-level support.
Windows 10 and 11 allow you to change your DNS settings. Open the Network and Sharing Center, click on your active network connection, then click on "Properties." Select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" or "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)", then click on "Properties." Select "Use the following DNS server addresses" and enter the addresses for your chosen DoH provider. Many routers also support DoH; check your router's documentation for instructions.
On macOS, go to System Preferences > Network. Select your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), click "Advanced," then go to the "DNS" tab. Add your preferred DoH provider's address here. Remember to replace the example addresses with your chosen provider's actual DoH endpoints.
Android's DoH configuration depends on your device and Android version. Some Android versions and devices might allow you to set a custom DNS server within the Wi-Fi settings. Often, this involves advanced options or using a third-party DNS app.
Similar to Android, iOS DNS configuration varies. While not directly configurable through built-in settings, you may achieve this using a VPN app that supports DoH or using your router's settings.
Several reputable DoH providers exist, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Consider factors like privacy policy, performance, and features when making your choice. Some popular options include:
Remember to research and select a provider that aligns with your privacy and security preferences.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve your online privacy and security by enabling DNS over HTTPS on your devices.