Implementing DNS over HTTPS (DoH): A Comprehensive Manual and Configuration Template

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) enhances your online privacy and security by encrypting your DNS queries. This guide provides a step-by-step manual for implementing DoH, along with customizable configuration templates for various operating systems and browsers.

Understanding DNS over HTTPS

Traditional DNS queries are sent in plain text, making them vulnerable to eavesdropping and manipulation. DoH encrypts these queries using HTTPS, preventing third parties from seeing your browsing activity. This protects your privacy and safeguards against DNS spoofing and other attacks.

Choosing a DoH Provider

Several reputable providers offer DoH services. Selecting a provider depends on factors like privacy policy, location, and performance. Popular options include:

Cloudflare: https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query
Google Public DNS: https://dns.google/dns-query
Quad9: https://dns.quad9.net/dns-query
OpenDNS: Offers DoH, but requires an account.

Research each provider's privacy policy to ensure it aligns with your needs. Consider factors such as data logging practices and location of servers.

Manual Configuration: Operating Systems

Linux (Systemd-resolved)

Most modern Linux distributions use systemd-resolved. Edit the configuration file (usually located at /etc/systemd/resolved.conf):


  [Resolve]
  DNS=1.1.1.1 #Example Cloudflare
  DNSOverTLS=yes
  DNSOverHTTPS=yes
  Domains=example.com #Optional, specify domains for DoH

Restart the systemd-resolved service: sudo systemctl restart systemd-resolved

Windows

Windows 10 and 11 allow setting a custom DNS server. Go to Network & internet settings, then Change adapter options. Right-click your active network connection, select Properties, then Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6). Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter the DoH provider's address (usually the same as the standard DNS server address but DoH will be used automatically by many applications). Forcing DoH in windows requires more advanced techniques that are outside the scope of this simple guide.

macOS

macOS doesn't have built-in DoH support in the same way as some other OSes. You'll typically need to use a third-party application or configure DoH at the network level (similar to the instructions for Windows). Many browsers provide built-in support for DoH which is simpler and generally preferred.

Manual Configuration: Browsers

Many modern browsers offer built-in support for DoH. Check your browser's settings for options to specify a custom DNS server or enable DoH directly.

Note: The configuration method varies significantly between browsers. Consult the documentation for your specific browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge) for detailed instructions.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, check the following:

Verify the DoH provider's address is correct.
Restart your computer or router.
Check your firewall settings to ensure it's not blocking DoH traffic.
Ensure that your network permits outbound HTTPS connections on port 443.

Security Considerations

While DoH enhances privacy, it doesn't offer complete anonymity. Your ISP can still see that you're using DoH, and the DoH provider will have access to your DNS queries. Choose a reputable provider with a transparent privacy policy.

Conclusion

Implementing DoH is a simple yet effective way to improve your online security and privacy. This manual and template should help you configure DoH on your systems and browsers. Remember to choose a trustworthy DoH provider and understand its privacy implications.