Securing Your MikroTik Router with DNS over HTTPS (DoH): A Comprehensive Guide

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a method of encrypting DNS queries, enhancing your privacy and security by preventing your ISP and other potential eavesdroppers from seeing which websites you visit. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of configuring DoH on your MikroTik router, focusing on the benefits, potential drawbacks, and step-by-step instructions.

Why Use DNS over HTTPS on Your MikroTik Router?

Enhanced Privacy: DoH encrypts your DNS queries, hiding your browsing activity from your ISP and other network observers.
Increased Security: Encryption prevents DNS spoofing and other attacks that can redirect you to malicious websites.
Improved Performance (Potentially): Some DoH providers offer faster query times than traditional DNS servers.
Centralized Management: Configuring DoH at the router level protects all devices on your network without requiring individual device configuration.

Choosing a DNS over HTTPS Provider

Several reputable providers offer DoH services. Popular choices include:

Cloudflare: https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query
Google Public DNS: https://dns.google/dns-query
Quad9: https://dns.quad9.net/dns-query
NextDNS: (Requires account setup; offers advanced customization)

Consider factors like privacy policy, performance, and features when selecting a provider.

Configuring DNS over HTTPS on Your MikroTik Router

The exact configuration steps may vary slightly depending on your MikroTik RouterOS version, but the general process remains consistent. Access your router's web interface (Winbox is also an option) and follow these steps:

Step 1: Accessing Your MikroTik Router

Connect to your router's web interface using its IP address. You'll need the administrator credentials.

Step 2: Navigating to DNS Settings

Navigate to the IP -> DNS section in the router's configuration.

Step 3: Adding a DoH Server

Most MikroTik routers support DoH through the Add button in the DNS section. You will need to specify the DoH URL (e.g., https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query) and ensure that the Use DNS over HTTPS option is enabled. This is usually a checkbox in the advanced options.

Important Note: Some older MikroTik RouterOS versions might not have built-in DoH support. You may need to use a third-party script or upgrade your firmware for this functionality. Check your router's documentation or the MikroTik forums for compatibility information.

Step 4: Testing Your Configuration

After adding the DoH server, save your changes. Test the configuration by checking if your devices can resolve DNS queries correctly. You can use online tools like WhatsMyDNS to verify that your DNS queries are being handled over HTTPS.

Troubleshooting DNS over HTTPS on MikroTik

Connection Issues: Ensure your router has internet connectivity.
Incorrect Configuration: Double-check the DoH server URL and ensure the relevant settings are enabled.
Firewall Restrictions: Ensure your router's firewall doesn't block outgoing HTTPS traffic to your chosen DoH server. (Port 443)
RouterOS Version Compatibility: Check for compatibility with your RouterOS version.

Alternatives and Advanced Configurations

If you encounter difficulties with direct DoH configuration, consider using alternative methods such as using a DNS-over-TLS server or a proxy that supports DoH.

For advanced users, MikroTik's scripting capabilities can provide more control over DNS settings and allow for custom solutions.

This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for securing your network with DoH on your MikroTik router. Remember to always refer to your router's documentation and the MikroTik community forums for specific details and support.