DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) enhances your online privacy and security by encrypting your DNS queries. This prevents your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other potential eavesdroppers from seeing which websites you visit. Cloudflare offers a robust and widely-adopted DoH service, providing a simple and effective way to improve your online security. This guide will walk you through understanding DoH, configuring it with Cloudflare, and even provides templates for various operating systems and devices.
Traditionally, DNS queries are sent in plain text, making them vulnerable to interception and manipulation. DoH encrypts these queries using HTTPS, the same protocol used for secure web browsing. This ensures confidentiality and prevents your DNS requests from being monitored or tampered with.
The simplest way to use Cloudflare's DoH is to change your DNS settings. Cloudflare's DoH endpoint is https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query. However, the method varies depending on your operating system and devices.
In Windows, you can modify your network adapter settings. Search for 'Network Connections' in the start menu. Right-click your active network adapter and select 'Properties'. Select 'Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)' or 'Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)', and click 'Properties'. Change the DNS server addresses to the following:
IPv4: 1.1.1.1 (or 1.0.0.1 for secondary)Go to System Preferences > Network. Select your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Click 'Advanced'. Go to the 'DNS' tab and click '+'. Add 1.1.1.1 and optionally 1.0.0.1 as DNS servers.
You can typically edit your network configuration files. For NetworkManager, you can use the NetworkManager GUI or command-line tools. For systemd-resolved, you might edit /etc/resolv.conf, but this might be overwritten automatically. A better approach is to configure systemd-resolved using nmcli or similar tools.
# Example using nmcli (requires root privileges):
sudo nmcli con mod "Your Connection Name" ipv4.dns 1.1.1.1 1.0.0.1Android's DoH configuration depends on the device and Android version. Some devices allow you to directly set DoH in the network settings, while others require using a third-party app. Search your device's settings for DNS settings or look for apps in Google Play that provide DoH configuration.
iOS does not offer direct DoH settings. You might need a VPN app or rely on your router's configuration to enable DoH with Cloudflare.
Remember to always consult your specific device's documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions.
While Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 are popular choices for DoH, you can choose other DoH providers or configure your own if needed. Make sure the chosen provider supports DoH and offers the level of privacy and security you require.
Implementing Cloudflare's DNS-over-HTTPS is a simple yet highly effective step towards improving your online privacy and security. By encrypting your DNS queries, you reduce your vulnerability to various threats and enhance your overall browsing experience.