DNS over HTTPS (DoH) enhances your network's privacy and security by encrypting DNS queries. This guide provides a thorough explanation of configuring DoH with your UniFi Network, covering various scenarios and addressing potential challenges.
Traditional DNS queries are sent in plain text, making them vulnerable to eavesdropping and manipulation. DoH encrypts these queries using HTTPS, protecting your DNS traffic from prying eyes. This is particularly beneficial on public Wi-Fi networks or when your internet service provider (ISP) might be monitoring your online activity.
UniFi doesn't natively support DoH at the controller level. Therefore, achieving DoH requires alternative approaches:
This is the most common and straightforward method. You configure DoH directly on your individual devices (computers, smartphones, etc.). This offers granular control, allowing different devices to use different DoH resolvers if needed. Most modern operating systems and browsers support DoH; you'll need to check your specific device's settings to enable it and specify a DoH server address (e.g., Cloudflare's https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query or Google's https://dns.google/dns-query).
If you prefer a centralized solution, consider using a router that natively supports DoH. While UniFi Dream Machines (UDM) and UDM Pro offer advanced features, they don't directly support configuring DoH as a global setting. You would need to replace your UniFi gateway with a router specifically designed with DoH capabilities. This requires careful consideration as it might impact your existing UniFi network setup.
For technically proficient users, deploying a separate DNS forwarder with DoH support is an option. This involves setting up a server (possibly a virtual machine or a dedicated server) that acts as an intermediary between your UniFi network and a DoH resolver. This method is more complex and requires significant networking knowledge. Popular DNS forwarders like unbound can be configured to use DoH.
Several reputable DoH providers are available. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses regarding privacy policies, performance, and features. Some popular options include:
https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query)https://dns.google/dns-query)https://dns.quad9.net/dns-query)Research each provider's privacy policy to choose one that aligns with your requirements.
If you encounter problems, consider the following:
While DoH enhances privacy, it's not a silver bullet. Consider the following:
Choosing a trustworthy DoH provider is critical. A compromised or malicious DoH server could potentially leak your DNS queries. Always opt for well-established and reputable providers.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of configuring DoH with your UniFi network. Remember to choose the method that best suits your technical skills and network requirements.