Enabling and Configuring DNS over HTTPS (DoH) on Your Xiaomi Router

Xiaomi routers, while popular for their affordability and features, don't directly offer a built-in option for DNS over HTTPS (DoH) like some other routers. This means achieving DoH requires a workaround, usually involving configuring your router to use a custom DNS server that supports DoH. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining the benefits and potential challenges.

Understanding DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

DNS over HTTPS encrypts your DNS queries, preventing your internet service provider (ISP) or potential eavesdroppers from seeing which websites you're visiting. This enhances your online privacy and security. Traditional DNS (using ports 53) sends your requests in plain text, making them vulnerable.

Why Use DoH on Your Xiaomi Router?

Implementing DoH at the router level offers several advantages:

• Increased Privacy for All Devices: All devices connected to your router benefit from the encrypted DNS queries, without needing individual configuration on each device.
• Simplified Management: You only need to configure DoH once on your router, instead of on every computer, smartphone, and smart home device.
• Improved Security: DoH protects against DNS spoofing and other attacks that could redirect your traffic to malicious websites.

Methods for Enabling DoH on a Xiaomi Router

Unfortunately, Xiaomi routers lack native DoH support. The most common approach is to configure your router to use a DNS server that supports DoH. This involves changing the DNS settings within your router's administration interface.

Method 1: Using a Public DoH Server

Many public DNS providers offer DoH. Popular options include:

• Cloudflare (1.1.1.1): Known for its speed and privacy focus. Their DoH endpoint is usually https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query
• Google Public DNS: Another widely used option. However, privacy concerns exist regarding Google's data collection practices.
• Quad9: Focuses on security and blocking malicious websites. They also offer DoH.

To configure this:

1. Access your Xiaomi router's administration interface (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into your web browser).
2. Find the section for "Network" or "Internet".
3. Locate the DNS settings. This might be under "DHCP Server", "WAN", or a similar section.
4. Change the DNS server addresses to the IPv4 address of your chosen DoH provider (e.g., 1.1.1.1 for Cloudflare). You might need to enter both a primary and secondary DNS address.
5. Save the changes and reboot your router.

Important Note: While this method sets your router to use a DoH-capable DNS server, it doesn't guarantee that your router itself is actively using DoH. The encryption happens on the DNS server's side, not necessarily within the router's firmware.

Method 2: Using a Custom Firmware (Advanced Users Only)

Installing custom firmware like OpenWrt can provide more control and potentially native DoH support. However, this is an advanced procedure and carries risks. Improper flashing can brick your router. Only proceed if you're comfortable with technical configurations and understand the potential consequences.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after configuring DoH:

• Check your router's logs: Look for any error messages related to DNS.
• Verify your DNS settings: Make sure you entered the correct DNS addresses.
• Reboot your router and devices: Sometimes a simple reboot solves connection problems.
• Test your internet connection: Ensure your internet is working correctly.

Conclusion

Enabling DoH on your Xiaomi router isn't straightforward due to the lack of built-in support. However, by using a public DoH-capable DNS server, you can significantly improve your privacy and security. Remember to choose a reputable DNS provider and understand the limitations of this workaround.