DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a privacy-enhancing technique that encrypts your DNS queries, preventing your internet service provider (ISP) and other potential eavesdroppers from seeing which websites you visit. This guide will walk you through understanding DoH, its benefits, and how to enable it on your iPhone.
Every time you visit a website, your device uses the Domain Name System (DNS) to translate human-readable domain names (like google.com) into machine-readable IP addresses. Traditionally, these DNS queries are sent in plain text, making them vulnerable to interception and analysis. Your ISP can see every website you access, potentially building a profile of your online activity. This data could be sold to third parties or used for targeted advertising.
DoH solves this problem by encrypting DNS queries using HTTPS, the same protocol used for secure web browsing. This encryption ensures that only your device and the DNS resolver can see your DNS requests, protecting your privacy.
Enabling DoH on your iPhone offers several significant benefits:
There are several ways to enable DoH on your iPhone, depending on your network configuration and preferences:
Many popular DNS providers now support DoH. You can configure your iPhone to use one of these providers by changing your DNS settings. Popular options include:
To change your DNS settings:
Note: You may need to specify the DoH address explicitly depending on your router and ISP. Some routers may automatically support DoH without needing manual configuration.
Many VPN services offer built-in DoH support. Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security and privacy, but it's crucial to choose a reputable provider.
While some third-party apps claim to enhance DNS privacy, they're generally not recommended due to potential security and privacy risks. Stick to the methods mentioned above for better control and security.
You might encounter some issues when setting up DoH. If you experience problems connecting to the internet, double-check your DNS settings and ensure you've entered the correct IP addresses. If problems persist, try contacting your ISP or the DoH provider's support team.
While DoH significantly improves your privacy, it's not a silver bullet. Consider using other privacy-enhancing tools alongside DoH, such as a VPN or a privacy-focused browser.
Enabling DoH on your iPhone is a simple yet effective way to enhance your online privacy and security. By encrypting your DNS queries, you protect yourself from potential eavesdropping and attacks. Choose a reputable DNS provider and follow the steps outlined above to enjoy the benefits of DoH.