Security and Privacy Using DNS (1 minute read)

To get on the Internet, you need an Internet Service Provider or a Wi-Fi connection. When you surf, to connect with a website, you type in the name of the site, or use a bookmark, click a link and off you go to anywhereintheworld.com.  How you get to your desired location is known as the Domain Name System or DNS.

Many ISP's see and track the DNS requests (the connection to the address you are looking for). Some may even sell that information or use it to deliver ads and other content.  Additionally, if you accidentally click on a phishing link, mistype a website, or are just surfing around, you run the risk of landing on a malicious website. Additionally, when you are on an unknown wireless network, you have no idea what system you are using to direct your web activity.

There are several free services that address the privacy and security concerns around DNS. These services usually collect little if none of your browsing history or share it with anyone else. Furthermore,  they know what sites are malicious and prevent you from accessing or warn you before you get there.

These services do require changing some configurations on your devices to redirect traffic through their servers. Some have mobile apps as well.

What these services do is direct your web queries through their DNS system. Many also claim to speed up your connection to websites.

Here’s a partial list of FREE DNS providers, and links to where to get them:

1.1.1.1 from Cloudflare, a DDC partner

8.8.8.8 from Google, a DDC partner

Quad 9 (9.9.9.9) from the Global Cyber Alliance 

Learn More: What is DNS?