Private DNS on Android: Enhancing Privacy and Security

Private DNS is an essential and vital feature in Android devices aimed at enhancing the level of privacy and security for internet users. This mode encrypts all your DNS queries, effectively limiting the ability of internet service providers to track your web browsing activity. The importance of Private DNS stands out because Domain Name System (DNS) queries – the technical process that converts domain names like ZDNET.com into IP addresses that browsers and applications can use to access websites – are usually sent in plain, unencrypted text. This makes these queries vulnerable to interception by hackers, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks like those available in cafes.

By activating Private DNS, all your DNS queries are encrypted, protecting them from eavesdroppers. It is essential for anyone who values their privacy and digital security. Additionally, Private DNS helps protect browsing data from internet service providers and third parties, and contributes to preventing cyberattacks like DNS spoofing.

How to Enable Private DNS on Android 11 or Later:

If you are using Android 11 or a later version, the old method no longer works. Instead, you need to install Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 + WARP app. After installation, open the app and move the slider labeled "Disconnected" to activate the service. Note: If the app is disabled, you may need to search for it in the Google Play Store to open it again, or tap on the app notification if it is running.

How to Enable Private DNS on Android 10 or Older:

1. Open the "Settings" app (from the notification panel or app drawer).
2. Tap on "Network & Internet". (For Samsung Galaxy device users, go to "Settings" > "More connection settings").
3. Search for "Private DNS" (you might find it at the bottom of the "Network & Internet" window, or use the search function in Settings if it's not visible).
4. Enter a secure DNS provider address. Cloudflare (their address is `1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com`) is recommended for its speed, security, and DNS filtering, which helps prevent emails from malicious IP addresses. Other options include Google DNS (`dns.google`) and Quad9 (`dns.quad9.net`).
5. Tap "Save".

You can also choose "Automatic", which will automatically switch to Google's Private DNS when available. However, if you prefer not to rely on Google for this feature, it is better to manually specify a DNS provider. Cloudflare DNS offers superior speed with a focus on privacy and no query logging, while Google Public DNS is highly fast and reliable. Quad9 primarily focuses on security and blocking known malicious domains, providing an additional layer of protection against malware and phishing.

To Ensure Private DNS is Working:

Open the default web browser on your Android device and navigate to `http://1.1.1.1/help`. If you see "Using DNS over TLS (DoT)" set to "Yes", then the mode is working successfully. DNS over TLS (DoT) is a security protocol that adds encryption to DNS queries, protecting them from eavesdropping and tampering.

After activating Private DNS on Android, your DNS queries will be encrypted, providing you with additional privacy and security.