How to Use Mullvad's DNS over VPN: A Complete Guide to Online Privacy
Keeping your online activities private is tougher than ever these days. With trackers, ads, and even your internet provider watching your every move, you need reliable tools to stay secure. Mullvad’s DNS over VPN is one of those tools—a simple yet powerful way to protect your browsing. This guide will walk you through how to use Mullvad’s DNS over VPN, why it matters, and how it can make your online life safer in just a few steps.
What Is DNS and Why Should You Care?
Let’s start with the basics. DNS stands for Domain Name System. Think of it as the internet’s address book. When you type 'google.com' into your browser, DNS turns that name into a number (an IP address) so your computer can find the site. The problem? Regular DNS isn’t private. Your internet provider or anyone snooping can see every site you visit. That’s a big privacy risk. Mullvad’s DNS over VPN fixes this by hiding your DNS requests, keeping your online habits your own business.
Why Mullvad Stands Out for Privacy
Mullvad isn’t just another VPN service—it’s built for people who take privacy seriously. You don’t need to give them your email or name to sign up, just an account number. They even let you pay with cash or crypto for total anonymity. Their DNS over VPN feature sends your DNS requests through their encrypted servers, not your provider’s. Plus, they offer extras like blocking ads and trackers. It’s one of the best online privacy tools out there, and I’ve been using it myself for years.
How to Set Up Mullvad’s DNS over VPN
Getting started is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Sign Up: Go to Mullvad’s official site and click 'Generate account number.' No personal info needed.
- Download the App: Grab the Mullvad app for your device—Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, or Android all work.
- Log In: Open the app, punch in your account number, and you’re in.
- Connect: Pick a server (closer ones are faster) and hit 'Connect.' Your traffic’s now encrypted.
- Check DNS Settings: Mullvad handles DNS automatically when connected, but head to settings and turn on 'Always require VPN' for extra safety.
- Test It: Visit dnsleaktest.com to confirm Mullvad’s servers show up, not your ISP’s.
That’s it! You’re now using Mullvad’s DNS over VPN.
My Experience with Mullvad
I’ve been using Mullvad for over two years, and it’s been a game-changer for my online privacy. The setup took me less than five minutes, and I love how I don’t have to worry about my ISP tracking me anymore. Once, while traveling, I used it on a sketchy hotel Wi-Fi network. The ad-blocking feature cut out annoying pop-ups, and I felt safer knowing my data was encrypted. It’s not just about hiding what I do—it’s about controlling who gets to see it. Mullvad gives me that control.
Benefits You’ll Notice Right Away
Here’s what you get with Mullvad’s DNS over VPN:
- Hidden Browsing: No one sees what sites you visit—not your ISP, not hackers.
- Fewer Ads: Built-in blocking stops ads and trackers cold.
- No Logs: Mullvad doesn’t keep records of what you do online, as confirmed by their privacy policy.
- Fast Speeds: With servers worldwide, I rarely notice a slowdown.
It’s a solid mix of privacy and convenience, perfect for everyday use.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Sometimes things don’t go perfectly. Here’s how to fix common hiccups:
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| DNS Leaks | Check 'Always require VPN' is on; switch servers if needed. |
| Slow Speeds | Pick a closer server or one with a lighter load (app shows this). |
| App Won’t Open | Restart it, or reinstall from Mullvad’s site. |
| Blocked Sites | Use 'Bridge Mode' in settings to sneak past restrictions. |
I’ve hit slow speeds a couple of times—switching servers fixed it every time.
Extra Tips for Staying Private Online
Mullvad’s DNS over VPN is awesome, but you can do more. Use a browser like Firefox with privacy add-ons. Keep your apps updated—old software can leak data. And don’t overshare on social media; it’s an easy way to undo your privacy efforts. I also tried Mullvad’s multi-hop feature once, which bounces your connection through two servers. It’s slower but super secure for sensitive stuff.
Why This Matters for Online Privacy
Studies show ISPs collect tons of user data—up to 80% of browsing habits in some cases, according to the FTC. Tools like Mullvad’s DNS over VPN stop that in its tracks. It’s not just about hiding; it’s about deciding who gets your info. For me, that’s empowering.
Wrapping Up
Mullvad’s DNS over VPN is a must-have for anyone serious about online privacy. It’s easy to set up, keeps your browsing hidden, and even blocks annoying ads. From my own experience, it’s reliable and worth every penny (or crypto coin). Whether you’re new to online privacy tools or a pro, this guide should get you started. Stay safe out there!