A Simple Guide to Encrypted DNS: Boost Your Online Privacy

Overview
Encrypted DNS is a powerful tool for protecting your online privacy. In this guide, you'll learn what encrypted DNS is, why it matters, and how to use it effectively. We'll also explore how Mullvad's DNS over VPN can enhance your privacy and introduce other tools to keep you safe online.

What is DNS and Why is it Important?

DNS, or Domain Name System, is like the internet's phonebook. When you type a website's name, like 'google.com,' into your browser, DNS translates it into an IP address that your computer can understand. This process happens every time you visit a website, making DNS essential for browsing the internet.

However, traditional DNS has a flaw: it's unencrypted. This means that anyone with access to your network—like your internet service provider (ISP) or a hacker on public Wi-Fi—can see which websites you're visiting. They can also manipulate DNS responses to redirect you to fake websites.

Introducing Encrypted DNS

Encrypted DNS solves this problem by securing your DNS queries. Instead of sending them in plain text, encrypted DNS uses protocols like DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT) to encrypt the data. This ensures that only you and the DNS server can see your queries, protecting your privacy.

For example, when you use encrypted DNS, your ISP can still see that you're connecting to a DNS server, but they can't see which websites you're asking about. This is a big step forward for online privacy.

Benefits of Encrypted DNS for Privacy

Using encrypted DNS offers several key benefits:
- Privacy: Your browsing habits stay private, even from your ISP.
- Security: It prevents DNS spoofing, where attackers redirect you to malicious websites.
- Control: You can choose a DNS provider that aligns with your privacy values, rather than relying on your ISP's default.

In my experience, switching to encrypted DNS made me feel more in control of my online data. I no longer worry about my ISP tracking my every move.

How to Use Mullvad's DNS over VPN

Mullvad is a privacy-focused VPN provider that offers a unique feature: DNS over VPN. This means that when you're connected to Mullvad's VPN, your DNS queries are automatically encrypted and routed through their secure servers.

Here's how to set it up:
1. Sign up for Mullvad: Visit Mullvad's website and create an account.
2. Download the app: Install the Mullvad VPN app on your device.
3. Connect to a server: Open the app and connect to any Mullvad server.
4. Enable DNS over VPN: By default, Mullvad routes your DNS queries through their encrypted servers. You can confirm this in the app settings.

Using Mullvad's DNS over VPN is seamless. Once connected, all your internet traffic, including DNS queries, is encrypted and anonymized. This is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi, where privacy risks are higher.

Other Online Privacy Tools

While encrypted DNS is a great start, it's even more effective when combined with other privacy tools. Here are a few I recommend:
- VPNs: A VPN encrypts all your internet traffic, not just DNS queries. Mullvad is a solid choice, but there are others like ProtonVPN and NordVPN.
- Browser Extensions: Tools like uBlock Origin and Privacy Badger block trackers and ads, further protecting your privacy.
- Secure Messaging Apps: Apps like Signal and Telegram offer end-to-end encryption for your communications.

Using these tools together creates a robust privacy shield. For instance, I use a VPN for general browsing, encrypted DNS for added security, and secure messaging for private conversations.

Personal Insights and Experiences

When I first learned about encrypted DNS, I was skeptical. Could something so simple really make a difference? But after switching, I noticed fewer targeted ads and felt more secure knowing my ISP wasn't logging my every move.

One time, while traveling, I connected to a hotel's Wi-Fi. Normally, I'd be cautious about what sites I visited, but with encrypted DNS and a VPN, I felt confident browsing as usual. It's empowering to take control of your online privacy.

Summary

Encrypted DNS is a simple yet powerful tool for enhancing your online privacy. By encrypting your DNS queries, you prevent eavesdropping and manipulation, keeping your browsing habits private. Using Mullvad's DNS over VPN makes this process even easier, and combining it with other privacy tools creates a comprehensive defense.

Take control of your online privacy today. Start with encrypted DNS, and explore other tools to build a secure digital life.