Secure DNS (Domain Name System) ensures your browser communicates with websites securely, protecting your privacy and preventing cyber threats. Secure DNS encrypts your DNS queries, which makes it harder for third parties, like your ISP or hackers, to monitor your browsing habits.
This can be set automatically for you depending on your browser. If configured, it can create problems where your device does not respect your filtering settings. To fix this you must disable this feature in you browser.
This guide will show you how to check if your browser is using Secure DNS and how to enable it for enhanced privacy.
Steps to Check If Your Browser Is Using Secure DNS
1. Google Chrome
- Open Chrome and type
chrome://settings/securityinto the address bar. - Scroll down to the “Advanced” section and look for the “Use Secure DNS” option.
- If this is enabled and shows a provider like Cloudflare or Google Public DNS, your browser is using Secure DNS.
Tip: You can click “With” and select a custom DNS provider if needed.
2. Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox and type
about:preferencesin the address bar. - Scroll down to “Network Settings” and click “Settings.”
- Look for the “Enable DNS over HTTPS” checkbox.
- If it’s checked and showing a provider, your browser is secured with DNS over HTTPS.
3. Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge and go to
edge://settings/privacy. - Scroll down to the “Security” section.
- Ensure “Use secure DNS to specify how to look up the network address for websites” is enabled. You can choose a DNS provider here as well.
4. Safari
- Currently, Safari does not offer native Secure DNS settings. However, if you’re using macOS, you can configure system-wide DNS settings that apply to Safari.