How to set private DNS on Android

Question

I want to enhance my privacy and security by setting up a private DNS on my Android device. While I’ve found some settings under the network preferences, I’m unclear about the configuration process or what DNS providers to use. Could someone walk me through it?

Answer 1

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you configure a private DNS on your Android device, along with some recommendations for DNS providers:

Choosing a Private DNS Provider

Before you start, you'll need to select a private DNS provider. Here are a few popular options known for their privacy focus and reliability:

• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Primary), 1.0.0.1 (Secondary)
• Google Public DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Primary), 8.8.4.4 (Secondary)
• Quad9: 9.9.9.9 (Primary), 149.112.112.112 (Secondary)

Setting Up Private DNS on Android

The process might slightly vary depending on your Android version, but the general steps should be similar. These instructions are based on Android 11 and later versions. If you're using an earlier version, the process might differ, especially for Android 9 (Pie) and earlier, where you might need to use VPN-based DNS apps due to system limitations.

For Android 9 (Pie) and Later:

1. Open Settings: Find and open the "Settings" app on your Android device.
2. Navigate to Wi-Fi: Scroll down and select "Connections" or "Network & internet" (the exact label may vary), then choose "Wi-Fi".
3. Modify Network: Long press on the Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to, then select "Modify network" from the popup menu.
4. Show Advanced Options: Scroll down and toggle on "Advanced options".
5. Change IP Settings: Under "IP settings", select "Private DNS" from the dropdown menu.
6. Enter Private DNS Provider: Choose "Private DNS provider hostname". Enter the hostname of your chosen DNS provider. Here are the hostnames for the providers mentioned above:
   • Cloudflare DNS: 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com
   • Google Public DNS: You can't specify Google Public DNS by hostname in the traditional sense. Instead, you'll enter the IP addresses in the "Private DNS provider hostname" field, which isn't typical but works for Google's service: dns.google
   • Quad9: dns9.quad9.net
7. Save: Tap "Save" to apply the changes.

Alternative for All Android Versions (Using a VPN App with DNS):

If you're on an older Android version or prefer an app-based solution for simplicity or additional features:

1. Download a VPN App with DNS Capability: Apps like TunnelBear, ProtonVPN, or Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 offer VPN services that also allow setting a custom DNS. Some, like 1.1.1.1, are specifically focused on DNS privacy.
2. Configure the App: Follow the in-app instructions to set up the service. You might need to create an account for some VPN services.
3. Activate the VPN/DNS Service: Turn on the VPN or the specific DNS feature within the app. This will route your device's DNS queries through the private DNS service.

Verification

After setting up your private DNS, it's a good idea to verify that it's working correctly:

• Visit a DNS Leak Test Website: Go to a website like DNSLeakTest.net or 1.1.1.1's DNS Leak Test. These sites will show you which DNS service your device is currently using. If everything is set up correctly, you should see the DNS provider you just configured.