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How to Set Private DNS?

Published in Android Networking 3 mins read

To set up Private DNS on your Android device, follow these steps:

  1. Open your device's Settings app. You can usually find this by swiping up from the bottom of your screen and looking for the gear icon.

  2. Tap Network & internet. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your Android version and device manufacturer. Look for options like "Connections," "Wi-Fi & Network," or similar.

  3. Tap Private DNS. If you can't find it, use the search function within the Settings app and type "Private DNS." If you still can't find it, consult the documentation or support resources for your specific device model, as the setting's location can vary.

  4. Pick your option:

    • Off: Disables Private DNS entirely. Your device will use the DNS servers provided by your mobile network or Wi-Fi network.
    • Automatic: (Recommended for most users) Allows your device to use Private DNS if the network supports it. If the network doesn't support Private DNS, it will fall back to using the network's default DNS servers.
    • Private DNS provider hostname: Allows you to specify a specific DNS server to use. You will need the hostname of the DNS provider (e.g., dns.google or one.one.one.one).

  5. Tap Save.

Example Scenario: Setting up Cloudflare's DNS

If you want to use Cloudflare's public DNS servers, which are known for their speed and privacy, you would:

  1. Follow steps 1-3 above.
  2. Select "Private DNS provider hostname."
  3. Enter one.one.one.one as the hostname.
  4. Tap Save.

Important Considerations:

  • Security: Using a reputable Private DNS provider can improve your online security and privacy by encrypting your DNS queries, preventing eavesdropping and potential manipulation.

  • Performance: Some Private DNS providers offer faster DNS resolution than the default servers provided by your ISP, which can lead to a slightly faster browsing experience.

  • Compatibility: Private DNS is generally supported on Android 9 (Pie) and later. Older versions of Android may not have this feature.

  • Troubleshooting: If you experience internet connectivity issues after enabling Private DNS, try switching back to "Automatic" or "Off" to see if that resolves the problem. There might be an incompatibility with your network or the specified DNS provider.

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