Yes, OpenDNS is generally considered safe and is designed to enhance internet security. According to the provided reference, if you want your Internet to be productive and safe, you need OpenDNS. It offers a way to prevent access to inappropriate websites, block phishing sites, and prevent virus and malware infections.
Why is OpenDNS Considered Safe?
OpenDNS focuses on providing a secure and more controlled internet browsing experience. Here are some reasons why it's considered safe:
- Protection Against Phishing: OpenDNS actively blocks access to known phishing websites, helping to prevent users from falling victim to fraudulent schemes designed to steal personal information.
- Malware Prevention: It blocks access to sites known to host malware, including viruses, Trojans, and other harmful software, reducing the risk of infection.
- Content Filtering: OpenDNS enables users to block access to specific categories of websites (like adult content, gambling sites, etc.), which helps create a safer and more productive internet experience, especially for families or businesses.
- Improved Performance: By using its own DNS servers, OpenDNS can often provide faster DNS lookup times than the default DNS servers provided by your ISP, which can speed up internet browsing.
- Reliability: OpenDNS has a large, global network of servers, which increases reliability and reduces the risk of DNS outages.
How OpenDNS Enhances Safety
OpenDNS operates by filtering Domain Name System (DNS) requests. When you type a website address into your browser, it must be translated into an IP address by DNS. OpenDNS acts as this translator, comparing requested websites to its databases of known malicious or undesirable sites, and it blocks requests to harmful websites.
Here is an example of how OpenDNS enhances internet safety:
| Action | Result |
|---|---|
| User clicks a phishing link | OpenDNS blocks the request, preventing access to the phishing site. |
| User tries to access a site hosting malware | OpenDNS blocks the request, stopping the user from downloading malware. |
| User tries to access adult content | If a content filter is configured, OpenDNS blocks access, preventing viewing of inappropriate material. |
Conclusion
In summary, OpenDNS is designed to make the internet a safer place by actively blocking threats and allowing for content control. The reference explicitly states that OpenDNS is needed for a productive and safe internet experience. Its focus on blocking harmful websites and allowing for content filtering makes it a robust option for both individuals and organizations looking to enhance their internet security.
