Activating Private DNS on Android and Why It's Crucial

Every interaction you make on devices like computers and smartphones begins with a Domain Name System (DNS) request. Essentially, DNS changes domain names (e.g., ZDNET.com) into an IP address, enabling web browsers and apps to retrieve the requested information.

Without DNS, visiting websites like ZDNET.com would require you to input numerical sequences like 34.149.132.124 manually. Every search request, even a simple Google query, relies on DNS. The challenge is that traditional DNS transmits these queries unencrypted, exposing them to interception.

Why Does Unencrypted DNS Matter?

Consider browsing on a public network, such as at a coffee shop, using your Android device. Whether checking an important document or accessing online tools, if your DNS queries aren't encrypted, someone with network skills could potentially snoop on your activity.

This is where Private DNS mode safeguards your privacy. Once activated, all DNS queries become encrypted, shielding them from those who might be trying to intercept your data. For anyone prioritizing privacy and security, enabling Private DNS is essential.

Steps to Enable Private DNS on Android (For Versions 11 and Newer)

With the evolution of Android to version 11 and beyond, the conventional method for activating Private DNS is now outdated. To manage this, users must download an app from Cloudflare. Once the application is installed, launch it, and find a toggle labeled Disconnected. Switching this on will activate the service.

The Cloudflare WARP software simplifies the process of enabling Private DNS for Android users starting from version 11.

Note that if you deactivate the app and need to reactivate Private DNS, it won't appear in your app list. You'll need to access it via the Google Play Store. Although this can be inconvenient, knowing how to operate the app ensures consistent access to Private DNS. A running version will show a notification link opening the app.

Setting Up Private DNS on Older Android Versions

For those with devices before Android 11, such as a Pixel 9 Pro, here is how you can enable Private DNS manually, provided your device supports it.

Step 1: Accessing Network & Internet Settings

On your Android, access the Settings app from the app drawer or notification bar, and select Network & internet. Users on Samsung Galaxy can navigate to Settings > More Connection Settings.

Typically, Network & internet appears at the top in your Android Settings.

Step 2: Enable Private DNS

Locate Private DNS towards the bottom in the Network & internet section. On Galaxy devices, it's usually in the middle of More Connection Settings. If it isn't directly visible, try searching for it in the Settings main page.

Step 3: Select a Secure DNS Provider

Here, you can opt for a DNS provider that guarantees security, like Cloudflare, which uses the hostname 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com. Cloudflare is favored for both speed and security.

To select, navigate to Private DNS, choose Private DNS Provider Hostname, and type in your preferred provider's hostname.

Alternatively, you can choose Automatic, which defaults to Google’s service when available. However, selecting a provider like Cloudflare might be beneficial when Google's DNS service isn't accessible.

Verify the effectiveness by visiting http://1.1.1.1/help in your browser. If 'Using DNS over TLS (DoT)' is confirmed with a 'Yes', then the encryption is active.

Thus, by enabling Private DNS on Android, your data transmissions gain an additional layer of privacy and security.