How to Turn On DNS over HTTPS (DoH) in Windows 11
DNS over HTTPS (DoH) in Windows 11 hides the web addresses you visit from your internet provider by scrambling your web traffic. Windows 11 version 21H2 and newer versions include this privacy setting right inside the network menus so you do not need to install extra software.
Every website address you type goes through a Domain Name System (DNS), which acts like a phone book to turn web names into numeric IP addresses. Standard DNS requests are easy for snoops on your network to read, but DoH wraps those requests in standard web encryption to keep your browsing private.
Enable DNS over HTTPS (DoH) in Windows 11 by navigating to Settings Network & internet, selecting your connection, and editing DNS server assignment to Manual. Choose your preferred DNS provider and set encryption to “Encrypted only (DNS over HTTPS).
What is DNS over HTTPS (DoH)?
The DNS over HTTPS (DoH) privacy feature encrypts your internet lookups, making them private and secure. Standard requests travel in plain text, but DoH wraps them in a secure HTTPS connection similar to how your browser loads HTTPS websites. This configuration helps keep your online activity private from unauthorized viewers, safeguarding your data.
DNS over HTTPS (DoH) encrypts internet address lookups. This encryption sends requests through a secure connection, much like your web browser connects securely to websites. This secure method helps keep your online activity private from unauthorized access.
How to Turn On DNS over HTTPS in 🪟 Windows 11
Turning on DNS over HTTPS in Windows 11 uses your network settings. The DNS-over-HTTPS feature adds privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic to your chosen DNS server. This encryption makes it much harder for others to see what websites you are visiting online.
- Open Settings : Click the Start button (Windows logo) at the bottom left of your screen. Then click the Settings gear icon.
- Go to Network settings: In the Settings window, click Network & internet from the left menu.
- Choose your connection: Click on the network you use. If you have a wired connection, click Ethernet. If you use Wi-Fi, click Wi-Fi instead.
- Find DNS settings: Scroll down until you see DNS server assignment. Click the Edit button next to it.
- Change to manual: In the Edit DNS settings window, click the dropdown menu. Change it from Automatic (DHCP) to Manual.
- Turn on IPv4 or IPv6: Turn on the switch for IPv4 or IPv6. You can turn on both if you want.
- Add DNS addresses: Type in the DNS addresses you want to use. See the list below for popular choices.
- Enable encryption: Under Encryption, select Encrypted only (DNS over HTTPS).
- Save your changes: Click Save to apply the settings.
Popular DNS Servers You Can Use
For improved online privacy when using DNS over HTTPS in Windows 11, users can choose from several trusted DNS providers. Services like Google Public DNS, Cloudflare, and Quad9 all support DoH and offer secure, reliable connections. These providers help keep your internet lookups private and protect your online activity.
| DNS Provider | Type | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Public DNS (IPv4) | IPv4 | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 |
| Cloudflare (IPv4) | IPv4 | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 |
| Quad9 (IPv4) | IPv4 | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 |
| Google Public DNS (IPv6) | IPv6 | 2001:4860:4860::8888 | 2001:4860:4860::8844 |
| Cloudflare (IPv6) | IPv6 | 2606:4700:4700::1111 | 2606:4700:4700::1001 |
| Quad9 (IPv6) | IPv6 | 2620:fe::fe | 2620:fe::fe:9 |
After saving changes, your DNS configuration matches this layout:
Summary
- Turning on DNS over HTTPS (DoH) makes your web browsing more private and secure.
- It stops others from spying on or changing the websites you visit.
- You can choose from trusted DNS services like Google, Cloudflare, or Quad9.
- The setup is quick and easy. You do it right inside Windows 11's Network settings.
- Remember to update all your network connections for full protection.
- If you want to learn more about DNS over HTTPS, check out this simple Cloudflare explanation page.
In summary, enabling DNS over HTTPS (DoH) in Windows 11 makes your web browsing more private and secure. It prevents network observers from spying on or altering the websites you visit. Configuration requires trusted services like Google, Cloudflare, or Quad9 directly within your Windows 11 network settings.
Should I use DNS over HTTPS in 🪟 Windows 11?
Yes, utilizing DNS over HTTPS in Windows 11 significantly boosts your web browsing privacy and security.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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