This blog post provides a detailed examination of DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT), technologies that are crucial components of internet security. It explains what DoH and DoT are, their key differences, and the security benefits they provide by encrypting DNS queries. It also provides a practical guide explaining the benefits of using DNS over HTTPS and the steps to implement DNS over TLS. Finally, it concludes by emphasizing the importance of these technologies for internet security.

What is DNS Over HTTPS and DNS Over TLS?

DNS (Domain Name System), a cornerstone of our internet experience, makes it easy to access websites. However, because traditional DNS queries are sent unencrypted, security vulnerabilities and privacy issues can arise. This is where DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over This is where TLS (DoT) comes in. These technologies aim to provide a more secure and private internet experience by encrypting DNS queries.

Protocol	Port	Encryption
DNS over HTTPS (DoH)	443 (HTTPS)	HTTPS (TLS)
DNS over TLS (DoT)	853	TLS
Traditional DNS	53	Unencrypted
DNS over QUIC (DoQ)	853	QUIC

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) sends DNS queries over the HTTPS protocol. This means it uses the same port (443) as web traffic, making DNS traffic appear like normal web traffic. DoH is widely supported, especially by browsers, and allows users to easily change DNS settings. This makes it more difficult for internet service providers (ISPs) to monitor and manipulate DNS traffic.

Key Differences
• Cryptography: DoH and DoT encrypt DNS queries compared to traditional DNS.
• Port Usage: DoH uses HTTPS port (443), while DoT uses a special port (853).
• Application Area: DoH is more widely supported by browsers, while DoT is more used at the operating system level and server-side.
• Security: Both protocols increase user privacy, but DoH provides an additional layer of privacy by intermixing traffic with web traffic.
• Decentralization: DoH allows users to easily switch DNS providers, which contributes to a more decentralized internet.

DNS over TLS (DoT), on the other hand, sends DNS queries directly over the TLS protocol. This separates DNS traffic from other web traffic using a dedicated port (853). DoT is typically implemented at the operating system level and server-side. While it offers similar security benefits to DoH, it requires a different infrastructure and is less widely supported. Both technologies offer significant steps in protecting user privacy and preventing DNS spoofing.

Key Differences Between DNS Over HTTPS and DNS Over TLS

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) are both protocols that aim to increase privacy by encrypting DNS queries. However, they use different approaches to achieve this goal. DoH transmits DNS queries over the HTTPS protocol, that is, on the same port as web traffic (443), while DoT transmits DNS queries over TLS on a separate port (853). This fundamental difference has various implications in terms of performance, security, and ease of implementation.

Feature	DNS over HTTPS (DoH)	DNS over TLS (DoT)
Protocol	HTTPS	TLS
Port	443 (Same as web traffic)	853 (Private DNS port)
APPLICATION	Web browsers and operating systems	Operating systems and custom DNS clients
Hiding	Can be hidden in web traffic	Can be defined as separate traffic

DoH's use of the same port as web traffic allows DNS queries to be hidden within normal web traffic. This can be advantageous for bypassing censorship in some cases. However, it can also make it more difficult for network administrators to detect and control DNS traffic. DoT, on the other hand, uses a separate port, making DNS traffic more easily detectable, but it also means it's more susceptible to censorship blocking.

Steps to Compare Features
1. Specify the protocol type (HTTPS or TLS).
2. See which ports are being used (443 or 853).
3. Evaluate application domains (browsers, operating systems).
4. Compare the level of privacy (hidden or separate traffic).
5. Analyze security features.

Both protocols DNS By encrypting queries, it prevents internet service providers (ISPs) or other third parties from seeing which websites users are visiting. This is especially important on public Wi-Fi networks or when ISPs monitor DNS traffic. However, which protocol is best depends on the usage scenario and priorities. Let's take a closer look at the key features and security advantages of these protocols.

Key Features

The key differences between DoH and DoT stem from their technical architecture. DoH integrates with web browsers, allowing users to encrypt DNS queries without having to install additional software. This is a significant advantage in terms of ease of use. DoT, on the other hand, is typically supported by operating systems or specialized DNS clients and may require more technical setup. This may make DoT more preferred by system administrators or advanced users who prioritize privacy.

Security Advantages

Both protocols offer protection against man-in-the-middle attacks. However, the ability to hide DoH within web traffic can provide an additional layer of security in some cases. For example, DoH traffic can be difficult to detect unless a network administrator inspects all HTTPS traffic. DoT, on the other hand, is more easily detected because it uses a separate port, but this also allows for stricter security policies. For example, a network administrator can block redirects to malicious DNS servers by only allowing access to specific DoT servers.

Advantages of Using DNS Over HTTPS

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) not only increases your privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic, but also offers several advantages. Traditional DNS queries are typically sent unencrypted, allowing attackers or eavesdroppers to see what websites you visit. DoH eliminates this risk by conducting DNS queries over the HTTPS protocol.

Advantages and Disadvantages of DoH

Feature	Advantage	Disadvantage
Security	DNS queries are encrypted, making them harder to track.	May affect performance.
Security	It blocks surveillance by internet service providers (ISPs) and other third parties.	Centralization may create concerns.
Performance	In some cases, it can provide faster DNS resolution.	Delays may occur due to HTTPS overhead.
Compatibility	It is supported by modern browsers and operating systems.	There may be incompatibility issues with legacy systems.

One of the biggest advantages offered by DoH is, DNS over queries are sent to the same port (443) as standard HTTPS traffic. This makes it difficult for those seeking to censor DNS traffic to be blocked because they would need to block all HTTPS traffic, which would render large swaths of the internet unusable. Additionally, DoH allows users to configure DNS settings more easily because it can be set at the browser or operating system level.

Key Benefits
• Enhanced Privacy: Encrypting your DNS queries makes it harder for third parties to track you.
• Increased Security: Prevents attackers from manipulating your DNS traffic.
• Censorship Bypass: Bypasses DNS-based censorship methods.
• Easy Configuration: Can be easily activated via browser or operating system.
• Performance Improvements: Can provide faster DNS resolution in some cases.

However, DoH also has some potential disadvantages. For example, DNS over Having traffic go through a single, centralized provider can raise privacy concerns. Additionally, the overhead of HTTPS encryption can slightly increase DNS resolution times. However, overall, the advantages of DoH outweigh its disadvantages, especially when privacy and security are paramount.

Ease of Use

Another key advantage of DoH is its ease of use. Modern web browsers (e.g., Firefox and Chrome) and operating systems (e.g., Windows 10 and above) support DoH natively. Users can easily enable DoH and select a trusted DoH server from their browser or operating system settings. This makes it easy to improve DNS security, even for users with limited technical knowledge.

DNS over HTTPS is a powerful tool for improving internet user privacy and security. It is becoming increasingly popular due to its advantages, such as encrypted DNS queries, censorship bypassing, and ease of configuration. However, it's also important to consider potential drawbacks, such as centralization and performance.

DNS over TLS Implementation Steps

DNS over TLS (DoT), DNS It is a protocol designed to increase privacy by encrypting queries. This protocol DNS It protects against man-in-the-middle attacks by routing traffic over a standard TLS connection. DoT implementation makes it harder for users to be tracked by internet service providers (ISPs) or other third parties.

My name	Explanation	Important Notes
1. Server Selection	Choose a reliable DoT server.	Popular options like Cloudflare and Google are available.
2. Configuration	Configure DoT in your operating system or router.	There are different configuration steps for each operating system.
3. Verification	Verify that the configuration is working correctly.	Various online tools or command line tools can be used.
4. Firewall Settings	Update your firewall settings if necessary.	You may need to open port 853 to allow TLS traffic.

The steps to implement DoT may vary depending on the operating system and network devices used. For example, different operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux, have different configuration methods. Additionally, some routers support DoT directly, while others may require specialized software or settings.

Installation Steps
1. A reliable DNS over Select a TLS server (e.g. Cloudflare, Google).
2. Access the network settings of your operating system or router.
3. DNS in settings, private DNS select the server option.
4. Your choice DNS Enter the DoT address of the server (usually an IP address and port number).
5. Save the changes and restart your network connection.
6. DNS Verify that the installation is functioning properly by performing leak tests.

After the configuration process is completed, DNS It's important to verify whether your traffic is encrypted. Many online tools and command-line tools DNS It allows you to check whether your queries are made securely. This verification step DNS over It is critical to ensure that TLS is implemented correctly.

DNS over While enabling TLS increases the privacy of your internet traffic, it can impact performance in some cases. Because encryption and decryption can add overhead, you may experience a slight decrease in connection speed. However, thanks to modern devices and fast internet connections, this performance penalty is generally negligible.

Draw Conclusions from Key Points

Both DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) are protocols that aim to increase privacy and security by encrypting DNS traffic. DNS overhas the potential to make internet users' online experiences safer by protecting their data. These technologies are especially important in insecure environments like public Wi-Fi networks, making it harder for third parties to monitor or manipulate users' data.

The key differences between DoH and DoT are the layers they are implemented at and the ports they support. DoH runs over HTTP or HTTP/2, making it easier to integrate with existing web infrastructure, while DoT runs directly over the TLS protocol, making it a more standalone solution. Both protocols encrypt DNS queries, preventing internet service providers (ISPs) or other intermediaries from monitoring users' online activity. The table below compares the key features of the two protocols.

Feature	DNS over HTTPS (DoH)	DNS over TLS (DoT)
Protocol	DNS over HTTP/2 or HTTP/3	DNS over TLS
Port	443 (HTTPS)	853
Integration	Easy integration with existing HTTP infrastructure	Requires independent TLS connection
Aim	Encrypting DNS queries over HTTPS	Encrypting DNS queries over TLS

Adopting DoH and DoT is a critical step for the future of internet security. However, there are also some challenges and potential issues to consider when implementing these technologies. For example, concerns about centralization and the possibility that some ISPs might block or manipulate these protocols must be addressed. In this regard, there are steps users and organizations can take:

• Steps to Take Action
• Select a DNS server that supports DoH or DoT.
• Enable DoH or DoT in your web browser or operating system.
• Check and update your DNS settings regularly.
• Use a reliable DNS provider.
• Carefully review their privacy policies and security measures.
• Run tests to ensure your DNS traffic is encrypted.

DNS over Technologies are important tools for enhancing internet user privacy and security. Proper implementation and management of these technologies is critical to a safer and freer internet experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How DoH and DoT make our internet traffic more secure?

DoH (DNS over HTTPS) and DoT (DNS over TLS) encrypt your DNS queries, making your internet traffic more secure. This encryption prevents your queries from being read or manipulated by third parties, thus increasing your privacy and security.

What is the performance impact of using DoH and DoT? Will my internet speed slow down?

Using DoH and DoT may have a small performance impact due to the additional layers of encryption. However, modern devices and networks can generally handle this overhead easily. In some cases, using faster DNS servers can mitigate this impact or even increase your internet speed.

Is it possible to use DoH and DoT at the same time? Which one should I choose?

Because DoH and DoT serve the same purpose, it's generally not necessary to use them simultaneously. Your choice depends on the browser or operating system you're using and your privacy preferences. Both are good options, and for most users, the difference is minimal.

What steps should I follow to start using DoH and DoT? Is it too complicated?

Getting started with DoH and DoT is generally quite simple. Most modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Android, etc.) support these protocols natively. You can easily get started by enabling the relevant options in your browser or system settings. The steps are generally straightforward and easily configurable through the interface.

Can DoH and DoT replace VPN use?

No, DoH and DoT are not a replacement for using a VPN. While DoH and DoT only encrypt your DNS queries, a VPN encrypts all your internet traffic and masks your IP address. A VPN offers a more comprehensive privacy and security solution.

Which DNS servers support DoH and DoT? Are there any free, reliable options?

Many DNS servers support DoH and DoT. For example, Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8), and Quad9 (9.9.9.9) are popular and reliable options. Most of these servers are free and focus on protecting user privacy.

What is the role of DoH and DoT in combating censorship? Do they contribute to internet freedom?

DoH and DoT can play a significant role in combating censorship. Encrypted DNS queries make it harder for internet service providers (ISPs) or other authorities to monitor and filter your DNS traffic. This can help you access blocked websites and increase internet freedom.

What security risks should I be aware of when using DoH and DoT?

When using DoH and DoT, it's important to choose reputable DNS servers that you trust. Malicious DNS servers can pose risks like phishing attacks or malware distribution. Also, remember that DoH and DoT don't encrypt all your internet traffic, so you should take other security precautions (strong passwords, up-to-date software, etc.).

More information: Cloudflare DNS over HTTPS (DoH) explained

More information: Learn more about DNS over TLS (DoT)