Checking for DNS Leaks

A DNS server is a computer that helps convert a website's domain name into a digital IP address. Such servers are typically offered by the internet provider, but there are also independent services, such as Google Public DNS and OpenDNS.

Everyone who cares about their browsing safety uses a VPN, which hides your browsing information from the provider. A DNS leak is when DNS requests are sent outside of an encrypted VPN tunnel or bypass the VPN server. Thus, the provider can intercept such requests and find out which domains the client has visited.

DNS leak causes:

• Incorrect manual VPN settings on your computer or gadget;
• Incorrect network settings on the device;
• Operating system features or programs interfering with DNS requests and internet traffic;
• Using IPv6 when working through a VPN that does not support this protocol;
• Hackers controlling requests to websites after hacking the router.

How to check for a DNS leak?

Our service will automatically detect which DNS servers the device is accessing and determine if there is a risk of a leak. You just need to click on the "Check" button to start the test.

The scanning goal is to determine whether your ISP or website owner can find out your real IP address. It is best to test using a regular internet connection and with the VPN turned on and then compare test results.

How to Prevent a DNS Leak?

If there is a chance of a DNS leak on your device, it is best to eliminate the risk immediately. You can independently configure the VPN and network settings of your computer or gadget. It is better if you specify public services in the settings instead of those offered by your provider. Popular DNS servers include:

• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Google Public DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.4.4
• OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220

To configure them in Windows, you need to go to the Network and Sharing Center. Under “View your basic network information and set up connections”, you need to select the connection. Next, find “Use the following DNS server addresses” in the protocol properties and enter the name of the server.

On macOS, you should activate the system settings and select the "Network" section, where you can go to your current internet connection. In the "Advanced" section, open the "DNS" tab, click on the plus icon and specify the IP address of the server.

DNS can also be configured for a router distributing Wi-Fi. The settings depend on the device you have, so it is better to refer to the user manual.

If you use public services, then your internet provider will not be able to track DNS queries even with the VPN turned off.

If you would like to be confident that there is no possibility of a DNS leak, you should use a professional VPN client software that will independently configure a connection to a secure network. To install the hidemy.name VPN service, you just need to download the application from our website, select a country, server, and click connect.

Advantages of our VPN client:

• Support of multiple operating systems, which includes apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux;
• Connection to a secure network with one click on the "Connect" button;
• Usage does not require special knowledge;
• Ability to quickly change IP without reconnection;
• Protection against detection of real IP when the VPN unexpectedly disconnects;
• Encryption of the connection process with the “Chameleon” function, which allows you to bypass the VPN blocks without being detected;
• Support and automatic selection of OpenVPN TCP&UDP, L2TP, PPTP.

Be sure to check your device for signs of DNS leaks on a regular basis. Newly installed applications or updates may change your network settings and compromise your anonymity and privacy.