I’m often confused about whether to use apps like RethinkDNS, Invizible Pro, or AdGuard to manage DNS requests on my phone, or to simply rely on Private DNS.
Are there any privacy advantages or security concerns associated with using these apps? When I use an app, can all DNS queries be routed through my preferred DNS provider (which helps block tracking requests on a bloated phone)? Is Private DNS easier for the system to bypass?
I typically use RethinkDNS and block any bypassed DNS requests, so I believe that all my DNS traffic is routed through RethinkDNS, making it impossible for leaks to occur. Is this a misconception? Can any DNS app truly provide that level of privacy and security?
Additionally, how does an application firewall compare to a network-level firewall like NextDNS in terms of effectiveness?
Ultimately, should I opt for an application firewall or a network-level firewall?
As best I understand it, running a private caching DNS server is the only guaranteed increase in privacy for DNS. That server still has to reach out to the net the first time a request is made, but will resolve all subsequent requests locally. DNSSEC to a privacy respecting DNS provider like quad9 at 149.112.112.112 from your local DNS server. Mayhaps the best you could do for a roaming device like a phone is to run a decent VPN with an option to prevent DNS leaks.
Is there any privacy advantage or security concern over them ?
This is more of a philosophical question than anything. If you trust that they’re not using your data for anything nefarious, I really advocate for RethinkDNS. It’s a really great service and truly fills a need between the clear-net and running your own DNS.
If you don’t trust RethinkDNS, etc, etc, to not do anything nefarious, then it’s time to setup your own.
I always use rethinkdns and block bypassed dns, so i think now every dns is routed through rethinkdns and its impossible to cause a leak. Is that a myth as no dns app can provide that much privacy or security ?
I wouldn’t say it’s a myth or anything, but to say you’re 100% secure from leak? Probably don’t trust that feeling. Keep it at 99% secure with 1% suspicion.
How effective is an application firewall than a network level firewall like nextdns ?
Like most security software, it depends on how you use them. If you use firewalls effectively, even software based firewalls can work exceptionally well.
may i use a application firewall or network level firewall ?
You can do both. Software based requires you to setup something on each device you want to firewall. Network is a blanket and will affect all of your devices with only one setup. But either works just fine–just depends on how much effort you want to put into it, I guess.
When am using rethinkdns does it matter am using rethinkdns hosted on cludflare / fly.io or just using other dns services (like adguard, nextdns, mullvad, etc.) ? Then it will miss the entire point of using rethink ?
It really doesn’t matter. It tells you the difference between the CDNs right on the usage page.