Cloudflare offers secure DNS options that add layers of protection on top of their already fast and reliable service. Whether you're looking to block malware or create a family-safe environment by filtering inappropriate content, Cloudflare has options that fit these needs while keeping your browsing speed fast. This guide will explain how these options work, how to set them up on different devices, and why they are beneficial.

1. Understanding DNS and Cloudflare’s Secure Options

What is DNS? DNS (Domain Name System) is like the phonebook of the internet. When you type in a web address (e.g., google.com), DNS translates that address into an IP address so your device can find and connect to the right server. While your ISP typically assigns your DNS by default, you can change it to enhance performance, security, or privacy.

Why Use Cloudflare’s Secure DNS Options? Cloudflare offers specialized DNS settings that add security measures beyond what traditional DNS services provide:

  • Malware Blocking: Prevents access to dangerous sites known for malware or phishing.
  • Content Filtering: Blocks inappropriate sites, making the internet safer for families.

2. Cloudflare’s Secure DNS Options

Cloudflare Malware Protection (1.1.1.2)

This option focuses on blocking access to websites known for hosting malware or phishing attacks, keeping your devices safe from harmful content.

Benefits:

  • Malware Blocking: Keeps your network secure by blocking access to dangerous sites.
  • Speed: Maintains the same high speed as Cloudflare’s standard DNS, ensuring no slowdown.
  • Encryption: Supports DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT), ensuring your DNS requests are secure and private.

Configuration Details:

  • Primary DNS: 1.1.1.2
  • Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.2

Cloudflare Family Protection (1.1.1.3)

This option not only blocks malware but also filters out adult content and other inappropriate sites, making it perfect for families.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive Filtering: Filters both malicious and adult content, ensuring a safe browsing environment.
  • Automatic Updates: Cloudflare constantly updates its blocklists with the latest threats and inappropriate content, so you’re always protected.
  • Privacy: Like the other Cloudflare options, 1.1.1.3 supports DoH and DoT for secure and private DNS requests.

Configuration Details:

  • Primary DNS: 1.1.1.3
  • Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.3

3. How to Set Up Cloudflare Secure DNS on Your Router

To use Cloudflare’s secure DNS options, you’ll need to access your router settings:

  1. Access Your Router Settings:
    • Open your web browser and type your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
    • Log in using your credentials (default is often admin for both username and password).
  2. Enter the DNS Addresses:
    • Navigate to the DNS settings section.
    • For Malware Protection:
      • Primary DNS: 1.1.1.2
      • Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.2
    • For Family Protection:
      • Primary DNS: 1.1.1.3
      • Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.3

If you have a Capti-supplied router and want to change your DNS settings, please email our support team. We’ll help you make the necessary changes securely.

4. Setting Up Cloudflare Secure DNS Directly on Devices (Windows/Mac)

If you prefer to set DNS on individual devices (especially for BYO setups), follow these instructions:

For Windows:

  1. Open Network and Internet Settings.
  2. Go to Status > Change adapter options.
  3. Right-click your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  4. Click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then click Properties.
  5. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
    • Preferred DNS: 1.1.1.2 (for malware) or 1.1.1.3 (for family protection)
    • Alternate DNS: 1.0.0.2 or 1.0.0.3
  6. Click OK to save changes.

For macOS:

  1. Open System Preferences and go to Network.
  2. Select your active network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and click Advanced.
  3. Go to the DNS tab and click the + button.
  4. Enter the DNS addresses:
    • 1.1.1.2 (for malware) or 1.1.1.3 (for family protection).
    • Add a secondary address: 1.0.0.2 or 1.0.0.3.
  5. Click OK and then Apply.

5. How Cloudflare’s Secure DNS Works

Cloudflare’s secure DNS options use advanced filtering and encryption technology to protect your browsing experience:

  • Filtering: Cloudflare constantly updates a database of harmful sites (e.g., phishing sites, malware hosts, and adult content) and blocks access to these domains when you attempt to visit them.
  • Encryption (DoH and DoT): Traditional DNS queries are sent in plain text, making them vulnerable to interception. Cloudflare’s DNS options support DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT), encrypting your DNS queries so they remain private and secure from third parties.

6. Why Choose Cloudflare’s Secure DNS Options?

Cloudflare’s secure DNS settings provide an easy way to enhance your browsing safety:

  • Malware Protection (1.1.1.2) is an effective, simple solution for blocking harmful sites.
  • Family Protection (1.1.1.3) goes further by filtering adult content, creating a safe environment for families and young users.

By choosing these options, you can enjoy a safer internet experience while still taking advantage of Capti’s high-speed infrastructure.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact Capti’s support team. We’re here to help you make the most of your internet service!