NextDNS
A privacy-focused DNS service with advanced filtering, analytics, and encrypted DNS resolution.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| privacy | 86 |
| security | 84 |
| usability | 88 |
| features | 90 |
| value | 88 |
Pros
- Network-wide ad and tracker blocking at DNS level
- Encrypted DNS prevents ISP snooping on domain lookups
- Highly customisable blocklists and allowlists
- Detailed analytics with full logging controls
- Easy setup on routers for whole-network protection
Cons
- Free tier limited to 300,000 queries per month
- Requires trust in NextDNS as your DNS resolver
- US incorporation, though data processing can be EU-only
Platforms
Overview
NextDNS is a modern DNS resolver that encrypts your DNS queries and provides powerful filtering capabilities. By changing your device's or router's DNS settings to NextDNS, you can block advertisements, trackers, and malicious domains across your entire network without installing software on each device. It supports DNS-over-HTTPS and DNS-over-TLS to prevent your ISP from monitoring which domains you visit.
The service offers granular control through a web dashboard where you can manage blocklists, view analytics, and configure per-device settings.
Privacy Controls
NextDNS gives you full control over logging. You can choose to log everything for analytics, log anonymised data, or disable logging entirely. Logs can be stored in specific regions to comply with data residency requirements. The free tier is generous enough for individual use, and the unlimited plan at under two pounds per month is excellent value for households.
Who Should Use It
NextDNS is ideal for anyone wanting to block ads and trackers at the network level without running complex software like Pi-hole. Setting it up on your router protects every device on your network, including smart TVs and IoT devices that cannot run traditional ad blockers. The parental control features make it particularly useful for families.
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