Prevent VPN DNS Leaks on Windows 11 with Custom DNS Settings

Even with a VPN, your online privacy can be compromised by DNS leaks. A DNS leak occurs when your device bypasses your VPN's encrypted tunnel to send DNS requests directly to your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This reveals your real IP address and browsing activity, defeating the purpose of using a VPN.

Windows 11 users need to be particularly vigilant. While VPNs are designed to route all traffic, including DNS, through their secure servers, misconfigurations or system quirks can sometimes lead to these leaks. Protecting yourself means taking proactive steps to manage your DNS settings.

Why DNS Leaks Are a Problem

Your DNS requests act like a phonebook for the internet, translating website names (like google.com) into IP addresses. If these requests leak, your ISP or other entities can see every site you visit, regardless of your VPN connection. This exposure undermines your privacy and could lead to targeted ads, data collection, or even censorship.

How to Prevent DNS Leaks on Windows 11

The most effective way to prevent DNS leaks on Windows 11 is to manually configure your network adapter to use custom, privacy-focused DNS servers. This ensures that even if your VPN temporarily drops or has a bug, your DNS requests won't default back to your ISP.

Steps to Configure Custom DNS on Windows 11:

1. Open Network Settings: Right-click the Start button, then click "Settings." Navigate to "Network & internet."
2. Select Your Adapter: Click on the network adapter you are currently using (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
3. Edit DNS Settings: Scroll down to "DNS server assignment" and click "Edit."
4. Change to Manual: Switch the dropdown from "Automatic (DHCP)" to "Manual."
5. Enter Preferred DNS: Toggle on "IPv4" and enter your preferred DNS server addresses (e.g., Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1, or Google's 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
6. Save Changes: Click "Save."

Always test your VPN connection after making these changes using a reliable DNS leak test tool to confirm that your DNS is no longer leaking.

Taking control of your DNS settings is a crucial step in fortifying your online privacy. Don't let a simple leak compromise your entire VPN protection.

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