Third-party DNS service

NextDNS is a free DNS firewall platform that safeguards personal data against all sorts of data breaches. This cloud-based app allows you to filter, monitor, and track activity through your system and smartphone. The service offers greater power over DNS settings despite having a local DNS system. You can configure and handle it easily through the app and it allows you to use its services free of charge—but with restrictions. You need to pay for your membership for its premium services. 

What is NextDNS?

A Domain Name System or DNS redirects you safely if you establish a connection and try to visit a site. Your internet service also acts as your DNS provider by default; however, you should turn to an option that provides better performance. Both Cloudflare and Google are established affordable DNS service providers that score higher than ISP-provided DNS services. If you need a program that is easy to use, though, then NextDNS is worth trying.

The main draw of this app is its comprehensive range of predetermined content-filtering lists and blocklists. You will be shielded from malicious websites while enjoying smoother surfing. The app allows numerous security lists against common risks, such as ransomware, phishing, and typosquatting domains. In addition to your protection, there is also a parental control option that allows you to block individual websites and online apps, as well as content categories.

This app has an intuitively easy design and incredibly simple instructions for any user. You can customize its settings from your browser and you wouldn’t even have to open a new account. You can view your dashboard and build as many customizable setups as you want. It stores your settings for a week, allowing you to update your settings for a while—however, it is advised that you get an account to use the app in the long run.

Final decision

All in all, NextDNS is a perfect option if you’re looking for a third-party provider to handle your DNS. The app has all the functionality that you want from a DNS service, bundled in a simple implementation. It has a lot of protection, anonymity, and sorting features that you can easily customize. Its free edition comes with restrictions but is appropriate for personal use.