The Domain Name System (DNS) is why browsing the internet is so quick and straightforward. Its job is to resolve domain names such as “nordvpn.com” into actual IP addresses. In other words, it translates the extended, complex numeric characters of web servers into human language and the other way around.
Working of DNS
Whenever you need to visit the website, you type into the browser. After that, the computer or smartphone transmits an inquiry to a DNS server: it communicates the server and requests for the unique IP address of the site. Only after the DNS server gives the IP address, the device can attach to the website you need.
DNS Leak
When you relate to a VPN, all your online traffic is expected to be routed over the VPN interface. That involves the DNS queries we discussed before. They should go through the encrypted tunnel continuous to the VPN provider’s DNS servers.
But that’s not constantly the case. A DNS leak is a safety defect that enables your queries to go to the default DNS servers linked to your internet service provider (ISP). That may happen if you:
- are operating Windows 8 or with the “Smart Multi-Homed Name Resolution” feature enabled
- have recently reset the system preferences
- have set up a VPN manually
- are performing a VPN service that doesn’t own its DNS servers nor provide adequate protection from leaks.
Effects of DNS Leak
If all of the online traffic leads out through the conventional, unencrypted route, third parties may hinder it. That includes the ISP or DNS provider, who would be competent in seeing the websites you hit, the services you manipulate, and likewise.
On top of that, you won’t even remember about it unless you get a specific DNS test for leaks. You could term it a VPN security test as a service won’t fully reroute all your transactions. As a result, it’s not as protected as it should be. That’s why it’s crucial to pick a VPN with DNS leak protection.
NordVPN checks DNS leaks.
When you attach to NordVPN, your device only utilizes DNS servers run by NordVPN. All your DNS inquiries drive over the encrypted tube and are fixed on the same VPN server you are attached to.
It means you never have to bother about your confidential data leaking and third parties spying on it.
Testing VPN for leaks
You can control for DNS leaks in just some simple steps:
Step 1: Maintain the DNS leak test website. It not only enables you to verify your VPN connection for leaks but also proffers advice on how to make any leaks you discover.
Step 2: For the VPN test, see if the exposed IP address and location equal your real ones. If so, either you’re not attached to a VPN, or your VPN service is not running.
Step 3: To verify your DNS status, choose Standard or Extended Test. If you are attached to a VPN server, and the VPN leak test operates DNS servers that don’t apply to your actual ISP, your traffic is guarded.
VPN Router
A VPN router works precisely like a standard VPN. Your transactions is redirected via a VPN’s servers, allowing you to browse online wholly undisturbed. All your venture will be shielded from anyone trying to watch on you, whether it’s petty criminals to data-hoarding companies.
The purpose you’d need a VPN on your router is to implement network-wide online safety. As the router has been configured to download VPN firmware, all joined devices will be conferred the advantages of VPN protection. That
includes devices that may typically not have the ability to utilize VPN software to its fullest, like many smart home devices.
Causes DNS VPN leakage
DNS leaks can occur for many purposes. Here are just a few:
- Your VPN is manually configured. If you’re manually configuring a VPN connection, the uncertainty of DNS leaks is higher and depends on your specific operating system configuration. Utilizing the apps will reduce many of those risks.
- An attacker controls your router, such as a malicious Wi-Fi operator at a coffee shop. An attacker may be able to track your device into sending DNS traffic outside of the VPN tunnel. The apps offer DNS leak protection, but other apps and manual configurations might be vulnerable.
- Manual DNS setup. You (or software on your device) specifically told the operating system not to use DNS servers operated. Power users might require a particular DNS service, but it’s probably undesired for most people for security reasons.
Getting to know VPN leakage
To ascertain if your VPN service is leaking any factual data, you require to conduct a test. You can proceed to the DNS and VPN leak test website and take a glance at your IP address. Is it your genuine one? Consequently, either you’re not attached to a VPN server, or your VPN is not running.
Working of DNS leak test
A DNS leak test works by sending several domain names for the VPN to determine. If the most trivial one of the servers in the events relates to your ISP, the VPN likely has a DNS leak.
Fixing a DNS leak
If you think NordVPN has leaks, contact their support team for a DNS leak fix. They will help you figure out how to stop DNS leaks and get you back to secure and private browsing in no time.