Protecting Your Home Network
Protecting Your Home Network
Securing your home network doesn’t need to be complicated. One effective way to enhance security is by implementing a DNS (Domain Name System) filtering system. This not only guards against common threats but also reduces unwanted ads during your internet browsing. In this guide, we’ll delve into the significance of DNS, how it contributes to protection and network monitoring, and explore diverse options to fortify your home network and privacy. While we won’t provide step-by-step installation instructions in this article, we aim to inform you about some of the available choices to empower you in safeguarding your home network.
What is DNS?
DNS, or Domain Name System, acts as a translator for computers. It converts human-readable domain names (like Google.com) into IP addresses that computers comprehend. This translation is akin to providing the internet’s equivalent of a mailing address. DNS servers, which can be provided by your ISP or major players like Google, Cloudflare, or Quad9, handle this translation process.
How does DNS filtering protect me?
DNS filtering involves checking domain names against known blacklists. If a domain is found on one of these blacklists, the request is blocked—a process referred to as “sinkholing.” This provides protection against clicking on links leading to phishing websites in emails or mistyped domain names, while also blocking ads.
How can I protect my network and/or devices?
There are various methods to protect your devices and network. These include, but not limited to, locally hosted software, cloud based or browser based protection.
Dedicated locally hosted network device:
Examples: PiHole and AdGuard Home on a Raspberry Pi or other computer devices.
Pros: Offers high protection, automatic and invisible to devices. Logs queries for review via web interface. Can manually import lists based on need.
Cons: Requires initial manual setup and tuning. Some websites may detect and request to disable the ad blocker temporarily or permanently. Doesn’t protect outside your home network natively.
Cloud Based DNS Solutions:
Examples: Cloudflare, OpenDNS, AdGuard Home for Mobile.
Pros: Easy setup, automatic protection, can be configured for specific content filtering.
Cons: Limited control over blocked sites, reliance on the DNS provider’s lists.
Browser Based Protection:
Examples: AdGuard, AdBlocker, uBlock Origin.
Pros: Limited to the browser and devices it’s installed on. Easy setup.
Cons: Limited visibility into logs, potential conflicts with certain websites.
Router Based Protections:
Examples: Some routers like Netgear with parental controls.
Pros: Filters ads, malware, and adult content network-wide. Logs device activity.
Cons: Limited log retention, specific to the router.
What's next?
Choosing the right solution depends on your preferences and needs. For further discussion or assistance, feel free to contact Ryan at Dailey Computing via email at daileycomputing@gmail.com or call 203.693.1912. We are here to help protect your family or small business at an affordable rate.