How to turn on Private DNS mode on your iPhone - and why you should do it ASAP

Source: ZDNet

How to install a configuration profile on iPhone

If you’d like to expand your privacy system‑wide, you can install configuration profiles on your iPhone to control DNS, VPN, Wi‑Fi, and more. These can be removed at any time, and you should only install profiles from trusted sources. Here’s how to install a configuration profile on an iPhone:

1. Open Safari and download a profile (a .mobileconfig file).
2. Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management.
3. Tap the profile name and install it; you’ll be prompted to enter your iPhone passcode.

Also: 7 ways to lock down your phone’s security – before it’s too late

To verify the profile was installed correctly, return to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management and look for the profile under Configuration Profiles.

Why should I install a private DNS on iPhone?

Most users add a private DNS service on their iPhones to increase protection against tracking. While some services can log and monetize your browsing, most popular private DNS providers do not. Your ISP’s DNS leaves you exposed on public Wi‑Fi networks (hotels, short‑term rentals, airports, etc.).

Also: Why you should power off your phone at least once a week – according to the NSA

Beyond privacy, a private DNS can:

• Block dangerous domains and ads.
• Be faster than your ISP’s DNS, leading to quicker page loads.

What are some private DNS options for iPhone?

Ensuring you have a trustworthy DNS service is vital. Popular private DNS options for iPhone include:

• Cloudflare
• NextDNS
• Quad9
• AdGuard DNS
• CleanBrowsing
• Google Cloud DNS

What’s the difference between DNS and VPN?

Both DNS and VPN services enhance privacy, but they address different concerns:

• DNS hides your browsing queries, blocks unsafe sites before they load, and can be faster than your ISP’s default DNS.
• VPN encrypts all internet traffic, masks your real IP address, lets you appear to browse from another location, and protects your data from the Wi‑Fi owner.

Also: The best mobile VPNs of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Example: On a public hotel Wi‑Fi, a DNS server hides your browsing info from your ISP but doesn’t conceal your IP address or location. A VPN encrypts all traffic and masks your location but doesn’t automatically block ads or guarantee speed improvements.

Does iCloud Private Relay feature DNS?

iCloud Private Relay, part of iCloud+, adds extra protection for your iPhone. While it isn’t a DNS service per se, it includes DNS encryption and additional privacy for connections made in Safari.

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Key points:

• Provides DNS encryption and hides your IP address.
• Works only within Safari, not across all apps like a system‑wide DNS service.
• Does not change your apparent location, unlike a VPN.

Is DNS different on iPhone and Android?

Yes, though the core function is the same. iPhones support both DoH (DNS‑over‑HTTPS) and DoT (DNS‑over‑TLS) for encrypted DNS. Android typically uses DoT and offers a built‑in Private DNS toggle for system‑level DoT configuration.

• iOS: Enables encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT) at the system level.
• Android: Provides a system‑level DoT toggle via Settings → Network & Internet → Private DNS.

Also: How to turn on Private DNS mode on Android