this post was submitted on 23 Apr 2025
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Privacy

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I'm often confused about whether to use apps like RethinkDNS, Invizible Pro, or AdGuard to manage DNS requests on my phone, or to simply rely on Private DNS.

Are there any privacy advantages or security concerns associated with using these apps? When I use an app, can all DNS queries be routed through my preferred DNS provider (which helps block tracking requests on a bloated phone)? Is Private DNS easier for the system to bypass?

I typically use RethinkDNS and block any bypassed DNS requests, so I believe that all my DNS traffic is routed through RethinkDNS, making it impossible for leaks to occur. Is this a misconception? Can any DNS app truly provide that level of privacy and security?

Additionally, how does an application firewall compare to a network-level firewall like NextDNS in terms of effectiveness?

Ultimately, should I opt for an application firewall or a network-level firewall?

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[–] Xanza@lemm.ee 3 points 1 day ago (2 children)

Is there any privacy advantage or security concern over them ?

This is more of a philosophical question than anything. If you trust that they're not using your data for anything nefarious, I really advocate for RethinkDNS. It's a really great service and truly fills a need between the clear-net and running your own DNS.

If you don't trust RethinkDNS, etc, etc, to not do anything nefarious, then it's time to setup your own.

I always use rethinkdns and block bypassed dns, so i think now every dns is routed through rethinkdns and its impossible to cause a leak. Is that a myth as no dns app can provide that much privacy or security ?

I wouldn't say it's a myth or anything, but to say you're 100% secure from leak? Probably don't trust that feeling. Keep it at 99% secure with 1% suspicion.

How effective is an application firewall than a network level firewall like nextdns ?

Like most security software, it depends on how you use them. If you use firewalls effectively, even software based firewalls can work exceptionally well.

may i use a application firewall or network level firewall ?

You can do both. Software based requires you to setup something on each device you want to firewall. Network is a blanket and will affect all of your devices with only one setup. But either works just fine--just depends on how much effort you want to put into it, I guess.

[–] figurine8051@lemmy.ca 1 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 hour ago) (1 children)

When I'm using RethinkDNS, does it matter if I'm using RethinkDNS hosted on Cloudflare or Fly.io, or should I consider other DNS services like AdGuard, NextDNS, or Mullvad? Would using RethinkDNS in this way defeat the purpose of its privacy features?

[–] Xanza@lemm.ee 2 points 11 hours ago

It really doesn't matter. It tells you the difference between the CDNs right on the usage page.