Custom DNS

IVPN apps are configured to automatically apply our internal zero-logging DNS IP address every time you connect to the VPN server to mitigate DNS leaks on your system.

We understand that in some cases, one can benefit more from using a custom DNS server. No matter the reason you need to use one, with IVPN apps, you can have it customized in just a few steps.

DNS requests made to public DNS servers will first pass through the VPN tunnel, so there is still a level of privacy and security in place when using a Custom DNS server.

Windows, macOS, and Linux

• GUI: Access the Settings area by tapping on the “gear” icon and navigate to the DNS tab. Check the Use Custom DNS box and enter the preferred IPv4 address or the DNS-over-HTTPS URI string plus that DoH provider’s corresponding IPv4 address.

• Command Line: Open a Terminal window and run, e.g.: ivpn dns 1.1.1.1 or ivpn dns -doh https://cloudflare-dns.com/dns-query 1.1.1.1. Type ivpn dns -off to revert back to using IVPN DNS.

iOS

Custom DNS in the IVPN app for iOS can be configured and used when the VPN is connected or disconnected.

• In the IVPN app, navigate to Settings and enter the preferred IPv4 or DoH/DoT address in the Custom DNS for VPN or/and Disconnected Custom DNS areas.

Android

• Access the Settings area by tapping on the “gear” icon and navigate to Custom DNS. Toggle the Use Custom DNS switch on and enter the preferred IPv4-based IP address.

• DNS-over-TLS can be set using the Android OS native Private DNS feature. On your device, navigate to Settings - More connections - Private DNS. Select Configure Private DNS and enter the preferred DoT address.

Current limitations

• Custom DNS works only with OpenVPN and WireGuard VPN protocols

• Custom DNS cannot be used together with AntiTracker as the latter will override the entries specified in the Custom DNS field

• IPv6-based IP addresses are not yet supported

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