How to Use OpenDNS for Safe and Reliable Web Surfing

Web addresses are stored in the Domain Name System (DNS). Most people use the DNS servers that they are told to use by their Internet Service Provider (ISP). However, anyone can use OpenDNS instead, for free. Here is how.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• The OpenDNS numbers

1. One of the advantages of using OpenDNS is that it includes anti-phishing. Phishing is where someone sets up a fake website and lures you there with a phony link, then tries to get information like account numbers, passwords and social security numbers from you.

2. OpenDNS also provides filtering categories for parental controls.

3. You can replace the DNS numbers your ISP provided, either in your computer settings or the settings on your wireless router or airport. If you aren't sure about how to do this, go to the OpenDNS site, which has complete instructions for every possible setup (see link in Resources below).

4. The OpenDNS server addresses are: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. You can use these numbers without setting up an account at OpenDNS.com, but if you create a free account there, you have access to instructions, a knowledge base and support help.

Tips & Warnings

• OpenDNS may be more reliable than the access provided by your ISP's DNS.

Resources

• OpenDNS