Unveiling the Security Risks of Standard DNS and the Solution with DNS over HTTPS in the Opera Browser
Many users are unaware that their default web browser lacks the privacy and security features they desire. Typically, browsers utilize standard DNS, which translates domain names to IP addresses for browsing convenience. However, this exposes search queries and website visits in plain text, leaving them vulnerable to interception.
Enter DNS over HTTPS (DoH), a protocol that encrypts DNS requests and responses, safeguarding user data from prying eyes and potential attacks like “man-in-the-middle” exploits. Yet, despite its benefits, DoH remains disabled by default in most browsers, including Opera.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to easily activate DoH in the Opera browser, ensuring enhanced security and privacy for your online activities.
How to enable DNS over HTTPS
Before getting started, ensure that you have Opera installed on your computer or laptop. This tutorial will also cover enabling DNS over HTTPS in the mobile version of Opera. The demonstration is based on version 101.0.4843.33 of Opera.
1. Access Opera Settings:
To access the Settings window in Opera, simply open the browser and type “about:settings” in the address bar. Press Enter, and the Settings page will appear.
2. Navigate to Advanced Privacy & Security:
In the left sidebar, click on “Privacy & Security,” then scroll down to the bottom of the page and click “Advanced.” Alternatively, you can use the Settings search tool and search for “DNS.”
3. Enable DNS over HTTPS:
Scroll down to the System section, and locate the “Use DNS over HTTPS” option. Toggle the On/Off slider to the On position. Once enabled, you can choose your preferred DNS provider. By default, Cloudflare is selected, but you can opt for another provider if you prefer. After making your selection, close the Settings window.
Enabling DNS over HTTPS on Opera Mobile
Enabling DNS over HTTPS in the mobile version of Opera is straightforward. Simply navigate to Settings, then Privacy & security, and select DNS provider. Toggle the Use Secure DNS option to the On position, choose your preferred provider (such as Cloudflare), and exit the settings. Keep in mind that if you’re using the VPN feature in Opera, the secure DNS feature won’t be utilized as the VPN already encrypts all your browsing data.