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VPN (Custom DNS) + NextDNS: This device is using NextDNS with no configuration.

Hi all,

I am very new to NextDNS so excuse me if this has been explained somewhere else.

I was able to sucesfully use NextDNS with Mullvad VPN on my iPhone and iPad. On my Mac, I was trying to use a similar setup and thought it should be even easier, as Mullvad VPN allows for custom DNS servers in the app.

My current setup is as follows:

  • Mullvad VPN set to use the two custom domains from my NextDNS Setup page.
  • Mullvad succesfully connects and I have an established internet connection
  • Checking on Browserleaks and DNS Leak Test, the NextDNS DNS is sucesfully recognized

But: Under NextDNS Setup I get the following error: "This device is using NextDNS with no configuration. Make sure to link your IP address in the Linked IP section below."

I can remove this error if I relink the current Mullvad VPN IP but I'd have to do it everytime I change the Mullvad server.

My question now is what impact does this error have on my setup?

Thanks for your help.

10 replies

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    • Chris.6
    • 3 yrs ago
    • Reported - view

    I think you would just be using the DNS servers of NextDNS, without any blocking/privacy/security features, unless you re-link it every time your IP changes.

      • Spring_Monarchy
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Chris Ah I see. That does make sense. Thank you.

      Unfortunatenly I cannot get the Wireguard app work with NextDNS. But I also assume I'd have to relink the IP everytime I change the server also.

      I think the only real workaround for now is to not change the Mullvad server so often and remember to relink in case I have to.

      • Chris.6
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Spring Monarchy Yeah, I've stopped using VPNs because of NextDNS. It's an unfortunate situation. The best option would be VPN apps supporting DOH, so we could just use our personal configuration links. 

      • Spring_Monarchy
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Chris Hm that is not really an option for me. I think I would continue with the VPN only in that scenario and deactivate NextDNS.

      • Chris.6
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Spring Monarchy Does the Mullvad client on Mac support IPv6 as custom DNS? Because in that case, your profile configuration would be linked. I'm currently testing the Viscosity VPN app as an alternative option and the IPv6 method works.

      • Chris.6
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Spring Monarchy After some more testing, I wrote up some options for Mac & iOS here.

      • Spring_Monarchy
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Chris thanks. I will have a look now.

    • Hey
    • 3 yrs ago
    • Reported - view

    You should be fine with using the Apple Configuration Profile, I can't say for certain since I don't use a Mac myself but you should try it. In theory it should work. 

      • Chris.6
      • 3 yrs ago
      • Reported - view

      Hey Neither app nor profile works with a VPN. By design, the VPN DNS has priority (on Mac and iOS) to prevent leaks. The only exception is when VPN apps have the ability to use system DNS. Then, it woud fall back to the active NextDNS app or profile. 

    • Chris.6
    • 3 yrs ago
    • Reported - view

    After some more testing, I wrote up some options for Mac & iOS here.

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