It's Time for NextDNS to Implement ODoH

Why It's Time for NextDNS to Implement ODoH

ODoH (Oblivious DNS over HTTPS) is an emerging technology that provides an additional layer of security and privacy for DNS (Domain Name System) queries. While DNS over HTTPS (DoH) has already been a significant step toward protecting user privacy by encrypting DNS queries, ODoH takes that protection even further. Here’s why it would be beneficial for NextDNS to adopt ODoH:

1. Enhanced Privacy

• Protection from ISPs: One of the key advantages of ODoH is that it hides not only the DNS queries from third parties (such as attackers intercepting traffic) but also the source of the DNS queries. In traditional DoH, the DNS resolver and transport server can both see who is making the request. ODoH separates these entities, so the server responding to the request (the DNS resolver) does not know which IP address is making the request. This protects users from their Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who might log and analyze their online activity.
• Prevention of Profiling: Due to the separation between the DNS server and the transport server, user profiling becomes much more difficult. If ODoH is implemented, an attacker cannot easily link DNS activity to a specific IP address, making it much harder to track individual behaviors.

2. Stronger Protection Against DNS Attacks

• Reducing Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks: ODoH adds an additional layer of protection against man-in-the-middle attacks because not only are DNS queries encrypted, but the separation between the DNS resolver and transport server makes it more difficult for attackers to intercept or manipulate DNS queries.
• Protection from DDoS Attacks: Implementing ODoH can reduce the exposure of DNS servers to DDoS attacks since the DNS server itself is no longer directly visible to anyone on the internet.

3. More Privacy for Users in Public Networks

• Security in Public Networks: When users connect to public Wi-Fi or insecure networks, their DNS queries can be compromised. ODoH protects users from potential attacks on these networks by providing an extra layer of security.
• Protecting Personal Data: Users accessing sensitive websites or making online transactions benefit from enhanced data protection because their DNS requests can no longer be easily monitored by DNS servers or ISPs.

4. Adopting a Global Standard for Privacy

• Compliance with Privacy Regulations: Implementing ODoH would help NextDNS align with global privacy and security standards, such as GDPR in the European Union or CCPA in California. The extra protection offered by ODoH would clearly signal NextDNS's commitment to user privacy.
• Responsibility to Users: In an era where online privacy is becoming increasingly important, NextDNS could show its dedication to protecting user data by adopting this protocol.

5. Growing Adoption and Support for ODoH

• Adoption by Other DNS Providers: Many major security platforms and DNS providers, such as Cloudflare and Google, have already started adopting ODoH. This means that there is already a growing shift toward this technology, and NextDNS, as a prominent player in the private DNS market, would benefit from faster integration into the global privacy and security ecosystem.
• Trends in Online Security: ODoH represents an important step in securing the internet and protecting users from various types of attackers and online surveillance. In a world where cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated, moving to ODoH would be a vital step in strengthening NextDNS’s security infrastructure.

In conclusion, implementing ODoH by NextDNS would address multiple privacy and security concerns, enhancing user protection and building greater trust in its services. In a digital world where cyberattacks and online surveillance are major concerns, transitioning to ODoH would provide stronger protection and demonstrate NextDNS's commitment to user privacy.