How to Set Up FirewallDNS on Android
By [FILL IN], [FILL IN] · Last updated
Android 9 and later include Private DNS, which sends every lookup over DNS-over-TLS on Wi-Fi and mobile data. It is the simplest way to filter an Android phone or tablet everywhere.
Requirements
- A FirewallDNS account with your public IP address registered in the dashboard
- Your FirewallDNS addresses, shown under [VERIFY: dashboard menu name where these values are shown]
- Android 9 or later
- Your DoT hostname: [VERIFY: your personal DoT hostname from the dashboard]
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Step by step
1.Open Settings.
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 1 on Android [VERIFY] 2.Tap Network & internet (on Samsung: Connections > More connection settings).
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 2 on Android [VERIFY] 3.Tap Private DNS.
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 3 on Android [VERIFY] 4.Choose Private DNS provider hostname.
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 4 on Android [VERIFY] 5.Enter [VERIFY: your personal DoT hostname from the dashboard] exactly, without https:// or a trailing slash.
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 5 on Android [VERIFY] 6.Tap Save. Android checks the connection and shows an error if the hostname cannot be reached.
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 6 on Android [VERIFY] 7.Turn Wi-Fi off and on again to make sure the setting is applied.
Image placeholder: screenshot of step 7 on Android [VERIFY]
How to verify it works
- Open a browser and visit a few websites.
- Open the query log in your FirewallDNS dashboard and confirm that new lookups from your network appear within a few seconds.
- Switch to mobile data and repeat: lookups should continue to appear.
How to revert
- Settings > Network & internet > Private DNS.
- Choose Automatic or Off and tap Save.
Troubleshooting
- "Couldn't connect" after saving
- Check the hostname for typos. Some networks block port 853; try another network.
- Menu names differ
- Manufacturers rename menus. Use the search box in Settings and type "Private DNS".
- Chrome bypasses the setting
- Check Chrome secure DNS settings; see our Chrome guide.
FAQ
Does Private DNS work on mobile data?
Yes. It applies to Wi-Fi and mobile data.
Can I enter an IP address in Private DNS?
No. Private DNS requires a hostname.
What if my device runs Android 8 or older?
There is no Private DNS. Set DNS on your router instead, or use static IP settings per Wi-Fi network.
Can a child turn off Private DNS?
Yes unless restricted. Use Family Link or device management to lock settings.
Does a VPN override Private DNS?
Often yes. Many VPN apps use their own DNS while connected.