Configure DNS filtering with DNSWarden, a resolver that supports allow and block lists and encrypted DNS protocols.
NextDNS
Block threats, ads, and trackers across devices and networks with NextDNS, a configurable DNS service.
About NextDNS
NextDNS is a configurable DNS service that filters domain lookups to block security threats, advertising, and trackers on websites and in apps. The homepage says it works on all devices and networks and includes parental controls for children's access to websites, apps, and games. Setup is described as taking a few seconds on major platforms, and the homepage states that no signup is required to try it, with signup needed to save settings.
The service offers threat-intelligence feeds that cover categories such as phishing, malware, cryptojacking, and newly registered domains. It also provides analytics and real-time logs, with configurable log retention or the option to disable logging. Native Tracking Protection is described as operating at the operating system level on supported devices. Because blocking happens through DNS, the service depends on routing DNS queries through NextDNS, and logs are stored on NextDNS servers in the region the user selects. The homepage does not state pricing, and the Handshake feature is described as experimental.
Key features
- Blocks malware, phishing, cryptojacking and other threats using threat-intelligence feeds
- Blocks ads and trackers in websites and apps through DNS filtering
- Parental controls, including SafeSearch and YouTube Restricted Mode enforcement
- Recreation Time limits access to selected websites, apps or games during set times
- Log retention from one hour to two years, or logging disabled, with region selection
- DNS-over-HTTPS and DNS-over-TLS support across home, cellular, work and public Wi-Fi networks
Best for: Households with children, and individuals who want DNS-level blocking of threats, ads and trackers across several devices and networks.
Good for
- Filtering is done at the DNS level, so the homepage states it does not run on the device itself.
- Parental controls include schedules, search filtering and blocking of specific apps and games.
- Users can choose how long logs are kept, or turn logging off.
Watch out for
- Logs are stored on NextDNS servers in the United States, European Union, United Kingdom or Switzerland, depending on the user's choice, unless logging is disabled.
- The Handshake peer-to-peer root naming feature is described on the homepage as experimental.
NextDNS at a glance
- Website
- nextdns.io
- Category
- Privacy & Security › Ad & Tracker Blockers
- Type
- Website
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Web
- Open source
- Not stated
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
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NextDNS FAQ
Do I need to sign up before trying NextDNS?
The homepage says no signup is required to try it. Signing up later saves your settings.
Where can my NextDNS logs be stored?
Users can choose to store logs in the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom or Switzerland. Logging can also be disabled completely.
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