OpenDNS

OpenDNS Review

OpenDNS is a widely recognized and respected provider of DNS-based security and content filtering services. At its core, the service operates by providing an alternative set of DNS servers that users can configure on their routers or individual devices. When a user attempts to access a website, the request is sent to OpenDNS's servers for resolution. This is where OpenDNS implements its intelligence and security checks.

The primary strength of OpenDNS lies in its ability to block access to malicious and unwanted websites at the DNS level. This means that your browser or application never even attempts to connect to a harmful site if OpenDNS identifies it as such. This proactive approach is a significant advantage over traditional security software that might only detect threats after the connection has been established or a file has been downloaded. OpenDNS maintains extensive databases of known phishing sites, malware distribution domains, and other potentially dangerous online locations. By leveraging this real-time threat intelligence, it provides a robust first line of defense against a wide range of online threats.

Beyond core security, OpenDNS offers powerful content filtering capabilities. This feature allows users to categorize websites and create policies that block access to specific categories, such as adult content, illegal activities, social networking, or even streaming media. This is particularly useful for businesses looking to improve employee productivity by restricting access to non-work-related sites or for parents who want to ensure a safe online environment for their children. The level of granularity in filtering is commendable, allowing for fine-tuning of policies based on specific needs. Users can also block or allow individual domains, overriding category-based settings for specific exceptions.

Reporting is another strong area for OpenDNS. For users who configure their network to use OpenDNS (especially with a registered account), detailed reports on internet activity, blocked requests, and security events are available. These reports provide valuable insights into network usage patterns, the types of threats being blocked, and policy compliance. This data can be crucial for administrators to understand online behavior and identify potential security risks within their network.

The deployment of OpenDNS is relatively straightforward. For home users, it often involves changing the DNS settings on their router. For businesses, the process might involve configuring DNS settings on servers or deploying a small agent for more granular control and reporting. The network-level nature of the protection means that once configured, all devices connected to that network benefit from the OpenDNS service without requiring individual software installations.

OpenDNS operates with a focus on privacy, particularly with its public DNS resolvers which generally adhere to a no-logs policy for personally identifiable information. While there are paid tiers that offer more advanced features and reporting, which may involve some level of data collection for analysis, the company generally maintains a strong stance on user privacy compared to some other online services.

In summary, OpenDNS provides a highly effective and easy-to-implement solution for enhancing online security and controlling internet access. Its proactive threat blocking at the DNS level, coupled with robust and customizable content filtering and valuable reporting, makes it a compelling choice for both individuals and organizations seeking a safer and more managed internet experience. While it may not be a complete replacement for traditional antivirus and firewall solutions, it serves as a powerful foundational layer of defense against a significant portion of online threats.