List of the Top 16 Free DNS Security Software in 2025

Control D is a versatile DNS filtering and traffic redirection service that utilizes advanced Secure DNS protocols such as DNS-over-HTTPS, DNS-over-TLS, and DNS-over-QUIC, while also accommodating traditional DNS. With Control D, users can effectively eliminate harmful threats, restrict various types of undesirable content across the network—including advertisements, trackers, IoT data, adult material, social media, and more—while also redirecting traffic through transparent proxies and monitoring network activities and usage patterns at a client-specific level. Consider it your own personalized Authoritative DNS resolver for the entire Internet, providing you with detailed control over which domains are allowed to be resolved, redirected, or blocked. This capability not only enhances security but also empowers users to tailor their online experience according to their preferences.

SafeDNS is dedicated to fostering a more secure and protected internet space for small to medium-sized businesses, large corporations, internet service providers, managed service providers, original equipment manufacturers, and educational institutions. Our reach spans across the globe, enhancing online safety for millions of individuals across more than 60 nations. With extensive expertise in cybersecurity and DNS filtering, we provide state-of-the-art solutions that ensure your online safety. Our advanced technologies are designed to shield you from threats such as malware, phishing scams, and unsuitable content, among other risks. Currently, SafeDNS supports over 4,000 organizations and individual users worldwide, demonstrating our commitment to a safer digital landscape for all. As we continue to innovate, our goal is to expand our services and enhance protection for even more users in the future.

Cloudflare serves as the backbone of your infrastructure, applications, teams, and software ecosystem. It offers protection and guarantees the security and reliability of your external-facing assets, including websites, APIs, applications, and various web services. Additionally, Cloudflare secures your internal resources, encompassing applications within firewalls, teams, and devices, thereby ensuring comprehensive protection. This platform also facilitates the development of applications that can scale globally. The reliability, security, and performance of your websites, APIs, and other channels are crucial for engaging effectively with customers and suppliers in an increasingly digital world. As such, Cloudflare for Infrastructure presents an all-encompassing solution for anything connected to the Internet. Your internal teams can confidently depend on applications and devices behind the firewall to enhance their workflows. As remote work continues to surge, the pressure on many organizations' VPNs and hardware solutions is becoming more pronounced, necessitating robust and reliable solutions to manage these demands.

Finding data to illustrate the indifference some have towards malware can be quite challenging. While individuals might not know the specifics, there is a general consensus on the significant danger it poses. FlashStart effectively mitigates risks from botnets, ransomware, malware, and various other threats through premium, global protection channels. Users can also implement content filtering to restrict access to any web material deemed inappropriate. Such sites can pose risks that are either dangerous, distracting, or unwholesome. The Pro+ version comes with a secure app that can be downloaded easily. Centralized FlashStart protection safeguards all devices whether at home, in a cafe, or elsewhere, without requiring a router. The system is designed to tailor the filter to suit personal preferences. Rather than being a bulky appliance, it operates as a lightweight application compatible with existing end-user IT systems. This setup ensures a swift performance with latency under 5ms, enhancing user experience. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a seamless and secure browsing experience for everyone.

NextDNS provides extensive protection against a variety of security threats by efficiently blocking ads and trackers on websites and apps, all while ensuring a safe and monitored internet experience for children across all devices and networks. You have the ability to evaluate your security requirements and personalize your protection by enabling more than ten distinct safety features. By integrating trustworthy threat intelligence feeds that encompass millions of malicious domains and are continually updated, you can significantly fortify your defense strategies. Our system surpasses conventional tracking methods by analyzing DNS queries and responses in real time, which facilitates the rapid detection and prevention of harmful activities. Since there is often a narrow timeframe of just hours between the registration of a domain and its potential use in an attack, our sophisticated threat intelligence framework is specifically designed to identify harmful domains more effectively than conventional security measures. Furthermore, by utilizing the most popular ad and tracker blocklists that feature millions of constantly updated domains, you can successfully eliminate ads and trackers from both websites and applications, including the most advanced ones. In summary, NextDNS equips users with the necessary tools to create a customized and safer browsing environment that meets their individual security needs, thereby enhancing overall online experience.

Cisco Umbrella provides strong protection against a variety of online dangers such as malware, phishing attacks, and ransomware. OpenDNS is a suite of consumer-focused tools designed to improve your internet experience by making it faster, safer, and more reliable. By leveraging an extensive network of global data centers and strategic peering relationships, we enhance internet routing, leading to significantly quicker access times. Families can utilize filtering options and preset protections to guard against inappropriate content and other hazards. This service simplifies the process of implementing parental controls and content filtering across every device in the home. Setting up OpenDNS is both quick and straightforward, requiring no advanced technical skills. Our easy-to-follow guides and thorough knowledge base make the installation process efficient and user-friendly. The system is adept at blocking over 7 million harmful domains and IP addresses while maintaining high performance standards. Moreover, it detects more than 60,000 new malicious destinations such as domains, IPs, and URLs on a daily basis. With the capability to process over 620 billion DNS queries each day, our global network serves as a trusted defender against online threats. This robust level of security not only enhances online safety but also instills peace of mind for users navigating the digital landscape. Ultimately, OpenDNS stands out as an indispensable tool for anyone committed to improving their internet security.

Quad9 provides a free service that replaces the typical DNS settings offered by your Internet Service Provider or corporate network. Each time your device performs an online action that involves DNS—something that happens frequently—Quad9 successfully prevents access to dangerous domain names by leveraging a regularly updated threat database. This proactive approach safeguards your computers, smartphones, and IoT devices from various threats, including malware, phishing schemes, spyware, and botnets, while also boosting system performance and protecting your privacy. The Quad9 DNS service is overseen by the Quad9 Foundation, headquartered in Switzerland, which is committed to promoting a safer and more resilient Internet for all users. Additionally, when you use Quad9, your IP address remains unrecorded in their systems, providing an extra layer of privacy. This dedication to user security and anonymity not only makes Quad9 a strong option for individuals but also for organizations seeking enhanced online protection. Ultimately, Quad9 stands out as a reliable choice for those who prioritize both safety and privacy in their internet experience.

Picture a scenario where your SPF record refreshes itself without any input from you. Even more impressively, think of a service that seamlessly handles these updates for you, relieving you of all worries associated with SPF records. With AutoSPF, you only need to add a single include directive to your SPF record that points to our server, and we take care of everything else. AutoSPF reliably generates a flattened SPF record for public DNS queries, utilizing real-time information from the include directive. It carries out all the functions you would anticipate from an SPF flattening solution, such as automatically flattening every domain specified in the include. By opting for AutoSPF, you eliminate the hassle of constantly modifying your DNS records to keep your SPF up to date. You can easily add new networks or verify additional senders with just a simple click. In contrast to other services that combine SPF flattening with a host of expensive features you may not need, AutoSPF is purposefully crafted to solve this specific issue. This targeted approach enables you to steer clear of unnecessary costs, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars each month while enjoying a more efficient experience. With AutoSPF, managing your SPF records transforms into a process that is both streamlined and cost-efficient, allowing you to focus on other important tasks. Ultimately, this solution not only enhances convenience but also contributes to your overall operational effectiveness.

UltraDNS is a powerful, cloud-driven authoritative DNS service tailored for enterprises, offering dependable and rapid query responses for websites and vital online assets. This fully managed DNS solution ensures total website availability while integrating cutting-edge security measures for heightened protection against online threats. As global users increasingly seek seamless and secure digital experiences, the intricacies of DNS management have surged dramatically. The growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the proliferation of various cyber threats have posed significant challenges for organizations aiming to create a robust DNS strategy that meets their IT needs. It has become progressively more challenging to sustain a skilled in-house team dedicated to DNS management, and acquiring the necessary resources to develop a cohesive strategy that addresses today's Internet challenges can often be impractical. With UltraDNS, you can guarantee that your website and digital assets are consistently accessible, as the service is backed by a promise of 100% uptime and exceptional service-level agreements across a global platform. This unwavering commitment allows businesses to concentrate on their core activities, all while relying on the expertise of professionals who expertly manage their online presence. By leveraging UltraDNS, organizations can navigate the complexities of DNS while ensuring their digital infrastructure remains resilient and responsive to evolving demands.

IBM NS1 Connect delivers exceptional, authoritative DNS and cutting-edge traffic management to provide the high-performance, dependable, and secure network connectivity that modern businesses require to satisfy the evolving demands of their customers through our solutions. Our global anycast network ensures extensive capacity and scale to keep users consistently connected worldwide. With an API-first architecture, integration and automation of all NS1 Connect functionalities become a straightforward task. The platform also allows users to manage all aspects of HTTPS redirects seamlessly from one centralized interface. Utilizing GSLB and RUM-based traffic steering, businesses can achieve global load balancing and minimize latency by leveraging near-real-time device performance insights. Additionally, our robust DDoS attack protection guarantees adequate capacity to handle traffic surges while implementing measures to prevent automated "junk" queries from affecting performance. NS1 Connect also provides customizable add-on options tailored to meet specific business requirements, including DNS Insights, which equips users with the necessary data to swiftly identify and address misconfigurations that could hinder application performance. Furthermore, the dedicated DNS feature ensures continuity of operations by maintaining a native secondary DNS resolution infrastructure, thus keeping your services operational. Lastly, DNS traffic steering enhances connection optimization to applications, services, and content based on various factors such as geography, real-user monitoring data, and overall load, ensuring an efficient and responsive user experience.

Implementing preventive strategies is significantly more advantageous than addressing problems after they surface, especially in the field of cybersecurity. One would agree that recognizing and removing malware domains before they have the chance to affect your device is a smart approach. The DNS Firewall emerges as an excellent solution for this predicament! It efficiently hinders malware by blocking access to known malicious websites, thereby protecting your system from potential infiltration. KeepSolid DNS Firewall enhances your online security by actively preventing access to harmful domains in real-time while you browse the internet. Users have the flexibility to tailor the restrictions on certain types of websites or content, which can include categories such as gambling, games, deceptive news, and adult material, or they can even compile a custom block list. Moreover, KeepSolid DNS Firewall is proficient in detecting and blocking phishing websites that attempt to steal personal information, which are often used in email scams, thus offering you greater online safety. Featuring a user-friendly and intuitive interface, the application does not require any technical skills to use. The setup process is incredibly simple, allowing users to get started in just a few easy steps, making it an ideal choice for anyone eager to enhance their cybersecurity practices. This ensures that all users, regardless of their tech-savviness, can effectively protect themselves online.

Protect your online information, privacy, and daily activities with just one click. MonoDefense provides a comprehensive suite of security applications tailored to safeguard every element of your digital life. Featuring four crucial tools, you can securely manage your login credentials, protect your online browsing, defend against suspicious DNS-related threats, and easily access your preferred content. This all-inclusive package ensures that your online activities remain private and untraceable. Experience safe internet browsing, anonymous data exchanges, and secure communications across social networks and digital forums. Avoid the dangers of online harassment, targeted bullying, or persecution for your beliefs. Feel free to engage in digital discussions and express your views without fear or hesitation. Our promise is to protect your data, personal information, and devices from various cyber threats. By employing AES-256 encryption, we ensure that your internet traffic, passwords, and sensitive details are hidden from unwanted scrutiny. Furthermore, our advanced firewall capabilities will keep you away from malicious websites while boosting your overall online security. With MonoDefense, you can surf the web with assurance and tranquility, knowing that your digital life is well-protected. Embrace the freedom of the internet while knowing that we are here to defend you against potential risks.

Intra provides a means to circumvent websites and applications that have been restricted through Domain Name System (DNS) manipulation, a common approach to online censorship. Beyond this, it also defends against phishing schemes and malware attacks, which aim to steal sensitive data like usernames and passwords or to infect your devices by sending you to fake websites. Activating Intra is remarkably simple — just switch it on and you can forget about it entirely. Plus, it doesn’t slow down your internet speed, and there are no limits on your data usage. Your privacy remains a priority with Intra, as it refrains from tracking the applications you use or the sites you visit. Additionally, you have the flexibility to select your own DNS server provider, giving you greater control over your online experience. Intra encrypts your connection to public DNS servers, enhancing your security further. Essentially, DNS servers act like a directory for the internet, providing the correct addresses that allow you to access websites or run applications. With Intra, you can navigate the digital landscape with assurance and peace of mind, knowing that your online activities are protected. This comprehensive approach not only guards your data but also enhances your overall internet experience, making Intra a valuable tool for users seeking both freedom and security online.

GSLB.me presents a reliable cloud-based DNS and Global Server Load Balancing solution that features extensive authoritative DNS functionalities, geographic traffic management through DNS, robust failover systems, improved availability, geographic routing, dynamic DNS, DNSSEC, and recursive DNS capabilities. Installation is unnecessary; all you need to do is set up your DNS services, and you’re ready to start. This solution offers a seamless and powerful experience, consolidating all essential tools into a single platform. With easy access to programmability and orchestration, GSLB.me can serve as either an interactive utility or a fully integrated component within your application or network framework. Simplifying Global Server Load Balancing, it employs six distinct balancing algorithms that ensure complete oversight of service delivery. Built on a fast, reliable, and globally distributed infrastructure, GSLB.me greatly enhances DNS resolution speeds, guaranteeing optimal performance for users around the globe. Additionally, the intuitive interface caters to both newcomers and experienced users, making it an ideal choice for a wide audience. As a result, GSLB.me not only meets the demands of modern networking but also empowers users to manage their DNS services with unprecedented ease.

A modern approach to DNS-based content control and security enables individuals to effectively oversee what is accessible on the internet. This innovative solution proves especially advantageous for households and functions as a powerful asset for organizations as well. CleanBrowsing offers a DNS filtering system that is crafted to create a secure browsing environment by blocking unexpected content. It achieves this by intercepting domain requests and restricting access to sites based on your chosen filtering settings. For example, the free family filter successfully blocks pornographic, inappropriate, and adult content while still allowing safe access to widely used platforms such as Google, YouTube, Bing, and DuckDuckGo. The service provides three distinct filtering options aimed at a diverse global audience—these include the Security, Adult, and Family filters. The Family filter not only restricts adult and inappropriate material but also enforces Safe Search protocols on search engines like Google, Bing, and Yandex. Conversely, the Security filter is specifically designed to minimize the risk of encountering harmful websites, contributing to a more secure online experience overall. By employing these various tools, users can cultivate a personalized internet space that reflects their unique preferences and values, ultimately enhancing their online safety and satisfaction.

F5 Distributed Cloud DNS ensures high performance and dependable service for your applications by optimizing DNS services across diverse cloud environments and modern software. This advanced solution provides a primary DNS that is globally distributed and SaaS-based, allowing your applications to achieve exceptional levels of scalability and quick response times worldwide. Thanks to automatic capacity scaling, deploying and managing applications becomes straightforward, as the DNS infrastructure is built on a global data plane that effortlessly adjusts to varying demands. The quick deployment capability enables configuration and provisioning in mere minutes, leveraging a unified API set and a single user interface that streamlines the DNS setup process for any application. Furthermore, it features robust security measures, including dynamic protection and automatic failover systems that defend against distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and potential domain response manipulation, thus preserving the integrity of your applications. This holistic strategy not only fortifies security but also significantly enhances overall operational effectiveness, making it an indispensable tool for modern cloud-based deployments. Ultimately, F5 Distributed Cloud DNS empowers organizations to focus on innovation while ensuring their applications run smoothly and securely.