Set Up NextDNS for Private DNS Filtering

What is NextDNS?

NextDNS is a cloud-based DNS firewall that blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. It works like Pi-hole but requires no hardware — you configure it in your browser or router. The free tier covers 300,000 queries per month (enough for a household).

Step 1. Create an account

1. 1.Go to nextdns.io and sign up (email or Google/GitHub).
2. 2.Click "Create Configuration" to start.

Step 2. Choose your blocklists

In your configuration, toggle blocklist categories: Ads & Trackers, Malware, Disguised trackers, Social, Gambling, and more. Each category blocks known domains. You can also add custom blocklists from the community.

Step 3. Set up on individual devices

1. 1.Install the NextDNS app for Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS.
2. 2.Sign in and select your configuration.
3. 3.All DNS queries from that device now go through NextDNS.
4. 4.Alternatively, manually set DNS to the endpoints shown in your NextDNS dashboard.

Step 4. Set up on your router

For network-wide protection, change your router DNS settings. In your router admin page (usually 192.168.1.1), set the primary DNS to the NextDNS endpoint from your dashboard. Every device on your network now gets filtering automatically.

Step 5. Configure settings

• •Add an allowlist for sites that break when blocked.
• •Add a denylist for specific domains you want to block.
• •Enable parental controls with time limits or category blocks.
• •Set up analytics to see what's being blocked.

Step 6. Monitor and fine-tune

Your dashboard shows blocked queries, top domains, and devices. Review the logs weekly.

If a site breaks, check if it's in the block list and add it to your allowlist.