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Home/ Blog/ How to prevent dns leaks when using https proxies?

How to prevent dns leaks when using https proxies?

PYPROXY PYPROXY · Oct 16, 2025

Using HTTPS proxies has become a common way to secure internet traffic and protect user privacy. However, even when encrypted connections are used, there is a risk of DNS leaks that can expose sensitive information about a user's internet activity. In this article, we will delve into the causes of DNS leaks and how to prevent them while using HTTPS proxies. We will explore practical strategies and configuration tips that ensure DNS queries are routed securely, preventing any potential leakage of private data. This guide is aimed at individuals and businesses looking to enhance their online privacy and security while using HTTPS proxies.

What is DNS Leak?

DNS (Domain Name System) is an essential part of internet functionality. It translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing users to access websites by typing easy-to-remember domain names instead of numerical IP addresses. When you use an HTTPS proxy, all web traffic, including DNS queries, should ideally be routed through the proxy server to ensure security and privacy. However, in some cases, DNS queries can bypass the proxy and be sent directly to your ISP’s DNS servers. This is known as a DNS leak.

A DNS leak occurs when, despite using an encrypted connection like HTTPS, the DNS request is not routed through the secure proxy server, leaving your ISP or another third-party service provider with visibility into your browsing history. This undermines the privacy benefits of using a proxy in the first place.

Causes of DNS Leaks with HTTPS Proxies

1. Incorrect Proxy Configuration

One of the most common reasons for DNS leaks is improper configuration of the HTTPS proxy settings. When DNS requests are not explicitly directed to the proxy server, they are sent through the default DNS server set on the operating system or browser, often leaving the ISP’s servers exposed.

2. DNS Requests Outside the Encrypted Tunnel

Some applications and services may make DNS queries outside the encrypted HTTPS proxy connection, allowing DNS leaks to occur. These requests might not go through the secure proxy, thus leaking sensitive information to your ISP or other monitoring parties.

3. IPv6 Leaks

Another potential cause of DNS leaks when using HTTPS proxies is the use of IPv6, a newer version of the internet protocol. Many proxies may not fully support IPv6, leading to the direct sending of DNS queries to the ISP for IPv6 addresses. If the proxy does not handle IPv6 traffic, it can result in a leak.

4. Browser and System Settings

Certain browser configurations or system settings can also allow DNS leaks, even when a proxy is used. For example, if your browser is set to use a specific DNS server directly, it might bypass the proxy server altogether.

How to Prevent DNS Leaks When Using HTTPS Proxy?

1. Use DNS Servers that Support HTTPS Proxy

To avoid DNS leaks, ensure that your DNS queries are handled by servers that support HTTPS proxying. Some public DNS services are designed to be compatible with proxy settings, allowing DNS queries to be securely routed through the encrypted tunnel.

2. Configure DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a protocol that encrypts DNS queries using HTTPS. When enabled, it prevents DNS requests from being sent unencrypted, even if the operating system or browser is configured to use a default DNS server. DoH ensures that DNS requests are securely routed through the proxy, preventing leaks.

- Configure DNS over HTTPS in your browser:

Most modern browsers, such as Google Chrome and Firefox, allow users to configure DNS over HTTPS directly in the browser settings. This ensures that DNS queries are always encrypted, regardless of the system’s default settings.

- Use DoH-enabled DNS servers:

Choose a DNS server that supports DoH to further protect your DNS queries. This way, even if your system's settings attempt to bypass the proxy, the DNS queries will still be encrypted.

3. Disable IPv6

If your proxy does not support IPv6, it is advisable to disable IPv6 on your device. By disabling IPv6, you ensure that all DNS queries are sent over IPv4, which is better supported by most HTTPS proxies.

- How to disable IPv6:

On Windows, you can disable IPv6 through the network settings by unchecking the IPv6 option under your network adapter properties. Similarly, on macOS, you can disable IPv6 through the system preferences.

4. Set Up a System-Wide VPN

A system-wide VPN can further enhance your privacy and prevent DNS leaks. When configured properly, a VPN ensures that all internet traffic, including DNS queries, is routed through the secure tunnel. This is especially useful when using HTTPS proxies for added protection.

- VPN and HTTPS Proxy Combination:

You can combine an HTTPS proxy with a VPN for additional security. The VPN will ensure that DNS queries are always routed through the secure tunnel, providing an extra layer of protection against leaks.

5. Manually Configure Proxy Settings

Ensure that your HTTPS proxy settings are manually configured to handle DNS requests. Many operating systems and applications default to using the system's DNS servers, which can cause leaks. By manually configuring your proxy settings to direct DNS queries to the proxy, you ensure that all traffic is routed through the secure tunnel.

6. Use Proxy Software with Built-in DNS Leak Protection

Some HTTPS proxy services and software provide built-in DNS leak protection. These services automatically route DNS queries through the proxy server, ensuring that no leaks occur. It’s recommended to choose a proxy service that offers DNS leak protection as a standard feature.

Testing for DNS Leaks

Once you have configured your HTTPS proxy and DNS settings, it’s important to test for DNS leaks. There are several tools available that can help identify potential DNS leaks by checking if DNS queries are being sent to external servers outside the encrypted tunnel.

- Use online DNS leak testers:

Many websites offer free DNS leak testing services. These tools will show you the DNS servers that are being used when accessing a website, helping you determine whether your DNS queries are secure or if a leak is occurring.

- Check your proxy settings:

Regularly verify that your proxy settings are correctly configured to handle DNS queries. This will ensure that DNS leaks do not occur due to misconfigurations.

Preventing DNS leaks when using an HTTPS proxy is crucial to maintaining online privacy and security. By following the steps outlined in this article, such as configuring DNS over HTTPS, disabling IPv6, and using VPNs, you can ensure that your DNS queries are securely routed through the proxy, preventing any leaks. Regularly testing your setup will help you stay ahead of potential privacy risks and protect your online activity from unauthorized surveillance.

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