OpenDNS service extends the domain name system (DNS). It acts as a regular DNS server but adds an extra layer of protection for a phishing attack and content filtering. In this tutorial, I will let you know about the testing of the OpenDNS configuration. OpenDNS test determines that you have correctly configured OpenDNS settings on a computer or not. By the way, What is the DNS server? The answer is, a DNS Server converts domain names to the IP addresses. All computers/servers/web hostings have own IP address. A domain name like techprevue.com is just a mask over that IP address. There is an IP address behind techprevue.com or any other domain name. As it is difficult to remember IP addresses so domain names come into existence and DNS servers are translating domain names to corresponding IP addresses. Most of the users are using the DNS server of their Internet Service Providers (ISP). Today, third-party DNS servers like OpenDNS and Google Public DNS can be used. These options provide better security and faster internet experience.
How to Configure and Test OpenDNS?
To use OpenDNS service, certain settings need to be changed on a computer. On Windows 10 operating system follow these steps:
- In Cortana search and open “Control Panel”
- Open “Network and Sharing Center”
- Double click on the primary connection or Local Area connection under “View your active networks”
- Click on the “Properties” button
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on the “Properties” button
- Select the radio button and use the following DNS server address Preferred DNS Server: 208.67.222.222 Alternate DNS Server: 208.67.220.220
- Click OK button > Close button > Close Button
- Close “Network and Sharing Center” window After completing the above steps, flush DNS cache and restart your computer to bring OpenDNS settings into effect. You can configure OpenDNS on various other devices using this document.
How to Test OpenDNS?
After completion of configuration steps, you need to test OpenDNS settings, if they are working or not. To test OpenDNS, go to: https://welcome.opendns.com/ When you browse this URL, you can get one of the following results.
If you properly configured OpenDNS, then the welcome message will appear.
If something still remains to do, then you’ll see an error message.
Test OpenDNS for Security Settings
OpenDNS has the power to protect you from phishing menaces. Phishing websites are used to steal personal data like name, email, phone number, bank account detail, Credit card number, credit card CVV, etc. OpenDNS can catch and block such websites. To test OpenDNS is blocking a phishing website or not, you can open internetbadguys.com. It is a safe website but created only to test OpenDNS. If security functions working properly then internetbadguys.com will be blocked.
Test OpenDNS for Content Settings
OpenDNS can also filter out a certain type of content. If a website has such content then OpenDNS will block it. Set up OpenDNS and try to access exampleadultsite.com. If the content filter is functional then exampleadultsite.com will not be accessible. I believe this article on how to test OpenDNS configuration will be helpful for you. If you have any questions to ask, please drop a comment.
