I Keep Going Back to NextDNS

Another review of my favorite DNS provider

It’s a constant battle. I use pi-hole, I decide to switch to AdGuard Home. I use AdGuard Home, I decide to switch back to NextDNS. I use NextDNS, I decide to switch back to pi-hole. This constant cycle is finally coming to an end. I like NextDNS, and I am sticking with it.

Why have I changed my mind over, and over, and over again? It’s because I really like each product. I like Pi-hole because it is so customizable. I like AdGuard Home because it has some impressive modern features. I like NextDNS because I can use it outside of my home network, it has a super informative interface, and it can be installed easily on my UDM Pro.

I keep coming back to NextDNS because it does everything I need.

My DNS provider must haves are pretty minimal:

• Must work 99% of the time without me having to worry about it

• Must work outside of my home network

• Must work well with my UDM Pro

• Must be able to create local DNS domain redirects

• Must be able to use updated blocklists

• Must be able to whitelist domains

• Must be able to see detailed logs

• Must be able to block ads, malware, adult content, and TikTok

NextDNS checks all those boxes for me.

If you are thinking of switching here are some more reasons why NextDNS is better than Pi-hole and AdGuard Home:

1. NextDNS uses DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) protocols: These protocols encrypt DNS traffic, making it more secure and resistant to attacks such as man-in-the-middle attacks. Pi-hole and AdGuard Home do not support these protocols.

2. NextDNS has a global network of servers: NextDNS has servers located around the world, which helps to improve the speed and reliability of the service. Pi-hole and AdGuard Home rely on a single server, which may not be as fast or reliable.

3. NextDNS has a larger database of malicious domains: NextDNS has a database of over 100 million malicious domains, which helps to effectively block phishing and malware attacks. Pi-hole and AdGuard Home have smaller databases, which may not be as effective in blocking these types of threats.

4. NextDNS uses machine learning and artificial intelligence: NextDNS uses these technologies to constantly update and improve its ad-blocking capabilities. Pi-hole and AdGuard Home do not use these technologies.

I have previously written about NextDNS and I have even made a video about it which you can watch here.

Overall, I am happy to say that NextDNS is here to stay.

Cheers,

Joe