Google Public DNS . . .

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Google has just introduced Public DNS servers. Google claims that these DNS servers are faster and safer than an ISPs’ DNS servers.

The Official Google Blog: http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2009/12/introducing-google-public-dns.html

Google DNS page: http://code.google.com/speed/public-dns/

Performance Benefits: http://code.google.com/speed/public-dns/docs/performance.html

Security Benefits: http://code.google.com/speed/public-dns/docs/security.html

Are the improvements in speed minor (10% or less) or somewhat more substantial? Is the security truly better?

If not, does someone have an idea on how these claims could be tested?

The inner workings of DNS servers are way beyond my knowledge area, so any insights will be appreciated.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Baeterra.

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Some testing results, GoogleDNS v. OpenDNS v. Level 3 and a comment from OpenDNS.

Disclaimer ;): I use OpenDNS because I believe it gives me better security, I’m also an online gamer so if my ping times drop too much, I may just try out GoogleDNS sometime.

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Thank You, Andy. Yes, those links were very helpful.

I, too, am concerned by the privacy/security implications of GoogleDNS.

Google has been a good corporate citizen. But, there are great temptations associated with having access to all those search logs and – now – our browsing histories.

Baeterra.

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Ive been using OpenDNS for some time now and I’m quite happy with it. It doesn’t carry the same risk as a Google DNS server which potentially keeps a record of every web address that you’ve requested.

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You don’t need to be paranoid to have reservations about Google DNS. I’m using Google’s search engine a lot, but I strongly dislike the idea of Google controlling even more of my browsing experience than they do now.

I’ve been using OpenDNS both at work and at home for almost a year now. I had anticipated slower response times when we switched from our ISP’s DNS servers, instead DNS queries resolve much faster. Although faster browsing is a pleasant bonus, better security was the main reason to switch to OpenDNS. I have a strong feeling Google DNS may prove to be even faster, but I doubt whether their claims about increased security should be taken seriously – their track record so far doesn’t impress me much.

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Thank You, Crusty and Roelof, for your input.

There does seems to be more who favor OpenDNS.

Baeterra.

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…There does seems to be more who favor of OpenDNS….

You can include me in that number.

I have been using OpenDNS for a long time now and I am very happy with the speed, as well as the value added services – such as filtering out completely unsuitable sites but allowing me full control over what is allowed.

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Another OpenDNS user here. Have been using it for a few years, no problems whatsoever. You can simply use their IP numbers for your DNS servers, but if you create a free account you can also have some control over what sites you visit; great for families and avoiding phishing sites.

I really recommend specifying the DNS server IP in both your router and computer setup, especially for laptops. That way if you use a Brand X connection somewhere you’re not using their potentially bogus DNS servers which can redirect you to phishing sites unknowingly.

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I can also recommend OpenDNS for the reasons mentioned above – see my link for some advice as a video clip. Cheers from Mike

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