"This network is blocking encrypted DNS traffic” means that the network you are connected to is preventing your device or browser from using encrypted DNS methods such as DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT) to resolve domain names securely. Instead of allowing DNS queries to be encrypted, the network forces them to use traditional, unencrypted DNS or blocks them entirely, which can result in warnings, connection issues, or reduced privacy.
There are several reasons why a network may block encrypted DNS traffic, ranging from security controls to outdated infrastructure.
Many organizations deploy strict firewall rules to inspect and control traffic. Encrypted DNS can bypass traditional DNS monitoring, so administrators may block it deliberately. This is common in enterprise environments that rely on DNS filtering, logging, or internal threat detection systems.
Networks using advanced firewall integration often perform deep packet inspection. Because encrypted DNS hides DNS query details, these firewalls may block or interfere with DoH or DoT traffic to maintain visibility and enforcement of security policies.
Some internet service providers or managed networks restrict encrypted DNS to enforce parental controls, regional policies, or content filtering. This is more common in restricted environments such as schools, hotels, or shared housing networks.
Older routers, proxies, or middleboxes may not fully support modern TLS-based DNS protocols. These devices can unintentionally block encrypted DNS traffic because they cannot properly handle it.
Locally installed security tools, VPNs, or DNS filtering software can conflict with encrypted DNS settings. In some cases, the software forces DNS traffic through its own resolver and blocks external encrypted DNS connections.
Organizations that use internal DNS monitoring, logging, or edge security solutions may disable encrypted DNS to ensure visibility into domain queries for compliance or threat detection purposes.
Below are practical solutions to resolve or work around this issue. Each subsection focuses on a specific approach you can take, depending on your environment and level of control over the network.
Modern browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Firefox support DNS over HTTPS. If your browser is set to use a specific encrypted DNS provider, the network may block it.
If DNS over HTTPS is blocked, DNS over TLS may still work. DoT uses a dedicated port (853) and can sometimes pass through networks that block HTTPS-based DNS.
However, many enterprise networks block both DoH and DoT, so results may vary depending on firewall configuration.
VPNs and endpoint security tools often intercept DNS traffic. Some VPNs provide their own encrypted DNS, while others disable browser-level encrypted DNS to avoid conflicts.
Temporarily disabling the VPN or adjusting its DNS settings can help determine whether it is the source of the block.
If encrypted DNS works on mobile data but not on Wi-Fi, the issue is almost certainly network-specific. This test helps confirm whether the problem lies with your device or the network you are connected to.
In restricted environments, switching networks may be the only immediate workaround.
In environments you control, configuring encrypted DNS at the router level can help. Some modern routers support DoH or DoT natively and can forward DNS queries securely on behalf of connected devices.
This approach ensures consistent behavior across devices and avoids conflicts with individual browser settings.
If you are using a DNS load balancing service, ensure that its endpoints and health checks are compatible with encrypted DNS. Misconfigured load balancing or failover rules can cause DNS resolution failures that resemble blocked encrypted DNS traffic.
Similarly, features like DNSSEC validation must be properly configured. While DNSSEC does not encrypt DNS queries, misconfigured DNSSEC can cause resolution errors that occur alongside encrypted DNS warnings, making troubleshooting more complex.
Preventing this issue requires a combination of proper configuration, compatibility testing, and clear security policies.
1. Ensure that your network infrastructure is up to date. Modern firewalls, routers, and proxies are more likely to support encrypted DNS traffic without issues. Legacy devices should be upgraded or reconfigured.
2. Define a clear DNS strategy. Decide whether encrypted DNS is allowed, restricted, or centrally managed. In enterprise environments, integrating encrypted DNS into existing advanced firewall integration and security monitoring workflows avoids the need for outright blocking.
3. Use reputable DNS providers and security platforms. Cloud-based DNS platforms that combine encryption, resilience, and security features such as threat intelligence and DNSSEC support reduce compatibility issues.
4. Document and communicate policies. Many user-facing errors occur simply because users do not know why encrypted DNS is blocked. Clear documentation helps reduce confusion and support requests.
5. Test changes regularly. Network changes, firewall updates, or new TLS security services can unintentionally disrupt encrypted DNS traffic. Regular testing ensures issues are detected early.
By understanding why this network is blocking encrypted DNS traffic and applying the appropriate fixes, you can balance security requirements with modern privacy standards. Whether you are managing an enterprise environment with edge security solutions or troubleshooting a single device, proper DNS configuration and awareness are key to avoiding disruptions and maintaining a secure browsing