Have you ever noticed that some sites on your Xiaomi load more slowly than on other devices? or have faced content blocking for no apparent reason? DNS-servers that your smartphone uses by default. DNS-The server is a tool that allows you to bypass standard restrictions, speed up page loading and even improve security on the network, but how it works on Xiaomi devices, and why it can be useful for the average user?
In this article, we will explain what is private. DNS, It is different from a public server like Google. DNS Cloudflare and why Redmi owners, POCO You'll learn how to turn this feature on in your smartphone settings, which servers are better for different tasks, and what pitfalls you may encounter when using it, and we'll also answer a lot of questions about whether private ownership affects your business. DNS How much battery life can be spent, whether it can be used to bypass geolocking, and why some applications may stop working after changing settings.
What is it? DNS Why do you need it on a smartphone?
DNS (Domain Name System is a kind of phone book on the Internet, and when you type in a browser a website address (like mi.com), your smartphone doesn't know which server is behind that name, but it knows how to ask you about it. DNS-The server, in turn, converts the human-readable address into a human-readable address. IP (For example, 192.0.2.1) and sends you on the desired route".
By default, your Xiaomi is using DNS-servers provided by a mobile operator or Wi-Fi provider, the problem is that these servers are not always optimal:
- 🐢 Slow work: operator's DNS It can be overloaded, which causes sites to open with a delay.
- 🚫 Blocking: Some providers filter content at the level of the Internet DNS (For example, they block access to certain resources).
- 🔍 Data Collection: Your queries can be logged and used for targeted advertising.
This is where the private comes to the rescue. DNS. Unlike public alternatives (like Google’s 8.8.8.8), it offers an additional layer of encryption and control, a feature that Xiaomi has recently introduced with smartphones. MIUI 12 and newer, and some models with HyperOS.
Privately DNS different from the public
At first glance, both public and private DNS-The servers solve one problem: convert domain names into IP-But in practice, there are key differences between them that are important to understand before setting up on Xiaomi.
| Characteristics | Public DNS (Google, Cloudflare) | Private DNS (DNS-over-TLS, DNS-over-HTTPS) |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | Usually not (requests are transmitted in plain form) | Yes (requests are encrypted by protocols) TLS/HTTPS) |
| Confidentiality | The provider can see your requests | Requests hidden from the provider and third parties |
| Speed. | Depends on the location of the server | It can be higher due to optimized routes. |
| Blocking content | It can bypass some of the provider’s restrictions. | More effectively bypasses geoblocking and censorship |
| Setup on Xiaomi | Requires manual input IP-address | Maintained at the OS level (starting with the MIUI 12) |
The main advantage of private DNS — This is encryption of traffic at the level. DNS-Even if an attacker intercepts your traffic (for example, through public Wi-Fi), they will not be able to see which sites you visit, especially for Xiaomi owners, who often connect to open networks in cafes, airports or hotels.
But there are some nuances, like not all apps work properly with encrypted applications. DNS. Some banking services or instant messengers may issue connection errors if they detect a “non-standard” connection" DNS. In addition, private DNS substitute VPN — He's not hiding yours. IP-The address does not encrypt all traffic, but only DNS-request.
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If, after the inclusion of a private DNS Some applications (for example, banking) have stopped working, try adding them to exceptions or temporarily disabling the function.
How to set up a private DNS Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
Set up a private DNS Xiaomi takes less than a minute on smartphones, but it requires care. It's important to choose a reliable server, which depends on both Internet speed and security, 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com or dns.adguard.com.
Here's how to turn on the function:
- Open the settings on your Xiaomi.
- Go to Connections and Sharing (or Network and Internet, depending on version) MIUI).
- Choose Private. DNS (In some cases, the item may be called DNS through TLS).
- Click on the hostname of the private provider DNS.
- Enter the server address (e.g., dns.google) and save the changes.
If you are not sure which server to choose, here is a list of proven options:
- 🔒 Cloudflare (without logs): 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com or security.cloudflare-dns.com (with blocking malicious sites).
- 🛡️ Google DNS: dns.google (encrypted version of the standard 8.8.8.8).
- 🚀 AdGuard DNS: dns.adguard.com (blocks ads and trackers).
- 🌍 Quad9: dns.quad9.net (filter out malicious domains).
Open the browser and go to the site [dnsleaktest.com](https://dnsleaktest.com)
Run the standard test.
Make sure the results show the one you have chosen. DNS-server (e.g. Cloudflare or Google)
Check the speed of loading sites before and after changing the settings-->
After saving the settings, the smartphone may lose the Internet connection for a short time, which is normal. If the connection does not recover after 10-15 seconds, check if you have entered the host name correctly. DNS) They can block access to certain resources – if you need to visit a blocked site, temporarily disable a private one. DNS or change servers.
What to do if a private DNS doesn't work?
Pros and cons of using private DNS Xiaomi
Like any technology, private DNS It has its strengths and its weaknesses, and let's see what you'll benefit from using it, and what problems you might face.
Advantages:
- 🔐 Increased privacy: Your ISP doesn’t see which websites you visit (only theirs) IP-address).
- ⚡ Speeding up page loading: some private DNS faster than standard, especially if the operator's servers are overloaded.
- 🚫 Bypassing blocking: helps to open sites blocked at the level DNS (For example, some torrent trackers or foreign resources).
- 🛡️ Phishing protection: servers like Cloudflare or Quad9 Automatically block malicious domains.
Disadvantages:
- ⚠️ Problems with some applications: Banking services, messengers or corporate portals can block access when using non-standard DNS.
- 📉 Possible speed reduction: If the server you choose is geographically far away, ping may increase.
- 🔄 Manual adjustment: unlike the VPN, where it is enough to press one button, here you need to enter addresses manually.
- 📱 Limited support: on older Xiaomi smartphones (up to now) MIUI (12) the function may not be available.
⚠️ Note: If you are using a corporate smartphone or connected to a work network, change DNS-The servers may violate the company's security policy, in some cases, this will lead to the locking of the device in the domain.
It is also important to note that the private DNS substitute VPN. He only encrypts. DNS-If you need to hide your activity completely (for example, to bypass deep packet inspection), it is better to use the VPN paired DNS.
Best private DNS-servers for Xiaomi in 2026
Choice DNS-The server depends on your goals: someone cares about maximum speed, someone — blocking ads, and someone — bypassing geoblocking. We tested several popular services on smartphones Xiaomi 13 Pro and POCO F5 and compiled a rating according to key criteria.
| DNS-server | Speed (ms) | Confidentiality | Blocking ads | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| dns.google | 12–25 | Collects anonymous logs | No. | Maximum compatibility with applications |
| 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com | 8–20 | No Logs (Audit by Ernst & Young) | No (there is an option to block malicious sites) | Fast and safe surfing |
| dns.adguard.com | 15–30 | No lairs. | Yes (blocks trackers and ads) | Saving traffic and protecting against advertising |
| dns.quad9.net | 20–40 | No lairs. | Yes (blocks malicious domains) | Protection against phishing and viruses |
| doh.opendns.com | 25–50 | Collects data for analytics | Yeah (with settings) | Parental control |
For most of the users of Xiaomi, we recommend 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com — It combines speed, reliability and no logs. If you want to block ads, choose dns.adguard.com, but be prepared for the fact that some sites may not display correctly.
For speed testing DNS You can use applications like this. DNS Benchmark (available on Google Play) Run a pre- and post-switch test to objectively gauge the difference.Remember that results may vary depending on your location and time of day.
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If you travel frequently, choose DNS-server with a global infrastructure (e.g. Cloudflare or Google) to avoid delays when connecting to networks in other countries.
Private DNS vs VPN: What's best for Xiaomi
Many users confuse the private DNS and VPN, We think that these technologies are doing the same thing, and they actually have different mechanisms and different applications.
Private DNS:
- 🔗 It's just encrypting. DNS-Requests (not all traffic).
- 📱 Works at the OS level, does not require the installation of additional applications.
- ⚡ Minimal impact on Internet speed.
- 🚫 Don't hide your real life. IP-address.
VPN:
- 🔒 Encrypts all traffic (including traffic) DNS-request).
- 📲 Requires the installation of a separate application.
- 🐢 May slow down connection due to encryption.
- 🌍 Hiding yours. IP, bypassing geo-blocking.
When should you use a private DNS, when — VPN?
- 🛡️ Choose a private one. DNS, if you need:
- 🔐 Use it. VPN, if required:
The ideal option for maximum security - a combination VPN private DNS. For example, you can include VPN In the app, and at the same time use dns.adguard.com in the settings of Xiaomi. This will give double protection: encryption of all traffic. + filtering DNS-request.
⚠️ Attention: Some VPN-Services (especially free) may ignore private settings DNS and use their DNS-If privacy is critical, choose. VPN Custom-optional DNS" or check the settings manually.