Encountering the "network blocking encrypted DNS traffic" issue on your iOS device can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to resolve this problem and regain seamless access to encrypted DNS traffic. In this blog post, we will guide you through each step in a friendly and approachable manner.
Restart your iPhone and WiFi router
One of the simplest and most effective ways to resolve connectivity issues is by restarting your iPhone and WiFi router. To do this, press and hold the power button and volume buttons simultaneously until you see the power off slider. Slide it to turn off your device. Once it is off, press and hold the power button again until the Apple logo appears, indicating that your device is restarting. Simultaneously, power off your WiFi router by unplugging it from the power source, waiting for a few seconds, and then plugging it back in. This simple step can often refresh the network connections and resolve any issues causing the "network blocking encrypted DNS traffic" problem.
Forget the WiFi network
If restarting your devices did not resolve the issue, the next step is to forget the WiFi network causing the problem. To do this, follow these steps:
- Access your iPhone's Settings > Wi-Fi menu.
- Locate the problematic WiFi network from the list of available networks.
- Tap on the (i) icon next to the network name.
- Select the "Forget This Network" option to remove it from your saved networks.
- Reconnect to the network after forgetting it, allowing your device to establish a fresh connection.
Forgetting the WiFi network can help eliminate any configuration issues that may be causing the "network blocking encrypted DNS traffic" problem.
Update your iOS
Keeping your iOS up to date is crucial for compatibility with various network configurations, including encrypted DNS traffic. To update your iOS, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap on "Download and Install" and follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
Updating your iOS ensures that your device has the latest security patches and bug fixes, which can often resolve issues related to network connectivity.
Switch to WPA3 Security Protocol
Enhancing security standards and ensuring compatibility with older devices can be achieved by switching to the WPA3 security protocol for your WiFi network. To do this, you need to access your router's settings page. The exact steps may vary depending on the router model, so it's best to consult your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions. Once you're on the settings page, look for the Wireless Security section or similar options. Select WPA3 as the preferred security protocol if it is supported. This change can help resolve any compatibility issues with encrypted DNS traffic.
Disable network monitoring apps on routers
Certain routers have built-in features that monitor network traffic and may display privacy warnings or block encrypted DNS traffic. Disabling or adjusting these settings can help eliminate any interference with encrypted DNS traffic. To do this, follow these steps:
- Access your router's settings page (refer to your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions).
- Locate any network monitoring or privacy-related settings.
- Disable or adjust these settings to eliminate any interference with encrypted DNS traffic.
By disabling network monitoring apps on your router, you can ensure that your encrypted DNS traffic flows smoothly without any unnecessary blockades.
Use a VPN service
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) actively monitors your online traffic, using a VPN service can help restore privacy and bypass any restrictions. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in a different location, making it more difficult for your ISP to monitor or block your DNS traffic. To set up a VPN on your iOS device, follow these general steps:
- Choose a reputable VPN service provider that offers an iOS app.
- Download and install the VPN app from the App Store.
- Follow the instructions provided by the VPN service to set up and configure the VPN on your iOS device.
- Once connected, your online traffic will be encrypted and routed securely through the VPN server, bypassing any restrictions imposed by your ISP.
Using a VPN service can not only help you overcome the "network blocking encrypted DNS traffic" issue but also provide an additional layer of privacy and security.
Clear browser cache and cookies
Clearing your browser's cache and cookies can often resolve DNS-related issues by starting with a clean slate. To clear cache and cookies on your iOS device, follow these steps:
- Open your preferred web browser on your iOS device.
- Access the browser's settings or preferences menu.
- Find the options to clear cache and cookies (exact location may vary depending on the browser).
- Follow the prompts to clear cache and cookies.
Clearing cache and cookies can help eliminate any corrupted or outdated data that may be interfering with the encrypted DNS traffic.
By following these friendly guidelines, you can troubleshoot and fix the "network blocking encrypted DNS traffic" issue on your iOS device. Each step is aimed at ensuring seamless access to encrypted DNS traffic while maintaining privacy and security. Remember to restart your devices, forget and reconnect to the WiFi network, update your iOS, switch to the WPA3 security protocol, disable network monitoring apps on routers, use a VPN service, and clear browser cache and cookies. With these steps, you can overcome the frustration of network blocking encrypted DNS traffic and enjoy a seamless and secure internet experience on your iOS device.