What is 9.9.9.9? Is it a regular DNS - How Does Quad9 Help an Optimal level of Security (2024)

What is 9.9.9.9? It is the primary IP address of Quad9, a public recursive DNS resolver service. Before discussing what this does for internet users’ security and privacy, it is important to understand Quad9’s origin.

Quad9 was founded by an amalgamation of organizations, including the Global Cyber Alliance ( GCA ), Packet Clearing House ( PCH ), and IBM. It is also important to note that a non-profit organization operates Quad 9.9 DNS.

So, what is the primary objective of this DNS resolver? We understand that the internet is not a safe place anymore because there can be a lot of malware and maliciousness around. In such a scenario, it is very important to employ intelligence filtering techniques to protect internet users from accessing harmful websites in the first place, and Quad9 does that.

9.9.9.9 – What Quad9 does for your Internet privacy and security

Now, let’s move on to what Quad9 can do for you while browsing or using the internet.

Optimal security and malware blocking

It is important to understand that Quad9 is very advanced because it incorporates a threat intelligence feed. This feed helps Quad9 get data about malicious or harmful websites from different sources, including cyber security companies or even law enforcement agencies so that it can block them.

For instance, if you are using Quad9, you can be saved from malware infections, online threats, and phishing. Even if you want to access malicious websites, you won’t be able to because it will block these threats at the DNS level, which is a great defense against online mafia activities.

Reliable and protective

An individual does not operate Quad9. It is highly reliable because of the robust Global networks of DNS servers worldwide. Because of these global networks, you can be sure of reduced latency, reliable service availability, and infrastructure improvement.

Also, it does not track or log any user activity related to personally identifiable information (PII). This helps the user to stay secure and browse the Internet without any privacy concerns.

Botnet protection and DNSSEC support

Quad9 is highly reliable for Botnet Protection. But what exactly are Botnets? These are some devices that the malicious actors genius control.

These devices are so potent that they can launch large-scale attacks called distributed denial ( DDos ) of service, compromising users’ security. However, because of Quad9’s reliability, users can stay safe because it blocks and identifies them.

At the same time, Quad9 wonderfully supports DNSSEC further to enhance the integrity and authenticity of DNS responses.

Easy to set up

It is easy and fancy to set up Quad9 on your device. You can easily configure your network settings or device to use Quad9 DNS servers like 9.9.9.9 as a DNS resolver. Installing this software on your preferred application or device can further enhance the configuration process.

Role of DNS resolvers in enhancing Internet security with advanced tech

Before you get to understand the DNS resolvers more intimately, it is important to understand DNS ( Domain Name System )

So basically, the DNS is an important internet component that translates human-readable domain names into related IP addresses.

We all know that on the Internet, computers and devices communicate or interact with each other using IP addresses, which are always numerical identifiers.

DNS is a distributed database that manages different things between domain names and IP addresses. For instance, when you want to access a certain website on the Internet, the DNS translates that into a particular IP address so you can view it.

DNS also allows you to:

• Access certain websites and perform various online activities by recognizing the domain names instead of memorizing the complex IP addresses.
• Had DNS not been there, you would have had to learn every IP address before accessing the website, which would have been gruesome.

Where does a DNS resolver help?

DNS does not operate individually; it relies on various components, including authority name servers, domain registrars, and recursive resolvers. A resolver like Quad9 helps the DNS find the relative IP address.

For example, when a user searches for a particular website and enters the domain name, a resolver helps the DNS find the corresponding IP address.

Router and operating system configuration of Quad9 – Right way to set up the DNS like a champ

It is important to configure Quad9 if you want to enhance security and enjoy optimal privacy. You can configure this DNS resolver in 2 ways.

Router level configuration

Configuring Quad9 for a convenient privacy solution on your router is effortless, and you must follow some steps.

• First, open your web browser and enter yourrouter’s IP addressin the address bar. It is important to know that you can find the IP address, usually in the user manual or on the router itself.
• The next step is to log in to your router with a username and a password. You can use default credentials for that.
• Once you log in, you will be able to find theDNS or network setting easily.It can be in the router’s configuration interface, usually labeled Internet Settings or WAN Settings.
• There must be some existing DNS server addresses; you must replace them in this step. For example, you can replace the previous DNS server with 9.9.9.9.
• The final step is all about saving and applying the changes to find the right DNS resolver.

Operating system configuration

Now we will discuss how you can configure Quad9 on different operating systems.

Windows

Here’s how you can configure Quad9 on Windows:

• Launch the settings or control panel to configure the DNS resolver on Windows.
• Now you go to the Network and Internet option to click on Change adapter settings on the left-hand side.
• Now, make sure you click on the network adaptor you currently use and select properties.
• Click on Well use the following DNS server addresses and enter 9.9.9.9
• The final step is saving the changes and restarting your network connection.

macOS

Here’s how you can configure Quad9 on macOS:

• The first step is launching the Apple Menu to go to system preferences.
• Now click on network and select your active network connection.
• The next step is clicking on advanced to go to the DNS tab.
• Click on the + button and enter 9.9.9.9
• The final step is clicking on Apply and saving the changes.

Linux

To configure Quad9 on the Linux system:

• Open the system settings and go to network or network connections.
• Select the good network connection you are using and then click on the setting icon.
• Now you need to navigate to the iPv4 or iPv6 tab.
• Choose automatic DHCP and enter 9.9.9.9
• Apply and Save.

Supporting platforms and devices for Quad9 configuration

Quad9 DNS resolver is ideal because it can be used on different devices and platforms.

Here are your options:

• Mobile devices that are running on Android or iOS.
• IoT that has the support for DNS configuration.
• Network devices in home routers that allow the customization of DNS settings.
• Laptop and desktop computers run on Linux, macOS, or Windows.

Common issues with Quad9 and possible solutions

You can face these combinations when configuring Quad9 on your device.

DNS resolution failures

If you make a typo when configuring the IP addresses, DNS resolution failures can occur. Ensure that you double-check for every mistake so you can configure Quad9 correctly.

Connection issues

Connection issues can occur after configuring Quad9. In this scenario, check your firewall or network connectivity settings. Ensure that the UDP or other ports are open and not blocked by the network infrastructure.

Slow response times

If you are facing slow response time issues, then it is important to clear the DNS cache on your router or device.

You can also use the alternative secondary DNS server address, 149.112.112.112.

Benefits of using PureVPN and Quad9 together for better protection and anonymity

Using Quad9 with PureVPN is ideal if you value security and privacy more than anything.

Here is how it can benefit you:

• Quad9 prioritizes privacy and security by not storing or logging personally identifiable information. When combined withPureVPN, it offers a superior level of anonymity.
• Have global support from servers around the world (PureVPN has 6500 servers in 70 countries)

Final words

The internet is not secure because there are so many malicious actors. However, you can secure yourself with DNS resolvers like Quad9. Make sure you follow our guide if you want to configure it on your devices. Also, combining it with PureVPN allows you to enjoy an extra level of security.

Frequently Asked Questions