Quad9

What is Quad9?

Quad9 is a free DNS service specifically designed to protect internet users from malicious websites while safeguarding their privacy. The service blocks requests to known harmful domains, which are listed on an up-to-date threat list. This shields users from dangers such as malware, phishing, spyware, and botnets. Interestingly, Quad9 can not only enhance security but also improve performance by offering fast DNS queries.

The service is operated by the Quad9 Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Switzerland. The move to Europe represents a significant step toward a safer internet, as Quad9 is now subject to strict Swiss data protection laws similar to the GDPR. This ensures that no personal data, such as IP addresses, is stored.

The Company Behind Quad9

The Quad9 Foundation was established with the goal of making the internet safer. Its headquarters are located in Switzerland, a country known for its stringent data protection laws. The organization is led by a diverse board of directors composed of representatives from various stakeholder groups, including renowned figures from the digital society.

A notable milestone for Quad9 was the transition to European governance, which strengthened global privacy. This decision was welcomed by experts worldwide, as it promotes legal and geographical diversity in the DNS resolver space. The foundation is committed to setting an example for public DNS services that serve the common good.

Main Features

Security Filters

• Blocks malicious domains based on threat intelligence from over 25 providers.

Privacy

• No storage of IP addresses or other personal data.
• Compliance with GDPR and Swiss data protection laws.

Performance Optimization

• Fast DNS resolution through over 230 resolver clusters worldwide.

Global Availability

• Presence in over 110 countries ensures fast and reliable DNS queries.

User-Friendliness

Quad9 requires just a simple change in the DNS settings on the user's device to activate the service. The website provides clear instructions for various operating systems, including Windows and MacOS. The user interface is intuitively designed, allowing even less tech-savvy users to set up the service effortlessly.

A significant advantage of Quad9 is that no additional software needs to be installed. DNS settings can be configured directly in the operating system or router, simplifying the onboarding process.

Privacy & Security

Quad9 places great emphasis on privacy protection. The service does not store any information that can be traced back to the user and is fully GDPR compliant. With the relocation of its headquarters to Switzerland, Quad9 is now also subject to the country's stringent data protection laws.

The security of the service is ensured through partnerships with over 25 threat intelligence providers. These collaborations enable Quad9 to maintain a real-time updated threat list to protect users effectively.

Pricing & Plans

Free

Quad9 is a free service available to all users worldwide, with no hidden fees or premium options.

Pros and Cons

• No user data storage
• Fast DNS resolution
• High security through threat filters
• Global availability
• Easy to set up and use

• Sometimes overly strict filtering
• May block legitimate sites
• No custom filter options

Who is Quad9 Suitable For?

Quad9 is ideal for individuals and businesses looking to secure their internet connection without compromising on privacy. The service is especially suitable for users who do not want to install additional software and seek a simple yet effective threat protection solution.

Additionally, companies and institutions operating in areas where data protection is of paramount importance benefit from Quad9's stringent privacy measures.

Conclusion

As a free DNS service, Quad9 offers an impressive combination of security and privacy. The service is easy to set up and provides an effective solution for protecting against online threats. With compliance to strict data protection laws and global availability, Quad9 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to secure their internet connection.