Frequently Asked Questions¶

General Questions¶

What is QuietNet DNS?¶

QuietNet is a DNS filtering service that blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. When you use QuietNet, your device's DNS queries are filtered before they reach the internet, preventing connections to unwanted domains.

How does QuietNet differ from ad blockers?¶

Traditional ad blockers are browser extensions that filter content after it reaches your browser. QuietNet works at the DNS level, blocking unwanted content across your entire device – not just your browser. This means ads are blocked in apps, smart TVs, and other internet-connected devices, not just web browsers.

Is my internet connection slower when using QuietNet?¶

No, in most cases QuietNet actually makes your internet feel faster. By blocking ads and tracking scripts before they load, pages load quicker and use less data. Our DNS servers are optimized for speed and have multiple global points of presence for low-latency responses.

Do I need to install software?¶

For most devices, no software installation is needed. QuietNet works by changing your DNS settings, which is a simple configuration change. Some platforms (like Android using DoH) may require a small app for full functionality.

Is QuietNet compatible with VPNs?¶

Yes, but there are some considerations: - If you configure QuietNet at the device level and then connect to a VPN, the VPN may override your DNS settings - If you configure QuietNet at the router level, devices will use it before connecting to a VPN - Some VPNs allow you to configure custom DNS within their settings

Privacy & Security¶

What information does QuietNet collect?¶

QuietNet logs minimal information to provide our service: - DNS query types (A, AAAA, etc.) - Domains requested (to generate statistics and improve blocking) - Query timestamp - Whether the domain was blocked or allowed

We do not log: - IP addresses (in a way that can identify users) - Personal browsing history - Device information - Any information that could identify individual users

Are my DNS queries encrypted?¶

Yes, when you use DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT), all your DNS queries are encrypted between your device and our servers. This prevents ISPs and network operators from seeing which domains you're accessing.

Can QuietNet see my browsing history?¶

QuietNet only sees the domain names your device is requesting (e.g., example.com), not the specific pages or content you access on those domains (e.g., example.com/specific-page). We also don't store this information in a way that can be linked to individual users.

Yes, QuietNet is designed to be compliant with GDPR and other privacy regulations. We collect minimal data, anonymize it, and provide clear information about our data practices.

Features & Functionality¶

What types of content can QuietNet block?¶

QuietNet can block: - Advertising domains - Tracking and analytics servers - Malware and phishing domains - Adult content - Social media platforms - Gambling websites - Cryptocurrency mining domains - Any custom domains you choose to block

Can I customize what gets blocked?¶

Yes! You can toggle different blocklist categories on/off in your dashboard. Premium users can also create custom blocklists and allowlists for specific domains.

Why do I still see some ads?¶

While QuietNet blocks many ads, some may still appear because: 1. They're served from the same domain as the main content 2. The website uses sophisticated anti-adblocking measures 3. The ad domain isn't yet in our blocklists

For the most comprehensive ad blocking, consider using QuietNet in conjunction with a browser-based ad blocker.

Does QuietNet work with streaming services?¶

Yes, QuietNet is compatible with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other streaming services. Unlike VPNs or some other filtering methods, QuietNet doesn't interfere with geo-restrictions or content delivery networks used by streaming services.

Will QuietNet work on my smart TV or game console?¶

Yes! One of the advantages of DNS-level blocking is that it works on devices where you can't install ad blockers, including: - Smart TVs - Game consoles - IoT devices - Streaming sticks (Roku, Fire TV, etc.) - Smart speakers

Just configure the device to use QuietNet DNS or set up QuietNet at your router.

Technical Questions¶

What DNS protocols does QuietNet support?¶

QuietNet supports: - DNS over HTTPS (DoH) - DNS over TLS (DoT) - Standard DNS (unencrypted)

We recommend using DoH or DoT for the best privacy and security.

What's the difference between DoH and DoT?¶

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) encrypts DNS queries in HTTPS traffic (port 443), making them indistinguishable from regular web traffic
DNS over TLS (DoT) encrypts DNS queries using a dedicated TLS connection (port 853)

Both provide similar security benefits, but DoH may work better on networks that block non-standard ports.

Can I use QuietNet on multiple devices?¶

Yes, you can use QuietNet on as many devices as you want under a single account. Each account gets a unique API token that you use in your DNS configuration.

How often are the blocklists updated?¶

Our blocklists are regularly updated: - Malware lists: Daily updates - Ad and tracker lists: Weekly updates - Other categories: Bi-weekly updates

Troubleshooting¶

Why isn't QuietNet blocking ads?¶

If you're still seeing ads: 1. Verify your DNS settings are correct 2. Make sure the appropriate blocklists are enabled 3. Clear your browser cache 4. Check if your app or browser is bypassing system DNS 5. See our Troubleshooting Guide for more help

A website I need is being blocked. How do I fix this?¶

Premium users can add the domain to their allowlist: 1. Go to your dashboard 2. Navigate to Blocklists 3. Scroll to "Always Allow These Domains" 4. Add the domain and save

How do I disable QuietNet temporarily?¶

To temporarily disable QuietNet, simply change your DNS settings back to automatic or to another DNS provider. To re-enable, change them back to your QuietNet settings.

Does QuietNet work on mobile data connections?¶

Yes, most modern mobile operating systems allow you to configure custom DNS for mobile data connections: - iOS: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network > DNS - Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced > Private DNS

Account & Service¶

Is QuietNet free to use?¶

QuietNet offers both free and premium tiers: - Free: Basic ad and tracker blocking with standard blocklists - Premium: Custom domain lists, more blocklist categories, priority support

How do I upgrade to Premium?¶

Log in to your dashboard and look for the "Upgrade" button. Premium subscriptions are available monthly or annually with significant savings for annual plans.

Your QuietNet account is designed for personal or family use across your devices. The terms of service prohibit sharing your API token with people outside your household.

How do I change my password?¶

Log in to your dashboard
Go to your profile settings
Select "Change Password"
Enter your current password and your new password
Save the changes

How do I cancel my subscription?¶

To cancel a premium subscription: 1. Log in to your dashboard 2. Go to your account settings 3. Select "Subscription" 4. Click "Cancel Subscription"

Your premium features will remain active until the end of your current billing period.