After iOS 14, Apple introduced the feature of DNS encryption for the users. The domain name system encryption keeps the snoopers at bay (more on it later).
But, at times, the “Network Blocking encrypted DNS Traffic’’ prompt can frustrate users. So, how can we solve the network issue?
Fixing the DNS encryption problem is a simple process. Users can easily solve the iPhone issue on their own.
The next time your Wi-Fi network blocks the DNS traffic, use the below-mentioned easy fixes to unblock it. So, put your reading glasses on and prepare for an information-filled ride.
What is DNS Encryption?
The domain Name System Encryption helps convert standard DNS text into an encoded language that a DNS client ( like browser, devices, etc.) can read. Apple introduced iOS 14, which supported DNS traffic.
DNS is like an address book for every device on the internet. The best thing about DNS encryption? It creates another layer of defense and protection against online snoopers. A DNS server helps connect a domain name (websites) to IP address.
By default, every device uses its network-provided DNS server, but you can change them to boost the internet’s performance. For example, users sometimes get the Network Blocking Encrypted DNS Traffic prompt, which means the website is not private, and other devices might track their online activity.
Head over to the next section to learn more about this privacy issue.
What’s the “Network Blocking Encrypted DNS Traffic” issue
Whenever you see a privacy prompt under the Wi-Fi tab, your Wi-Fi will start using unencrypted DNS traffic. Unfortunately, it means your browser privacy will be at stake, and other common network devices can monitor your activities.
Though it may seem like a big security breach, snoopers can only view the domain names and servers an unencrypted device uses. For example, a device can track that you visited ‘www.howtogeek.com’ website, but they won’t be able to track the following details:
- The pages that were viewed
- The data that was shared
- Any information that was sent or received on that site
Therefore, this privacy issue is not a major breach of security. Nonetheless, making your devices secure is vital for every user. Below are five ways to fix the annoying “Network Blocking Encrypted DNS Traffic” Issue on your iPhone.
Fixes for the “Network Blocking Encrypted DNS Traffic” issue
1. Restart your device
This privacy issue usually occurs in iPhones even if the users don’t change the Wi-Fi connections regularly. At times, the error prompt arises and solves itself without any intervention.
So, the first step is to try restarting your phone whenever you get the “Network Blocking Encrypted DNS Traffic” on your iOS. It will solve software glitches or minor Wi-Fi issues and fix privacy errors.
To restart your device, follow these steps:
- Press the side and volume down button till you see the ‘slide to power off’ tab; swipe it towards the right
- Once the phone shuts down, wait for a few seconds
- Then press the side button till you see the Apple logo
- Once the phone switches back on, go to the Wi-Fi setting and see if the issue fixes
2. Forget Wi-Fi
Issues with the Wi-Fi signals or the router can also prompt this network privacy message. An easy fix for signal-related issues is forgetting and reconnecting your phone’s Wi-Fi network.
To do that, follow these steps:
- Open the Wi-Fi settings on your phone
- Click on the Wi-Fi network that shows the privacy issue
- Press the ‘Forget this Wi-Fi’ button
- Confirm by clicking ‘Forget’ from the pop-up message
- Then, again select the Wi-Fi from the list of available connections
- Put the Wi-Fi password and press ‘Join’
- Lastly, check the Wi-Fi tab to see if the issue is fixed
3. Restart the Wi-Fi router
If the issue persists, restarting the Wi-Fi router can fix it. Just switch off the router by pressing the button and switch it back on after a few moments. You can then check the Wi-Fi status on your phone.
4. Update Router and Phone
If the above-mentioned quick fixes don’t work, you should try updating your router and phone to the latest software. Old firmware and iOS can become glitchy or cause undue errors. To update your iOS to the newest version, follow these steps:
- Open the settings app on your iPhone and scroll down to the ‘General’ tab
- Then click the ‘software update’ bar
- If a new update is available, install it
- After the phone restarts, recheck the Wi-Fi to see if the issue persists
Furthermore, the router’s firmware also needs to be updated to the latest one for a glitch-free performance. If the Wi-Fi box is not updated, follow these steps to do that:
- Connect the router to a PC using an Ethernet wire
- Open the network’s manufacturer’s website and install the firmware update
- Then open your networks web management page and log into it
- Select the installed firmware from that page to update the router
- Lastly, reboot your router, and it will be updated
- Connect the Wi-Fi to your iPhone and see if the issue fixes
5. Follow Apple’s recommended settings
Apple Inc. recommends certain settings for Wi-Fi routers, base stations, and access points. You can use these settings if you have the administrative rights of your network and own Apple devices to prevent this privacy error. In addition, users who manage their own networks can aid from this feature.
Here are the key takeaways from the Apple-provided settings:
- Set the Wi-Fi to WPA3 Personal for advanced security
- Set to WPA2/WPA3 Transitional for better compatibility with older gadgets
- Set a unique and single SSID (Network name)
- Disable the hidden address
- Disable the MAC address filtering, authentication, and access control
- Enable the Automatic firmware updates
- Enable DHCP, NAT, and WMM
Conclusion
Every device on the internet has its privacy and unique IP address. It helps keep online trackers and data thieves at bay. In addition, Apple provides exceptional security features for its devices, especially iPhones. If ever you face a DNS encryption-related issue on your iOS, use these quick fixes to regain the security protocol.
Till next time!
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