SmartDNS - what is this technology, how does it work, and how it is connected
Stefany Anderson
SmartDNS is a technology that changes DNS queries to spoof the user's current location and open access to sites or services with geo-restrictions. Unlike Proxy or VPN, SmartDNS does not change the real IP and does not encrypt the transmitted data.
SmartDNS
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#2. NordVPN - The Most Stable VPN. Protects all your devices, private DNS on every server. Best value deal: save 59% (2 year-Deal)
#3. PureVPN - AES-256 encryption, 6500+ servers in 140+ Countries, 7-day VPN trial. Browsers Extensions available. 31 Days Money-Back Guarantee
#4. Surfshark - Deal of the Day: 59$ for 24 months. Tested on Windows PC - Android - macOS. Split tunneling, Free Trial available
#5. CyberGhost - Ultra Fast Servers, up to 7 devices, no Logs Policy, Special streaming servers, 45-day money back (Incorporated in USA)
How it Works
When connected to SmartDNS, custom DNS queries are redirected to remote servers, where they are changed to their real location while keeping their actual IP address.
The Pros of this Tactic:
- Low cost of online service, compared to a VPN or Proxy.
- The remote server automatically selects a location suitable for unblocking the platform.
- The service is configured on computers, mobile devices, smart TVs, routers, and Wi-Fi routers.
- Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu or BBC, and iPlayer do not block users from other regions since they are not tracked for IP changes.
- The lack of encryption protocols does not slow down Internet traffic: Enjoy 4K streaming resolution, all without (buffering).
The Cons:
- The real IP address is visible to external services and entities.
- The technology is unable to ignore and bypass firewalls.
- Without encryption protocols, the transmitted data can be intercepted.
- The server selected by the service is not able to unblock all content from one region. In those instances, you’ll have to wait for a reconnection to occur.
- SmartDNS provides different online services or technology as part of the VPN client.
- 5 devices per account
- Does not store user logs
- 24-hour technical support
- They use proprietary Lightway protocol
When you first subscribe for 12 months, the service gives you three months of use. Those who are not satisfied with the service can get a 100% refund within 30 days.
Transparent DNS Proxy Issues
Transparent DNS Proxy is a technology used by ISPs to intercept user requests and then proxy the results. Roughly speaking, providers impose their own DNS on customers without the ability to replace them.
In this case, you will not be able to use SmartDNS services. An exception is the configuration of the router's firewall with the transition from port 53 to port 54. This method will only work in combination with routers like DD-WRT.
Best VPNs with SmartDNS
SmartDNS services provide users with 1-2 DNS servers to change their actual location for a fee. Their services cost between $3 to $8 a month, which is near or cheaper than private virtual network services. However, VPN providers add SmartDNS support to their products, expanding the available functionality.
Our Top Product Picks
- 5 devices per account
- Does not store user logs
- 24-hour technical support
- They use proprietary Lightway protocol
When you first subscribe for 12 months, the service gives you three months of use. Those who are not satisfied with the service can get a 100% refund within 30 days.
- Connects up to 6 devices simultaneously
- Double encryption of current IP
- $3.71 per month with a 2-year plan
- Protection against ads, malware, and spyware
- Pay for services with a credit card, Google Pay, or cryptocurrency.
- 10 connections to the account
- 6,500 servers located in 140 countries
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Money-back guarantee within 31 days from the subscription date
- Dedicated P2P servers
- Double encryption of the IP-address
- Blocks ads, downloads of dangerous software
- Unlimited number of devices per account
Try a two-year plan and if you don’t love it, get a full refund within 30 days.
- Protection against DNS / IP leaks
- High connection speed
- 45-day money back
- Support for OpenVPN, WireGuard protocols
1. ExpressVPN
Price Range: $6.67 - $12.95. Special offer: $99.95 for 15 months
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Money-Back: 30-day free trial |
Devices: up to 5 |
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Devices: Apple TV, Fire TV, PlayStation, Xbox, Routers |
Platforms: Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, Linux |
This provider uses a similar technology called Mediastreamer. It does not know how to change the location and only works with an American server. This drawback is compensated for by ExpressVPN's high speed, the ability to use a VPN in China, and its versatility to connect any device from PC to game console securely.
Try ExpressVPN now and get our special offer!
2. NordVPN
Price Range: $3.49 - $11.95. Special offer: 2-year deal with 68% off
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Money-Back: 30-day free trial |
Devices:6 |
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Devices: Firestick, Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo Switch, Raspberry Pi, Chromebook, Chromecast |
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS |
NordVPN offers to set up SmartDNS on Smart TV by whitelisting the actual IP address beforehand (only IPv4 is supported). The technology opens up access to streaming services from ABC Go, Amazon Prime, Fox Now, HBO Now, and Netflix using the US region. Disney Plus operates through a German server.
3. PureVPN
Price Range: $1.32 - $10.95. Special offer: 7-day trial for only $0.99
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Money-Back: 31-day free trial |
Devices: 10 |
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Devices: Routers, Android TV, Amazon FireStick, Microsoft Surface |
Platforms: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox |
PureVPN has officially announced SmartDNS support with access to Hulu Plus, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney Plus without mentioning specific regions. A 2-year subscription at $3.33 is comparable to or less than specialized services in terms of cost.
Now work, binge & stay secure online with PureVPN
4. Surfshark
Price Range: $1.99 - $11.95. Special offer: Get 81% discount
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Money-Back: 30-day free trial |
Devices:Unlimited |
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Devices:Android TV, FireTV |
Platforms: Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, Linux, Chrome |
Like most other providers, Surfshark uses technology to connect to streaming services based inSurfshark the United States. Set up new DNS on the official website. They start streaming on smart TVs from LG, Samsung, Apple TV, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One game consoles.
5. CyberGhost
Price Range: $2.75- $12.99. Special offer: 3 extra months for FREE
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Money-Back: 45-day free trial |
Devices: 7 |
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Devices: Amazon Fire TV & Fire Stick, Android TV, Routers |
Platforms: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Linux |
This provider opens only three streaming services: British Netflix, American Netflix, and American Hulu. It is available on LG, Samsung, Apple (3rd generation) TVs, PlayStation 3/4, Xbox 360/One, Wii, and Wii U. How much such a connection will work? They suggest checking during a trial period of 24 hours.
Enjoy a fast and reliable VPN
Conclusion
SmartDNS is a technology designed to view online content in maximum quality without geo-restrictions. Overall, it aims to connect to devices that consume video content or do not ordinarily support VPN.
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Written by: Stefany Anderson
Technical Writer, Visit My WebSite Techno-copywriter, Privacy, Internet Security