Is Smart DNS Safe Enough for You?

The details

There is one very important thing to clarify about any smart DNS service: they specialize in granting access, and access only. Almost all companies that offer such products advertise themselves as gateways to streaming websites; that you will be able to view content that is blocked inside your country of residence. This is true, but for example if a smart DNS service lets you access a website like Netflix, it will not let you access its films, shows and so on right away. You still have to register and pay for Netflix content – a smart DNS only helps in providing opportunities for you to reach websites you cannot access otherwise.

Now, about safety; again, it is essential to state that unless it is combined with other services, a smart DNS does not encrypt your traffic in itself and it does not offer something with a similar level of protection. This makes smart DNS a less safe service than say a VPN. However, encryptions reduce your connection speeds. Since smart DNS works on a different basis – the change of DNS addresses – your regular internet speeds are preserved. This creates an opportunity for you to stream blocked content without any trouble at all, but your actions can be intercepted by third parties. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or surveillance bodies can potentially detect your shenanigans if you use smart DNS alone.

Conclusion

Basically, smart DNS is a quick and easy access tool if you are interested in foreign online entertainment. In fact, companies that distribute such services actively advertise themselves mostly with USA, UK and German shows. If you look up a smart DNS product, you should always look for the complete list of websites you can gain access to and then decide if that particular selection is what you prefer. Overall, though its uses are quite specialized; smart DNS is the quickest solution to unblocking certain restricted content, but it will not be of any help in protecting your online identity and activities.