SmartDNS is a built-in feature of PrivadoVPN’s Control Tower that provides encrypted DNS requests for faster, more private access to the Internet. It hides your identity and the websites you are visiting from your Internet provider and other third parties while keeping your traffic running at full speed.
Unlike traditional VPN tunneling, SmartDNS focuses only on encrypting DNS queries — the part of your traffic that reveals what sites you’re trying to reach. This allows your connection to stay fast while protecting your privacy and preventing DNS-based tracking or censorship.
Key Benefits of PrivadoVPN SmartDNS
1. Encrypted DNS Privacy
All DNS requests are encrypted to keep your activity private and prevent Internet providers or other parties from monitoring which sites you visit.
2. Faster Speeds
Because SmartDNS focuses only on DNS encryption, it offers excellent performance for streaming, gaming, and general browsing.
3. Works on All Your Devices
SmartDNS can be configured on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers — ideal for devices that don’t support full VPN apps.
4. Stops DNS Hijacking
By handling all DNS lookups through PrivadoVPN’s secure servers, SmartDNS helps prevent ISPs or malicious networks from redirecting you to unsafe sites.
5. Integrated Control
SmartDNS is managed directly through the Control Tower dashboard, alongside Threat Protection, Ad Blocker, and Parental Controls, giving you a unified privacy hub.
When to Use SmartDNS vs VPN
SmartDNS is perfect when you want faster performance and DNS privacy without full traffic encryption. For example:
- Streaming or gaming where speed is a priority
- Using devices without VPN support
- Preventing ISP tracking of your website activity
For complete traffic encryption or anonymity on public networks, PrivadoVPN’s full VPN mode is still the best choice. SmartDNS simply offers a lighter, faster privacy option for everyday use.
How to Set Up SmartDNS in PrivadoVPN Control Tower
Step 1: Log In
Sign in to your PrivadoVPN Control Tower dashboard using your Premium account.
Step 2: Find SmartDNS Settings
Scroll down to the SmartDNS section to view your unique encrypted DNS addresses.
Step 3: Choose a Device
Select where to apply SmartDNS — your computer, smart TV, console, or router. Setting it on your router covers all connected devices automatically.
Step 4: Enter the DNS Addresses
In your device’s network settings, replace the existing DNS addresses with the two provided in Control Tower.
Step 5: Save and Test
Save the changes, then confirm your secure connection at https://privadovpn.com/what-is-my-ip/.
Why SmartDNS Is Better with PrivadoVPN Premium
PrivadoVPN Premium includes encrypted SmartDNS access, Threat Protection, Ad Blocker, and Parental Controls — all within Control Tower. With these tools, you can combine DNS-level encryption for speed and privacy or switch to full VPN encryption whenever you need it.Upgrade to PrivadoVPN Premium today to activate Control Tower SmartDNS and secure your browsing with fast, encrypted DNS protection.
