AirVPN Split DNS allows you to route DNS queries for specific domains through AirVPN's servers, while other queries use your default DNS. This is particularly useful for enhancing IPv6 compatibility and preventing DNS leaks, especially when some services might not fully support IPv6 or when you want to ensure all DNS requests for particular domains are securely routed through the VPN tunnel. Without Split DNS, all your DNS traffic might be routed through your ISP, potentially exposing your browsing activity and negating some of the privacy benefits of using AirVPN.
Configuration involves modifying your AirVPN client settings or your system's network configuration. Here's a general approach:
Identify Domains: Determine which domains you want to route through AirVPN's DNS servers. For example, example.com.
AirVPN Client Configuration: If your AirVPN client supports Split DNS, add these domains to the client's configuration. The exact steps will vary depending on the client. Look for a setting labeled "Split DNS," "Custom DNS," or similar.
Manual Configuration (if needed): If your client doesn't support it, you can manually configure your system. This typically involves editing your /etc/resolv.conf file (on Linux) or configuring DNS settings in your network adapter properties (on Windows). However, directly editing /etc/resolv.conf is not recommended as it can be overwritten. Instead, use NetworkManager or systemd-resolved for persistent changes.
Example systemd-resolved configuration: Create a file /etc/systemd/resolved.conf.d/airvpn.conf with content similar to:
[Resolve]
DNS=airvpn_dns_ipv4 airvpn_dns_ipv6
Domains=example.com
Replace airvpn_dns_ipv4 and airvpn_dns_ipv6 with AirVPN's DNS server addresses.
After configuring AirVPN Split DNS, it's crucial to test for DNS leaks, especially regarding IPv6. Use online DNS leak test tools. These tools will show which DNS servers your queries are using. Ensure that queries for the domains you configured for Split DNS are resolving through AirVPN's servers, and that your default DNS server is not being used for those domains. Check both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses.
The performance impact of AirVPN Split DNS is usually minimal. There might be a slight increase in latency for the domains routed through AirVPN's DNS servers due to the extra hop. However, this is often negligible. The primary factor affecting performance is the distance to AirVPN's DNS servers and their load.
If a domain configured for Split DNS doesn't support IPv6, the DNS query will typically fall back to IPv4. Ensure that your AirVPN connection is properly configured for IPv4 as well. The Split DNS configuration should not negatively impact the resolution of IPv4-only domains.
Conflicting DNS Settings: Ensure there are no conflicting DNS settings on your system. For example, if you're using a local DNS resolver, make sure it's configured to forward queries for the specified domains to AirVPN's DNS servers.
Firewall Rules: Check your firewall rules to ensure that DNS traffic (port 53) is allowed through the VPN interface.
Client Updates: Keep your AirVPN client updated to benefit from the latest features and bug fixes related to Split DNS and IPv6 compatibility.
Incorrect Domain Configuration: Double-check that the domains you've configured for Split DNS are correctly entered, without typos or extra spaces.