← All articles

What Is DNS — and Why It Matters for Privacy

DNS is the internet's address book, and it can leak your browsing. Here's the basics.

Every site you visit starts with a DNS lookup — translating a name like example.com into an address. Those lookups can reveal your browsing.

Why DNS matters for privacy

By default, DNS requests often go to your ISP, which can log every domain you visit — even on HTTPS sites.

How a VPN helps

A good VPN routes your DNS through its own encrypted tunnel, so your ISP can't see the domains you look up. VPN Panda keeps DNS inside the tunnel.

Watch for DNS leaks

If DNS bypasses the VPN, it exposes your activity. Run a DNS‑leak test while connected to confirm you're protected.

FAQ

Q: Can my ISP see DNS even on HTTPS? A: Yes — HTTPS hides page content, but standard DNS can still reveal the domains. Q: Does a VPN fix DNS leaks? A: A good one routes DNS through the tunnel; always verify with a leak test.