XenoActive.org

Most people would not consider using an alternative DNS service to the one that is provided by there ISP. DNS is the service that allows computers to connect to each other by name (ie www.xenoactive.com) rather than IP address. What advantages are there to using an alternative DNS?

DNS block lists have long been used to prevent spammers from sending spam. When a spammer’s computer connects to a mail server, the mail server uses a special DNS service to look up the connecting computer. If the connecting computer is identified as a spam source, the mail server can simple close the connection before any spam is sent. OpenDNS offers similar protection for people surfing the web.

OpenDNS classifies each web site into a category. The categories range from the innocuous Automotive and Sports to the more risky Malware and Phishing. When someone attempts to surfs to a website, OpenDNS will redirect any categories selected by the account holder. The redirected site identifies the reason why the page was blocked. OpenDNS uses a community model for classifying web pages.

OpenDNS offers three levels of accounts: Basic, Deluxe, and Enterprise. The Basic service is a free ad supported service. It is geared toward home users, and allows people to block unwanted categories, while allowing OpenDNS to earn some money with a few ads on the redirect pages. The ads are removed from the Deluxe level for a small fee. The Enterprise level offers the most features (such as audit logging) that are desired by businesses.

OpenDNS is good service for providing a simple method of web content filtering. At the very least, we recommend creating an account and trying the service.

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