Cloud DNS vs Public DNS Resolvers
Free public resolvers are fast, but business needs go beyond speed. Here is the difference.
Free public DNS resolvers are popular because they are fast and reliable. Many businesses switch to them to replace slow default resolvers. But businesses often need more than speed.
What public resolvers provide
Fast lookups, global availability and, in some cases, basic malware blocking. They are free and easy to configure.
What they usually lack
- Custom policies by group or network
- Category-based filtering beyond basic security
- Detailed reports on blocked threats and devices
- Allow and block lists managed by your team
- Business support and accountability
What a managed Cloud DNS adds
Business-focused DNS services combine fast resolution with threat intelligence, flexible policies, reporting and support. You can see which devices are trying to reach malicious domains and adjust policies centrally.
Compliance and visibility
Organisations may need to show that they apply security controls and filter inappropriate content. Managed services provide evidence through reports.
Privacy
Understand how each resolver handles query data, how long it is stored and where.
Performance
Managed resolvers can be as fast as public ones, especially when hosted close to users.
Integration
Managed DNS can integrate with firewalls, SIEM systems and identity providers.
Cost vs value
Free resolvers cost nothing, but a single prevented incident can justify a managed service many times over.
The bottom line
Public resolvers are fine for speed; businesses need control, visibility and support. UbiFi Cloud DNS provides all three.
Learn more about Cloud DNS & Web Filtering from UbiFi, or talk to our team.
Protective DNS that blocks phishing, malware and unwanted content for every device on your network — no software to install.
