Hello! If you've ever utilized DNS0.EU, you likely appreciated it because it allowed you to use the Internet privately and safely. Unfortunately, that free service is now discontinued because it could not survive into the long-term.
Operating a DNS service is quite complicated. It requires servers that are constantly on, countermeasures to ensure server protection from potentially intrusive cyberattacks, and regular updates to keep the DNS service functioning smoothly and securely. Without a means of sustaining the operation or earning income to support it, it simply became unsustainable.
Here’s what made users like it:
• No tracking or data logger - It did not collect any personal data on users; it didn’t sell user data either.
• EU privacy laws - It conformed to and took advantage of the GDPR and supported European digital independence.
• Protection against malware and phishing - It automatically blocks known unsafe websites.
• Free service - Anyone can use this visitor service without paying anything.
Cool, right?
But running a privacy service this strong requires real money.
The team implied that the issue with the user base was not users, but funding to keep it running long-term.
• Quad9 (9.9.9.9) - Another good option for safe and private browsing.
• Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) - As noted above, speed privacy is one of their promises- the same is true for their DNS.
• AdGuard DNS - Blocks ads and trackers by default.
What Happened to DNS0.EU?
The team behind DNS0.EU, which was backed by Whalebone and CZ.NIC, said that the reason for discontinuation was because of its unsustainable nature. In simple terms, it cost too much to operate, given the many man-hours and resources involved.Operating a DNS service is quite complicated. It requires servers that are constantly on, countermeasures to ensure server protection from potentially intrusive cyberattacks, and regular updates to keep the DNS service functioning smoothly and securely. Without a means of sustaining the operation or earning income to support it, it simply became unsustainable.
So, What Made DNS0.EU Special?
So, what was so special about DNS0.EU in comparison to other DNS services? The answer is the focus on privacy and security for citizens of the European Union (EU).Here’s what made users like it:
• No tracking or data logger - It did not collect any personal data on users; it didn’t sell user data either.
• EU privacy laws - It conformed to and took advantage of the GDPR and supported European digital independence.
• Protection against malware and phishing - It automatically blocks known unsafe websites.
• Free service - Anyone can use this visitor service without paying anything.
Cool, right?
But running a privacy service this strong requires real money.
Why It Had to Close
Costs for running DNS0.EU increased with every new user. The team did not run ads or have paid plans, which meant that they had no real way to make continuous money. The team did not want to lower the quality of the service or try to run ads to “survive”, so they did the right thing and closed it.The team implied that the issue with the user base was not users, but funding to keep it running long-term.
What Else is Available?
If you previously used DNS0.EU, fret not! You can transition to alternative privacy-first DNS providers, including:• Quad9 (9.9.9.9) - Another good option for safe and private browsing.
• Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) - As noted above, speed privacy is one of their promises- the same is true for their DNS.
• AdGuard DNS - Blocks ads and trackers by default.