OpenNIC

OpenNIC

OpenNIC is an alternative DNS root system that promotes freedom of choice and privacy for internet users. It offers an alternative to the traditional ICANN-regulated DNS root servers.
OpenNIC image
privacy security alternative-root

OpenNIC: Alternative DNS Root System

OpenNIC is an alternative DNS root system that promotes freedom of choice and privacy for internet users. It offers an alternative to the traditional ICANN-regulated DNS root servers.

What is OpenNIC?

OpenNIC is a non-profit organization that maintains an alternative Domain Name System (DNS) root server network outside the control of ICANN. The OpenNIC DNS allows internet users to voluntarily select an alternative set of root servers for DNS resolution and registration services.

Some key benefits and features of the OpenNIC DNS include:

  • Improved privacy - OpenNIC servers do not track or log user data and DNS queries
  • User choice - OpenNIC promotes a free market of competitive DNS namespaces outside the control of a single entity
  • Censorship resistance - Being decentralized makes censorship more difficult
  • Supports new domain extensions - OpenNIC has pioneered new top-level domains not yet available in ICANN

By separating the DNS root zone from ICANN's political framework, OpenNIC offers users an ethical alternative root system focused on security, privacy, and growing the namespace organically through bottom-up adoption. However, compatibility with the global ICANN DNS is not guaranteed for domains registered only in OpenNIC.

OpenNIC Features

Features

  1. Alternative DNS root system
  2. Promotes freedom of choice and privacy
  3. Decentralized architecture
  4. User-controlled DNS servers
  5. Supports DNSSEC

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Improves privacy and security

Avoids censorship and surveillance

User empowerment and control

Promotes a free and open internet

Cons

Limited compatibility with some software

Requires technical knowledge to setup

Smaller network than main DNS

Not universally supported by ISPs


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