Free Fix for the Latest DNS Exploit
Unless you've been living in a cave or otherwise comatose, you've probably heard that Dan Kaminsky, a security expert, discovered what could be a nasty DNS exploit. It was so serious that, hard as this is to imagine, even Microsoft paid attention. To get the backstory, read Kaminsky: Many Ways to Attack With DNS. And hold onto your seats, you Mac fans are also vulnerable. Read The DNS Vulnerability: What You Should Know and Do
OpenDNS -- A Smart Switch
It turns out that a simple switch of one of your network settings will protect you from the DNS exploit. Just change your system (or your router) domain server configuration to bypass your ISP's domain servers and use those offered by OpenDNS. It's a two minute process and the steps are explained on the OpenDNS site.
OpenDNS is a freebie and gives you more than just a better way to handle domain name servers. It can also give you a speedier way to get e-mail, FTP, and Internet access in general. It's faster because the OpenDNS domain servers have an enormous cache; if you ask for the same IP address that other users have requested, OpenDNS doesn't need to look elsewhere--it has it.
You say you don't have a clue about Domain Name servers? Basically, the DNS translates site names, such as CNN.com, into IP addresses that PCs use to find each other on the Internet. If you want a more extensive explanation, which will ultimately let you impress your friends, read More Ways to Protect Yourself From Phishing.
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I switched to OpenDNS a few weeks ago. It has been great!! Before the switch, my DSL modem would have to be reset every few days to restore access to the Internet, now I have not had one minute of downtime. Also, I love the faster net and the content and phishing blocking.
I just started using OpenDNS and their OpenDNS Updater. The updater does not work properly, I don't see any difference in speed and my email to support has not yet been answered.
Makes me wonder.
Thanks Steve I switched to OpenDNS and see a lot of improvement to my PC . Keep up the great work .