Technitium DNS Server
Technitium DNS Server: A free, open-source DNS server with advanced filtering and network controls. Ranked #42 of 65 in Internet Filtering Software by our editors (5.1/10); pricing: Free plan; best for self-hosted DNS administrators.
At a glance
- Editor score5.1 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forSelf-hosted DNS administrators
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Custom blocklistsYes
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Advanced domain, regex, and AdBlock-format filtering
- Encrypted DNS, DNSSEC validation, logging, and statistics
- Clustering, DHCP, API access, and cross-platform support
Where it doesn't
- Requires self-hosted administration rather than a managed service
- Filtering schedules are not documented as a supported workflow
- Focused on DNS administration instead of broad consumer platforms
Our verdict on Technitium DNS Server
Technitium DNS Server is a free, open-source DNS server for administrators who want to run their own filtering and resolution infrastructure. It supports Windows, Linux, macOS, Raspberry Pi, Docker, and self-hosted deployments, making it suitable for personal networks, servers, and small or medium-sized organizations. Its scope extends beyond domain blocking: it can provide authoritative and recursive DNS resolution, host zones, operate a built-in DHCP server, and expose both a web administration console and HTTP API.
Filtering is the product’s strongest area. Administrators can enter domains manually or use blocklist URLs, then refine controls with domain, regex, and AdBlock-format lists. Client- and subnet-based policies allow different rules for different parts of a network. DNS query logging and dashboard statistics support activity review, while encrypted DNS through DNS-over-TLS, DNS-over-HTTPS, and DNS-over-QUIC adds transport options. DNSSEC validation and signed-zone support further extend its DNS capabilities. Integrations include Cloudflare, Google Public DNS, Quad9, AdGuard, and Docker.
Technitium is a strong fit for users comfortable operating DNS software and managing network configuration directly. Clustering helps administrators manage multiple DNS Server instances, and the cross-platform design supports varied deployment environments. The trade-off is that the product’s value depends on self-hosting and administration rather than a managed, per-device experience. Its documented focus is DNS-based control, so buyers seeking a broader filtering suite or a clearly defined scheduling workflow should consider a different product. Choose Technitium for control, custom policies, encrypted DNS, and open-source deployment; avoid it if you want a hosted service with minimal infrastructure responsibility.
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Technitium DNS Server pricing
Technitium DNS Server fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Device limit | Not verified |
| Custom blocklists | Yes |
| Safe search controls | Yes |
| Filtering schedules | Not verified |
| Activity reports | Basic |
| Platform support | Windows, Linux, macOS, Raspberry Pi, Docker, local networks |
| Deployment | Self-hosted, Desktop, Cloud |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Compliance & security | 2FA |
| Support | Email, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | technitium.com |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Technitium DNS Server
- Cloudflare GatewayA broad filtering gateway with strong policy controls and basic reporting.9.2
- Cisco UmbrellaA mature enterprise filter with broad controls, integrations, and contact-sales pricing.9.1
- Pi-holeFree, open-source network blocking for self-hosted administrators.9.0
See all Technitium DNS Server alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Technitium DNS Server is ranked in 4 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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