On-Device DNS VPN for Dynamic HTTPS Domain Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing content filtering methods, particularly those using DNS proxies, struggle with dynamic decision-making and HTTPS compatibility, leading to user confusion and suboptimal experiences due to false security warnings and the inability to handle user-specific preferences effectively.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a localized DNS virtual private network (VPN) on the device for dynamic filtering decisions, allowing user overrides and seamless handling of HTTPS, with a two-layer solution that intercepts and modifies DNS responses based on local and external policies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a DNS proxy server is used for content filtering, then domain name-based access control is achieved, but false security warnings occur and user confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by allowing users to directly manage their own filtering policies through a user-friendly interface. Users can create, modify, and delete filtering rules without requiring administrative intervention or technical expertise. The system automatically applies user-defined policies to DNS requests, eliminating false security warnings while maintaining effective content control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that allow users to report false positives and provide feedback on filtering effectiveness. This feedback loop enables continuous improvement of the filtering algorithm, reducing false security warnings and enhancing user experience over time while maintaining high filtering accuracy.
2Extent of automation
If external DNS servers are queried for domain policies, then centralized control is achieved, but network dependency and latency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-loading domain policies and filtering rules into local storage before they are needed. When a DNS request arrives, the system immediately queries local storage for the relevant policy information, eliminating network dependency and latency. Policies are updated periodically from external servers but are cached locally for rapid access during active use.
3Reliability
If DNS requests are diverted to proxy servers, then content filtering is achieved, but HTTPS compatibility deteriorates and user confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by adapting its filtering approach based on the protocol type and user context. For HTTPS requests, the system dynamically adjusts its behavior to respect user preferences and avoid interfering with secure connections. Users can selectively enable or disable filtering for specific domains or protocols, allowing the system to maintain effectiveness while improving compatibility with modern web standards.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a localized DNS VPN is implemented, then dynamic filtering decisions are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by dividing the filtering functionality into distinct modular components: a DNS client that handles protocol communication, a policy evaluation module that processes user preferences, and a decision engine that determines filtering actions. Each component operates independently and can be optimized or replaced without affecting the entire system, reducing overall complexity while enabling dynamic policy application.
Data Source
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AI summary
In an example, there is disclosed a computing apparatus, including: a hardware platform comprising a processor and a memory; software to access a network or internet resource according to a domain name; a network stack to provide network or internet access; and a virtual private network (VPN), configured to locally intercept a domain name-based access request, query a domain policy repository to determine whether the domain name should be blocked, and to query an external domain name system (DNS) server for an internet protocol (IP) address for the domain name and pass the request through the network stack if the domain name should not be blocked.