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OpenDNS FamilyShield
What it is
OpenDNS FamilyShield is a free home DNS service preconfigured to block adult content. OpenDNS says its parental controls can protect devices across a home network, and the service includes protection against malicious phishing. Supported connected devices can include laptops, smartphones, tablets, DVRs, game consoles and TVs. Setup requires configuring devices to use the FamilyShield DNS nameservers, and the setup guide recommends configuring a home router to apply settings across the network. The listed nameservers are 208.67.222.123 and 208.67.220.123; the guide also links to a test for checking DNS configuration. FamilyShield is listed for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web and Windows, and does not require sign-up. OpenDNS provides support forums and documentation, including deployment walkthroughs and API guides. Use of the service constitutes agreement to the OpenDNS Terms of Service and Cisco Online Privacy Statement. OpenDNS says it was founded in 2006 and acquired by Cisco in 2015.
For and against
For
- Free with no sign-up required
- Preconfigured to block adult content
- Includes phishing protection
- Can cover devices connected to the home network
Against
- Requires DNS configuration
- Custom domain policies are not supported
- Use is subject to OpenDNS and Cisco terms and privacy statement
The verdict
FamilyShield provides a free, preconfigured filtering option for home network devices. It requires DNS setup, and its filtering is described as preconfigured rather than customizable by domain.
Who it suits
FamilyShield may suit households seeking DNS-based adult-content filtering and phishing protection for devices connected to the home network. It may be relevant to people who can configure DNS settings on devices or a router.
Plans and prices
OpenDNS Family Shield
Preconfigured to block adult content · no sign-up required
Read 8 Oct 2026 · opendns.com
On the record
- Company history
- OpenDNS says it was founded in 2006 and was acquired by Cisco in 2015.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Content filtering
- Family Shield is preconfigured to block adult content.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Device coverage
- OpenDNS settings can apply to devices connected to the home network, including laptops, smartphones, tablets, DVRs, game consoles, and TVs.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- FamilyShield DNS
- The FamilyShield nameservers are 208.67.222.123 and 208.67.220.123.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Parental controls
- OpenDNS says its parental controls protect every device in the home.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Phishing protection
- The home service includes built-in protection against malicious phishing.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Setup
- Setup involves configuring devices to use OpenDNS DNS nameservers, and the guide recommends setting it up on a home router.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Setup verification
- The setup guide provides a link to test whether the DNS settings are configured.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Support
- OpenDNS offers support forums and documentation with deployment walkthroughs and API guides.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Terms and privacy
- Using Family Shield constitutes agreement to the OpenDNS Terms of Service and Cisco Online Privacy Statement.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Who it is for
- OpenDNS describes its consumer products as designed to provide safer, faster, and more reliable internet at home.opendns.com · read 8 Oct 2026
