Having DNS leaks with WireGuard? Here's how to fix it for good, step by step

Many people notice the same thing after switching to WireGuard: the speed is indeed faster, and the connection is more stable. But after using it for a while, some start to realize something isn’t right.

Even though they’re connected to a node, websites can still detect their real location, or even trigger risk controls. In most cases, this is caused by a DNS leak.

Many people don’t know what to do. Next, we’ll explain what to do when DNS leaks occur while using WireGuard. You’ll learn step by step what a DNS leak is, how to perform a DNS leak test, and practical ways to prevent DNS leaks caused by WireGuard.

1. What Is a DNS Leak and Why Does It Expose Your Real Information?

DNS is essentially a “website translator.” When you type a website address into your browser, your computer first asks a DNS server: “What IP address corresponds to this domain?”

If you’re connected to WireGuard but your DNS requests still go through your local network, websites can see your real DNS source. As a result:

•  Websites may determine your real location

•  Streaming platforms may restrict content

•  Some platforms may trigger risk controls

•  Browser fingerprint results may appear abnormal

This is what’s known as a DNS leak.

2. How to Perform a DNS Leak Test? Remember These Two Simple Methods

Method 1: Use an Online DNS Leak Testing Website

After connecting to WireGuard, open your browser and visit a DNS testing site, such as a DNS leak test tool, IP check website, or privacy testing platform.

If the results show:

•  Your local ISP’s DNS

•  DNS servers from your real country

•  A region inconsistent with your node

Then a DNS leak has most likely occurred. It’s recommended to test multiple times using different websites to confirm the results.

Method 2: Combine with Browser Fingerprint Testing

•  Some websites don’t just check IPs—they also analyze browser fingerprints, including time zone, language, DNS source, WebRTC, fonts, and hardware information.

•  If the DNS region and IP region don’t match, the fingerprint score will drop significantly.

•  You can use the ToDetect fingerprint checking tool, which provides an overall fingerprint environment score to help you identify privacy issues more clearly.

3. Why DNS Leaks Are Common with WireGuard

Many people think everything is fine once they connect to WireGuard, but that’s not always true. Common causes include:

1. DNS Not Specified in the Configuration

WireGuard does not force system DNS changes by default. If no DNS address is specified in the configuration file, the system will continue using the local DNS.

For example:

[Interface]

PrivateKey = xxx

Address = 10.0.0.2/24

If there is no:DNS = 1.1.1.1, a DNS leak will likely occur.

2. System Backup DNS Servers

Some systems automatically keep backup DNS servers, such as your ISP’s DNS, router DNS, or IPv6 DNS. Even if WireGuard connects successfully, these may still be used.

3. Browser’s Own DNS Mechanism

Some browsers enable:

•  DNS over HTTPS (DoH)

•  Built-in DNS services

These can bypass WireGuard’s DNS settings and directly query external DNS servers.

4. Practical Ways to Prevent DNS Leaks with WireGuard

Method 1: Force DNS in the WireGuard Configuration

Add a DNS field in the client configuration file:

[Interface]

PrivateKey = xxx

Address = 10.0.0.2/24

DNS = 1.1.1.1

•  Or use the internal DNS provided by the node:DNS = 10.0.0.1

This is the most basic and most important step.

Method 2: Enable Full Traffic Routing (AllowedIPs)

•  Make sure the configuration includes:AllowedIPs = 0.0.0.0/0, ::/0

This means:

•  All IPv4 traffic goes through the tunnel

•  All IPv6 traffic also goes through the tunnel

Otherwise, some DNS requests may bypass WireGuard.

Method 3: Disable System or Browser Backup DNS

•  Windows: Network adapter settings, remove extra DNS servers.

•  macOS: Network → Advanced → DNS, remove non-WireGuard DNS.

•  Browser: Disable DoH (Secure DNS).

Method 4: Disable IPv6 (Common Leak Source)

Many DNS leaks actually come from IPv6. If your node doesn’t support IPv6, you can disable IPv6 on your system:

•  Windows: Disable the IPv6 protocol

•  macOS/Linux: Disable the IPv6 interface

5. Final Step: Run Another DNS Leak Test

After completing the setup, be sure to test again. Recommended steps:

•  Connect to WireGuard → open a private window → visit a DNS leak test site.

Then use the ToDetect fingerprint checking tool for a browser fingerprint test. If:

•  DNS region matches the IP

•  Fingerprint score is normal

•  No local DNS appears

Then the protection is working.

6. Common DNS Leak Questions

Why is my IP correct but I’m still being detected?

Usually due to DNS leaks, inconsistent browser fingerprints, WebRTC leaks, or time zone mismatches. In this case, you should run a full fingerprint test instead of just checking the IP.

Are mobile devices more prone to DNS leaks?

Yes. Especially on Android, where Private DNS may be enabled, or some systems automatically optimize DNS. It’s recommended to disable Private DNS or configure it manually.

Summary

Based on the above, WireGuard itself does not actively protect your DNS. If it’s not configured correctly, hidden leaks can easily occur.

Make it a habit to run a full DNS leak test every time you switch nodes or devices, and combine it with the ToDetect browser fingerprint tool to check your overall privacy status.

In the end, preventing DNS leaks isn’t complicated—the key lies in habits and attention to detail. With proper configuration and regular testing, most WireGuard setups can remain stable and clean, giving you greater peace of mind.