Quad9
🇨🇭by Quad9
Quad9 is a free DNS service that protects users from malware, phishing, and other online threats by blocking malicious lookups and ensuring privacy without logging IP addresses.
GDPR CompliantEU-BasedSwiss hosted
free
GDPR Compliance Risk
OpenDNS is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.
GDPR-Compliant Alternative to OpenDNS
🇺🇸Cisco · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act
OpenDNS by Cisco enhances your internet security and performance by providing fast, reliable DNS resolution. Protect your network from online threats and customize web filtering with easy-to-use controls.
Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to OpenDNS
Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like OpenDNS has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.
While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.
For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based dns services is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to OpenDNS, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.
CLOUD Act Exposure
US authorities can access your data stored by OpenDNS, even if servers are located in Europe.
GDPR Fine Risk
Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.
EU Alternative Available
1 GDPR-compliant European alternative available with full EU data residency.
1 GDPR-Compliant Alternative to OpenDNS
European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency
Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison
| Service | HQ Location | GDPR Native | EU Data Centers | CLOUD Act Free | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
🇺🇸OpenDNS | United States | No | Partial | No | - |
| 🇨🇭Quad9 | CH | Yes | Yes | Yes | free |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenDNS GDPR compliant?
OpenDNS is a US-based service operated by Cisco. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.
What are the GDPR risks of using OpenDNS?
The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.
What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to OpenDNS?
The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to OpenDNS include Quad9. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.
How do I migrate from OpenDNS to a GDPR-compliant alternative?
Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from OpenDNS using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.
Can EU companies legally use OpenDNS?
Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like OpenDNS. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.
Other GDPR Alternatives in DNS Services
Last updated: February 6, 2026