DNS Filter Server 2.7.7 Release Notes

Improvements

DNS Filter Cache Improvements

In recent months, the size of the DNS Filter cache has been growing, which has degraded the performance of the DNS Filter. This release improves the efficiency of the cache, thus ensuring the DNS Filter server operates more efficiently.

Block Apple Private Relay

Previously, blocking Apple Private Relay domains resulted in the DNS block page appearing, which caused slow internet speeds for users. We made a fix to ensure these domains will return the DNS of the NX domain instead, meaning that this change blocks all Private Relay domains at a server level.

Policy Eviction

In DNS filter mode, a school teacher could initiate a Classwize Classroom or activate a Pause or Focus feature, and there was a delay in the action due to a cached policy decision. We made a fix to the DNS Filter Server that ensures immediate enforcement of the teacher's policy.

Single Flight

We have received reports from schools regarding students experiencing fallback mode when attempting to access data. We developed a solution called "Single Flight." This fix alleviates the load on client-side constraints and downstream services, resulting in a more efficient and reliable system.

Partial Filtering

We created a new feature called Partial Filtering, which enables you to block all of YouTube but allow access to specific educational videos for students.

Release timeline:

Block Apple Private Relay and Single Flight

• United States: 26th April 2023
• Australia & New Zealand: 26th April 2023
• United Kingdom: 26th April 2023

DNS Filter Cache Improvements

• United States: 4th May 2023

Policy Eviction and Partial Filtering

• United States: 11th May 2023
• Australia & New Zealand: 11th May 2023
• United Kingdom: 11th May 2023

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