DNS (Domain Name System) translates website names into IP addresses. Your internet provider usually assigns DNS servers automatically, but you can switch to public DNS services that may offer better reliability, speed, security filtering or privacy features. Changing DNS can also help troubleshoot websites that fail to load.
When Changing DNS Can Help
- Websites not loading due to DNS errors
- Slow DNS lookups from your provider
- Wanting security features like malware or phishing blocking
- Wanting encrypted DNS options for privacy
Popular Public DNS Options
| — | — |
|---|---|
| Cloudflare DNS | Speed and privacy-focused options |
| Quad9 | Security filtering for malicious domains |
Check each provider’s current addresses and privacy policies on their official websites.
Windows
- Open Settings → Network & internet
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet → your connection → Hardware properties
- Next to DNS server assignment, click Edit
- Choose Manual, enable IPv4 (and IPv6 if needed)
- Enter preferred and alternate DNS addresses
- Save
Mac
- Open System Settings → Network
- Select your connection → Details
- Click DNS
- Add new DNS server addresses with the plus button
- Click OK
Android (Private DNS)
- Open Settings → Network & internet (or Connections)
- Find Private DNS
- Choose “Private DNS provider hostname”
- Enter the provider’s DNS-over-TLS hostname
- Save
iPhone and iPad
- Open Settings → Wi-Fi
- Tap the info icon next to your network
- Tap Configure DNS → Manual
- Add DNS servers and remove old ones
- Save
This applies to the selected Wi-Fi network only.
Router-Level DNS
Changing DNS on your router applies the setting to all devices on your home network. Log in to your router admin panel and update DNS settings under internet or WAN configuration.
Flush DNS Cache
| — | — |
|---|---|
| Windows | Run “ipconfig /flushdns” in Command Prompt |
Testing After Changes
Visit several websites and use online DNS leak or resolver tests to confirm the new DNS is in use.
Possible Issues
- Some corporate or school networks require specific DNS
- Location-based content may change slightly
- Parental controls provided by your ISP may stop working
Frequently Asked Questions
Is changing DNS safe?
Yes, when using reputable providers.
Will DNS make my internet faster?
It can speed up domain lookups but does not increase bandwidth.
Can I revert to automatic DNS?
Yes, switch back to automatic settings anytime.
Does DNS hide my browsing?
Encrypted DNS hides DNS lookups from some observers, but it is not a full privacy solution.
Conclusion
Changing DNS settings is a simple way to troubleshoot connection issues and access security or privacy features. Choose a reputable provider, update settings on your device or router and test the results.
