Changing your DNS (Domain Name System) settings in Windows can enhance internet speed, improve security, and allow access to restricted content. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.
Understanding DNS
DNS translates human-friendly domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses that computers use to identify each other on the network. By default, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigns DNS servers, but you can change them to alternatives like Google DNS, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS for better performance and security.
Why Change Your DNS?
- Speed: Some DNS servers resolve domain names faster than others.
- Security: Third-party DNS services may offer protection against phishing and malware.
- Access: Bypass regional restrictions or censorship.
- Reliability: Alternative DNS servers can offer more consistent uptime.
Changing DNS in Windows 10
Method 1: Using Control Panel
- Press Windows + R, type control panel, and press Enter.
- Navigate to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change adapter settings on the left pane.
- Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
- Choose Use the following DNS server addresses.
- Enter your preferred DNS server addresses (e.g., Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
- Click OK to save changes.
Method 2: Using Settings App
- Click on Start > Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.
- Click on your network name.
- Scroll down to IP settings and click Edit.
- Choose Manual and toggle on IPv4.
- Enter your preferred and alternate DNS addresses.
- Click Save to apply changes.
Changing DNS in Windows 11
Method 1: Using Settings App
- Click on Start > Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.
- Click on your network name.
- Scroll down to DNS server assignment and click Edit.
- Choose Manual and toggle on IPv4.
- Enter your preferred and alternate DNS addresses.
- Click Save to apply changes.
Method 2: Using Control Panel
- Press Windows + R, type control panel, and press Enter.
- Navigate to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change adapter settings on the left pane.
- Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
- Choose Use the following DNS server addresses.
- Enter your preferred DNS server addresses.
- Click OK to save changes.
Popular DNS Servers
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
Verifying DNS Changes
To confirm that your DNS settings have been updated:
- Open Command Prompt.
- Type ipconfig /all and press Enter.
- Look for the DNS Servers line under your active network connection.
Flushing DNS Cache
After changing DNS settings, it’s advisable to flush the DNS cache:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
Conclusion
Changing your DNS settings in Windows is a straightforward process that can lead to improved internet performance and security. By following the steps outlined above, you can customize your DNS preferences to suit your needs.
