Unlocking the Power of DNS: How to Change Your DNS Server and Why You Should
DNS, or Domain Name System, might sound like a complex technical jargon, but it’s actually a simple concept. Think of it as a phonebook for the internet, converting human-readable website names, like gadgets360.com, into the machine-friendly IP addresses your computer needs to connect. It’s the invisible force that allows you to browse the web without remembering a string of numbers. But what if you could make your online experience even smoother and more secure? That’s where changing your DNS server comes in. This guide will explain why you might want to switch, and walk you through the simple steps to do it on both Windows and macOS computers.
Understanding the Importance of DNS Servers
Your internet service provider (ISP) usually assigns you a default DNS server. While convenient, these servers might not always prioritize speed, reliability, or security, leading to slow website loading times, frustrating outages, and potential vulnerabilities. Here’s why you might want to consider changing your DNS server:
1. Enhanced Speed and Reliability
Public DNS servers like Google DNS and OpenDNS are optimized for speed and efficiency, potentially providing a noticeable improvement in website loading times. These servers have a global network of servers, which means your requests are likely to be routed to a server geographically closer to you, reducing latency and improving overall browsing experience.
2. Improved Security
Public DNS servers often incorporate advanced security features that traditional ISP servers might lack. For example, Google DNS and OpenDNS offer features like DNS filtering to block access to malicious websites and DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) to prevent spoofing attacks that can redirect you to fake websites.
3. Access to Blocked Websites
In certain locations or networks, certain websites might be inaccessible. Switching to a public DNS server that doesn’t enforce local restrictions can grant you access to blocked content, effectively bypassing censorship.
How to Change Your DNS Server
Changing your DNS server is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s how to do it on Windows and macOS:
Changing DNS Server on Windows
- Open Control Panel: You can access the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows search bar or pressing the Windows key + R and typing control.
- Network and Sharing Center: Navigate to Network and Sharing Center. Alternatively, you can right-click the network icon in the taskbar (bottom-right corner) and select Open Network and Sharing Center.
- Change Adapter Settings: Click Change adapter settings on the left side of the window.
- Properties: Right-click the active internet connection (typically Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and select Properties.
- Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4): Locate and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
- Use the following DNS server addresses: Select the option Use the following DNS server addresses: and enter the DNS server addresses of your choice. You’ll need to enter two addresses: the primary DNS server and the secondary DNS server (in case the primary server is unavailable).
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (primary) and 8.8.4.4 (secondary)
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 (primary) and 208.67.220.220 (secondary)
- Click OK: Once you’ve entered the new DNS server addresses, click OK to save the changes.
Note: Your changes might take a few minutes to fully take effect as your device refreshes its DNS cache.
Changing DNS Server on macOS
- System Preferences: Go to System Preferences by clicking the Apple icon in the top left corner and selecting System Preferences.
- Network: Select Network from the System Preferences window.
- Advanced: Click the Advanced button in the bottom right corner of the Network window.
- DNS Tab: Select the DNS tab at the top of the Advanced window.
- Remove Existing DNS: In the list of DNS servers, select each one and click the minus (-) button to remove them.
- Add New DNS: Click the plus (+) button to add new DNS server addresses. Enter the desired addresses:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
- Confirm Changes: Click OK to save the changes and close the Network window.
Further Considerations When Choosing a DNS Server
While Google DNS and OpenDNS are popular and reliable choices, there are other excellent options available:
- Cloudflare DNS: Offers fast and secure DNS resolution with additional features like DNS over HTTPS (DoH) for enhanced privacy.
- Quad9: Focused on security with parental controls and a commitment to user privacy.
- Norton ConnectSafe: Offers family-friendly DNS filtering designed to protect children from inappropriate content online.
The best DNS server for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Consider factors like speed, security features, privacy practices, and compatibility with your existing network configuration before making your choice.
Conclusion: Empower Yourself With a Better DNS
Changing your DNS server is a simple but powerful way to improve your online experience. With a little exploration and configuration, you can unlock faster browsing speeds, enhanced security, and potentially even access to blocked content. Don’t settle for the default DNS service provided by your ISP; take control of your online journey, and enjoy the benefits of a better DNS experience!
