How Do I Change My DNS Server Address?

Changing your DNS server address can be a useful troubleshooting step if you’re experiencing slow internet speeds or encountering problems accessing certain websites. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of changing your DNS server address to potentially improve your browsing experience.

What is DNS?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s briefly understand what DNS is. DNS stands for Domain Name System, and it acts as the internet’s phone book. When you type a website’s URL in your browser, the DNS translates that human-readable domain name into an IP address that computers can understand.

Why Change Your DNS Server Address?

Your internet service provider (ISP) usually assigns you a default DNS server, but sometimes these servers can be slow or unreliable. By changing your DNS server address, you can potentially improve your internet speed and access to websites.

Step 1: Determine Your Current DNS Server Address

Before making any changes, it’s essential to know what your current DNS server address is. To find out, follow these steps:

• Windows:
1. Open the Command Prompt by pressing Windows Key + R, typing cmd, and pressing Enter.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type ipconfig /all and press Enter.
3. Look for the line that says “DNS Servers” and note down the IP address(es) listed.
• Mac:
1. Open System Preferences by clicking on the Apple menu and selecting “System Preferences”.
2. Click on the “Network” icon.
3. Select your active network connection on the left-hand side.
4. Click on the “Advanced..” button and navigate to the “DNS” tab.
5. Note down the IP address(es) listed in the DNS Servers section.
• Linux:
1. Open a terminal window.
2. Type the command cat /etc/resolv.conf and press Enter.
3. Note down the IP address(es) listed next to “nameserver”.

Once you’ve determined your current DNS server address, you can proceed to change it.

Step 2: Choose a New DNS Server Address

There are several public DNS servers available that you can use instead of your ISP’s default servers. Some popular options include Google Public DNS, OpenDNS, and Cloudflare DNS. Research these services and choose one that suits your needs.

Step 3: Change Your DNS Server Address

The process of changing your DNS server address differs depending on your operating system. Follow the instructions below based on your OS:

Windows:

1. Open the Control Panel by clicking on the Start menu and selecting “Control Panel”.
2. In Control Panel, click on “Network and Internet”.
3. Select “Network and Sharing Center”.
• For wired connections, click on the network connection icon and select “Properties”.
• For wireless connections, right-click on the Wi-Fi icon and select “Properties”.
4. Click on the “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” item and click on the “Properties” button.
5. Select the option to use the following DNS server addresses.
6. Enter the new DNS server addresses you chose in Step 2.
7. Click “OK” to save your changes.

Mac:

1. Open System Preferences by clicking on the Apple menu and selecting “System Preferences”.
2. Click on the “Network” icon.
3. Select your active network connection on the left-hand side.
• If you’re using Wi-Fi, click on “Advanced.”.
• If you’re using Ethernet, click on “Advanced.” and then go to the “TCP/IP” tab.
4. Navigate to the “DNS” tab.

   Linux:

   The process of changing DNS server addresses in Linux can vary depending on the distribution you’re using. Generally, you’ll need to modify the “/etc/resolv.conf” file and add your new DNS server addresses. Consult your distribution’s documentation or search online for specific instructions.

   Step 4: Test Your New DNS Server Address

   Once you’ve changed your DNS server address, it’s important to test if it’s working correctly. You can do this by visiting websites and checking if they load faster or by using online tools that measure your internet speed and DNS resolution time.

   Conclusion

   Changing your DNS server address is a relatively simple process that can potentially improve your internet speed and access to websites. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you should be able to change your DNS server address with ease. Remember to note down your current DNS server address before making any changes and test the new addresses to ensure they are working effectively.
   

   10 Related Question Answers Found

   How Do I Change My DNS Server IP Address?

   Changing your DNS server IP address can be a useful troubleshooting step if you are experiencing issues with your internet connection or if you simply want to improve your browsing speed and security. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing your DNS server IP address. What is a DNS Server?

   How Do I Change My Default DNS Server?

   Changing your default DNS server can help improve your internet speed and security. The DNS (Domain Name System) server translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing your computer to connect to websites and other online services. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of changing your default DNS server.

   How Do I Change My DNS Server?

   How Do I Change My DNS Server? Changing your DNS server can be a simple yet effective way to improve your internet browsing experience. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the process of changing your DNS server step-by-step.

   How Can I Change My DNS Server?

   Changing your DNS server can be a simple yet effective way to improve your internet browsing experience. DNS, or Domain Name System, is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses that computers can understand. By default, your computer or router is configured to use the DNS server provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

   How Do I Change My Primary DNS Server?

   Changing your primary DNS (Domain Name System) server can help improve your internet browsing experience by providing faster and more reliable access to websites. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to change your primary DNS server. Step 1: Open Network Settings To begin, open the network settings on your device.

   How I Change My DNS Server?

   Changing your DNS server can have a significant impact on your internet browsing experience. Whether you want to improve your browsing speed, access region-restricted content, or enhance your online privacy, changing your DNS server is a simple and effective solution. What is a DNS server?

   How Do I Change My Laptop's DNS Server?

   Changing the DNS server on your laptop can be a useful step to improve your internet browsing experience. DNS, which stands for Domain Name System, is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. By default, your laptop is configured to use a DNS server provided by your internet service provider (ISP).

   How Do I Change My Device's DNS Server?

   Many people are unaware of the importance of DNS servers in their devices. DNS stands for Domain Name System, which is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. By default, your device uses the DNS server provided by your internet service provider (ISP).

   How Do I Change My DNS Server Settings?

   Changing your DNS server settings can help improve your internet browsing experience and enhance your online security. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of changing your DNS server settings on different devices and operating systems. What is a DNS Server?

   How Do I Change My Mail Server DNS?

   How Do I Change My Mail Server DNS? Changing the DNS (Domain Name System) of your mail server is an essential task for anyone managing their own email infrastructure. Whether you’re setting up a new mail server or migrating to a different hosting provider, updating the DNS records correctly ensures that your emails get delivered without any issues.