If you’re looking to get rid of a DNS server, there are a few steps you can follow to ensure a smooth process. Whether you’re experiencing issues with your current DNS server or simply want to switch to a different one, this tutorial will guide you through the necessary steps. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Understand the Importance of DNS Servers
Before we proceed, let’s quickly understand what a DNS server is and its significance. DNS stands for Domain Name System, and it is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. In simple terms, it helps your computer locate websites on the internet by resolving domain names into their corresponding IP addresses.
Why You Might Want to Get Rid of a DNS Server
There are several reasons why you might want to get rid of a DNS server:
- Performance Issues: If your current DNS server is slow or unreliable, switching to a different one can improve your internet browsing experience.
- Security Concerns: In some cases, a specific DNS server may be associated with security vulnerabilities. Changing to a more secure option can help protect your online activities.
- Content Access: Certain DNS servers restrict access to specific websites or content. Switching servers may help bypass these restrictions.
Step 2: Identify Your Current DNS Server
Before getting rid of your current DNS server, it’s important to know which one you’re currently using. Here’s how you can find out:
- Windows:
- Open the Control Panel.
- Click on “Network and Internet” or “Network and Sharing Center. “
- Select “Change adapter settings.
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- Right-click on your active network connection and choose “Properties. “
- In the properties window, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click on “Properties. “
- Your DNS server information will be listed under the “Preferred DNS server” and “Alternate DNS server” sections.
- Mac:
- Open System Preferences.
- Select “Network.”
- Choose your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Click on the “Advanced” button.
- Navigate to the “DNS” tab.
- Your DNS server addresses will be listed in the left-hand column under “DNS Servers.”
If you’re using a Windows operating system, follow these steps:
If you’re using a Mac, follow these steps:
Note down your current DNS server addresses, as you may need them later.
Step 3: Change Your DNS Server
Now that you have identified your current DNS server, it’s time to change it. Follow these steps based on your operating system:
Changing DNS Server on Windows
To change your DNS server on Windows, follow these steps:
- Option 1: Using Control Panel
- Open the Control Panel. “
- Right-click on your active network connection and choose “Properties.
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- In the properties window, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click on “Properties. “
- Select the option to “Use the following DNS server addresses. “
- Enter the new DNS server addresses provided by your desired DNS service provider.
- Option 2: Using Settings App
- Open the Settings app.
- Select “Network & Internet. “
- Click on “Change adapter options. “
- Follow steps 5-7 from Option 1 to enter the new DNS server addresses.
- Option 1: Using System Preferences
- Navigate to System Preferences > Network.
- Option 2: Using Terminal
- Flush DNS Cache: Clearing your DNS cache can help resolve any potential conflicts or outdated information. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac) and type in the following command: “ipconfig /flushdns” (Windows) or “sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” (Mac).
- Restart Your Device: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix any connectivity issues or conflicts.
- Revert to Previous DNS Server: If you’re facing significant issues or prefer your previous DNS server, you can revert the changes by following the same steps mentioned earlier and entering your old DNS server addresses.
If you prefer using the Control Panel, follow these steps:
If you prefer using the Settings app, follow these steps:
Changing DNS Server on Mac
To change your DNS server on a Mac, follow these steps:
If you prefer using System Preferences, follow these steps:
Choose your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Click on the “Advanced” button. Navigate to the “DNS” tab. Remove the existing DNS server addresses by selecting them and clicking on the “-” button.
Click on the “+” button to add new DNS server addresses provided by your desired DNS service provider. Click “OK” to save the changes.
If you prefer using Terminal, follow these steps:
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Open Terminal from the Utilities folder or by searching for it in Spotlight. Type in the following command and press Enter:
sudo networksetup -setdnsservers Wi-Fi [DNS Server IP Address]Replace “[DNS Server IP Address]” with the IP address of your desired DNS server.
Enter your administrator password when prompted.
Step 4: Test Your New DNS Server
After changing your DNS server, it’s important to test if it’s working correctly. You can use various online tools or websites to check if your new DNS server is resolving domain names properly. Additionally, you can try accessing different websites to see if there is any improvement in performance or if you can now access previously restricted content.
Common Troubleshooting Steps
If you encounter any issues after changing your DNS server, here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:
Conclusion
Getting rid of a DNS server involves understanding why you want to make the change, identifying your current DNS server, changing it to a new one, and testing its functionality. By following these steps and troubleshooting any potential issues, you can ensure a seamless transition to a new DNS server.
Remember to keep track of your old DNS server addresses in case you need to revert the changes. Happy browsing!