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?
Before we dive into the steps to change your DNS server, let’s understand what a DNS server is. DNS stands for Domain Name System.
It is like the phonebook of the internet that translates domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses (e., 192.168.0.1). Whenever you type a website address in your browser, your computer contacts a DNS server to retrieve the corresponding IP address.
Reasons to change your DNS server
There are several reasons why you might want to change your DNS server:
1. Browsing speed: By using a faster DNS server, you can reduce the time it takes for your browser to resolve domain names and load web pages. 2. Access region-restricted content: Changing your DNS server can help you bypass regional restrictions and access content that may be blocked in your location.
3. Enhanced security: Some DNS servers offer additional security features such as blocking malicious websites or filtering out unwanted content. 4. Privacy: Certain DNS servers prioritize user privacy by not logging or storing any data related to your browsing activities.
The steps to change your DNS server
Now that we understand why changing our DNS server can be beneficial, let’s go through the steps to do so:
Step 1: Open Network Settings
To begin, open the network settings on your device. The exact process may vary depending on the operating system you are using.
Step 2: Locate Your Network Connection
Next, locate the network connection that you want to change the DNS server for. This could be your Wi-Fi connection or Ethernet connection.
Step 3: Open Network Adapter Properties
Right-click on the network connection and select “Properties” from the dropdown menu. This will open the properties window for your network adapter.
Step 4: Select Internet Protocol Version (TCP/IPv4)
In the properties window, find and select “Internet Protocol Version (TCP/IPv4)” from the list of available options. Then click on the “Properties” button.
Step 5: Choose DNS Server Settings
In the next window, you will see two options for DNS server settings: “Obtain DNS server address automatically” and “Use the following DNS server addresses.” Choose the latter option.
Step 6: Enter New DNS Server Addresses
Now, enter the IP addresses of your preferred DNS servers in the provided fields. You can use public DNS servers like Google Public DNS (8.8.8 and 8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1 and 1.
- Primary DNS Server: 8.8
- Secondary DNS Server: 8.4
Step 7: Save Changes
Once you have entered the new DNS server addresses, click on “OK” to save your changes.
Note:
It’s important to keep in mind that changing your DNS server may temporarily disrupt your internet connectivity until the new settings take effect.
In conclusion, changing your DNS server can provide various benefits such as faster browsing, access to region-restricted content, enhanced security, and improved privacy. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily change your DNS server and enjoy a better internet experience.