What Does Changing Your DNS Server Do?
When you connect to the internet, your device relies on a Domain Name System (DNS) server to translate human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses. The default DNS server assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may not always be the best option for you. Changing your DNS server can offer various benefits, including improved speed, increased security, and enhanced privacy.
1. Faster Browsing Experience
One of the primary advantages of changing your DNS server is improved browsing speed. When you type a website address into your browser, it sends a request to the DNS server to find the corresponding IP address. The time it takes for this process to complete can impact how quickly a webpage loads.
By switching to a faster DNS server, such as Google Public DNS or Cloudflare DNS, you can reduce the time it takes for your browser to resolve domain names into IP addresses. This can result in faster loading times and a more seamless browsing experience.
2. Enhanced Security
The DNS plays a crucial role in ensuring secure internet communication. However, some default DNS servers may not provide sufficient protection against cyber threats like phishing attacks or malware infections.
Changing your DNS server to one that offers additional security features can help safeguard your online activities. Several providers, such as OpenDNS and Quad9, offer built-in security measures that can block access to malicious websites and prevent potential threats from reaching your device.
3. Improved Privacy
Your ISP’s default DNS server may log your browsing history and other sensitive information. By switching to an alternative DNS server that prioritizes privacy, you gain greater control over which entities have access to your online activities.
DNS servers like DNS.WATCH and Cloudflare DNS have strict privacy policies that prioritize user anonymity and limit data collection. This allows you to browse the internet with peace of mind, knowing that your online activities are not being monitored or tracked.
How to Change Your DNS Server
Changing your DNS server is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open the Control Panel on your device.
- Select “Network and Internet” or “Network and Sharing Center,” depending on your operating system.
- Click on “Change adapter settings” or a similar option.
- Right-click on the network connection you are using (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select “Properties. “
- In the properties window, scroll down and find “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” or “Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)” depending on which version you are using.
- Select the protocol version, then click on the “Properties” button.
- In the new window, select the option to use specific DNS server addresses.
- Enter the IP addresses of your preferred DNS servers.
For example, Google Public DNS uses “8.8.8” and “8.4. “
- Click “OK” to save the changes.
Note: It’s recommended to note down your current DNS settings before making any changes so that you can revert them if needed.
In Conclusion
The DNS server you use can impact your browsing experience, security, and privacy. By changing your DNS server to one that is faster, more secure, and privacy-focused, you can optimize your internet connection and protect your online activities. Follow the simple steps mentioned above to switch to a different DNS server and enjoy a safer and more efficient online experience.