What Is My DNS Server Name?
When it comes to connecting to websites or other internet services, the Domain Name System (DNS) plays a crucial role. It acts as a translator, converting human-readable domain names into IP addresses that computers can understand.
But have you ever wondered what DNS server your device is using? In this article, we will explore how to find out your DNS server name and why it matters.
Why Does Your DNS Server Matter?
The DNS server you use can have a significant impact on your internet experience. Different DNS servers may vary in terms of speed, reliability, security features, and the ability to bypass certain restrictions imposed by your internet service provider (ISP). By understanding which DNS server you are using, you can make informed decisions about optimizing your internet connectivity.
Finding Your DNS Server Name
There are several ways to determine the DNS server your device is currently configured to use:
- 1. Check Your Network Settings: On Windows, go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network Connections. Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties”. Under the “Networking” tab, double-click on “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)”. The DNS server addresses will be listed under the “Preferred DNS server” and “Alternate DNS server” sections.
- 2. Use Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt on Windows or Terminal on macOS.
Type the command “ipconfig /all” on Windows or “networksetup -getdnsservers Wi-Fi” on macOS (replace “Wi-Fi” with the appropriate network interface name if needed). Look for the “DNS Servers” entry in the output.
- 3. Check Router Settings: Log in to your router’s administration panel. Look for the DNS server settings, which may be under the “Internet” or “Network” section. The DNS server addresses configured here will apply to all devices connected to your network.
Changing Your DNS Server
If you find that your current DNS server is slow, unreliable, or doesn’t meet your needs, you can change it to another one. Here’s how:
- 1. Windows: Follow the steps mentioned earlier to access the network connection properties. Instead of selecting “Properties”, choose “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click on the “Properties” button. From there, select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the desired DNS server addresses. macOS: Open System Preferences and click on “Network”. Select your active network connection and click on the “Advanced” button.
Go to the “DNS” tab and click on the “+” button to add a new DNS server address. Enter the address and click “OK”. You can also remove existing DNS servers by selecting them and clicking on the “-” button. Router: Refer to your router’s documentation for instructions on changing DNS settings. Typically, you will need to log in to the administration panel and navigate to the appropriate section (e.g., Internet or Network). Enter the desired DNS server addresses and save your changes.
In Conclusion
Your DNS server plays a vital role in how you connect to websites and services on the internet. By knowing what DNS server you are using, you can make informed decisions about optimizing your internet experience. Whether you need faster speeds, enhanced security, or the ability to bypass certain restrictions, changing your DNS server is a simple and effective way to achieve it.
Remember to periodically check your DNS server name to ensure that you are using the most suitable option for your needs. By staying informed and proactive, you can make the most out of your internet connectivity.