What Is the Best DNS Server in the World?
When it comes to choosing a DNS (Domain Name System) server, there are several options available. The DNS server you choose can have a significant impact on your internet browsing experience. In this article, we will explore the concept of DNS servers and discuss some of the best options out there.
Understanding DNS Servers
DNS servers act as the phone book of the internet. They translate human-readable domain names, like www.example.com, into machine-readable IP addresses, such as 192.168.1. When you enter a website’s URL into your browser, your device sends a request to a DNS server to resolve the domain name into an IP address.
There are two types of DNS servers: Recursive DNS servers and Authoritative DNS servers. Recursive DNS servers fetch information from other servers on behalf of clients, while authoritative DNS servers store specific domain names and their corresponding IP addresses.
The Best DNS Servers
Now that you understand how DNS servers work, let’s explore some of the best options available:
- Google Public DNS: Google Public DNS is known for its reliability and speed. It offers enhanced security features and provides an easy-to-remember set of IP addresses: 8.8.8 and 8.4.
- Cloudflare: Cloudflare’s 1.1 is another popular choice among users who prioritize privacy and security while maintaining fast browsing speeds.
- OpenDNS: OpenDNS offers both free and paid services with advanced security features such as phishing protection and parental controls.
- Quad9: Quad9 is a non-profit DNS service that focuses on blocking malicious websites and protecting users from malware and phishing attempts.
How to Change Your DNS Server
Now that you have an idea of some of the best DNS servers, you may be wondering how to change your current DNS server. Here’s a quick guide:
- Windows: Go to the Control Panel, open Network and Sharing Center, click on Change adapter settings, right-click on your network connection, select Properties, choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), click Properties again, and enter the preferred DNS server address.
- Mac OS X: Open System Preferences, go to Network, select your network connection, click Advanced, navigate to the DNS tab, and add the desired DNS server addresses.
- Linux: The process might vary depending on your Linux distribution. However, most distributions allow you to change DNS settings via the Network Manager or by editing configuration files in /etc/resolv.conf directory.
In Conclusion
The choice of a DNS server can significantly impact your internet browsing experience. Whether you prioritize speed, security, or advanced features like parental controls, there are several excellent options available. Consider experimenting with different DNS servers to find the one that best suits your needs.
Note: After changing your DNS server settings, it may take some time for the changes to propagate and take effect. Clearing your browser cache can help speed up this process.