What Is the Current Fastest DNS Server?

When it comes to browsing the internet, one of the key factors that contribute to a smooth and fast experience is the Domain Name System (DNS). The DNS is responsible for translating human-readable domain names, like www.example.com, into machine-readable IP addresses, which are necessary for establishing connections and accessing websites.

Why Does DNS Speed Matter?

The speed of your DNS server can significantly impact your browsing experience. A slow DNS server can result in delays when loading web pages, making it frustrating for users. On the other hand, a fast DNS server can help reduce latency and improve overall internet speed.

How Can You Determine the Fastest DNS Server?

There are several ways to determine the fastest DNS server for your internet connection:

DNS Benchmarking Tools: You can use specialized tools like DNS Benchmark or GRC’s DNS Benchmark. These tools test various DNS servers and provide you with detailed information about their performance and response times.
Online Speed Tests: Some websites offer online tools that measure your current DNS server’s response time.
By testing multiple servers using these tools, you can find which one performs best for you.
Trial and Error: You can manually test different public DNS servers and monitor their performance over time. This method requires patience but can yield accurate results specific to your location and internet service provider (ISP).

The Current Fastest Public DNS Servers

The rankings of the fastest public DNS servers may change over time due to various factors such as network congestion, location, and infrastructure improvements. However, as of now, some of the top contenders for the title of the fastest DNS servers are:

Cloudflare DNS: Cloudflare’s DNS service is known for its exceptional performance and global network coverage. It offers both IPv4 and IPv6 support.
Google Public DNS: Google’s Public DNS is popular for its reliability and fast response times.
It also supports both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols.
Quad9: Quad9 is a non-profit DNS service that focuses on security and privacy. It uses threat intelligence to block malicious websites, providing an additional layer of protection.

Please note that while these servers are generally considered fast, their performance may vary depending on your location and network conditions. It is recommended to test multiple servers to find the one that suits your needs best.

How to Change Your DNS Server?

If you have determined a faster DNS server and want to switch to it, you can do so by following these general steps:

Windows:

Go to the Control Panel.
Select “Network and Internet” or “Network and Sharing Center”.
Click on “Change adapter settings”.
Right-click on your active network connection and choose “Properties”.
Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” or “Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)”.
Click on “Properties”.
In the new window, select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the desired server addresses.
Click “OK” to save the changes.

Mac:

Go to “System Preferences”.
Click on “Network”.
Select your active network connection from the list.
Click on the “Advanced” button.
Navigate to the “DNS” tab.
Add or edit DNS server addresses in the list provided.

In Conclusion

Choosing a fast DNS server can greatly enhance your internet browsing experience. By benchmarking and testing different servers, you can find one that provides optimal performance for your specific needs.

Remember to consider factors such as speed, reliability, and security when making your decision. And don’t forget, if you decide to switch servers, follow the appropriate steps for your operating system to make the change. Happy browsing!