What Is the Google DNS Server?

What Is the Google DNS Server?

When you open a website or try to access any online content, your computer sends a request to a DNS (Domain Name System) server to translate the domain name into an IP address. This IP address is then used to locate and connect to the web server hosting the requested content. While your internet service provider (ISP) usually provides a default DNS server, you can choose to use alternative DNS servers, such as the Google DNS server.

The Benefits of Using Google DNS

Google provides its own public DNS servers that offer several advantages over using your ISP’s default DNS servers:

• Improved Speed: Google’s DNS servers are known for their fast response times, which can lead to faster browsing and quicker access to websites.
• Better Security: Google implements various security measures, such as blocking known malicious websites and protecting against DNS spoofing attacks.
• Increased Reliability: Google’s global infrastructure ensures high availability and minimal downtime for its DNS servers.

How to Use the Google DNS Server

To start using the Google DNS server, you need to modify your network settings. Here’s how:

Windows

1. Open Network Connections: Press “Windows + R,” type “ncpa.cpl,” and hit Enter.
2. Select Your Network Adapter: Right-click on your active network connection and choose “Properties.”
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4): Double-click on it or select it and click “Properties.”
4. Choose “Use the Following DNS Server Addresses”: Enter “8.8.8” in the Preferred DNS server field and “8.4.4” in the Alternate DNS server field.
5. Click “OK”: Save your changes and restart your browser or network connection for the new DNS settings to take effect.

macOS

1. Go to System Preferences: Click on the Apple menu, select “System Preferences,” and choose “Network.”
2. Select Your Network Adapter: From the left sidebar, choose your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
3. Click on “Advanced”: In the lower-right corner, click on the “Advanced” button.
4. Navigate to the DNS tab: Go to the “DNS” tab and click on the “+” button to add a new DNS server.
5. Add Google’s DNS Servers: Enter “8.8” and “8.4” as separate entries.
6. Click on “OK”: Save your changes, close the preferences window, and restart your browser or network connection.

You can also configure Google DNS on other devices, such as routers, smartphones, and tablets by following similar steps specific to each device’s operating system.

In Conclusion

The Google DNS server is a reliable alternative to your ISP’s default DNS servers, offering improved speed, security, and reliability for your internet browsing experience. By following simple configuration steps, you can start using the Google DNS server and enjoy its benefits.