Which DNS Server Is Best for Gaming?

Which DNS Server Is Best for Gaming?

Gaming enthusiasts know that every millisecond counts when it comes to online gaming. A lag or delay can mean the difference between victory and defeat. While many factors contribute to a smooth gaming experience, one often overlooked aspect is the choice of DNS (Domain Name System) server.

What is a DNS Server?

A DNS server is like a phone book for the internet. When you type a website address into your browser, such as www.example.com, your computer sends a request to a DNS server to find the IP address associated with that domain name. The IP address allows your computer to connect to the website’s server and retrieve the web page.

The Impact of DNS Servers on Gaming

When you play games online, your device constantly communicates with game servers, exchanging data in real-time. Every time you connect to a game server or join a multiplayer match, your device performs multiple DNS queries to establish connections.

The time taken for these DNS queries can impact your overall gaming experience. Slow or unreliable DNS servers can introduce latency and increase response times, leading to lag in games. On the other hand, using fast and reliable DNS servers can reduce latency and enhance your gameplay.

Choosing the Right DNS Server for Gaming

There are several public DNS servers available that claim to offer faster and more reliable performance for gaming. Here are some popular options:

• Google Public DNS: Google’s public DNS service is known for its speed and reliability. It offers low latency and supports advanced features like IPv6 connectivity.
• Cloudflare: Cloudflare’s 1.1.1 service boasts of being one of the fastest DNS resolvers globally. Its focus on privacy and security also makes it a popular choice among gamers.
• OpenDNS: OpenDNS offers customizable filtering options and provides an additional layer of protection against malware and phishing attempts.
• Quad9: Quad9 is a DNS resolver that incorporates threat intelligence to block access to known malicious websites, providing an added layer of security.

When choosing a DNS server for gaming, consider factors such as latency, reliability, security features, and compatibility with your network setup. It is also essential to note that the performance of a DNS server can vary depending on your geographical location and internet service provider.

Changing Your DNS Server

To change your DNS server settings, follow these general steps:

1. Windows:
1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Network and Internet.
2. Select Network and Sharing Center.
3. Click on Change adapter settings.
4. Right-click on your network connection and select Properties.
5. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) based on your network configuration.
6. Click Properties, then enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses in the respective fields.
7. Click OK to save changes.
2. MacOS:
   1. nClick on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
   
   
   2. nClick on Network.
   
   
   3. nSelect your network connection and click on Advanced.
   
   
   4. nGo to the DNS tab.
   
   
   5. nClick the + button to add a new DNS server.
   
   
   6. nEnter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses in the respective fields.
   7. Click OK to save changes.
3. Linux:
   1. Open the Terminal.
   2. Enter the command sudo nano /etc/resolv.conf to open the file in a text editor. Note: This may vary depending on your Linux distribution and version.
   3. Replace the existing nameserver entries with your preferred DNS server addresses, each on a new line.
   4. Press Ctrl + X to exit, then Y to save changes, and Enter to confirm the file name.

Conclusion

The choice of DNS server can have a noticeable impact on your gaming experience. By selecting a fast and reliable DNS server, you can reduce latency and ensure smoother gameplay.

Experiment with different options and monitor performance to find the best DNS server for your gaming needs. Remember to consider factors like latency, security features, and compatibility before making a final decision. Happy gaming!