Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →To check or change DNS, start with the network connection you are actually using—Wi-Fi, Ethernet, cellular, or your router. DNS may be assigned automatically by DHCP or entered manually, and a setting for one connection does not necessarily apply to another. Before changing anything, record the current values so you can restore them if needed.
What a DNS change affects
A DNS resolver looks up domain names, such as example.com, so your device can connect to the corresponding internet address. Changing the resolver changes where those lookups go; it does not, by itself, encrypt DNS traffic, encrypt all browsing, or hide browsing from every party.
Choose the configuration scope that matches your goal:
- One device: Change that device’s setting for the relevant connection. Other devices are unaffected.
- One Wi-Fi network on iPhone or iPad: Apple’s manual DNS setting applies to the selected saved Wi-Fi network only—not cellular data or other Wi-Fi networks.
- All devices on a router’s network: Change DNS in the router’s settings. Cloudflare says, “Configuring 1.1.1.1 on your router applies the DNS setting to every device on your network.” Devices with their own VPN or DNS configuration may behave differently.
DNS can also be encrypted using protocols such as DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT), if both the device and resolver support the relevant mode. Typing a resolver IP address into a network setting does not prove that encrypted DNS is active.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match#1 Best Overall
- DUAL-BAND WIFI 6 ROUTER: Wi-Fi 6(802.11ax) technology achieves faster speeds, greater capacity and reduced network congestion compared to the previous gen. All WiFi routers require a separate modem. Dual-Band WiFi routers do not support the 6 GHz band.
- AX1800: Enjoy smoother and more stable streaming, gaming, downloading with 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and up to 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz). Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- CONNECT MORE DEVICES: Wi-Fi 6 technology communicates more data to more devices simultaneously using revolutionary OFDMA technology
- EXTENSIVE COVERAGE: Achieve the strong, reliable WiFi coverage with Archer AX1800 as it focuses signal strength to your devices far away using Beamforming technology, 4 high-gain antennas and an advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset
- OUR CYBERSECURITY COMMITMENT: TP-Link is a signatory of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure-by-Design pledge. This device is designed, built, and maintained, with advanced security as a core requirement.
How to check which DNS server you are using
- Open the settings for the active connection. On a computer, identify whether you are connected through Wi-Fi or Ethernet; on a phone, check the Wi-Fi network or system-wide Private DNS setting.
- Look for a DNS or DNS server assignment field. If it says Automatic or DHCP, the network or router is supplying the DNS configuration. If it lists addresses entered manually, those are configured for that connection.
- If you want to inspect the router’s setting, sign in to its administration interface and look under Internet, WAN, IP, or IPv6 settings. Menu names vary by model and firmware.
The resolver shown in one place may not tell the whole story. A VPN, a browser’s Secure DNS setting, another active network interface, IPv6, or a work or school policy can affect which resolver handles a request. Check the setting that corresponds to the traffic you are troubleshooting.
Choose a resolver and save your current settings
Before editing DNS, write down or capture the existing IPv4 and IPv6 values, if present. You can then restore them if a network stops working.
Rank #2
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with 5 GHz speeds up to 867 Mbps and 2.4 GHz speeds up to 300 Mbps, delivering 1200 Mbps of total bandwidth¹. Dual-band routers do not support 6 GHz. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- Covers up to 1,000 sq. ft. with four external antennas for stable wireless connections and optimal coverage.
- Supports IGMP Proxy/Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN to optimize IPTV streaming
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
- Advanced Security with WPA3 - The latest Wi-Fi security protocol, WPA3, brings new capabilities to improve cybersecurity in personal networks
Resolver options differ in filtering, encrypted-protocol support, and provider policy. Cloudflare documents standard DNS, malware blocking, and malware-plus-adult-content blocking; Google Public DNS is another documented option. No resolver is established here as universally fastest. Because the resolver receives DNS requests when used, review the provider’s current privacy policy rather than assuming providers offer identical protections.
| Cloudflare option | IPv4 addresses | Filtering stated by provider |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 1.1.1.1 1.0.0.1 |
No additional filtering specified |
| Malware blocking | 1.1.1.2 1.0.0.2 |
Blocks malware |
| Malware and adult-content blocking | 1.1.1.3 1.0.0.3 |
Blocks malware and adult content |
Cloudflare also lists matching IPv6 addresses and Android Private DNS hostnames for these options. Use the provider’s setup documentation for the exact values and supported protocol for your device; do not assume IPv4 addresses configure IPv6 or encrypted DNS automatically.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- NIGHTHAWK WIFI 6 ROUTER FOR YOUR WHOLE HOME: Delivers fast, reliable WiFi across every room of your apartment or small home for streaming, gaming, video calls, and smart home devices, all running at the same time without slowing each other down.
- WORKS WITH YOUR EXISTING INTERNET SERVICE: Pairs with your existing modem or gateway via ethernet. Compatible with most cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite providers. Some gateways and modem router combos may require bridge mode. No coax needed.
- SET UP AND MANAGE YOUR NETWORK WITH THE NIGHTHAWK APP: Download the free Nighthawk app on iOS or Android for guided setup. Manage WiFi, run speed tests, pause devices, and set up guest networks from anywhere. Active internet required.
- READY FOR THE DEVICES YOU ALREADY OWN: Your phones, laptops, and TVs work right out of the box. WiFi 6 delivers speeds up to 1.8 Gbps across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Backward compatible with WiFi 5 and earlier.
- COVERAGE IN EVERY ROOM: Covers up to 1,500 sq. ft. for up to 20 connected devices. Walls, floors, and interference can reduce range. Larger or multi-story homes may benefit from a NETGEAR Orbi mesh WiFi system.
Change DNS on Windows
Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings > Network & Internet.
- Select the active Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter.
- Under DNS server assignment, select Edit.
- Change the setting from Automatic (DHCP) to Manual.
- Enter the chosen IPv4 resolver addresses. Enter IPv6 addresses too if you want to configure IPv6, then save.
This changes the selected adapter, not necessarily every connection on the PC. Windows 10 uses different screens and labels: identify the active adapter and edit DNS in that adapter’s network properties.
Change DNS on macOS
- Open System Settings > Network.
- Select the network service you use, such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet, then select Details.
- Open DNS and add the resolver addresses.
- Save or apply the change.
This applies to the selected network service. macOS labels can vary by release, so if the wording differs, look in the selected service’s DNS settings.
Rank #4
- 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞-𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝟕: Powered by Wi-Fi 7 technology, enjoy faster speeds with Multi-Link Operation, increased reliability with Multi-RUs, and more data capacity with 4K-QAM, delivering enhanced performance for all your devices.
- 𝐁𝐄𝟑𝟔𝟎𝟎 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥-𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝟕 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫: Delivers up to 2882 Mbps (5 GHz), and 688 Mbps (2.4 GHz) speeds for 4K/8K streaming, AR/VR gaming & more. Dual-band routers do not support 6 GHz. Performance varies by conditions, distance, and obstacles like walls.
- 𝐔𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐆𝐢𝐠 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝟐.𝟓 𝐆𝐛𝐩𝐬 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝟑×𝟏𝐆𝐛𝐩𝐬 𝐋𝐀𝐍 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬: Maximize Gigabitplus internet with one 2.5G WAN/LAN port, one 2.5 Gbps LAN port, plus three additional 1 Gbps LAN ports. Break the 1G barrier for seamless, high-speed connectivity from the internet to multiple LAN devices for enhanced performance.
- 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭-𝐆𝐞𝐧 𝟐.𝟎 𝐆𝐇𝐳 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐝-𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫: Experience power and precision with a state-of-the-art processor that effortlessly manages high throughput. Eliminate lag and enjoy fast connections with minimal latency, even during heavy data transmissions.
- 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫 - Covers up to 2,000 sq. ft. for up to 60 devices at a time. 4 internal antennas and beamforming technology focus Wi-Fi signals toward hard-to-reach areas. Seamlessly connect phones, TVs, and gaming consoles.
Change DNS on iPhone or iPad
- Open Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the info button beside the Wi-Fi network you want to configure.
- Tap Configure DNS > Manual.
- Add the resolver IP addresses and save.
This is a per-network Wi-Fi setting. It does not configure cellular data or other saved Wi-Fi networks. To use a resolver across Wi-Fi networks, configure the routers where you can administer them. A cellular-wide DNS configuration requires a VPN app capable of setting DNS; iOS does not provide the same simple built-in per-network switch for cellular.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Change DNS on Android
On Android 9 and later, use Private DNS to configure a provider hostname and use an encrypted DNS mode supported by the system and provider. The exact menu path varies by manufacturer, but it is generally Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced > Private DNS > Private DNS provider hostname.
Recommended Free Tools
Best Value
- Dual band router upgrades to 1200 Mbps high speed internet (300mbps for 2.4GHz plus 900Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K stream
- Full Gigabit Ports - Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, ideal for any internet plan and allow you to directly connect your wired devices
- Boosted Coverage - Four external antennas equipped with Beamforming technology extend and concentrate the Wi-Fi signals
- MU-MIMO technology - (5GHz band) allows high speeds for multiple devices simultaneously
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
- Choose Private DNS provider hostname.
- Enter the hostname supplied by your resolver provider—for example, Cloudflare’s standard hostname is
one.one.one.one, and Google’s isdns.google. - Save the setting. If the phone reports that it cannot connect to the Private DNS server, check the spelling and whether the network permits it.
Cloudflare’s documented hostnames for its filtering options are security.cloudflare-dns.com for malware blocking and family.cloudflare-dns.com for malware and adult-content blocking. Cloudflare says Android Private DNS applies across networks, including cellular. Some VPN or DNS-changer apps can override the system setting.
Cloudflare’s Android app is a separate option: its guide describes DNS encryption and WARP mode, which covers HTTP traffic as well as DNS. Do not treat a resolver setting as equivalent to a general-purpose VPN service.
Change DNS on a router
- Open the router’s administration interface and locate its Internet, WAN, IP, or IPv6 settings. The exact route depends on the router brand and firmware; consult its documentation if needed.
- Record the current DNS values.
- Replace them with the resolver’s addresses, including IPv6 values if you intend to configure IPv6.
- Save the change. Reconnect devices or renew their network connection if they continue using the old configuration.
A router-level change is useful when you want one central setting for devices on that network. It will not necessarily govern devices using cellular data, another network, a VPN, or their own DNS configuration.
Verify the change and troubleshoot problems
After saving, check the active connection’s DNS setting again and test whether websites resolve. You can also use the resolver provider’s documented verification procedure. Exact verification steps vary by operating system and configuration.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
- The setting appears unchanged: Confirm you edited the active Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter, not a disconnected interface. Check IPv4 and IPv6 separately; an unchanged IPv6 resolver can still handle some lookups.
- A VPN or browser setting may be taking over: Check the VPN, any DNS-changer app, and the browser’s Secure DNS or DoH setting. These can use a different resolver from the operating system setting.
- Public Wi-Fi will not connect: A static DNS setting can prevent a captive portal from appearing or completing. Temporarily restore Automatic/DHCP or disable the custom DNS app, connect to the network, then reapply your preferred configuration.
- A work or school device behaves differently: Managed policies can control DNS. Do not override organization settings; ask the administrator. Microsoft notes that requiring DoH can cause resolution failures if the configured resolver does not support it, and domain-joined Windows environments may depend on Active Directory DNS.
- Connectivity breaks after the change: Restore the DNS values you recorded, or return the setting to Automatic/DHCP, then retest.
What switching DNS does—and does not do
A resolver change can alter how domain names are resolved and whether the provider applies its stated DNS filtering. It does not necessarily make browsing faster, stop broad tracking, hide activity from every party, bypass every block, or replace HTTPS, a VPN, or a complete security solution. Treat encryption, filtering, privacy policy, and network scope as separate questions when choosing a configuration.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
