How to Change Your DNS Server on Windows, Mac, Linux, Smartphones, and Routers

The Domain Name System (DNS) is a core part of how the internet works, translating website names into IP addresses. By default, your internet provider assigns DNS servers automatically, but switching to a custom DNS—such as Google DNS, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS—can improve speed, privacy, and security.

Changing your DNS settings can also help fix connectivity issues, bypass certain restrictions, and enhance browsing performance. The process varies slightly depending on your device, but it’s generally straightforward.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to change your DNS server on Windows, macOS, Linux, smartphones (Android/iPhone), and routers.

Common DNS Servers You Can Use

Before proceeding, here are some popular public DNS servers:

• Google DNS
  • 8.8.8.8
  • 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare DNS
  • 1.1.1.1
  • 1.0.0.1
• OpenDNS
  • 208.67.222.222
  • 208.67.220.220

How to Change DNS on Windows 11

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet.
3. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet (based on your connection).
4. Click your active network.
5. Scroll to IP settings and click Edit.
6. Choose Manual.
7. Enable IPv4.
8. Enter your preferred and alternate DNS:
   • Example: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
9. Click Save.

How to Change DNS on macOS

1. Click the Apple menu and open System Settings (or System Preferences).
2. Go to Network.
3. Select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
4. Click Details (or Advanced).
5. Go to the DNS tab.
6. Click the + (plus) button.
7. Add your DNS server addresses.
8. Click OK, then Apply.

How to Change DNS on Linux (Ubuntu)

1. Open Settings.
2. Click Network.
3. Select your active connection.
4. Click the gear icon next to it.
5. Go to the IPv4 tab.
6. Change Method to Automatic (DHCP) addresses only.
7. Enter DNS servers (e.g., 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4).
8. Click Apply.
9. Restart the network connection.

How to Change DNS on Android

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet.
3. Tap Private DNS.
4. Select Private DNS provider hostname.
5. Enter a hostname such as:
   • dns.google (Google DNS)
   • one.one.one.one (Cloudflare)
6. Tap Save.

How to Change DNS on iPhone (iOS)

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Wi-Fi.
3. Tap the (i) icon next to your network.
4. Scroll down and tap Configure DNS.
5. Select Manual.
6. Remove existing entries.
7. Add new DNS servers (e.g., 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1).
8. Tap Save.

How to Change DNS on Your Router

Changing DNS on your router applies it to all devices on your network.

1. Open a web browser.
2. Enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
3. Log in to the router admin panel.
4. Navigate to WAN, Internet, or DNS settings.
5. Replace the default DNS with your preferred DNS servers.
6. Save the changes.
7. Restart the router if required.

Conclusion

Changing your DNS server can improve internet speed, enhance privacy, and provide better security across your devices. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, or a router, the process is simple and can be completed in just a few steps.

By switching to reliable DNS providers like Google DNS or Cloudflare, you can enjoy faster and more secure browsing. If you encounter any issues, you can always revert to your default DNS settings at any time.