If you have the need to change dns in windows, it is important that you are clear about what making this adjustment really entails. Because you already know that it is not a good idea to "get involved" in this type of thing if you do not know exactly what you are doing.
We are going to explain what this change really consists of, in which cases it can be useful and how you can carry it out safely.
What is DNS?
DNS servers are what allow that when we write an address in the browser, it is responsible for connect with the IP address of the server from that website and takes us to it.
By default, computers are configured so that when we connect to the Internet we do so directly through the connection to our operator's DNS. But we have the option to change it.
Why change DNS in Windows?
It may seem like a minor technical tweak, but manipulating DNS can significantly impact your browsing experience. So, you should only consider it if you are really going to get an advantage.
In most cases, changes are made for reasons like these:
Higher browsing speed
Third-party DNS servers like Google or Cloudflare They can be faster than those of the operators, which translates into shorter website loading times.
In addition, Internet providers' DNS servers are often overloaded. If you switch to a less busy one, you can enjoy faster speeds even during peak hours.
Increased levels of security throughout
There are DNS servers that offer additional protection against malicious websites., blocking access to those known to distribute malware or phishing.
By adjusting DNS you can also block users from accessing certain types of content, as some of them have interesting filtering features.
Increased privacy
With the change you avoid that your internet provider has knowledge about your internet access.
There are DNS servers that do not record browsing history and do not sell user data to third parties, which is a significant improvement in privacy.
Access to blocked content
Internet providers can block users from accessing certain websites. That's why many people choose to change the DNS server and choose one that allows access content that is blocked in the region from which you are connecting.
Better online gaming performance
Many gamers change the default DNS and use ones that are better optimized for online gaming, as they reduce ping and improve the experience.
When should you change your DNS servers?
It is advisable to do so if you are in any of these situations:
- You experience slow browsing speed.
- You are concerned about the security of your Internet connection.
- You want to block access to certain types of content.
- You are interested in accessing content that is blocked in your region.
- You want to improve your online gaming experience.
How to change DNS in Windows?
If you are a Windows 11 user, Making the change will be easier than you thinkYou don't need to be an expert in networks or computers, as you will see.
Follow these steps and you will have this setting ready in a few minutes:
- Access Windows Settings.
- From the options shown in the left column, select “Network & Internet.”
- Once inside this option, choose “Advanced network settings.”
- In this section, at the very bottom you will see the section “Related configuration options” and just below that: “More network adapter options”.
With these steps you will open a window that shows you all the Internet connection methods used by your computer.
In that window, right-click on the network adapter you are using (Ethernet if you connect via cable or Wi-Fi if you have a wireless connection).
This will open a new menu where you need to select “Properties”. In the new window select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” but do not uncheck it.
Next, from the options shown, choose “Properties.”
Once inside the IPv4 properties, select the option “Use the following DNS server addresses” and write the DNS addresses you want to use from now on. Then, All you have to do is click on “Accept” and you are all set.
From that moment on, when you connect to the Internet you will do so through the DNS you have chosen, not from your service provider's. If in the future you want to make a new change or return to your provider's DNS, you can do so without any problem, you just have to follow the same steps we have seen.
What are the best DNS?
If you are looking for privacy and security, these are good alternatives:
Google public
It is one of the most used DNS, because it has fast and secure servers and has no request limit.
The added benefit is that the IP is deleted after 48 hours without the stored data being linked to your Google account or your online activity. However, some data is collected for internal analysis.
Google Public DNS address is 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
IBM Quad9
IBM DNS is known as Quad9, and is a completely free service that can be used by anyone who needs a secure and private connection.
These DNS have been developed to minimize as much as possible the risk that a person runs when connecting to the Internet. As an added advantage, they have filters or blacklists that collect websites classified as harmful or dangerous, which contributes to further strengthening security.
The DNS address of Quad9 is 9.9.9.9
You've already seen that changing the DNS in Windows is a bit complex because there are many steps involved, but it's not really complicated. If you think this setting might be good for you, you can do it with peace of mind if you follow the instructions we've given you.