Windows 10 DNS Server Change: Easy Tutorial

Windows 10 DNS Server Change: Easy Tutorial

Changing your DNS server in Windows 10 can significantly impact your internet browsing experience. A faster, more reliable DNS server can lead to quicker page loads, improved security, and access to geo-restricted content. This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to change your DNS server in Windows 10, covering both the graphical user interface and command-line methods.

Why Change Your DNS Server?

Your default DNS server is usually assigned by your internet service provider (ISP). While generally functional, ISP-provided DNS servers can sometimes be slow or unreliable. Switching to a public DNS server like Google Public DNS, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS can often provide performance and security benefits. Some reasons to consider a change include:

• Faster browsing: Public DNS servers often have better infrastructure and caching, resulting in quicker website loading times.
• Improved reliability: Redundancy and better management in public DNS services can lead to increased uptime and fewer DNS resolution failures.
• Enhanced security: Some DNS services offer built-in security features, like filtering malicious websites or protecting against DNS hijacking.
• Bypass geo-restrictions: In some cases, changing your DNS server can allow access to content otherwise blocked in your region. (Note: This is not always guaranteed and often depends on the specific service and its implementation.)
• Parental controls: Certain DNS servers offer content filtering options for parental control, allowing you to block inappropriate websites.

Method 1: Changing DNS Server through Network Settings (GUI)

This is the most straightforward method for most users:

1. Open Network Connections: Right-click the network icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner) and select “Open Network & Internet settings.”
2. Change adapter options: Click on “Change adapter options.”
3. Select your network adapter: Identify the network adapter you’re currently using (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and right-click on it. Select “Properties.”
4. Choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4): In the Networking tab, highlight “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties.”
5. Use the following DNS server addresses: Select the radio button for “Use the following DNS server addresses.”
6. Enter the preferred DNS server addresses: Enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses in the respective fields. For example:
   • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8 (Google Public DNS)
   • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 (Google Public DNS)
   • Other popular options:
     • Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
     • OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
7. Validate settings upon exit: Check the box “Validate settings upon exit” (optional but recommended).
8. Click OK: Click “OK” on all open windows to save the changes.

Method 2: Changing DNS Server using Command Prompt (CMD)

This method is quicker for those comfortable with the command line:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator: Search for “cmd” in the Start Menu, right-click on “Command Prompt,” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Interface identification: Type netsh interface ip show interface and press Enter. This will list your network interfaces and their indexes. Note the index number of the interface you want to modify (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
3. Set DNS server: Use the following command, replacing “INTERFACE_INDEX” with the actual index number from the previous step and “PREFERRED_DNS” and “ALTERNATE_DNS” with the desired DNS server addresses:

netsh interface ip set dns "INTERFACE_NAME" static PREFERRED_DNS ALTERNATE_DNS

For example:

netsh interface ip set dns "Wi-Fi" static 8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4

1. Flush DNS cache: To ensure the changes take effect immediately, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.

Testing the Changes

After changing your DNS server, you can test the changes by:

• Checking your IP configuration: Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig /all. Your new DNS server addresses should be listed.
• Browsing a website: Try accessing a few websites to see if they load faster.
• Using an online DNS checker: Several online tools can verify your current DNS server.

By following these simple steps, you can easily change your DNS server in Windows 10 and potentially enjoy a faster, more secure, and reliable internet browsing experience. Remember to choose a reputable DNS server that meets your needs.