How to Find DNS Server on Your Smartphone: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to find DNS servers on your smartphone. In today’s digital age, where almost everything is connected to the internet, having a good understanding of DNS servers is crucial. DNS, or Domain Name System, is like the phone book of the internet, and without it, we wouldn’t be able to access websites, use email, or send messages.

Unfortunately, not all smartphones are set up with the most efficient DNS servers, which can lead to slow or unresponsive internet connection. But don’t worry, in this article, we’ll show you how to check your current DNS server, what to do when it’s slow or unresponsive, how to change it for faster browsing, and which are the top DNS servers for smartphone users.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of how DNS servers work, and you’ll be able to optimize your smartphone’s DNS settings for a faster and smoother browsing experience. So let’s get started!

Why Understanding DNS is Important for Smartphone Users

As a smartphone user, you might not think about DNS or the DNS server you are using. However, understanding how it works and its importance is crucial for a seamless browsing experience.

When you type a URL into your browser, your device needs to know the IP address of the server that hosts the website you want to access. This is where DNS comes in. It acts as a directory that maps domain names to IP addresses.

Having a slow or unresponsive DNS server can lead to slow website loading times, delays in streaming, and other frustrating issues. On the other hand, using a fast and reliable DNS server can speed up your browsing and provide a better overall experience.

By understanding DNS and how it affects your smartphone browsing, you can troubleshoot issues and optimize your device for a faster and smoother experience. In the following sections, we will explain how to check your current DNS server and how to change it if needed.

The Role of DNS in Internet Connectivity

The Domain Name System (DNS) is the foundation of the internet, serving as a directory for websites and internet services. DNS is responsible for converting human-readable domain names into IP addresses that machines can read and process.

Without DNS, it would be impossible to browse the web or access any internet services. DNS is essential for all internet-connected devices, including smartphones, to function properly. Understanding how DNS works is crucial for troubleshooting internet connectivity issues on your smartphone.

However, DNS can also be a weak point in internet security. DNS servers can be hacked or compromised, leading to serious security breaches. As a smartphone user, it is important to be aware of potential security risks related to DNS and take appropriate measures to protect your device.

In the next sections, we will cover how to check your current DNS server on your smartphone, what to do when your DNS server is slow or unresponsive, how to change DNS server on your smartphone for faster browsing, and the top DNS servers for smartphone users.

How to Check Your Current DNS Server on Your Smartphone

Checking your current DNS server on your smartphone is a simple process that can help you identify potential connectivity issues. The following steps will guide you through the process:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your smartphone and select Wi-Fi or Network & Internet.

Step 2: Locate your current Wi-Fi network and tap on it.

Step 3: Tap on the Advanced option or the Gear icon, depending on your smartphone’s operating system.

Step 4: Scroll down and look for the IP settings section. Your current DNS server should be listed under DNS 1 or DNS 2.

Step 5: Write down your current DNS server for future reference.

By following these steps, you can quickly and easily check your current DNS server on your smartphone and troubleshoot any connectivity issues that may arise.

Method 1: Checking Your DNS Server via Wi-Fi Settings

If you’re using Wi-Fi on your smartphone, you can easily check your current DNS server by going to your Wi-Fi settings. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open your phone’s Settings app.
2. Select Wi-Fi.
3. Find the network you’re connected to and tap on it.
4. Tap on the gear icon next to the network name.
5. Scroll down and tap on “Advanced.”
6. The DNS server information should be listed under “IP settings.”

Once you’ve found the DNS server information, you can use it to diagnose any issues with your connection and make changes if necessary.

Method 2: Using a DNS Lookup Tool for Your Smartphone

If you find the first method to be too complicated or time-consuming, you can always turn to a DNS lookup tool. These are free online services that can help you identify your current DNS server in a matter of seconds. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Open a web browser on your smartphone.

Step 2: Visit a DNS lookup tool website like “WhatIsMyDNS.com” or “DNSWatch.info”.

Step 3: Wait for the website to load, then click the “Check DNS Propagation” or “DNS Lookup” button.

Step 4: After a few seconds, you’ll be presented with information about your current DNS server, including its IP address and hostname.

Using a DNS lookup tool can be a quick and easy way to find out your current DNS server. However, keep in mind that these tools rely on your smartphone’s internet connection to work, so they may not be accurate if your connection is slow or unstable.

What to Do When Your DNS Server is Slow or Unresponsive

Troubleshoot Your Network Connection: The first step to take when experiencing slow or unresponsive DNS server is to troubleshoot your network connection. Check if your Wi-Fi or mobile data is working correctly, and try restarting your router or modem if necessary.

Flush Your DNS Cache: Another way to fix DNS issues is to clear your DNS cache. This process involves deleting any outdated or incorrect IP addresses that your device might be holding onto. To flush your DNS cache on an Android or iOS device, you can use a DNS flushing app or follow some simple steps in the command prompt.

Change Your DNS Server: If you have tried troubleshooting and flushing your DNS cache, and your DNS server is still slow or unresponsive, you can change your DNS server. Changing your DNS server to a more reliable and faster one can help resolve the issue. There are many free and paid DNS servers available, and you can choose one that suits your needs.

Tip 1: Restart Your Router and Smartphone

Restarting your router and smartphone can be a quick and easy solution to fix slow or unresponsive DNS servers. When you restart your router, it clears the cache and refreshes the connection with your ISP. Similarly, restarting your smartphone helps clear the cache and refreshes the DNS settings.

To restart your router, unplug it from the power source, wait for 30 seconds, and plug it back in. For your smartphone, press and hold the power button, and select the restart option.

This simple troubleshooting tip often resolves the issue and can improve your browsing experience.

Tip 2: Change to a Different DNS Server

If restarting your router and smartphone did not solve the problem, you can try changing your DNS server to a different one. There are many free and public DNS servers available, such as Google DNS, Cloudflare DNS, and OpenDNS.

To change your DNS server on your smartphone, go to your Wi-Fi settings, find your network, and tap on “Forget Network.” Then, reconnect to the network and manually enter the IP address of the DNS server you want to use.

Alternatively, you can download a DNS changer app from the app store on your smartphone. These apps allow you to quickly switch to a different DNS server with just a few taps.

How to Change DNS Server on Your Smartphone for Faster Browsing

Changing your DNS server can help improve your browsing speed and security. Here are some steps to help you change your DNS server:

Step 1: Go to your phone’s settings – Look for the “Settings” icon on your home screen or app drawer, and tap it to open the settings menu.

Step 2: Tap on Wi-Fi or Mobile Network settings – Depending on your phone model and operating system, you will find the Wi-Fi or Mobile Network option under the settings menu.

Step 3: Tap and hold on the network you’re connected to – You should see a pop-up menu with various options, including “Modify Network” or “Change Network Settings”. Select the appropriate option.

Step 4: Scroll down and tap on the “IP settings” field – Here, you’ll find various options for configuring the network, including “DHCP” and “Static”. Select “Static”.

Step 5: Enter the DNS server address – Under the “Static IP” option, scroll down and look for the “DNS 1” and “DNS 2” fields. Enter the IP address of your preferred DNS server in the “DNS 1” field. You can find the IP addresses of popular DNS servers online.

Changing your DNS server may take a few minutes to propagate, but once it does, you should experience faster browsing speeds and improved security.

Method 1: Changing Your DNS Server via Wi-Fi Settings

If you want to change your DNS server on your smartphone to a faster one, follow these steps:

1. Go to Wi-Fi settings: First, go to your smartphone’s settings and select Wi-Fi.
2. Long press on the Wi-Fi network: Long press on the Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to and click on “Modify Network.”
3. Select advanced options: Click on the advanced options or IP settings option, and select “Static” instead of DHCP.
4. Enter new DNS server: Scroll down and enter your new DNS server in the DNS 1 and DNS 2 fields.
5. Save changes: Click on “Save” and then “Connect” to connect to the Wi-Fi network with the new DNS server settings.

Once you have completed these steps, your smartphone will start using the new DNS server for faster browsing.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party App to Change Your DNS Server

If you don’t want to manually change the DNS server on your smartphone, you can use a third-party app to do it for you. Here are some of the most popular DNS changer apps for Android and iOS:

• DNS Changer by Blokada: This app is available for free on Android and iOS and allows you to choose from multiple DNS servers.
• 1.1.1.1: This app is available for free on Android and iOS and promises faster and more private browsing with its own DNS servers.
• AdGuard: This app is available for free on Android and iOS and provides not only DNS server options but also ad-blocking and privacy protection features.
• DNS Override: This app is available for $1.99 on iOS and lets you create customized DNS server profiles for different Wi-Fi networks.

Once you have downloaded and installed your preferred DNS changer app, follow the instructions to change your DNS server. Typically, you will need to select your preferred DNS server from a list or enter it manually, and then activate the new DNS server.

Using a third-party DNS changer app can be a convenient and efficient way to improve your browsing experience, but make sure to do your research and choose a reliable and trustworthy app.

Method 3: Configuring Your DNS Server Manually

If you’re comfortable with manual configuration, you can change your DNS server settings manually on your smartphone. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Go to your smartphone’s Wi-Fi settings and connect to a Wi-Fi network.
• Step 2: Long-press the Wi-Fi network you want to change the DNS server for and select “Modify Network”.
• Step 3: Tap on “Advanced Options” and then select “IP Settings”.
• Step 4: Change the IP settings to “Static” instead of “DHCP”.
• Step 5: In the “DNS 1” and “DNS 2” fields, enter the IP addresses of the DNS servers you want to use. You can find a list of free DNS servers online.
• Step 6: Tap “Save” to save your new DNS server settings.

Keep in mind that manually configuring your DNS server may not be suitable for everyone, as it requires some technical knowledge. If you’re not comfortable with manual configuration, it’s best to stick with the methods outlined above.

The Top DNS Servers for Smartphone Users: Pros and Cons

Choosing the right DNS server can greatly improve your browsing experience on your smartphone. Here are the top DNS servers and their pros and cons.

Google DNS

Google DNS is one of the most popular DNS servers out there, offering fast speeds and reliable performance. However, some users may have concerns about privacy, as it is operated by Google.

Cloudflare DNS

Cloudflare DNS is another fast and reliable option, with a focus on security and privacy. However, it may not be the best choice for users in countries with strict internet regulations, as it may be blocked.

OpenDNS

OpenDNS offers a range of features, including malware protection and parental controls, making it a great option for families. However, the free version may have ads, and some users may prefer a more straightforward DNS server.

Google Public DNS

• Are you tired of slow internet speeds? Look no further than Google Public DNS. By switching to Google’s DNS servers, you can enjoy faster browsing and less downtime. Plus, it’s free!

• Google Public DNS is not just about speed. It also provides enhanced security by blocking known malicious websites and protecting your system from online threats. Keep your sensitive data safe with Google Public DNS.

• Worried about compatibility issues? Google Public DNS supports all major operating systems and devices, so you can make the switch with ease. Say goodbye to slow and unreliable internet connections once and for all.

• Need help getting started? Google offers a detailed step-by-step guide on how to configure your network settings for Google Public DNS. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll be up and running in no time.

• One of the great things about Google Public DNS is that it’s constantly updated with the latest web standards and security measures. You can trust Google to keep your internet experience fast, reliable, and secure.

• Don’t just take our word for it. Google Public DNS has received high praise from users and industry experts alike. Join the millions of people who have made the switch to Google Public DNS and experience the benefits for yourself.

Switching to Google Public DNS is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your internet experience. Whether you’re concerned about speed, security, or both, Google Public DNS has you covered. Don’t settle for a slow and unreliable connection any longer. Make the switch to Google Public DNS today.

Frequently Asked Questions