How to Get the Preferred DNS Server You Need for Faster Browsing

Are you tired of slow internet browsing? Do you want to speed up your internet connection without paying more for an upgraded package? One of the easiest ways to boost your internet speed is by changing your DNS server.

By default, your internet service provider (ISP) assigns you a DNS server, but this may not always be the best option. Many internet users have found that switching to a preferred DNS server can significantly improve their browsing speed and experience.

But what exactly is DNS, and how does it affect your internet connection? In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about DNS and why it’s crucial for faster browsing. We’ll also walk you through the process of finding and changing your DNS server to help you enjoy faster and more reliable internet.

So, whether you’re a tech-savvy user or a beginner, keep reading to discover how to get the preferred DNS server you need for faster browsing.

What is DNS and Why is it Important?

DNS, or Domain Name System, is the backbone of the internet. It’s a hierarchical naming system that translates human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses. Every website, email server, and any other networked device has an IP address that identifies it on the internet.

Without DNS, we would have to memorize a series of complex numbers to access our favorite websites. DNS servers act as intermediaries, ensuring that our requests for websites are properly routed to the correct IP addresses. Essentially, DNS is like a phone book for the internet, and it’s essential for any online activity.

When you type a URL into your web browser, your computer sends a request to a DNS server to translate that URL into an IP address. This process happens every time you access a website, and it takes only milliseconds. However, if the DNS server is slow or not working correctly, it can lead to slow browsing speeds and frustrating errors.

Moreover, DNS is an important component of internet security. By using DNS filtering, you can block access to malicious websites, protecting yourself from cyber threats.

Overall, DNS is a critical part of the internet that ensures fast, reliable, and secure online browsing. Understanding how it works and how to optimize it can lead to a smoother and safer online experience.

The Role of DNS in the Internet

DNS stands for Domain Name System, a protocol used to translate human-readable domain names into IP addresses that machines can understand. DNS is like the phonebook of the internet, helping your computer find the right website by providing the IP address associated with a domain name.

The DNS system is distributed and hierarchical, with millions of servers worldwide that communicate with each other to provide quick and efficient translations. DNS plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the internet, as it allows for easy access to websites and other online resources.

Without DNS, we would have to remember the IP addresses of every website we want to visit, which is both difficult and impractical. DNS simplifies the process by allowing us to remember domain names instead of long strings of numbers.

Caching is an essential aspect of DNS, as it helps reduce the amount of time it takes for a request to be fulfilled. When you visit a website, your computer stores the DNS translation in its cache memory so that it can quickly access the site again without having to perform a new translation.

Overall, DNS is a critical component of the internet infrastructure that allows us to easily navigate and access the vast amount of information available online.

How to Find Your Current DNS Server

If you’re planning to change your DNS server, it’s important to know your current DNS server. Here’s how to find it.

Method 1: Check Your Network Settings

You can find your current DNS server by checking your network settings. On a Windows PC, go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. Click on the name of your network and then click on “Properties.” Under “This connection uses the following items,” you’ll see your current DNS server listed.

Method 2: Use the Command Prompt

You can also use the Command Prompt to find your current DNS server. Open the Command Prompt and type “ipconfig /all” without the quotes. Your current DNS server will be listed under “DNS Servers” in the output.

Method 3: Use an Online Tool

If you don’t want to dig through your computer’s settings, you can use an online tool to find your current DNS server. There are many free tools available online that will show you your current DNS server.

Method 4: Ask Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)

If you’re not comfortable checking your network settings or using the Command Prompt, you can always ask your ISP what your current DNS server is. They should be able to provide you with this information.

Checking Your DNS Server on Windows

If you’re using a Windows computer, there are a few different ways you can check what DNS server you’re currently using.

1. Using Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key + R, then type “cmd” and press Enter. Type “ipconfig /all” and press Enter. Look for the “DNS Servers” line to see your current DNS server.
2. Using Control Panel: Open Control Panel, then click on “Network and Sharing Center” and select “Change adapter settings”. Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties”. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click on “Properties”. Look for the “Preferred DNS server” and “Alternate DNS server” lines to see your current DNS server.
3. Using Settings: Open the Settings app and go to “Network & Internet”. Click on your active network connection and select “Change adapter options”. Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties”. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click on “Properties”. Look for the “Preferred DNS server” and “Alternate DNS server” lines to see your current DNS server.

Once you’ve found your current DNS server, you can determine whether you should switch to a preferred DNS server for faster browsing.

Checking Your DNS Server on Mac

Knowing how to check your current DNS server on a Mac is useful for identifying whether your DNS server is causing slow browsing speeds. Here are some ways to check your DNS server on a Mac:

• Method 1: Checking in System Preferences
  Click the Apple icon, go to System Preferences > Network. Select the active network connection, and click the “Advanced” button. Go to the “DNS” tab to see the current DNS server addresses.
• Method 2: Using Terminal
  Open Terminal and enter the command “scutil –dns”. This will display the current DNS configuration, including the server addresses.
• Method 3: Using a Third-Party App
  There are various third-party apps available that can check your DNS server on a Mac, such as DNS Utility and Network Utility.
• Method 4: Checking Router Settings
  You can also check your DNS server by accessing your router’s settings. Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar. Log in to your router and check the DNS settings.

By using one of the above methods, you can easily find out your current DNS server on a Mac and proceed to check its performance.

Why You Should Switch to a Preferred DNS Server

Improved Speed: One of the main reasons to switch to a preferred DNS server is to enjoy faster browsing speed. By using a DNS server that is optimized for speed and efficiency, you can reduce the time it takes for your device to connect to websites and online services.

Better Security: Another reason to switch to a preferred DNS server is improved security. Some DNS servers may not provide adequate protection against phishing attacks or other forms of online threats. By using a DNS server that is designed with security in mind, you can better protect your online privacy and personal information.

Unrestricted Access: Some internet service providers (ISPs) may restrict access to certain websites or services based on location or other factors. By using a preferred DNS server, you may be able to bypass these restrictions and access the content you want without any limitations.

Customization Options: Many preferred DNS servers offer a variety of customization options that allow you to personalize your browsing experience. For example, you may be able to block specific websites or set up parental controls to limit access to certain types of content.

Reliability: By using a preferred DNS server, you can enjoy improved reliability and uptime. Preferred DNS servers are often optimized for high availability, which means that you can connect to websites and online services without experiencing downtime or other issues.

Benefits of Using a Preferred DNS Server

Faster browsing: One of the main benefits of using a preferred DNS server is faster browsing speed. With a reliable DNS server, your browser will be able to resolve domain names quickly, resulting in faster page loading times.

Improved security: Using a trusted DNS server can also improve your security online. Some DNS servers may block known malicious websites or redirect you to safe ones, protecting your device from potential harm.

Access to region-restricted content: Another advantage of using a preferred DNS server is that it can help you access region-restricted content. By using a DNS server in a different region, you may be able to bypass geographic restrictions and access content that would otherwise be unavailable in your location.

Customization: Some preferred DNS servers allow you to customize your settings to your liking. For example, you can block certain websites or set up parental controls to restrict access to certain content for children.

Better reliability: By using a preferred DNS server, you may experience better reliability and fewer outages. This is because some DNS servers use multiple servers in different locations, providing redundancy and minimizing downtime.

How to Choose the Best Preferred DNS Server for You

Research and Compare: Do some research and compare different DNS servers to see which one would be the best fit for you. Look for reviews, feedback from users, and any additional features that may be of interest to you.

Consider Your Location: Consider where you are located and choose a DNS server that is geographically closer to you. This can help to reduce latency and improve your browsing speed.

Check for Security Features: Check if the DNS server you are considering has any additional security features, such as anti-phishing or anti-malware protection. This can help to protect you from online threats and keep your personal information safe.

Look for a Reliable Provider: Choose a DNS provider that has a good track record of reliability and uptime. This ensures that your internet connection won’t be interrupted due to server downtime or other issues.

By following these tips, you can find the best preferred DNS server for you and improve your browsing experience. Don’t settle for slow internet speeds and unreliable connections, take control of your DNS settings and enjoy a faster, more secure browsing experience.

Google DNS: Fast and Reliable

Google DNS is one of the most popular and widely used DNS services available. It is fast, reliable, and secure, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their internet browsing experience.

One of the key benefits of using Google DNS is its speed. It uses Google’s vast network of servers to deliver lightning-fast response times, which can help to speed up your web browsing and reduce page load times.

In addition to its speed, Google DNS is also highly reliable. Google has a reputation for providing some of the most stable and robust online services in the world, and their DNS service is no exception. This means that you can trust Google DNS to keep your internet connection up and running without any interruptions.

Cloudflare DNS: Security and Privacy Features

Cloudflare DNS is a popular choice for those who prioritize security and privacy. It offers a range of features that help protect your online activity, such as blocking access to malicious websites and preventing unauthorized access to your data.

One of the standout features of Cloudflare DNS is its commitment to privacy. Unlike some other DNS providers, it does not log your IP address or any other personally identifiable information.

Another benefit of using Cloudflare DNS is that it offers DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) and DNS-over-TLS (DoT) encryption, which helps prevent eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.

Additionally, Cloudflare DNS offers fast and reliable performance, thanks to its global network of servers and use of advanced technologies such as Anycast routing.

OpenDNS: Customizable Features

If you’re looking for a DNS server that allows you to customize your experience, OpenDNS might be the right choice for you. OpenDNS offers a range of customizable features that can help you personalize your browsing experience and protect your network.

With OpenDNS, you can block specific websites or categories of websites to prevent access to inappropriate content. You can also create custom block and allow lists, and even set up custom message pages to explain why certain sites are blocked.

OpenDNS also offers built-in security features, including phishing protection and malware blocking. Additionally, the service allows you to create custom security policies, so you can set up different levels of security for different users or devices on your network.

If you’re interested in using OpenDNS, you can sign up for a free account to get started. The service also offers paid plans with additional features and support options.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your DNS Server

If you’ve decided to switch to a different DNS server, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Determine the IP addresses of your preferred DNS servers. You can find a list of DNS servers online or check with your internet service provider.

Step 2: Open the network settings on your device and find the option to change the DNS server. This will vary depending on your operating system.

Step 3: Enter the IP addresses of your preferred DNS servers into the appropriate fields.

Step 4: Save your changes and close the network settings window.

That’s it! Once you’ve completed these steps, your device should start using your new preferred DNS server.

Step 1: Determine Your Current DNS Server

Before switching to a new DNS server, you need to know your current DNS server. This can be easily checked on Windows by opening the Command Prompt and typing “ipconfig /all”. On a Mac, you can go to System Preferences, click on “Network,” and then select your active network connection to view your DNS server. For mobile devices, you can usually find your DNS server under the Wi-Fi settings for your current network. It’s important to note down your current DNS server in case you want to switch back to it later.

If you’re using a router, the DNS server information may be set on the router itself. In this case, you can check the router’s manual or look up the default DNS server information online for your router’s brand and model.

Once you have your current DNS server information, you can move on to the next step of changing your DNS server.

Step 2: Choose Your Preferred DNS Server

Now that you have a basic understanding of DNS and its importance in internet connectivity, it’s time to choose your preferred DNS server. There are numerous DNS servers available to choose from, including popular options like Google DNS, Cloudflare DNS, and OpenDNS. Each DNS server has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

When choosing your preferred DNS server, consider factors such as speed, security, and reliability. Speed is important for quick website loading times, while security and reliability are crucial for protecting your personal information and ensuring that your internet connection remains stable.

It’s also worth noting that some internet service providers (ISPs) may provide their own DNS servers, but these may not always be the best option. Many ISPs prioritize their own services over third-party DNS servers, which can lead to slower speeds and potential security issues. For this reason, many users choose to use a third-party DNS server.

Step 3: Change Your DNS Server Settings

Now that you have selected your preferred DNS server, it’s time to update your DNS settings to use it. The process for changing DNS server settings varies depending on your device and operating system, but the basic steps are relatively similar across devices.

The first step is to locate your network settings. This can typically be done through the settings menu or control panel on your device. Look for an option labeled “Network Settings”, “Wi-Fi Settings”, or something similar.

Once you have located your network settings, find the option for “DNS Settings” or “Advanced DNS Settings”. Here, you should see an option to enter a primary and secondary DNS server address. Enter the IP address of your chosen DNS server(s) in these fields and save your changes.

After changing your DNS server settings, it’s important to test your internet connection to ensure that it is working properly. You can use a website like dnsleaktest.com to verify that your connection is using the correct DNS server.

How to Test Your New Preferred DNS Server

After changing your DNS server, it’s important to test it to ensure that it is working correctly. There are several ways to test your DNS server, including using online tools or running a command on your device.

One simple way to test your DNS server is to visit a website and see if it loads correctly. If the website loads quickly and without any errors, your DNS server is likely working correctly.

Another option is to use the nslookup command on your device to check which DNS server is being used. To do this, open your command prompt or terminal and type in “nslookup”. The resulting output will show you the IP address of the DNS server being used.

You can also use online tools like Google’s DNS Checker or DNS Benchmark to test your DNS server’s speed and reliability. These tools will provide you with detailed information on the performance of your DNS server and help you identify any potential issues.

If you encounter any issues with your new DNS server, double-check your settings and ensure that you entered the correct IP address. You may also want to consider trying a different DNS server or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.

Testing Your DNS Server with Command Prompt

If you prefer using the Command Prompt to test your DNS server, follow these steps. Firstly, open the Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key + R and typing “cmd” into the Run dialog box. Click “OK” to launch the Command Prompt.

Next, type “nslookup yourpreferredDNSServer.com” and press Enter. The Command Prompt will display the IP address associated with the preferred DNS server. If the IP address displayed matches your preferred DNS server’s IP address, your new DNS server is working correctly.

If you have any doubts about the accuracy of the test, repeat the process with other DNS servers to compare results. Finally, exit the Command Prompt by typing “exit” and pressing Enter.

Note that if you encounter any problems during the test, you can try the “ipconfig /flushdns” command to clear your computer’s DNS cache. This will remove any incorrect or outdated DNS records and help ensure that your computer uses the correct DNS server going forward.

Testing Your DNS Server with an Online Tool

If you prefer not to use the Command Prompt method for testing your DNS server, you can use an online tool instead. There are many free DNS testing tools available on the internet that you can use to check your DNS server’s speed, reliability, and accuracy.

One such tool is DNS Speed Test, which allows you to test your DNS server’s response time, query time, and other important metrics. To use DNS Speed Test, simply navigate to their website and click the “Start Test” button. The tool will then run a series of tests on your DNS server and display the results in an easy-to-understand format.

Another popular online tool for testing DNS servers is DNS Performance. This tool provides a comprehensive analysis of your DNS server’s performance, including its response time, cache hit rate, and other key metrics. To use DNS Performance, simply navigate to their website and enter your DNS server’s IP address in the search field. The tool will then run a series of tests on your DNS server and provide you with a detailed report of its performance.

Using an online tool to test your DNS server is a great option for those who are not comfortable with using the Command Prompt or who prefer a more user-friendly approach. However, keep in mind that the accuracy and reliability of these tools may vary, so it’s always a good idea to cross-check your results with other tools and methods.

In the next section, we’ll discuss some common issues you may encounter when using DNS servers and how to troubleshoot them.

Troubleshooting Common DNS Server Issues

• Slow or Inconsistent DNS Resolution: One of the most common DNS server issues is slow or inconsistent DNS resolution. This can be caused by various reasons such as a high traffic load, incorrect DNS configuration, or issues with the network infrastructure. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try flushing the DNS cache, updating the firmware or drivers, or changing the DNS server to a more reliable one.
• DNS Server Not Responding: Another common issue is when the DNS server does not respond. This can be caused by a variety of reasons, including incorrect DNS configuration, network issues, or software bugs. To fix this issue, you can try restarting the DNS server, checking the network configuration, or updating the firmware or drivers.
• DNS Server Crashes: A DNS server crash can be caused by hardware failures, software bugs, or high traffic load. To resolve this issue, you can try restarting the server, checking for hardware issues, or updating the firmware or drivers.
• Incorrect DNS Configuration: Incorrect DNS configuration is one of the most common causes of DNS server issues. This can be caused by typos, incorrect IP addresses, or incorrect network configuration. To troubleshoot this issue, you can review the DNS configuration files, check for typos, or contact the network administrator.
• DNS Server Security: DNS servers can be vulnerable to various security threats such as DNS spoofing, cache poisoning, and DDoS attacks. To ensure DNS server security, you can implement security best practices such as DNSSEC, ACLs, and firewalls, and keep the software and firmware updated.

If you are experiencing any of the above DNS server issues, it’s important to act quickly to ensure your network remains secure and functional. Troubleshooting DNS server issues can be time-consuming and complicated, so it’s important to have a solid understanding of how DNS works and how to troubleshoot common issues. With the right tools and knowledge, you can keep your DNS server running smoothly and ensure that your network remains secure and reliable.

Conclusion: Enjoy Faster Browsing with a Preferred DNS Server

Switching to a preferred DNS server can significantly speed up your internet browsing experience. By providing a faster response time, better security features, and content filtering capabilities, a preferred DNS server can help you get the most out of your internet connection.

When choosing a preferred DNS server, make sure to consider the various factors that can affect your internet experience. Look for a server that is reliable, secure, and provides fast response times. You should also consider whether the server offers content filtering options, as this can help you avoid accessing potentially harmful or inappropriate content.

If you’re experiencing slow internet speeds or other issues with your internet connection, it’s worth taking the time to troubleshoot your DNS server. By identifying and resolving common DNS server issues, you can enjoy a faster and more reliable internet experience.

Overall, switching to a preferred DNS server is a simple and effective way to improve your internet browsing experience. By choosing a reliable and secure server and troubleshooting any issues that arise, you can enjoy faster browsing speeds, better content filtering, and a more enjoyable online experience.

Upgrade Your Internet Experience Today

Switching to a preferred DNS server can offer a range of benefits, including faster browsing speeds, improved security, and content filtering capabilities. Here are a few more reasons why you should consider upgrading your internet experience today:

Overall, upgrading to a preferred DNS server is a simple and effective way to improve your internet experience. By providing faster speeds, improved security, and content filtering capabilities, a preferred DNS server can help you get the most out of your online browsing experience. So why wait? Upgrade your internet experience today and start enjoying all the benefits of a preferred DNS server!

Frequently Asked Questions