Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your DNS Settings on Any Device

Changing your DNS (Domain Name System) settings can help improve your internet speed, enhance security, and even allow access to blocked websites. Here’s a step-by-step guide for changing DNS settings on various devices.

Before You Start

• Choose a DNS Provider: Some popular options include Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) and Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).
• Backup Current Settings: If needed, note down your current DNS settings before making any changes.

Windows 10/11

1. Open Network Settings:

   • Click on the Start Menu and go to Settings.
   • Select Network & Internet.

2. Choose Your Connection:

   • Click on Status and then Network and Sharing Center.
   • Select your active network connection (e.g., Ethernet or Wi-Fi).

3. Access DNS Settings:

   • Click on Properties.
   • Scroll to find Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). Select it and click Properties.

4. Change DNS Server:

   • Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
   • Enter your preferred DNS servers.
   • Click OK to save changes.

macOS

1. Open System Preferences:

   • Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.

2. Network:

   • Click Network.
   • Select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).

3. DNS Tab:

   • Click Advanced.
   • Go to the DNS tab.

4. Add DNS Server:

   • Click the + button to add a new DNS server.
   • Enter the DNS addresses and click OK.
   • Click Apply to save changes.

Android

1. Open Settings:

   • Go to Settings and select Network & Internet.

2. Wi-Fi:

   • Tap on Wi-Fi and connect to your network.

3. Modify Network:

   • Tap and hold your connected network, then select Modify network.

4. Advanced Options:

   • Expand Advanced options.
   • Change IP settings to Static.

5. Set DNS Servers:

   • Enter your preferred DNS servers in the DNS 1 and DNS 2 fields.
   • Tap Save.

iOS

1. Open Settings:

   • Go to Settings and select Wi-Fi.

2. Select Network:

   • Tap on the i icon next to your connected Wi-Fi network.

3. Configure DNS:

   • Tap on Configure DNS.

4. Manual Setup:

   • Switch DNS to Manual.
   • Remove any existing DNS servers and add your preferred ones.

5. Save the Changes:

   • Tap Save.

Linux

1. Open Terminal:

   • Use a terminal to access network settings.

2. Edit Network Settings:

   • Use a text editor to edit the network configuration file, typically found at /etc/resolv.conf.

3. Add DNS Servers:

   • Enter your preferred DNS server addresses in the format:

     nameserver 8.8.8.8
     
     nameserver 8.8.4.4

4. Save and Exit:

   • Save the changes and exit the editor.

Routers

1. Access Router Admin Page:

   • Open a browser and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1).

2. Login:

   • Enter your username and password.

3. Navigate to DNS Settings:

   • Look for settings under Network or Internet.

4. Change DNS Server:

   • Enter your preferred DNS server addresses.

5. Save Changes:

   • Save and restart the router if necessary.

Conclusion

Changing your DNS settings can be a simple and effective way to enhance your internet experience. Always remember to backup your existing settings, especially if you’re not familiar with network configurations. Enjoy improved speed and security with your new DNS setup!