Before you start
- Access to your router or device network settings
| Provider | IPv4 addresses | Private DNS hostname (Android) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 | one.one.one.one | Very fast, privacy-focused |
| 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 | dns.google | Reliable worldwide | |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112 | dns.quad9.net | Blocks known malicious sites |
| Cloudflare for Families | 1.1.1.3 and 1.0.0.3 | family.cloudflare-dns.com | Blocks malware and adult content |
Method 1 Change DNS on your router (all devices)
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Step 1: Log in to the router
Open its app or admin page (e.g. 192.168.1.1).
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Step 2: Find DNS settings
Look under Internet/WAN, or LAN/DHCP Server, for Primary DNS and Secondary DNS.
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Step 3: Enter and save
Enter the two addresses of your chosen provider and save. Restart devices or reconnect them to Wi-Fi.
Method 2 Windows 11
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Step 1: Open your connection
Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi (or Ethernet) > Hardware properties.
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Step 2: Edit DNS
Next to DNS server assignment, click Edit and choose Manual. Turn on IPv4.
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Step 3: Enter servers
Type the preferred and alternate DNS. Set DNS over HTTPS to On (automatic template) for encrypted lookups. Save.
Method 3 Android
Private DNS is encrypted and works on Wi-Fi and mobile data.
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Step 1: Open Private DNS
Go to Settings > Network & internet > Private DNS (Samsung: Connections > More connection settings > Private DNS).
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Step 2: Enter a hostname
Choose Private DNS provider hostname and type e.g. one.one.one.one or dns.google. Save.
Method 4 iPhone and Mac
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Step 1: iPhone
Settings > Wi-Fi, tap (i) next to your network > Configure DNS > Manual, remove the old servers, add new ones, tap Save. (Per Wi-Fi network.)
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Step 2: Mac
System Settings > Network > Wi-Fi > Details > DNS, click + to add servers, then OK.
Troubleshooting
Some sites stop working
Check you typed the addresses correctly, or switch back to automatic. Some workplace and school networks require their own DNS.
DNS changes don’t stick on the router
Some provider routers lock DNS settings. Change DNS on individual devices instead.
Frequently asked questions
Will changing DNS increase my download speed?
No. It can make websites start loading sooner but doesn’t change your bandwidth.
Is it safe to use public DNS?
Yes. Cloudflare, Google and Quad9 are widely used and publish their privacy policies. Encrypted DNS (DoH/Private DNS) adds privacy.
Summary
Pick Cloudflare, Google or Quad9, then set it on your router for every device, or per device in Windows DNS settings, Android Private DNS, or Configure DNS on iPhone.
