Modifying the default DNS settings on your computer can enhance your online privacy, security, and browsing speed. If you’re a parent, changing your DNS server can also prevent your children from viewing inappropriate content. Moreover, changing your DNS will enable you to access content that is restricted in your country. This guide will provide instructions on how to change your DNS server on a Windows 10, as well as which DNS addresses to use.
What Is DNS?
The Domain Name System (DNS) serves as the internet’s phone book. When you want to visit a website, you typically enter a domain name like google.com. The DNS then converts this domain name into an IP address that your web browser can understand.
Your internet service provider (such as Comcast, Verizon, or Spectrum) will automatically assign you a default DNS. Nevertheless, you can modify your DNS settings on a Windows 10 PC.
How to Change Your DNS Server on a Windows 10 Computer
To modify the DNS server on a Windows 10 PC, follow these steps: Go to Settings, then select Network & Internet, and click on Change Adapter Settings. Next, right-click on the desired connection and select Properties > IPv4 > Properties. Lastly, select Use the following DNS server address.
To change your DNS server on a Windows 10 PC, follow these steps:
- Open the Windows Start Menu by clicking the button with the Windows logo situated in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
- Click on the Settings icon, which is the gear-shaped icon located just above the power button.
- Select Network & Internet.
- Click on Change adapter options under Advanced network settings.Note: If the option is not visible, click on “Status” located in the left sidebar. In case the “Status” option is not visible, expand the Settings window or maximize the window to full screen.
- Right-click on the connection you want to modify the DNS server for.
If you’re connected via WiFi, select that; if you’re connected via Ethernet, choose that. The connections currently in use will display green bars, while the ones that aren’t in use will have a red X. - Select Properties, which will be the last option in the pop-up menu.
- Next, choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
If you don’t see this option, scroll up and down the selection with your mouse. - Click on Properties.
- Click the radius next to Use the following DNS server addresses located in the bottom half of the window.
- Enter a new DNS address and add a secondary DNS server address in the following line.Note:If you are unsure about what to include, refer to the section below on recommended DNS server addresses.
- Click OK at the bottom of the window. Your changes will not take effect until you click OK.
See more: How to find ip address on Mac