How To Change DNS On Windows 10

Changing DNS on Windows 10 is a crucial step in optimizing your internet connection, yet many users are unaware of its importance. Did you know that by changing your DNS settings, you can improve browsing speed, increase security, and access geographically restricted content? It's a simple but powerful tweak that can make a big difference.

When it comes to changing DNS on Windows 10, you have several options. The most common method is to access the network adapter settings and manually enter the desired DNS servers. Additionally, you can use third-party DNS services like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS, which offer faster and more reliable connections. By customizing your DNS settings, you can take control of your internet experience and enjoy a faster, more secure browsing experience.

Understanding DNS and Its Importance in Windows 10

Domain Name System (DNS) is a crucial component of the internet infrastructure that translates domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses (e.g., 192.168.0.1). This translation enables computers to locate and communicate with the correct servers on the internet.

In Windows 10, changing the DNS settings can help improve internet connection speed, enhance security, and bypass network restrictions. By configuring DNS on your Windows 10 machine, you can optimize your browsing experience and resolve common issues related to network connectivity and website access.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of changing DNS on Windows 10, highlighting options available both through the network adapter settings and third-party software.

**Note:** Before proceeding, it's essential to make a note of your current DNS settings in case you need to revert to them at a later stage. Now let's dive into the various methods of changing DNS on Windows 10.

Method 1: Changing DNS Settings via Network Adapter Settings

Windows 10 allows you to change DNS settings on a per-adapter basis, giving you more control over your network configuration. Follow the steps below to modify DNS settings through the network adapter settings:

• Right-click on the Start button and select "Network Connections" from the context menu.
• In the Network & Internet settings window, choose "Change Adapter Options." This will open the Network Connections window displaying all the available network adapters on your system.
• Right-click on the network adapter you want to change the DNS settings for and select "Properties."

Windows 10 Version	Screenshot
Windows 10 Home
Windows 10 Pro

In the properties window, scroll down and find the "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" or "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)" option, depending on the type of IP protocol you wish to configure.

IPv4 DNS Settings	IPv6 DNS Settings

• If you use IPv4, select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP v4)" and click on the "Properties" button.
• If you use IPv6, select "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IP v6)" and click on the "Properties" button.
• In the properties window, check the "Use the following DNS server addresses" option.
• Enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses. You can use **Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4)**, **OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220)**, or any other DNS servers of your choice.
• Click "OK" to save the changes.

Once you have updated the DNS server addresses, your changes will take effect immediately. You can close the network adapter properties window and resume using the internet with the new DNS settings.

**Tip:** To verify if the changes have been applied successfully, you can open a web browser and search for "What is my IP". The displayed IP address should match the one assigned to you by the DNS server you configured.

Configuring IPv6 DNS Settings

If your network uses IPv6, it is crucial to also configure DNS server addresses for IPv6. Follow the steps below to modify the IPv6 DNS settings:

• Follow steps 1-3 mentioned above to open the network adapter properties window.
• Select "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IP v6)" and click on the "Properties" button.
• In the properties window, check the "Use the following DNS server addresses" option.
• Enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses for IPv6. For example, you can use **Google Public DNS IPv6 (2001:4860:4860::8888 and 2001:4860:4860::8844)** or any other IPv6 DNS servers available.
• Click "OK" to save the changes.

After configuring the IPv6 DNS settings, you can proceed with the steps mentioned above to verify the changes and ensure successful configuration.

Using DNS Over HTTPS (DoH)

Windows 10 also includes support for DNS over HTTPS (DoH), a protocol that encrypts DNS data to enhance privacy and security. To enable DoH, you can use third-party software like **Mozilla Firefox** or configure it in Windows 10 when available.

**Note:** The method of enabling DoH may vary depending on the software or tools you use. The example below demonstrates enabling DoH in Mozilla Firefox:

• Open Mozilla Firefox and go to the "Options" menu by clicking the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
• Click on "Preferences" and select the "General" tab on the left.
• Scroll down to the "Network Settings" section and click on "Settings."
• In the Connection Settings window, check the box that says "Enable DNS over HTTPS."
• Choose the provider you prefer from the drop-down menu or enter a custom DoH-enabled DNS server address.
• Click "OK" to save the changes.

By enabling DoH, you can ensure enhanced security and privacy while browsing websites using Mozilla Firefox.

Method 2: Changing DNS Settings Using Third-Party Software

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, you can change DNS settings on Windows 10 using third-party software designed specifically for this purpose. These software solutions offer advanced features and often provide additional security enhancements. Here are a few popular options:

Software Name	Description
1. **DNS Jumper**	DNS Jumper is a free tool that allows you to quickly change DNS settings with just a few clicks. It offers a wide range of DNS server options, including both public and private servers.
2. **ChrisPC DNS Switch**	ChrisPC DNS Switch is another useful tool that lets you easily switch between different DNS server profiles. It provides a simple interface with pre-configured DNS server lists and allows you to add custom DNS servers as well.
3. **Simple DNSCrypt**	Simple DNSCrypt is an open-source tool that not only helps you change DNS settings but also encrypts DNS traffic, adding an extra layer of security. It supports various DNS providers and offers customization options.

When using third-party software, make sure to download it from reliable sources and follow the provided instructions for changing DNS settings. These tools often come with additional features that can enhance your browsing experience and improve security.

Updating DNS Settings with DNS Jumper

• Download DNS Jumper from the official website and install it on your Windows 10 machine.
• Launch DNS Jumper and select the network adapter you want to change DNS settings for from the drop-down menu.
• Choose the preferred DNS server from the available options or manually enter custom DNS server addresses.
• Click on the "Apply DNS" button to save the changes.

DNS Jumper Interface

DNS Jumper will update the DNS settings for the selected network adapter, and you can start using the internet with the new DNS server addresses.

Configuring DNS Settings with ChrisPC DNS Switch

• Download ChrisPC DNS Switch from the official website and install it on your Windows 10 machine.
• Launch ChrisPC DNS Switch and click on the "Fast Switch" tab.
• Select the network adapter you want to change DNS settings for.
• Choose the desired DNS profile from the list or manually enter custom DNS server addresses.
• Click on the "Change DNS" button to apply the new DNS settings.

ChrisPC DNS Switch Interface

With ChrisPC DNS Switch, you can quickly switch between different DNS server profiles and enjoy optimized internet connectivity based on your preferences.

Method 3: Changing DNS Settings on Windows 10 Command Prompt

If you prefer using the Command Prompt on Windows 10, you can also change DNS settings through command-line instructions. Follow the steps below:

• Press "Windows Key + X" and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)" from the menu.
• In the command-line window, type the following command to view the network adapter names: netsh interface show interface.
• Identify the name of the network adapter for which you want to change DNS settings.
• To change the DNS server addresses for IPv4, use the command: netsh interface ipv4 set dns name="YOUR_ADAPTER_NAME" static DNS_SERVER_ADDRESS. Replace "YOUR_ADAPTER_NAME" with the actual name of your network adapter and "DNS_SERVER_ADDRESS" with the preferred DNS server address.
• To change the DNS server addresses for IPv6, use the command: netsh interface ipv6 set dns name="YOUR_ADAPTER_NAME" static DNS_SERVER_ADDRESS. Replace "YOUR_ADAPTER_NAME" with the actual name of your network adapter and "DNS_SERVER_ADDRESS" with the preferred DNS server address.

By using the Command Prompt, you can quickly change DNS settings without the need for navigating through multiple windows and menus.

Exploring Advanced DNS Configuration Options

In addition to changing DNS settings through network adapter settings and third-party software, there are advanced configuration options available for those who require more control over their DNS configuration. Let's take a look at some of these options:

Method 4: Editing Hosts File

The hosts file is a plain text file that maps IP addresses to domain names. By editing this file, you can bypass the DNS resolution process and directly associate domain names with IP addresses. Here's how you can modify the hosts file:

• Open the File Explorer and navigate to the following directory: **C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc**.
• Locate the file named "hosts" and open it with a text editor such as Notepad or Notepad++.
• Add an entry in the following format: IP_ADDRESS DOMAIN_NAME. Replace "IP_ADDRESS" with the desired IP address and "DOMAIN_NAME" with the domain you want to associate with that IP address.
• Save the hosts file and close the text editor.

The changes made to the hosts file take immediate effect, and your system will use the specified IP address for the associated domain name. This method is useful for testing websites, blocking malicious domains, or creating local domain name resolutions.

Method 5: Using DNS Forwarders

In a network setup with a local DNS server, administrators can configure DNS forwarders to control how DNS queries are resolved. By specifying one or more forwarder IP addresses, you can direct DNS queries from your local DNS server to external DNS servers. To set up DNS forwarders:

• Open the DNS Manager on your Windows 10
  
  

  Changing DNS on Windows 10

  Changing DNS (Domain Name System) on Windows 10 can provide faster and more secure internet access. Here are the steps to change DNS on Windows 10:

  Step 1: Open the Network and Internet settings by clicking on the network icon in the taskbar and selecting "Network & Internet Settings."

  Step 2: In the Network & Internet settings, click on "Change adapter options" under "Change your network settings."

  Step 3: Right-click on the network connection you are using (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and select "Properties."

  Step 4: In the properties window, scroll down and select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" and click on "Properties."

  Step 5: In the TCP/IPv4 properties, select "Use the following DNS server addresses" and enter the desired DNS server addresses in the preferred and alternative fields.

  Step 6: Click "OK" to save the changes.

  By following these steps, you can easily change the DNS settings on your Windows 10 computer and improve your internet browsing experience.

  
  

  Key Takeaways - How to Change DNS on Windows 10

  • Changing DNS settings on Windows 10 can help improve internet speed and security.
  • To change DNS on Windows 10, open Network and Internet Settings.
  • In Network and Internet Settings, select Change adapter options.
  • Right-click on the active network adapter and choose Properties.
  • Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  
  

  Frequently Asked Questions

  In this section, we will answer some commonly asked questions regarding how to change DNS on Windows 10.

  1. How can I change DNS settings on Windows 10?

  To change DNS settings on Windows 10, follow these steps:

  Step 1: Open the Start menu and go to Settings.

  Step 2: Click on Network & Internet.

  Step 3: Select the Wi-Fi or Ethernet network that you are connected to.

  Step 4: Scroll down and click on "Change adapter options".

  Step 5: Right-click on the network adapter you are using and select "Properties".

  Step 6: In the Properties window, scroll down and double-click on "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)".

  Step 7: In the next window, select "Use the following DNS server addresses".

  Step 8: Enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses provided by your DNS service provider or the DNS addresses you want to use.

  Step 9: Click "OK" to save the changes.

  Step 10: Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

  2. Where do I find the DNS server addresses to enter?

  You can obtain the DNS server addresses from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or from a third-party DNS service provider. Some popular DNS service providers include Google Public DNS, OpenDNS, and Cloudflare. Check their websites or contact their support for the appropriate DNS server addresses.

  3. Can I change DNS settings for both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections?

  Yes, you can change DNS settings for both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections on your Windows 10 computer. Follow the steps mentioned earlier, but make sure to select the appropriate network adapter (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) in Step 3.

  4. Should I use automatic DNS settings or set custom DNS server addresses?

  It depends on your specific needs. Automatic DNS settings usually work fine for most users as they are provided by the ISP and optimized for performance. However, if you want to use a custom DNS service for enhanced security, faster browsing, or to bypass certain website restrictions, you can set custom DNS server addresses.

  Make sure to choose a reliable DNS provider and enter their DNS server addresses correctly.

  5. Will changing DNS settings affect my internet speed?

  Changing DNS settings may have a slight impact on your internet speed. In some cases, using a faster DNS service can improve browsing speed, especially when accessing frequently visited websites.

  However, the overall impact on internet speed is usually minimal, and the benefits of using a reliable DNS service outweigh any potential speed differences. If you experience any issues after changing DNS settings, you can always revert back to the automatic DNS settings provided by your ISP.

  
  
  
  

  Changing DNS on Windows 10 is a simple process that can help improve your internet connection. By altering the DNS settings, you can potentially speed up your browsing experience and enhance the security of your device. Remember that DNS settings are crucial for translating domain names into IP addresses, allowing your computer to connect to websites.

  To change DNS on Windows 10, you can follow these steps:

  • Open the Control Panel and go to Network and Internet.
  • Select Network and Sharing Center and click on Change adapter settings.
  • Right-click on your internet connection and choose Properties.
  • Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
  • In the General tab, choose "Use the following DNS server addresses."
  • Enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses provided by your DNS provider or a public DNS service, such as Google DNS or OpenDNS.
  • Click OK to save the changes.

  After changing your DNS settings, you may need to restart your computer or refresh your network connections for the changes to take effect. Remember that altering DNS settings can impact your internet connection, so it's important to note down your original settings in case you need to revert to them in the future.