Yes, changing your DNS settings can improve your internet speed—especially when it comes to loading websites faster and reducing delays. While it doesn’t boost your download speed like upgrading your plan would, a faster DNS helps your device find websites quicker. If your current DNS is slow or overloaded (often the case with ISP defaults), switching to a faster provider like Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google DNS (8.8.8.8) can make your browsing feel smoother, more responsive, and even more secure.
What is DNS and Why Does It Matter?
DNS stands for Domain Name System, and it works like the internet’s phonebook. When you type a website like www.google.com into your browser, your device doesn’t actually understand names—it needs an IP address, like 142.250.72.238, to find that site. DNS translates that human-friendly name into a computer-readable IP address so you can reach the website.
This step happens every time you visit a new website, and it directly affects how fast your pages load. If your DNS server is slow or far away, it takes longer for your device to figure out where to go—causing delays before a page even starts to load.
Think of it like calling a friend. If your phone instantly matches their name to their number, the call starts right away. But if your contacts app freezes or takes time searching, the process feels sluggish. That’s exactly what happens when your DNS is slow.
Most people use the default DNS provided by their Internet Service Provider (ISP), but these are often not the fastest or most secure. ISP DNS servers can be overloaded, outdated, or may even log your activity. Switching to a faster, privacy-focused DNS like Cloudflare, Google, or OpenDNS can lead to quicker website access and better protection against phishing or tracking.
How DNS Settings Affect Internet Speed
In 2025, your DNS settings still play a critical role in how fast your internet feels—especially during that crucial moment when you click a link and wait for a page to load. Here’s how it all works behind the scenes:
🔄 Role of DNS in Latency and First-Byte Load Time
When you access a website, your device first asks a DNS server to find the correct IP address. This initial step is called the DNS lookup. If the server responds slowly, it delays what’s called the time-to-first-byte—how long it takes before your browser even starts receiving data. Even a small delay here can make a fast connection feel sluggish.
🌍 Impact of Distance to DNS Server (Anycast & Edge Routing in 2025)
Modern DNS providers now use Anycast routing, which means your device automatically connects to the nearest server in the provider’s global network. The shorter the distance, the faster the response. In 2025, top providers like Cloudflare and Google have expanded their edge networks so much that your DNS request often travels just a few milliseconds away—dramatically speeding things up.
🐌 Slow DNS vs ⚡ Fast DNS: Real-World Difference
Let’s say you’re using your ISP’s default DNS server. It may be located far away, overloaded with requests, or simply outdated. That leads to delays, failed lookups, or timeouts. On the other hand, a fast DNS server like 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google) responds quicker, helping webpages appear faster, especially image-heavy or dynamic sites. While it won’t boost your download speed for files or videos, it does make browsing and app connections noticeably snappier.
🔒 Data Privacy and DNS Encryption (DoH, DoT) Now Standard
Speed aside, DNS is also about privacy in 2025. Old DNS traffic was often unencrypted, meaning your ISP or even hackers could see what sites you were visiting. Now, most modern DNS providers support DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT)—encryption protocols that secure your DNS queries from spying or tampering. That means faster and safer internet experiences, especially on public Wi-Fi or shared networks.
In short, a better DNS provider means quicker lookups, stronger privacy, and a smoother internet experience—something everyone should take advantage of in 2025.
Top DNS Providers for Speed and Privacy (2025 Rankings)
Not all DNS servers are created equal. Some are built for speed, others for security, and a few offer customization for advanced users. Here are the top DNS providers in 2025 that stand out in both performance and privacy—each with a simple setup process and unique strengths.
1. Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1)
Pros:
- One of the fastest DNS services worldwide
- Strong privacy policy – logs are wiped every 24 hours
- Supports DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT)
- Blocks malware via optional 1.1.1.2 (malware) or 1.1.1.3 (malware + adult content)
Ideal for:
- Everyday internet users
- Privacy-focused individuals
- People looking for speed without setup complexity
How to Set It Up:
Set your DNS to:
- Primary: 1.1.1.1
- Secondary: 1.0.0.1
- On Windows/macOS: Go to network settings > IPv4 > change DNS manually.
- On Android/iOS: Use “Private DNS” and enter 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com.
2. Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8)
Pros:
- High uptime and reliability
- Backed by Google’s global infrastructure
- Supports DNSSEC and DNS-over-HTTPS
- Regularly updated with fast global routing
Ideal for:
- General users
- Gamers and YouTube users (faster Google service routing)
- Users seeking a plug-and-play reliable option
How to Set It Up:
Set your DNS to:
- Primary: 8.8.8.8
- Secondary: 8.8.4.4
Applies the same way as Cloudflare—via device or router settings.
3. OpenDNS (208.67.222.222)
Pros:
- Built-in content filtering and security features
- Create a free account for custom filtering (family-friendly, malware blocking)
- Enterprise-grade reliability
- Offers stats and logs for your DNS usage
Ideal for:
- Families with children
- Schools and educational institutions
- Anyone wanting built-in parental controls
How to Set It Up:
Set your DNS to:
- Primary: 208.67.222.222
- Secondary: 208.67.220.220
For custom filters, sign up at OpenDNS.com and configure your IP.
4. Quad9 DNS (9.9.9.9)
Pros:
- Nonprofit, security-first DNS provider
- Blocks access to known malicious domains using real-time threat feeds
- Does not store personal data
- Supports DoH and DoT for encrypted DNS
Ideal for:
- Security-conscious users
- Those worried about phishing and malware
- Businesses that want plug-and-play protection
How to Set It Up:
Set your DNS to:
- Primary: 9.9.9.9
- Secondary: 149.112.112.112
Use dns.quad9.net if setting DoH on browsers or mobile.
5. NextDNS (Custom DNS)
Pros:
- Offers fully customizable DNS profiles
- Advanced ad blocking, analytics, logs, parental filters
- Supports DoH, DoT, and IPv6
- Works across all devices and routers
Ideal for:
- Power users and IT professionals
- People who want to block trackers, ads, and even specific apps
- Those needing detailed DNS analytics
How to Set It Up:
- Go to NextDNS.io and create a free account
- Customize your DNS profile
- You’ll get a unique DNS ID like abcd1234.dns.nextdns.io
- Use it in Private DNS settings (Android/iOS/macOS) or configure on routers
Each of these providers brings something special to the table. Whether you’re chasing better speed, more control, or tighter security, switching your DNS in 2025 is one of the easiest internet upgrades you can make.
Also read: Top 10 Best Internet Speed Testing Tools
DNS Speed Test: How to Know Which One is Fastest for You
Not all DNS servers perform the same in every location. That’s why the “fastest” DNS provider for someone in New York might be slower for someone in Los Angeles or Dhaka. To truly boost your internet performance, you’ll want to test which DNS server responds fastest from your location and ISP.
📍 Why DNS Speed Can Vary by Location and ISP
DNS speed depends on:
- Geographic proximity to the DNS server
- Your internet provider’s routing efficiency
- Server load and uptime
- The use of modern tech like Anycast, caching, or Edge networking
For example, Cloudflare might be blazing fast for you if they have a data center nearby, but slower if you’re far from their node and closer to a Google DNS hub.
🛠️ Tools to Test DNS Latency
To find the fastest DNS for your setup, use these free tools:
- Namebench (by Google) – Runs tests and recommends optimal DNS based on speed and reliability
- GRC DNS Benchmark (Windows only) – Shows response time, consistency, and DNS errors
- DNSPerf (online) – Global ranking of DNS providers based on speed tests around the world
🧪 How to Run a DNS Speed Test
Here’s a simple way to test and choose your best DNS:
Step 1 – Download a tool like Namebench or GRC DNS Benchmark
- Namebench (cross-platform) is good for quick results
- GRC Benchmark offers more detailed insights on Windows
Step 2 – Run the test
- Let the tool scan both global DNS providers and your local ISP’s DNS
- It will ping each server multiple times to determine average response time
Step 3 – Review the results
- Look for servers with the lowest average latency (in milliseconds)
- Prioritize DNS servers with 100% reliability and minimal variance
Step 4: Update your DNS settings
- Choose the top two performing DNS servers
- Input them into your network settings (on device or router)
🌍 Sample DNS Speed Test Table by Region (Example Only)
| DNS Provider | Avg Latency (New York) | Avg Latency (Los Angeles) | Avg Latency (London) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) | 12 ms | 14 ms | 9 ms |
| Google DNS (8.8.8.8) | 18 ms | 10 ms | 14 ms |
| Quad9 (9.9.9.9) | 25 ms | 23 ms | 16 ms |
| OpenDNS | 15 ms | 19 ms | 12 ms |
| ISP Default DNS | 40–100 ms | 50–90 ms | 30–70 ms |
Note: These values are illustrative and will differ based on actual user location, routing, and ISP conditions.
Repeat the test during different times of the day—especially during peak usage hours—to see how reliable your top DNS choices really are.
By taking a few minutes to test and change your DNS, you can significantly cut down on page loading times and enjoy a smoother browsing experience.
How to Change DNS Settings on Different Devices
Changing your DNS settings only takes a few minutes, and the benefits—faster browsing, better privacy, and more control—are well worth it. Below are step-by-step guides for updating DNS settings on the most common devices in 2025.
a. On Windows (10/11)
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet
- Click Properties under your connected network
- Scroll to IP settings and click Edit
- Choose Manual, then enable IPv4
- Enter your preferred DNS servers (e.g.,
- Primary: 1.1.1.1
- Secondary: 1.0.0.1
- Click Save
b. On macOS
- Click the Apple menu > System Settings
- Select Network
- Choose your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
- Click Details or Advanced
- Go to the DNS tab
- Click + to add new DNS servers (e.g., 8.8.8.8 , 1.1.1.1)
- Click OK, then Apply
c. On Android (with DNS over TLS / Private DNS)
- Open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet > Private DNS
- Choose Private DNS provider hostname
- Enter the hostname (not IP) of your DNS provider:
- Cloudflare: 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com
- Google: dns.google
- Tap Save
📌 Note: Private DNS only works over mobile data or Wi-Fi networks that support it.
4. On iPhone/iPad (iOS 17+)
- Open Settings
- Tap Wi-Fi
- Tap the ⓘ next to your connected network
- Scroll to Configure DNS > select Manual
- Delete existing entries, then Add Server:
- e.g., 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1
- Tap Save
Note: iOS only allows DNS changes per Wi-Fi network—not mobile data.
e. On Router (for All Home Devices)
Setting DNS at the router level changes it for every device on your network—phones, laptops, smart TVs, and even IoT devices. It’s the best solution for families or shared spaces.
Steps (varies slightly by brand):
- Open a browser and go to your router’s IP (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
- Log in with your username and password
- Find Network, WAN, or Internet Settings
- Look for DNS or Static DNS section
- Enter preferred DNS (e.g.,
- Primary: 9.9.9.9
- Secondary: 149.112.112.112)
- Save and restart your router
🔒 Tip: Some ISPs lock router settings. If so, consider using your own third-party router for full control.
Also read: How To Boost Internet Speed On Android Phone (14 Best Ways)
Why Router-Level DNS is Best for Families and Shared Homes
- Applies to all devices automatically
- No need to configure DNS on each phone, tablet, or PC
- Useful for setting parental controls or blocking malicious sites network-wide
- Ideal for smart home setups (many IoT devices don’t support manual DNS settings)
By updating your DNS at the router level, you get uniform performance and protection across your entire home—without repeating the setup on each device.
7. Advanced Tips for Optimizing DNS Performance
Once you’ve chosen your DNS provider, a few extra steps can help you squeeze even more performance, security, and compatibility from your setup. These advanced DNS optimization tips are especially useful in 2025, where speed and privacy are more intertwined than ever.
✅ Use Both Primary and Secondary DNS Properly
Always enter both primary and secondary DNS addresses to avoid downtime if one server goes offline.
- For example, with Cloudflare:
- Primary: 1.1.1.1
- Secondary: 1.0.0.1
Stick to the same provider for both entries unless you know what you’re doing—mixing different DNS services can cause instability.
🚫 Don’t Mix DNS Providers (Unless Testing)
Some users try pairing Google’s DNS as primary and Cloudflare as secondary. This may sound like a way to get “the best of both,” but it can actually create problems:
- Inconsistent behavior if one provider is slower or blocks a domain the other doesn’t
- Troubleshooting becomes harder if you experience DNS issues
Stick with one provider for both fields to ensure smooth performance and reliability.
🔐 Enable DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT)
Modern DNS isn’t just about speed—it’s about security and privacy, too. Enabling encrypted DNS prevents third parties (like ISPs or hackers) from seeing which websites you visit.
- DoH (DNS over HTTPS): Encrypts DNS using the same protocol as secure websites
- DoT (DNS over TLS): Encrypts DNS at the transport layer for enhanced security
Most top DNS providers now support both. Enable them in:
- Your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
- Android (Private DNS mode)
- Router (if supported)
- macOS/Windows via third-party tools like YogaDNS or DNSCrypt
♻️ Flush DNS Cache After Switching
After you change DNS settings, your device may still use old entries stored in its cache. Flushing the DNS cache ensures your system uses the new DNS immediately.
How to flush DNS on major platforms:
- Windows: Open Command Prompt and type: ipconfig /flushdns
- macOS: Use Terminal: sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
- Android/iOS: Toggle Airplane Mode off/on or restart the device
🎬 When to Combine DNS + VPN or Smart DNS for Streaming
Want to unlock streaming content from different countries or access blocked services? Regular DNS changes won’t help with geo-restricted content—but Smart DNS or DNS + VPN combos will.
- Smart DNS: Routes only specific traffic through proxy DNS (great for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer)
- VPN + Custom DNS: Use a VPN with DNS leak protection + custom DNS for secure, private streaming
⚠️ Note: If your VPN overrides DNS, make sure it uses a reputable, fast provider or allows you to set custom DNS manually.
By applying these advanced DNS tips, you can ensure your connection stays fast, private, and streaming-friendly, no matter what your needs are.
When Not to Change Your DNS Settings
While switching to a faster or more secure DNS sounds like a smart move (and often is), there are times when changing your DNS settings can backfire or simply won’t work. Here are a few situations where it’s best to proceed with caution—or avoid changing DNS altogether.
🏫 If you’re Using a Work or School Network
Business and educational networks often use custom DNS settings to enforce strict security, content filters, or access controls. Changing DNS in this environment might:
- Break access to internal resources (like shared drives or apps)
- Bypass filtering policies—triggering security alerts
- Violate your organization’s acceptable use policy
If you’re unsure, check with your IT admin before making any DNS changes on managed devices or networks.
📵 If Your ISP or Mobile Carrier Locks Down DNS
Some ISPs—especially mobile data carriers or public hotspots—force DNS redirection. Even if you set custom DNS on your device, your requests might still be routed through their default servers.
This is common on:
- Free Wi-Fi networks with captive portals
- Mobile carriers in certain countries
- ISP routers with restricted admin access
🔍 How to tell:
If you change DNS but see no difference in speed or filtering, your DNS may be getting intercepted. Use online DNS leak tests to confirm.
🌍 If You Rely on Geo-Based Streaming Services
Changing your DNS can sometimes cause geolocation issues. Some DNS servers are located in different regions than your actual location, which may lead to:
- Netflix or Hulu showing the wrong country’s library
- Websites displaying incorrect language or currency
- Location-based apps (like ride-sharing or food delivery) behaving oddly
In these cases, sticking with your ISP’s DNS or using a Smart DNS that maintains location accuracy is a better option.
If you’re on a restricted network, rely on local content, or your DNS changes are being ignored by your ISP—then it might be best to leave the default settings or explore alternative tools like VPNs or Smart DNS services designed to handle these cases better.
Best DNS Settings by Use Case
Not every DNS provider is ideal for every situation. Whether you’re chasing speed, privacy, or content control, choosing the right DNS based on your specific need can make a big difference. Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide:
| Use Case | Recommended DNS | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Speed/Performance | Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) | Lowest latency worldwide, ultra-fast lookup |
| Privacy | Quad9 or NextDNS | Blocks malicious domains, strong encryption |
| Parental Control | OpenDNS | Custom content filtering for families |
| Streaming/Bypass | SmartDNS or NextDNS | Helps bypass geo-restrictions, faster access |
| General Use | Google DNS (8.8.8.8) | High uptime, reliable for all-purpose use |
✅ Tip: You can mix and match based on your network needs—use one DNS for your home router and a different one on your phone or work computer. Just be sure not to mix two providers in the same DNS pair for the same device.
Real User Feedback: What People Say About DNS Switching
Sometimes, the best way to know if something works is to hear it from real users. Across Reddit threads, tech forums, and social media, thousands of users have shared their experiences after switching DNS providers—and many report noticeable improvements in speed, reliability, and even content filtering.
💬 Reddit & Forum Highlights
“Switched to Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 and my pages are loading a full second faster than before. My ISP’s DNS must’ve been crawling.”
— u/networknerd87 on r/HomeNetworking
“OpenDNS is a lifesaver for parents. I blocked YouTube and TikTok on the kids’ tablets in 5 minutes.”
— Anonymous post on Netgear community forums
“Quad9 saved me from clicking a phishing link. It literally blocked the entire site.”
— Comment on Spiceworks IT Forum
⚡ Before vs After: Speed Experience
Many users notice faster website loads after switching from default ISP DNS servers:
- Before: Long delay before pages would load, especially on new sites
- After: Pages appear almost instantly—especially static or media-rich pages
- Gamers report reduced latency and fewer DNS resolution errors during matchmaking
Some also note improved reliability:
“Cloudflare DNS almost never drops. My old DNS would time out once or twice a week.” – @techie_tom on X
🆚 Cloudflare vs Google vs OpenDNS: What People Prefer
1. Cloudflare (1.1.1.1):
Users praise it for speed and privacy. It’s a top choice for gamers and general users alike. “It’s my go-to. Even faster than Google and feels more private.” – Reddit user
2. Google DNS (8.8.8.8):
Known for reliability and consistency, especially on Android and Google ecosystem devices. “Never had issues, but not as fast as 1.1.1.1 in my area.” – XDA Developers Forum
3. OpenDNS:
Loved by parents, schools, and anyone who wants easy filtering options. “Takes a bit of setup, but now my home network is clean and kid-friendly.” – Forum post on Tom’s Hardware
Real users across the web agree—switching DNS providers isn’t just geek stuff. It’s a simple tweak that can lead to faster load times, safer browsing, and more control over your internet experience. Just be sure to test what works best in your location and for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can DNS really make my internet faster?
Yes, but not in the way most people think. Changing your DNS won’t increase your actual download speed, but it can make websites load faster by reducing the time it takes to find a website’s address. If your current DNS is slow, switching to a faster one like Cloudflare or Google DNS can improve your overall browsing experience and reduce lag when visiting new sites.
Is DNS the same as a VPN?
No, DNS and VPNs are very different. DNS only translates website names into IP addresses, while a VPN encrypts all your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server. A DNS can make browsing faster or safer, but it doesn’t hide your identity or location like a VPN does. If you’re trying to protect your privacy or access geo-blocked content, a VPN is the better tool—though using both together can be powerful.
What happens if I enter the wrong DNS?
If you enter an invalid or unreachable DNS address, your device won’t be able to resolve website names. This means web pages simply won’t load. The fix is easy, though—just go back into your network settings and enter a correct DNS server. Nothing breaks permanently, and your internet will return to normal once you fix the mistake.
Does changing DNS affect streaming or gaming?
Yes, and usually in a good way. A faster DNS can reduce the delay between clicking a video or starting a game and actually connecting to the server. Some users also report fewer buffering issues when streaming. However, if the DNS server is in a different country, it could confuse streaming services and show the wrong content library. Gamers may also notice better matchmaking speed or ping stability, depending on the DNS provider’s location.
Is it safe to use third-party DNS providers?
Generally, yes—especially when using reputable providers like Cloudflare, Google, Quad9, or OpenDNS. These services are designed to offer better speed, uptime, and security than the default DNS provided by your ISP. Many also support encryption (like DNS over HTTPS), which protects your browsing activity from being tracked. Just avoid sketchy or unknown DNS providers that may log or sell your data.
Is Changing DNS Worth It?
Absolutely—changing your DNS is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your internet experience in 2025. While it won’t magically increase your download speeds, a better DNS server can significantly improve how fast websites load, how quickly games connect, and how smoothly apps run. It can also add an extra layer of privacy and security, especially when using public networks.
To maintain a faster, safer browsing experience, choose a reputable DNS provider that fits your needs—whether it’s speed (Cloudflare), privacy (Quad9), control (OpenDNS), or customization (NextDNS). Enable DNS encryption (DoH or DoT) where available, and don’t forget to flush your DNS cache after switching to see immediate results.
Finally, remember that DNS performance can vary based on where you live and which ISP you use, so the “best” DNS for someone else might not be best for you. Take a few minutes to run a DNS speed test, try out different providers, and pick the one that performs best for your setup. It’s a small tweak that can lead to a noticeably better internet experience.
