Have you ever noticed slow internet speeds or trouble accessing certain websites even though your connection seems fine? One hidden culprit could be your DNS settings. By learning how to change DNS server on Windows 11, you can speed up browsing, improve privacy, and even bypass some restrictions.
This guide will walk you through everything — from understanding DNS to changing it using multiple methods, with clear, actionable steps.
🔑 Key Takeaways
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DNS (Domain Name System) translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses.
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Using a faster or more secure DNS can improve internet speed, reliability, and security.
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Windows 11 lets you change DNS via Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or PowerShell.
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Popular free DNS servers include Google DNS, Cloudflare, and OpenDNS.
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You can configure DNS for Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or even system-wide.
What Is a DNS Server and Why Change It?
Every time you visit a website, your device contacts a DNS server to find its matching IP address. Think of it as the “phonebook” of the internet.
By default, your ISP (Internet Service Provider) controls your DNS. However, switching to a public DNS has many benefits:
✅ Benefits of Changing DNS
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Faster browsing – Public DNS like Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) respond quicker than ISP servers.
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Better reliability – Avoid DNS outages that slow down or block websites.
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Improved privacy – Some DNS providers don’t log your browsing history.
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Access to blocked sites – Alternative DNS can bypass region-based restrictions.
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Extra security – Providers like OpenDNS filter malicious websites.
Best Free Public DNS Servers for Windows 11
Here are some popular DNS options you can use:
| Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google DNS | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | Speed & reliability |
| Cloudflare DNS | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 | Privacy & speed |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 | Security & parental control |
| Quad9 DNS | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 | Malware blocking & safety |
How to Change DNS Server on Windows 11 (Step-by-Step)
There are several ways to do this. Let’s go through them one by one.
1. Change DNS Server via Windows 11 Settings
This is the easiest method for most users.
Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Network & internet.
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Select Wi-Fi (for wireless) or Ethernet (for wired).
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Click Hardware properties.
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Under DNS server assignment, click Edit.
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Change from Automatic (DHCP) to Manual.
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Toggle IPv4 to On.
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Enter your preferred DNS servers (e.g., 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
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Click Save.
💡 You can also enable IPv6 and use Cloudflare’s IPv6 DNS (2606:4700:4700::1111).
2. Change DNS via Control Panel
The classic method still works in Windows 11.
Steps:
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Press Windows + R, type
ncpa.cpl, and hit Enter. -
Right-click your active network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
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Select Properties.
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Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
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Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
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Enter your preferred DNS (e.g., 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1).
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Click OK, then Close.
3. Change DNS via Command Prompt
For advanced users who prefer command-line tools.
Steps:
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Press Start, type cmd, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
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Type the following command to list adapters:
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Identify your active adapter (e.g., Wi-Fi).
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Run this command (replace “Wi-Fi” with your adapter name):
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To add a secondary DNS:
4. Change DNS via PowerShell
PowerShell is another fast option for scripting or automation.
Steps:
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Press Start, type PowerShell, and run as administrator.
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Type this command to list network adapters:
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Replace “Wi-Fi” with your adapter name and enter:
5. Change DNS via Router (Applies to All Devices)
Instead of changing DNS on your PC only, you can set it directly in your router. This way, all connected devices (phones, TVs, laptops) use the same DNS.
General Steps (varies by router brand):
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Open a web browser and log in to your router (usually 192.168.1.1).
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Enter username and password.
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Go to Network Settings > DNS.
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Replace the default DNS with your preferred one.
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Save and restart your router.
How to Verify Your New DNS Settings
Once you’ve changed DNS, make sure it’s working.
Method 1: Command Prompt
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Open cmd and type:
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It should display the DNS server you configured.
Method 2: Online DNS Test
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Visit websites like dnsleaktest.com or ipleak.net to confirm your DNS.
Common Issues and Fixes
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No internet after changing DNS? → Double-check the addresses, remove typos.
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Slow browsing? → Try another DNS provider (Cloudflare vs Google).
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Some sites blocked? → Use a neutral DNS like Quad9 or Cloudflare.
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Can’t save changes? → Run settings with administrator rights.
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Difficulty | Best For | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Settings (Modern UI) | Easy | Beginners | Low |
| Control Panel | Medium | Traditional users | Low |
| Command Prompt | Medium | Advanced users | Medium |
| PowerShell | Medium | Automation/scripts | Medium |
| Router | Medium | Whole-network setup | Low |
Expert Tips for DNS Management
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Try Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) for fastest speeds in most regions.
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Use OpenDNS if you want parental controls and filtering.
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Pair DNS changes with VPN for even stronger privacy.
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Test different servers with DNS Benchmark tools.
Conclusion
Learning how to change DNS server on Windows 11 is a simple but powerful tweak that can improve speed, security, and browsing reliability. Whether you use the Settings app, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or PowerShell, the process takes just a few minutes.
By switching to a reliable DNS like Google, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS, you’ll enjoy smoother internet and better control over your online experience.
FAQs: Changing DNS Server in Windows 11
1. Is it safe to change DNS in Windows 11?
Yes, it’s completely safe. Just make sure you use trusted providers like Google, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS.
2. Does changing DNS make my internet faster?
Often yes, especially if your ISP’s DNS is slow. However, results vary by location.
3. Will changing DNS unblock websites?
Sometimes. Some DNS services bypass restrictions, but a VPN is more reliable for region-blocked sites.
4. Do I need to restart my PC after changing DNS?
Not always, but restarting ensures settings apply correctly.
5. Should I change DNS on my router or PC?
If you want all devices on your network to use the same DNS, set it on your router. Otherwise, per-PC changes work fine.