Ever noticed your internet feeling sluggish or certain websites taking forever to load? Sometimes, it’s not your internet provider—it’s your DNS server. Changing your DNS server on Windows 11 can improve speed, security, and even help you access blocked content. The good news? It’s easier than you think! This guide walks you through the process step by step.
What Is a DNS Server and Why Should You Change It?
Think of a DNS server as the internet’s phone book. It translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses that computers understand. By default, your internet service provider (ISP) assigns a DNS server automatically, but it’s not always the fastest or most secure.
Switching to a better DNS server like Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) can:
Speed up browsing
Improve privacy
Block malicious websites
Help bypass some region-based restrictions
How to Change DNS Server in Windows 11 (Step by Step)
Let’s go through the easiest method using the Windows Settings app.
1. Open Network Settings
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Click on Network & Internet from the left panel.
2. Choose Your Connection
Depending on your setup:
If you’re on Wi-Fi: Click Wi-Fi > Your connected network.
If you’re on Ethernet: Click Ethernet.
3. Edit DNS Settings
Scroll down to DNS server assignment.
Click Edit next to it.
4. Set Manual DNS
In the pop-up, select Manual.
Turn on IPv4 (and IPv6 if needed).
Enter your preferred DNS servers:
For Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Preferred), 8.8.4.4 (Alternate)
For Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Preferred), 1.0.0.1 (Alternate)
Click Save.
5. Flush Old DNS Cache (Optional but Recommended)
To ensure the new settings take effect:
Press Win + S, type cmd, and open Command Prompt as administrator.
Type:
Press Enter.
Alternative Methods
Control Panel Method: Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings, right-click your connection, choose Properties, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), and set your DNS manually.
Using Command Prompt: Advanced users can change DNS using PowerShell or netsh commands.
Which DNS Server Should You Choose?
Some popular and fast DNS servers include:
Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
Cloudflare is known for privacy, Google DNS for reliability, and OpenDNS for added security features.
Does Changing DNS Really Improve Speed?
It depends. If your ISP’s DNS is slow, switching can reduce website loading times by milliseconds or even seconds. But it won’t magically make your internet faster if your bandwidth is the issue.
Can You Revert Back?
Yes, anytime! Just go back to the same settings and select Automatic (DHCP) to restore your ISP’s default DNS.
Final Thoughts
Changing your DNS server in Windows 11 is one of the simplest tweaks to potentially boost your browsing speed, improve security, and enhance privacy. Whether you choose Google, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS, the steps are quick, easy, and reversible. Give it a try—you might notice a smoother online experience right away.
FAQs
1. Is it safe to change DNS servers?
Yes, as long as you use reputable ones like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS.
2. Will changing DNS affect my internet plan?
No, it only changes how your PC resolves website addresses—not your data plan or speed cap.
3. Do I need admin rights to change DNS?
Yes, you need administrator privileges to make this change.
4. Does this work for both Wi-Fi and Ethernet?
Absolutely! Just follow the steps for your active connection.
5. Should I use IPv6 DNS too?
If your ISP supports IPv6, it’s a good idea to set those as well.