Changing the DNS settings in Windows 10 is pretty straightforward. You just need to navigate through your network settings and plug in the new DNS addresses. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to do this, and your internet browsing might even speed up or become more secure.
How to Change DNS Windows 10
In the following steps, we’ll guide you through the process of changing your DNS settings on a Windows 10 machine. This will help you use a different DNS server, which can offer faster browsing speeds or better security.
Step 1: Open the Control Panel
First, open the Control Panel from the Start menu.
The Control Panel is where you manage your system settings. Finding this in the Start menu is the quickest way to access it.
Step 2: Go to Network and Sharing Center
Next, select “Network and Sharing Center.”
This is where you can see all your network connections and settings. It’s essentially the hub for everything network-related on your computer.
Step 3: Click on Change Adapter Settings
In the Network and Sharing Center, click on “Change adapter settings.”
This will take you to a page where you can see all your network adapters, whether they’re wired or wireless.
Step 4: Right-click Your Network Connection
Right-click on the network connection you are using and select “Properties.”
This will open a new window with all the properties of your network connection. It’s where you can tweak various settings.
Step 5: Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
In the properties window, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and then click “Properties.”
This is the protocol most commonly used for internet connections, so you’ll be changing the DNS settings here.
Step 6: Enter the New DNS Server Addresses
Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses.
For example, you could use Google’s DNS addresses (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare’s DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1). Once entered, click OK.
Step 7: Save and Close
Finally, save the changes and close all the windows.
You’ve now successfully changed your DNS settings. It’s a good idea to restart your browser or even your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 10 computer will start using the new DNS servers you’ve configured. This can result in faster internet speeds, improved security, or even access to geo-blocked content, depending on the DNS servers you chose.
Tips for Changing DNS Windows 10
- Backup Your Settings: Before making any changes, note down the current DNS settings, so you can revert back if needed.
- Choose Reliable DNS Servers: Use well-known DNS servers like Google DNS, Cloudflare, or OpenDNS for better performance and security.
- Restart Your Router: Sometimes changes might not take effect immediately. Restart your router to ensure everything updates properly.
- Test Your Connection: Use websites like DNSleaktest.com to make sure your DNS settings have changed successfully.
- Consider IPv6: If your network supports IPv6, you might want to update those settings too, in addition to IPv4.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNS?
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It translates human-friendly domain names like www.google.com into IP addresses that computers use.
Why would I want to change my DNS settings?
Changing your DNS can improve internet speed, increase security, and allow access to blocked websites.
Can changing DNS improve my internet speed?
Yes, sometimes using a more efficient DNS server can make your web browsing faster.
Is it safe to use public DNS servers?
Generally, yes. Public DNS servers like Google DNS or Cloudflare are safe and widely used. Always ensure you use a reliable DNS provider.
What happens if I enter the wrong DNS address?
If you enter incorrect DNS addresses, your internet connection might become slow or you might not be able to browse at all. Revert to the original settings if this happens.
Summary
- Open the Control Panel.
- Go to Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change Adapter Settings.
- Right-click Your Network Connection.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
- Enter the New DNS Server Addresses.
- Save and Close.
Conclusion
Changing DNS settings in Windows 10 can seem intimidating at first, but it’s a pretty straightforward process. Whether you’re looking to speed up your internet connection, access blocked sites, or boost your online security, changing your DNS can offer various benefits.
Remember, you can always revert to the original settings if something doesn’t work out. Take your time, follow the steps, and test your new settings thoroughly.
For further reading, you might want to check out articles on the best DNS servers to use or more details on how DNS works in the background. Happy browsing and may your internet be ever fast and secure!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.