Step-by-Step Guide to Changing DNS Server Address on Windows 11

Key Notes

• Multiple methods available for DNS change: Settings, Command Prompt, PowerShell, and Control Panel.
• Opt for reliable public DNS servers like Cloudflare or Google.
• Consider enabling DNS over HTTPS for enhanced privacy and security.

Mastering DNS Server Changes on Windows 11 for Enhanced Performance

Changing the DNS server address on Windows 11 can greatly improve your internet experience. With faster, more secure options available, this guide will walk you through multiple methods to achieve this goal.

Best DNS Servers for Windows 11

Several reliable services offer fast and secure DNS resolutions. Below are some of the top choices:

Step 1: Utilize Cloudflare DNS Addresses

• 1.1.1.1
• 1.0.0.1

Step 2: Access Google Public DNS Addresses

• 8.8.8.8
• 8.8.4.4

Step 3: Leverage OpenDNS by Cisco Addresses

• 208.67.222.222
• 208.67.220.220

By using reliable providers like these, you can ensure a fast internet experience. It’s often beneficial to set a primary DNS from one provider and a secondary from another to maintain connectivity if the primary fails.

Update DNS Servers via Settings

The simplest method for changing DNS servers is through the Settings app, which also allows you to configure DNS over HTTPS (DoH) for enhanced privacy and security.

Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.

2. Select Network & Internet.

3. Choose Ethernet or Wi-Fi tab.

   Quick note: For Wi-Fi, access connection properties to find DNS settings.

4. Click on Edit under the DNS server assignment section.

5. Select the Manual option from the dropdown.

6. Toggle on IPv4.

7. Input your desired DNS server address under the Preferred DNS section.

8. (Optional) Enable On (automatic template) for DNS encryption.

   Quick note: This option activates only if the server supports encryption.

9. (Optional) Turn on Fallback to plaintext to allow unencrypted requests.

10. Enter an alternative DNS address in the Alternate DNS section.

11. (Optional) Activate encryption for the secondary server.

12. (Optional) Toggle Fallback to plaintext for the second server.

13. Click Save.

After completing the steps, Windows will use the new DNS while maintaining its dynamic address setup.

Manipulate DNS Servers with Command Prompt

If you prefer a command-line approach, changing DNS servers using the Command Prompt is straightforward. Here’s how:

1. Open the Start menu.

2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and select Run as administrator.

3. To see current settings, type and press Enter :

   ipconfig /all

4. Identify your network adapter and its current DNS settings.

5. Set the new primary DNS using:

   netsh interface ip set dns name="Ethernet0" static 1.1.1.1

   Adjust “Ethernet0” and “1.1.1.1” according to your setup.

6. Add an alternate DNS with:

   netsh interface ip add dns name="Ethernet0" 1.0.0.1 index=2

Confirm the update with ipconfig /all to see the new configuration.

Adjust DNS Servers Using PowerShell

You can also leverage PowerShell to manage your DNS settings effectively. Here’s the step-by-step guide:

1. Open Start.

2. Search for PowerShell, right-click, and choose Run as administrator.

3. View current network settings with:

   Get-NetIPConfiguration

   Note the InterfaceIndex and existing DNSServer values.

4. Assign a primary DNS using:

   Set-DnsClientServerAddress -InterfaceIndex 12 -ServerAddresses 208.67.222.222

5. To add a secondary DNS, append it to the command:

   Set-DnsClientServerAddress -InterfaceIndex 12 -ServerAddresses 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220

After execution, check to ensure that traffic uses the correct DNS resolver.

Modify DNS Servers through Control Panel

For those accustomed to the classic interface, changing DNS settings through the Control Panel is still possible. Follow these steps:

1. Open Control Panel.

2. Click Network and Internet.

3. Access Network and Sharing Center.

4. Select Change adapter settings from the left sidebar.

5. Right-click the network adapter and choose Properties.

6. Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and choose Properties.

7. Provide the Preferred DNS server from your chosen provider.

8. (Optional) Add an Alternative DNS server as a backup.

9. Click OK to save your changes.

10. Close the Control Panel.

Verify the DNS configuration using external diagnostic tools such as DNS Leak Test to ensure your changes were successful. Note that while changing DNS via Control Panel is possible, the DoH feature must be enabled through the Settings app or command line.

Changing DNS manually can greatly enhance internet connection speed and reliability, especially when competing ISPs provide slow responses. Always double-check settings to ensure the optimal DNS servers are in use, as a misconfiguration can impede access to the internet.

Summary

This comprehensive guide has laid out detailed steps to change DNS server addresses on Windows 11 using the Settings app, Command Prompt, PowerShell, and the Control Panel. By leveraging faster and more secure DNS options, you can significantly enhance your internet speed and maintain your privacy effectively.

Conclusion

Changing your DNS server on Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to improve your online experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can access a faster and more secure internet connection. Don’t hesitate to try different DNS providers to find the best fit for your needs!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)