Many ISPs (internet service providers) already configure the DNS settings when configuring the internet. But instead of using the DNS which your ISP assigned, why not use a popular DNS service like Google Public DNS or OpenDNS. You can configure DNS in your computer also and at router level also. If you’ve got a Wi-Fi router then you can configure that router to use OpenDNS or Google DNS. Its your choice which one to use as both have different advantages/features. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at both of them.
DNS server is maintained by ISP but instead of using ISP’s default settings, you can set up your own DNS settings which are faster, safer and more reliable.
There are many reasons why you should be using DNS (Domain Name Server).
- Improve/strengthen security
- Speed up your browsing experience
- Find exactly what you are looking for, no redirection
Configure Router to Use Google Public DNS
Google Public DNS is a free DNS resolution service that you can use as an alternative to your current DNS provider. Configuring Google DNS for your router is very easy. Let’s get started.
- Enter your router IP address in the browser and hit enter. If you don’t know the IP address, then try entering:
192.168.2.1 or 192.168.1.1. These are the default IP address to open router’s web interface. - Next you’ll be required to login (some router’s may skip this step). You can also refer the manual (guide) to know about the exact IP address and login credentials.
- Now navigate to DNS settings section and enter these two IP addresses (for using Google Public DNS) :
- 8.8.8.8
- 8.8.4.4
The procedure is pretty straightforward for Belkin routers. Click on “DNS”, uncheck the option “Automatic from ISP” and enter both the IP addresses. (Refer below screenshot)
Click on “Apply changes” to apply these settings. This procedure may be different based on your router’s interface but try to find something similar to this.
Configure Router to Use OpenDNS
If you want to use OpenDNS, then this is also a great choice. OpenDNS has been around from quite a long time and used by many (30 million Internet users around the world). There are two plans – free and paid. As you may have guessed the paid plan (Premium DNS) offers more features compared to the free plan.
OpenDNS Free Plan Features
- Instantly blocks access to adult websites. No configuration required as this is enabled by default.
- Flexible parental controls that protect every Internet-connected device in your home with the help of FamilyShield. FamilyShield is the easiest way to protect your kids online, block adult websites, and protect your family from phishing and malware.
- Built-in anti-fraud and phishing protection.
- Makes Web pages load faster, which makes your overall Internet connection faster.
To configure and use OpenDNS, follow the above procedure but in the third step, use below IP addresses:
- 208.67.222.222
- 208.67.220.220
The plus point of configuring DNS server directly in router is that all the devices connected with your router will be using this DNS. Therefore there’s no need to configure each and every device individually, instead just configure it once in the router and all the devices connected to that router will be protected.
Note: Please write down your current DNS settings (if any) before switching to OpenDNS/Google Public DNS, in case you want to return to your old settings for any reason.
If you’re unsure which DNS server to use, then you can also test speed of DNS servers.
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