Easy Way to Make Your Internet Faster and Safer on Windows 11

If your internet is slow or doesn’t feel safe, your DNS server might be the reason. Most internet providers use default DNS servers, but they’re not always the best. I found that an easy way to make your internet faster and safer on Windows 11 is by changing the DNS settings. Free DNS options like Google DNS, Cloudflare and OpenDNS work really well. The good thing is, it’s easy to switch to them.

Make Your Internet Faster and Safer on Windows 11 by Changing DNS Server

What is DNS and Why Change It?

A Domain Name System (DNS) helps browsers load web pages by translating easy-to-remember domain names into IP addresses. When your ISP sets up your internet connection they also configure the default DNS settings for you.

Many ISPs don’t focus on privacy or DNS security, which can put you at risk. Luckily, third-party DNS providers like Google, Cloudflare, and OpenDNS offer better security and faster speeds.

Here are some popular DNS numbers you can use:

• Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
• Google: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220

How to Change DNS Server in Windows 11

Changing your DNS server in Windows 11 is simple through the Settings app. Follow these steps:

1. Press Win + i to open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet > Advanced Network Settings.
3. Click on your network adapter (Ethernet or Wi-Fi).
4. Select View Additional Properties.
5. Click Edit next to DNS server assignment.
6. Choose Manual, then enable IPv4 or IPv6.
7. Enter the DNS numbers in the Preferred DNS and Alternate DNS fields.
8. Click Save.

Once you change your DNS server, you should notice improved speeds and better security. If you want to check the speed of your new DNS, tools like NameBench and GRC DNS Benchmark can help you find the fastest option.

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FAQs about Changing DNS in Windows 11

1. What is DNS and why does it matter?
DNS (Domain Name System) is like an address book for the internet. It translates website names into IP addresses so browsers can load the sites you want to visit. A fast and secure DNS server improves your internet speed and protects your privacy.

2. Can changing DNS improve my internet speed?
Yes, switching to a faster DNS server can speed up your internet, especially if your current DNS is slow. Providers like Google, Cloudflare, and OpenDNS offer faster alternatives compared to the default DNS servers from your ISP.

3. Is changing DNS settings safe?
Yes, changing your DNS settings is completely safe. In fact, switching to a third-party DNS server can improve security by offering better protection against threats like malware or phishing.

4. Will changing DNS affect my connection to other devices?
No, changing DNS on your Windows 11 device only affects that specific device’s internet connection. Other devices connected to the same network will not be impacted.

5. How do I know if my new DNS is working?
Once you change your DNS settings, you can check if it’s working by visiting websites. You can also use DNS benchmark tools like NameBench and GRC DNS Benchmark to test the speed of your new DNS server.