How to Change My DNS in Windows 11?
Quick Answer: To change your DNS in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings (you can search for it in the Start menu).
- Click on Network & Internet.
- Click on Ethernet (or WLAN if you’re using Wi-Fi).
- Click on Advanced sharing settings.
- Click on Change adapter settings.
- Right-click on your Ethernet (or WLAN) network adapter.
- Select Properties.
- Select the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
- Click Properties.
- Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter your preferred DNS server addresses.
In-depth Explanation:
Changing your DNS (Domain Name System) in Windows 11 can be beneficial for various reasons, such as:
- Improve performance and speed
- Increase security and privacy
- Access geo-restricted content
- Use public DNS servers for faster browsing
Why Change Your DNS?
- Performance: Your DNS server can affect your internet connection speed. Some public DNS servers are optimized for fast and secure browsing.
- Security: Some public DNS servers offer additional security features, such as malware protection and phishing protection.
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: Some public DNS servers can bypass geo-restriction and allow you to access content from specific regions.
Choosing the Right DNS Server
- Public DNS Servers:
- Google Public DNS: 8.8.8.8 (IPv4) and 2001:6600:4003:100::68 (IPv6)
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (IPv4) and 2606:4700:30::6810:1013 (IPv6)
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 (IPv4) and 208.67.220.220 (IPv6)
- DNS Service Providers:
- Comcast: www.comcast.net
- AT&T: www.att.com
- Custom DNS Server: If you have a custom DNS server provided by your ISP or network administrator, you can use that.
Changing Your DNS in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Access the Network & Internet Settings
- Go to the Settings app (you can search for it in the Start menu).
- Click on Network & Internet.
- Click on Ethernet (or WLAN if you’re using Wi-Fi).
Step 2: Access the Advanced Sharing Settings
- Click on Advanced sharing settings.
- Click on Change adapter settings.
Step 3: Right-Click and Select Properties
- Right-click on your Ethernet (or WLAN) network adapter.
- Select Properties.
Step 4: Select the Internet Protocol Version
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
- Click Properties.
Step 5: Select Use the Following DNS Server Addresses
- Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
- Enter your preferred DNS server addresses.
Tips and Considerations
- Restart Your Computer: After making the changes, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
- Check Your ConnectionSpeed: After changing your DNS, check your internet connection speed to ensure it’s stable and fast.
- Monitor Your DNS Server: Monitor your DNS server for any issues or outages to ensure uninterrupted access.
- Consider Using a DNS Manager Tool: Consider using a DNS manager tool, such as DNS Benchmark, to monitor and manage your DNS performance.
Conclusion
Changing your DNS in Windows 11 can have a significant impact on your internet experience. By choosing the right DNS server, you can improve performance, security, and access geo-restricted content. Follow the step-by-step guide provided in this article to change your DNS and experience the benefits for yourself. Remember to restart your computer, monitor your connection speed, and consider using a DNS manager tool to ensure uninterrupted access.