The Shocking Truth About DNS Servers That Could Boost Your Speed
If you’ve ever felt like your internet is too slow, you’re not alone! A lot of people don’t know that their DNS (Domain Name System) server could be the reason why their link is so slow. This post will go into detail about DNS servers, explain what they do, and show you how optimizing them can make your internet speed much faster. Hold on tight, because we’re about to tell you some shocking facts about your DNS that you might never have known.
What is a DNS Server?
At the most basic level, a DNS server is like the phonebook of the internet. When you enter in a web address into your browser, such as www.example.com, your computer doesn’t recognize that language. The DNS translates this into an IP address that computers use to identify each other on the network.
How DNS Works?
When you request to visit a website, your computer sends a request to a DNS server. The server then looks up the requested domain name and returns the corresponding IP address. This whole process runs in milliseconds, but if your DNS server is slow, you’ll be stuck waiting longer than you’d like.
How Does DNS Impact Your Internet Experience?
Speed: A faster DNS server might reduce the time it takes to load websites.
Security: Some DNS services have built-in security mechanisms to restrict harmful sites.
Reliability: An functional DNS server helps minimize downtime and issues when accessing sites.
Why Are DNS Servers Important?
Without DNS servers, navigating the internet would be like attempting to find a house without an address. Instead of typing in user-friendly names, you’d have to learn a set of numbers, making the web very difficult.
Connection to Speed
But that’s not all. The effectiveness and speed of your DNS server can substantially impact your whole online experience. Slow DNS responds can lead to annoyance as web sites take longer to load and streaming services buffer frequently.
Types of DNS Servers :
Primary DNS
The primary DNS server is the first point of contact when you query a domain name. If it’s slow or down, your browsing experience will suffer.
Secondary DNS
Secondary DNS servers act as backups. If the primary server fails, the secondary server kicks in to handle requests, ensuring continuity.
Public vs. Private DNS
Public DNS servers are free for anyone to use, while private DNS servers are confined to certain networks. Choosing the proper type might effect not just speed but also security.
How DNS Affects Internet Speed?
Explanation of DNS Resolution
DNS resolution is the process of translating a domain into an IP address. The quicker this happens, the faster you can access websites. Delays during this conversion indicate problems.
Factors Contributing to Slow DNS
The slowness might originate from several sources, including the distance to the DNS server, its load, or even misconfigured settings. Ideally, you want a DNS server that is geographically closer and optimized for speed performance.
Best DNS Servers for PC
After considerable research and user testing, here are the top contenders for the top DNS servers you should consider:
1. Google Public DNS
IP Addresses: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
Features:
- High reliability and speed
- Integrated security to combat DDoS attacks
- Global servers spread worldwide ensuring rapid connection
- Google Public DNS is known for its blazing-fast response time and robustness. Users report noticeable enhancements in page load times.
2. Cloudflare DNS
IP Addresses: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
Features:
- Emphasis on privacy; does not log users’ DNS queries
- Strong focus on speed and efficiency
- Built-in DNSSEC for added security
- Cloudflare has developed a reputation for being one of the quickest DNS servers available. According to numerous performance testing, Cloudflare DNS routinely rates high in speed, making it an attractive alternative for users.
3. OpenDNS
IP Addresses: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
Features:
- Customizable filtering options
- Phishing protection and security against malware
- Free and premium plans available for additional features
- OpenDNS stands out for its advanced features and powerful parental controls, making it popular among families and people wishing to enforce online security.
4. Quad9 DNS
IP Addresses: 9.9.9.9
Features:
- Blocks access to malicious websites
- Provides privacy protection
- Reports indicate faster performance than standard ISP DNS servers
- Quad9 DNS delivers unique features that prioritize user safety by restricting access to hazardous sites while keeping a good performance.
How to Change Your DNS Settings
Step-by-step Guide for Windows
- Open Control Panel.
- Click on ‘Network and Internet.’
- Select ‘Network and Sharing Center’ and then ‘Change adapter settings.’
- Right-click your network connection and click ‘Properties.’
- Select ‘Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)’ and click properties.
- Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses” and input your desired DNS.
Changing DNS on Mobile Devices
For both Android and iOS, you can change your DNS by adjusting the Wi-Fi settings and modifying the DNS fields to include your chosen servers.
Step-by-step Guide for Mac
- Go to ‘System Preferences.’
- Click on ‘Network.’
- Select your network and click ‘Advanced.’
- Navigate to the ‘DNS’ tab.
- Add your new DNS servers and hit ‘OK.’
Benefits of Custom DNS Servers
Speed Improvements
Using a custom DNS server can lead to considerable speed benefits. Many public DNS solutions promote speed, assuring quicker load times.
Enhanced Security Features
Custom DNS servers may also give additional security against dangers like phishing and malware, making surfing the web not just faster but safer.
Troubleshooting DNS Speed Issues
Signs of Slow DNS
If you’re encountering delays in loading times or frequent timeouts, these are significant signs that your DNS server may be unreliable.
Quick Fixes for Speed Problems
Switching to a quicker DNS or trying different DNS servers can typically fix these distracting difficulties. It may take just minutes to make a significant effect.
Read More: Boost Your Internet Speed with TPLink WiFi Net: Expert Tips and Tricks
Conclusion
In the digital world, every second is important, and your DNS server plays a key role in that scenario. By knowing DNS, improving your settings, and using the correct public servers, you can experience a big jump in your internet speed. Don’t disregard this vital part of your online connectivity; your browsing experience may just reward you for it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about DNS Server:
While it varies depends on your location, Google Public DNS and Cloudflare DNS are frequently among the fastest.
You don't need to change it frequently; however, if you notice slow speeds, it might be time to test different servers.
Yes! Faster DNS servers can minimize latency and improve your gaming experience.
Most reputable public DNS servers offer strong security features, but always do your research on their privacy policies.
If website pages take longer than usual to load or you experience frequent timeouts, it’s worth testing your DNS speed.What is the best public DNS Server?
How often should I change my DNS?
Can DNS settings improve my gaming speed?
Are public DNS servers safe?
How do I know if my DNS is slow?