10 Best DNS Servers You Can Use (Free and Public)
Have you ever wondered why your internet browsing sometimes feels sluggish or encounters access issues? It is because of the DNS server.
DNS server is the unsung hero of your online experience, translating user-friendly domain names into the numerical IP addresses needed to access websites. Your default ISP-assigned DNS may not always offer optimal speed or reliability.
Are you ready to elevate your online journey? If yes, then discover the best free and public DNS servers. From faster speeds to heightened security, these servers redefine your digital connection.
1. Google Public DNS
Google Public DNS is one of the most widely used free public DNS servers. Introduced in December 2009, its primary goal is to enhance the reliability and security of the Internet.
Google Public DNS protects users from various fraud threats, especially when using outdated gear to access the Internet. Switching to Google Public DNS offers notable benefits, including improved security and optimized speed.
To utilize Google Public DNS, users must configure their network settings to use the IP addresses 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 as their DNS servers. Additionally, Google Public DNS supports IPv6 addresses.
2. Cloudflare
Cloudflare is one of the leading companies specializing in web performance and security worldwide. In 2018, the company introduced a cutting-edge DNS service, which has since become a premier free and public DNS server.
Their novel DNS server, denoted by the address “1.1.1.1,” ranks among the fastest and prioritizes user privacy on the internet.
Cloudflare takes a stringent approach to user privacy by not logging IP addresses, the information typically employed by Internet Service Providers to monitor online activities.
3. OpenDNS
OpenDNS is a prominent public DNS provider established in 2005. The OpenDNS service is free and incorporates anti-phishing measures and customizable content filtering.
Family Shield in this server is designed to cater to specific needs, offering a solution to block adult content for households with children and businesses. The Home version of OpenDNS focuses on optimizing performance and enhancing security for general internet usage.
Whenever you switch DNS servers, it is handy to delete DNS data because each server utilizes a distinct caching method to store DNS requests.
4. Quad9 DNS
Quad9 DNS is an additional free and public DNS server option. Like other servers in this lineup, Quad9 securely channels your DNS queries through a global network of servers.
The tool provides a real-time summary of website threat assessments using threat intelligence from over a dozen top cyber security companies. Its DNS servers protect your device and data by blocking your connection automatically if they find a hacked or copied website.
Setting up Quad9 DNS server is quite simple. If none of the DNS servers listed above meet your needs, investigating Quad9 DNS is feasible.
5. NextDNS
NextDNS is a powerful and user-friendly cloud-based DNS security solution that safeguards your online experience. Offering protection against malware, phishing, and other cyber threats, NextDNS ensures a secure and private browsing environment.
With an intuitive interface, it allows customizable filtering and reporting, giving you control over your internet activity. NextDNS is compatible with various devices and doesn’t require any software installation.
Its robust features, including analytics and threat intelligence, provide comprehensive insights into your network security.
6. DNS.Watch
DNS.Watch proves to be an excellent alternative DNS server for individuals seeking unrestricted internet access. This free-to-use DNS server eliminates the need for installations, providing a hassle-free experience for users navigating the web.
Users can anticipate the best possible unfettered internet experience as a consequence. Furthermore, the organization does not log any DNS searches that your devices initiate because it values user privacy.
With no data logging, your information remains secure, shielded from the prying hands of advertising agencies that relentlessly track your online activities. DNS.Watch is a dependable DNS server, offering the desired freedom for web surfing.
7. Control D
Control D offers a variety of servers to meet a wide range of requirements. Users can select servers that block advertisements and trackers, unblock websites, or limit access to social media and pornographic content.
Furthermore, the service offers a basic “unfiltered” option that puts the strong security of your DNS requests first, improving privacy and security. Control D allows users to apply customized configurations for those who want even more control over their DNS settings.
Additionally, the platform offers premium AC filters at an affordable price, allowing customers to strengthen their online anonymity without going over budget.
8. AdGuard
AdGuard is a top-notch DNS server tailored for those desiring effective ad blocking. It presents two primary options: Default and Family. The Default setting blocks ads and safeguards your device from potentially harmful software.
Conversely, the Family option encompasses all these features while preventing access to adult content. The Family option goes beyond mere ad blocking by enhancing overall safety.
AdGuard boasts easy setup and seamlessly functions across major operating systems without requiring extra installations.
9. CleanBrowsing
CleanBrowsing is intended for users, especially parents who wish to give their children and families a safe online experience.
As its name implies, CleanBrowsing shields users against harmful domains and phishing websites while enabling them to block pornographic content from the Internet.Under the free tier, it offers three pre-defined filters: Security, Adult, and Family.
The Security filter allows you to prevent malicious activities on your home network. Similarly, the Adult filter blocks offensive information on the internet while allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of Security. And lastly, all the features found in Security and Adult are incorporated in Family.
10. Alternate DNS
Although Alternate DNS is a very young DNS server, many customers attest to its dependability and uptime, and it offers surprisingly good performance.
Like other DNS resolvers, Alternate DNS is predicated on obstructing trackers, advertisements, malicious websites, and pornographic content.
In addition, IPv6 DNS addresses are compatible with both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, so if you prefer faster performance, use them.
Bottom line
Those mentioned above free and public DNS servers offer diverse options to enhance your internet experience. Whether prioritizing speed, privacy, or content control, these servers cater to various preferences. Choose the one that aligns with your needs for a seamless and secure online journey.
