Introduction
Changing the DNS settings on your router can significantly improve your Internet performance and security. DNS, which stands for Domain Name System, translates domain names into IP addresses. When you change your DNS settings, you instruct your router to use a different DNS server, which can offer better speed, security, and reliability.
Why Change Your DNS Settings?
There are several reasons you might want to change your DNS settings:
- Improved Speed: Some DNS servers are optimized for faster performance.
- Better Security: Certain DNS providers offer enhanced security features, such as blocking malicious websites.
- Content Filtering: You can use DNS settings to filter out unwanted content, which is especially useful for families.
- Reliability: Some DNS servers offer improved uptime and reliability over the default settings provided by your ISP.
Pre-requisites
Before you start, ensure you have the following:
- Access to your router’s admin panel
- The IP address of the DNS server you want to use
- Username and password for your router
Step-by-Step Guide to Change DNS Settings
Step 1: Access the Router Admin Panel
To change the DNS settings, you’ll first need to access your router’s admin panel:
- Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address into the address bar. Common IP addresses are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
- Enter your router’s username and password. If you have not changed these, the default login credentials are often
adminfor both fields.
Step 2: Locate the DNS Settings
Once you’re in the admin panel, locate the DNS settings. This is usually found under sections like Network Settings, Internet, or Advanced Settings.
Step 3: Enter the New DNS Server Addresses
| DNS Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS |
|---|---|---|
| Google DNS | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 |
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 |
Change the existing DNS entries to the new ones provided by your desired DNS provider. Make sure to fill both the Primary and Secondary DNS fields for better reliability.
Step 4: Save Your Settings
After entering the new DNS addresses, make sure to save your settings. This option is usually found at the bottom of the settings page.
Step 5: Reboot Your Router
To ensure the changes take effect, reboot your router. You can usually find this option under System Tools or simply unplug your router and plug it back in.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Can’t Access Router Admin Panel
If you can’t access your router’s admin panel, make sure you’re connected to your network and that you’re using the correct IP address. Also, make sure JavaScript and cookies are enabled on your browser.
Changes Not Taking Effect
If your new DNS settings don’t seem to work, double-check that you’ve entered the correct DNS addresses and that you’ve saved the settings. A router reboot is often necessary for changes to take effect.
Reverting to Default DNS Settings
If you encounter issues and want to revert to the default settings, you can usually find an option to reset your router in the admin panel or by performing a hard reset using a pin to press the reset button on the router.
Conclusion
Changing the DNS settings on your router can provide several benefits, including faster Internet speed, better security, and enhanced reliability. By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily change your DNS settings and enjoy a better Internet experience. Remember to keep your router firmware updated to ensure optimal performance and security.