11+ Best Free And Public DNS Servers 2023 [UPDATED LIST]

best dns servers

The Domain Name System (DNS) plays a crucial role in the functioning of the internet. 

It resolves domain names to IP addresses, allowing us to access websites and online services with ease. 

With the increasing reliance on the internet, having a reliable and efficient DNS server is essential. 

In this guide, we will explore the best DNS servers, their benefits, drawbacks, and how to choose the right one for you. 

Additionally, we will compare popular public DNS servers, explain DNS over HTTPS and TLS, and provide best practices for using and configuring DNS servers. 

Get ready to dive into the world of DNS and learn all about the best servers available.

Types Of DNS Servers

DNS servers can be classified into different categories based on their functions and roles. The main types of DNS servers are:

Recursive Resolver

The Recursive Resolver is the primary type of DNS server that is used by clients, such as web browsers and mobile devices, to resolve domain names to IP addresses. 

It works by sending a request to the root name server and then following the chain of DNS servers until it reaches the authoritative name server that holds the information for the domain name in question. 

The recursive resolver then returns the IP address to the client.

Root Name Server

The Root Name Server is the starting point for all DNS queries. 

It does not hold the information for a specific domain name, but instead holds a list of the top-level domain (TLD) name servers. 

The root name server responds to the recursive resolver’s request with a referral to the TLD name server for the TLD requested by the client.

TLD Name Server

The TLD Name Server holds information about all the domain names within a specific TLD (such as .com, .org, or .net). 

It receives requests from the root name server and responds with a referral to the authoritative name server for the specific domain name requested by the client.

Authoritative Name Server

The Authoritative Name Server holds the actual information for a specific domain name, including the IP address associated with that domain name. 

It responds to requests from the TLD name server and provides the IP address to the recursive resolver, which then returns it to the client.

Each type of DNS server plays a specific role in the resolution of domain names to IP addresses, and together they form the backbone of the internet. 

Understanding the different types of DNS servers is important for selecting the best DNS server for your needs and ensuring that your internet experience is fast, secure, and reliable.


What Are The Best Public DNS Servers?

Here’s a list of some popular public DNS Servers:

  • Google Public DNS
  • Quad9
  • OpenDNS Home
  • Cloudflare
  • Comodo Secure DNS
  • CleanBrowsing
  • Alternate DNS
  • AdGuard DNS
  • Verisign
  • OpenNIC
  • Yandex DNS
  • DNS.Watch
  • Level3
  • Oracle Dyn
  • UncensoredDNS

1. Google Public DNS

Best DNS server for free and fast global DNS resolution.

Google Public DNS is a free, global Domain Name System (DNS) resolution service offered by Google. 

It was launched in 2009 with the aim of providing a fast and reliable alternative to traditional DNS services. 

Over the years, Google Public DNS has become one of the most popular public DNS services, with millions of users relying on it for their internet needs. 

It provides a simple, easy-to-use solution for resolving domain names to IP addresses and is designed to work with any device that can use the internet. 

Additionally, Google Public DNS implements various security measures, such as rate limiting and filtering of malicious domains, to ensure a safe and secure internet experience. 

With its fast performance and enhanced security features, Google Public DNS is a great choice for individuals and organizations looking for a reliable and efficient DNS resolution service.

DNS Server Addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
  • Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
  • IPv6 Primary DNS: 2001:4860:4860::8888
  • IPv6 Secondary DNS: 2001:4860:4860::8844

Google Public DNS Key Features:

  • Speed: Google Public DNS uses Anycast routing to deliver fast and consistent performance by directing traffic to the nearest server.
  • Security: Google Public DNS implements various security measures to protect users from malicious domains and other online threats. These measures include rate limiting, filtering of malicious domains, and protection against cache poisoning attacks.
  • Scalability: Google Public DNS has a vast network of servers, making it scalable to handle large amounts of traffic and ensuring high availability even during peak periods.
  • IPv6 Support: Google Public DNS supports IPv6, the next-generation internet protocol, allowing users to access IPv6-enabled websites and online services.
  • Easy to Use: Google Public DNS is designed to be easy to use, with a simple setup process that requires no special technical knowledge.

Google Public DNS Pricing:

FREE


2. Quad9

Best DNS server for free and secure internet access on all devices (mobile, desktop, IoT)

Quad9 is a non-profit public DNS service that provides fast and secure domain name resolution. It is designed to protect users from accessing known malicious domains and to protect their privacy. The service is available for free to anyone who wishes to use it.

DNS Server Addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
  • Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112
  • IPv6 Primary DNS: 2620:fe::fe
  • IPv6 Secondary DNS: 2620:fe::9

Quad9 Key Features:

  • Real-time Threat Intelligence Integration
  • Advanced Security Measures for DNS Lookups
  • Support for DNS over User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
  • Implementation of DNS over HTTPS (DoH) for enhanced security and privacy
  • Global Infrastructure for Low Latency and High Availability
  • Privacy-preserving service with no data logging or user tracking.

Quad9 Pricing:

Quad9 is a free public DNS service and does not have any paid options. It is available for use by anyone, at no cost. The service is maintained by a non-profit organization and is designed to provide a secure and fast public DNS service for everyone.


3. Cloudflare

Best DNS server for a fast internet experience

Cloudflare is a well-known public DNS service that provides fast, secure and privacy-focused domain name resolution. The service is available for free to anyone who wishes to use it. It has a global infrastructure that offers low latency and high availability.

DNS Server Addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
  • Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1
  • IPv6 Primary DNS: 2606:4700:4700::1111
  • IPv6 Secondary DNS: 2606:4700:4700::1001

Cloudflare Key Features:

  • Advanced Security Measures for DNS Lookups
  • Implementation of DNS over HTTPS (DoH) for enhanced security and privacy
  • Global Infrastructure for Low Latency and High Availability
  • Privacy-preserving service with no data logging or user tracking
  • Support for DNSSEC to ensure authenticity and integrity of DNS data
  • Ad blocking with Warp and Warp+ (optional paid features)
  • Quad-stack IPv6 and IPv4 support for maximum compatibility and reachability.

Cloudflare Pricing:

  • Cloudflare Free: This is the basic public DNS service that includes security and performance enhancements, as well as privacy protection.
  • Cloudflare Pro: This is a paid service that starts at $20 per month and includes more advanced security features, custom SSL certificates, and a higher level of support.
  • Cloudflare Business: This is a paid service that starts at $200 per month and includes features such as advanced DDoS protection, real-time analytics, and 24/7 support.
  • Cloudflare Enterprise: This is a custom enterprise-level solution that provides organizations with the highest level of security, performance, and support. The pricing for this service is available upon request.

4. OpenDNS

Best DNS server for personal and business-level web control and access

OpenDNS is a free public DNS service that was acquired by Cisco in 2015. It provides users with a fast and reliable way to access the internet. The following are the DNS server addresses for OpenDNS:

  • OpenDNS Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
  • OpenDNS Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220
  • OpenDNS IPv6 Primary: 2620:119:35::35
  • OpenDNS IPv6 Secondary: 2620:119:53::53

In addition to the free service, OpenDNS also offers a range of paid services that provide additional features and security, such as advanced threat protection, content filtering, and detailed analytics. The pricing for these services varies based on the level of protection and features required.

OpenDNS Key Features:

  • Advanced Threat Protection: Detects and blocks malware, phishing, and other cyber threats in real-time.
  • Content Filtering: Allows administrators to block access to specific websites, categories of websites, or types of content based on policies set by the organization.
  • Fast, Reliable DNS Service: Provides fast and reliable internet access with low latency and high throughput.
  • Analytics and Insights: Provides detailed analytics and insights into network activity, such as the number of queries, blocked domains, and types of threats detected.
  • Customizable Filtering: Allows administrators to customize the level of filtering based on their specific needs and requirements.
  • Parental Controls: Allows parents to set up restrictions and limits on what their children can access online.
  • Easy Configuration: The service can be easily configured and managed through a web-based dashboard.

OpenDNS Pricing:

OpenDNS offers both free and paid options for its DNS service.

  • The free version includes basic features such as advanced threat protection, fast and reliable DNS, and customizable filtering.
  • The paid version, called OpenDNS Home VIP, includes additional features such as parental controls, advanced reporting and analytics, and priority support. The pricing for OpenDNS Home VIP starts at $19.95 per year.
  • Enterprise and business users can also opt for OpenDNS Umbrella, a cloud-delivered security platform that provides advanced threat protection, visibility and control for corporate networks. The pricing for OpenDNS Umbrella starts at $20 per user per year.

5. CleanBrowsing

Best DNS server for families

CleanBrowsing is a DNS-based content filtering service that provides a safer and more secure browsing experience for users.

DNS Server Addresses:

  • Adult Filter: 185.228.168.9 and 185.228.169.9
  • Family Filter: 185.228.168.168 and 185.228.169.168
  • Security Filter: 185.228.168.10 and 185.228.169.10

CleanBrowsing offers three different filters to choose from: Adult Filter, Family Filter, and Security Filter. Each filter provides a different level of filtering based on the user’s needs.

The service is available for both individual and business users and is offered for free with no hidden fees or limitations.

CleanBrowsing Key Features:

  • Content Filtering: CleanBrowsing provides users with the ability to block access to specific types of content, including adult websites, malicious domains, and more.
  • Advanced Threat Protection: The service uses advanced threat intelligence to protect users from known and emerging threats, including phishing websites and malware domains.
  • Customizable Filtering: Users can customize their filters based on their specific needs, allowing for a tailored browsing experience.
  • Fast and Reliable: CleanBrowsing operates a global network of DNS servers, ensuring fast and reliable performance.
  • Easy to Set Up: CleanBrowsing is easy to set up, with simple instructions available for most devices and platforms.
  • Free and Unrestricted: The service is completely free to use, with no hidden fees or restrictions.

CleanBrowsing Pricing:

FREE


6. Alternate DNS

Best DNS server for protection against malware sites and phishing

Alternate DNS offers a free public DNS service that filters out ads before they reach your network. The following are its primary and secondary DNS server addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 76.76.19.19
  • Secondary DNS: 76.223.122.150

Alternate DNS also provides IPv6 DNS servers:

  • Primary DNS: 2602:fcbc::ad
  • Secondary DNS: 2602:fcbc:2::ad

You can use Alternate DNS for free, or opt for their Family Premium DNS service, which blocks adult content.

Alternate DNS Key Features:

  • Ad-Blocking and Fraudulent Site Protection Features.

Alternate DNS Pricing:

FREE


7. AdGuard DNS

AdGuard DNS is a public DNS service that provides a secure and efficient way to navigate the web. 

It offers the following DNS server addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 176.103.130.130
  • Secondary DNS: 176.103.130.131

AdGuard DNS also has IPv6 support with the following addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 2a00:5a60::ad1:0
  • Secondary DNS: 2a00:5a60::ad2:0

AdGuard also offers “Family protection” servers that block adult content in addition to the “Default” servers. 

These servers are located at 94.140.14.15 and 2a10:50c0::bad1:ff. 

Non-filtering servers are also available at 94.140.14.140 and 2a10:50c0::1:ff and are accessible via DNS over HTTPS, TLS, and QUIC, and DNSCrypt. 

Note that free AdGuard DNS users have limited monthly requests, device access, and servers and zero customer support compared to paid users.

AdGuard Key Features:

  • Advanced Ad Blocking: AdGuard DNS effectively blocks all types of ads, including banners, pop-ups, video ads, and more.
  • Phishing and Malware Protection: AdGuard DNS protects users from fraudulent websites and malicious domains, keeping their personal and financial information secure.
  • Fast and Reliable: AdGuard DNS provides fast and stable resolution of domain names, ensuring a smooth browsing experience.
  • Family-Friendly: AdGuard DNS offers a “Family Protection” mode that blocks adult content, making it safe for all ages.

AdGuard Pricing:

FREE


8. Comodo Secure DNS

Comodo Secure DNS is a free, public DNS service that provides domain name resolution to internet users. The following are the primary and secondary DNS server addresses for Comodo Secure DNS:

  • Primary DNS: 8.26.56.26
  • Secondary DNS: 8.20.247.20

Comodo Secure DNS provides a secure and reliable way to access the internet, offering users the ability to connect to websites and services quickly and efficiently.

Comodo Secure DNS Key Features:

  • Threat prevention: Comodo Secure DNS protects against malware, phishing, and other online threats by blocking access to malicious websites.
  • Fast browsing: With optimized routing and low-latency servers, Comodo Secure DNS promises fast and reliable web browsing.
  • Customizable security levels: Users can choose from three security levels to suit their needs, with the option to block adult content, restrict access to known malicious websites, or take a more hands-off approach.
  • Ease of use: Comodo Secure DNS is easy to set up and requires no additional software, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.

Comodo Secure DNS Pricing:

FREE


9. Control D

Control D offers a range of DNS servers, each with a specific purpose. 

The “Uncensored” server allows access to websites that may be blocked in certain countries. 

Other options include blocking malicious websites, ads and trackers, or specific types of content like social networks or adult content. 

The basic “Unfiltered” option provides privacy and security for DNS queries. 

There are both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses available, and custom configurations can be set up for specific filtering needs. 

Control D also provides premium filters for a low cost and supports both DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT).


10. Verisign

Verisign is a highly trusted and well-respected provider of public DNS services. 

With a strong focus on security and reliability, it has established a reputation for delivering top-notch service to customers all over the world. 

With its robust infrastructure of 13 authoritative servers, Verisign ensures fast and stable connections to users, providing them with a seamless and secure experience online. 

Whether you’re a casual internet user or a business looking for a reliable public DNS provider, Verisign is an excellent choice for anyone who values speed, stability, and security.

Verisign DNS Server Addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 64.6.64.6
  • Secondary DNS: 64.6.65.6
  • IPv6 Primary DNS: 2620:74:1b::1:1
  • IPv6 Secondary DNS: 2620:74:1c::2:2

Verisign Key Features:

  • Over 13 authoritative DNS servers
  • Manages over 150 million domain names
  • Offers private and secure connection

Verisign Pricing:

FREE


11. OpenNIC

OpenNIC is an alternative Domain Name System (DNS) provider. 

It operates as a community-run network, offering free and open-source DNS services to users. 

The organization aims to promote network neutrality and internet freedom, and provides a decentralized DNS system as an alternative to traditional, centralized providers such as ISPs or commercial DNS providers like Google, Cloudflare, etc. 

OpenNIC offers DNS servers located in multiple regions around the world and provides fast and secure DNS resolution services to users.

OpenNIC provides the following DNS server addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 50.116.23.211
  • Secondary DNS: 185.121.177.177
  • Tertiary DNS: 185.121.177.112
  • Quaternary DNS: 185.121.177.117

OpenNIC Key Features:

  • OpenNIC is a free, non-commercial and community-driven alternative to traditional DNS providers.
  • The network operates a decentralized system, using volunteers and members to run DNS servers.
  • Provides its users with the ability to access websites without censorship or any government intervention.
  • The provider offers several different TLDs (top-level domains) in addition to the standard .com, .org, etc.
  • OpenNIC provides its users with privacy by encrypting the DNS query, making it difficult for third parties to monitor their online activities.
  • OpenNIC supports multiple protocols such as DNSCrypt, DNS over TLS and DNS over HTTPS for enhanced security.

12. Yandex DNS

Yandex.DNS is a public DNS service provided by the Russian internet company Yandex.

It provides users with secure and fast access to the internet by using two different DNS servers for protection against cyber attacks and blocking of unwanted content. 

The DNS servers are located in Russia, Europe and the United States.

Yandex DNS server addresses:

  • Primary DNS: 77.88.8.8
  • Secondary DNS: 77.88.8.1

Yandex DNS Key Features:

  • Protects from malicious websites by checking all visited addresses against a real-time database of known phishing and malware sites.
  • Parental Controls to restrict access to adult websites, social networks, and other potentially harmful or distracting online content.
  • Supports both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols.
  • Advanced protection against DDoS attacks on websites and DNS servers.
  • Reliable and fast performance with low latency.
  • Supports DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) protocols for added security and privacy.

Yandex DNS Pricing:

  • Free for up to one million queries from VMs per month
  • $0.3205 charge per user-created DNS zone per month

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Public DNS Servers

Using a public DNS server can offer many benefits, but it also comes with some risks. 

Before you switch to a public DNS server, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine whether it’s the right choice for you.

Advantages of using public DNS servers:

  • Faster internet speeds: Public DNS servers often have a large cache of domain name system (DNS) records, which means that your computer can access the internet faster when it doesn’t have to wait for your ISP’s DNS servers to process your request.
  • Improved security: Some public DNS servers have built-in security features that can help protect your computer from malicious websites, phishing attacks, and other types of cyber threats.
  • Increased privacy: Some public DNS servers don’t log your internet activity, which means that your online habits are more private when you use a public DNS server.
  • Improved compatibility: Some public DNS servers can help you access websites that are blocked in your country.

Disadvantages of using public DNS servers:

  • Lack of customization: Public DNS servers are typically one-size-fits-all solutions, which means that you may not be able to customize them to your specific needs.
  • Security risks: While public DNS servers can help protect you from malicious websites and other online threats, they can also be vulnerable to hacking and other types of security breaches.
  • Inconsistent performance: Public DNS servers can experience downtime and other performance issues, which can impact the speed and reliability of your internet connection.
  • Cost: Some public DNS servers charge fees for premium features, which can add up over time.

How to Choose the Best DNS Server for Your Needs

When choosing a DNS server, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the best one for your needs:

Speed

The speed of a DNS server refers to how quickly it can resolve domain names into IP addresses. A slow DNS server can cause websites to load slowly or cause errors when trying to access certain websites. When choosing a DNS server, you should consider the server’s proximity to your location and its reputation for speed. Some DNS servers use caching to store recent lookups and speed up future lookups, so that may also be a factor to consider.

Security

Security is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a DNS server. Some DNS servers have been known to be vulnerable to hacking, malware, and other security threats. Therefore, it is important to choose a DNS server that offers secure connections and protects against malicious activity. For example, a DNS server that supports DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) provides an extra layer of security to protect against DNS-related attacks.

Privacy

When using a public DNS server, you may be concerned about privacy issues, such as data collection and sharing of your online activity. Some DNS servers, such as Google Public DNS, store logs of your DNS queries for a limited period of time, which may compromise your privacy. Therefore, it is important to choose a DNS server that values privacy and has strict privacy policies in place. Some DNS servers, such as OpenNIC, do not collect or store any data from users.

Filtering

Filtering refers to the ability of a DNS server to block certain types of content, such as malicious websites, adult websites, or social media sites. Some DNS servers offer customizable filtering options, so you can choose what type of content to block. If you’re looking for a DNS server that provides filtering options, you should consider the server’s reputation and the quality of its filtering algorithms.

Recommendations:

To choose the best DNS server for your needs, you should consider your specific requirements and priorities. 

For example, if speed is a priority, you should consider a DNS server that is geographically close to you and has a reputation for speed. 

If security is a concern, you should look for a DNS server that offers secure connections and protects against malicious activity. 

If privacy is a concern, you should look for a DNS server that values privacy and has strict privacy policies in place. 

If filtering is important, you should look for a DNS server that offers customizable filtering options. 

Ultimately, the best DNS server for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.


Explanation of DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and its Benefits

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a protocol for performing domain name system (DNS) resolution over an encrypted HTTPS connection. 

It aims to improve the privacy, security, and reliability of the DNS resolution process.

DoH works by encapsulating DNS queries and responses within an encrypted HTTPS request and response, respectively. 

The client (e.g. a web browser) sends the DoH request to a DoH-enabled DNS resolver, which in turn sends the request to the authoritative name server. 

The authoritative name server returns the response to the DoH-enabled resolver, which returns the response to the client. 

The entire process is encrypted and secured by HTTPS, providing an added layer of security compared to traditional DNS resolution.

The benefits of using DoH include:

  • Increased privacy: With DoH, the client’s DNS queries and the resolver’s responses are encrypted, making it more difficult for network intermediaries to monitor and manipulate DNS traffic.
  • Improved security: DoH provides an additional layer of security compared to traditional DNS resolution. The use of HTTPS encryption helps prevent man-in-the-middle attacks, tampering, and eavesdropping.
  • Enhanced reliability: By using HTTPS, DoH ensures that DNS traffic is not intercepted or blocked by firewalls or other network security devices. This can improve the reliability of DNS resolution for users, especially in cases where traditional DNS is blocked or restricted.
  • Better performance: DoH can potentially improve the performance of DNS resolution by allowing the use of modern transport protocols, such as HTTP/2, that can deliver DNS responses more efficiently.

Explanation of DNS over TLS (DoT) and its Benefits

DNS over TLS (DoT) is a protocol for encrypting Domain Name System (DNS) queries and responses. 

It provides security and privacy for DNS transactions by wrapping the data in Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption, similar to the encryption used in HTTPS connections.

DoT works by establishing a secure, encrypted connection between the client and the DNS server. 

When the client sends a DNS query, it is encrypted and sent over the TLS connection to the DNS server. 

The server processes the query and returns the response, also encrypted, to the client. The encrypted data ensures that the DNS query and response cannot be intercepted or altered in transit.

The benefits of using DoT include:

  • Enhanced Security: By encrypting DNS queries and responses, DoT provides protection against eavesdropping, tampering, and other forms of cyber attacks.
  • Improved Privacy: DoT helps to prevent ISPs and other third parties from tracking and collecting information about a user’s internet activity.
  • Better Reliability: Encrypted DNS transactions reduce the risk of data loss or corruption and help ensure that DNS data is delivered accurately.
  • Enhanced Protection against censorship: DoT makes it more difficult for governments or other entities to block access to specific websites by tampering with DNS data.

By providing security, privacy, and reliability, DoT can help to enhance the overall performance and user experience of the internet.


Alternative DNS Solutions

Alternative DNS solutions are options that can be used as an alternative to traditional Domain Name System (DNS) services. These solutions provide enhanced security and privacy features to protect users’ online activities.

  • DNS-over-VPN: This solution encrypts DNS queries and tunnels them over a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection, making it difficult for internet service providers (ISPs) or third parties to monitor or block the user’s online activities.
  • DNSCrypt: This solution uses encryption to secure communications between the user’s device and the DNS resolver, protecting users from malicious DNS responses, eavesdropping, and tampering.
dns over https
(Image Source)

It is appropriate to use alternative DNS solutions when the user requires more privacy and security than traditional DNS services can provide. 

For example, users who are concerned about their online activities being monitored or who are looking for a way to bypass internet censorship may consider using an alternative DNS solution.


Best Practices for Using and Configuring DNS Servers

DNS servers play a critical role in enabling internet access by converting domain names into IP addresses, allowing your device to communicate with servers hosting web content. To ensure optimal performance and security, it’s crucial to follow best practices when using and configuring DNS servers.

Some of these best practices include:

Using multiple DNS servers for redundancy

Having multiple DNS servers can provide a backup in case one of the servers fails. This can help ensure that your internet connection stays up and running even if one of your DNS servers goes down. Additionally, using multiple DNS servers can also help to distribute the load on your network, which can improve performance and speed.

Securing your DNS queries

Securing your DNS queries is important because the DNS protocol is often used as an attack vector for cyber criminals. To protect your network, you should use encryption protocols such as DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT) to encrypt your DNS queries. Additionally, it’s also important to keep your DNS servers updated with the latest security patches.

Keeping your DNS server software up to date

Keeping your DNS server software up to date is important because new security vulnerabilities can be discovered and fixed with software updates. By keeping your software updated, you can help ensure that your DNS servers are secure and protect your network against potential security threats. Additionally, software updates can also include new features and improvements that can help to enhance your DNS servers’ performance.

These are some of the best practices that you should follow when using and configuring DNS servers. By implementing these recommendations, you can help to ensure that your DNS servers are secure, reliable, and performant.


Future Developments in the DNS Ecosystem

The Domain Name System (DNS) is an essential component of the internet infrastructure and it has been evolving over the years. As the internet continues to grow and new technologies are introduced, the DNS ecosystem is likely to change as well. Here are some of the future developments that could shape the future of the DNS:

  • IPv6 Support: IPv6 is the latest version of the Internet Protocol and it is designed to address the exhaustion of IPv4 addresses. As more devices and services move to IPv6, it will become increasingly important for DNS servers to support this new protocol. This will ensure that users can access IPv6-enabled websites and services seamlessly.
  • DNSSEC: DNSSEC is a security extension to the DNS that helps protect against malicious tampering of DNS data. The deployment of DNSSEC is still ongoing, but it is expected that more and more DNS providers will adopt it in the future. This will help ensure the integrity and authenticity of DNS data and prevent users from accessing malicious websites.
  • Other Potential Developments: There are several other potential developments in the DNS ecosystem that could emerge in the future. These may include improved caching algorithms, enhanced security mechanisms, and better integration with other network protocols. As the internet continues to evolve, the DNS ecosystem is likely to change as well, providing users with new and improved services.

Frequently Asked Questions – Best DNS Servers

What is a DNS server and why do I need it?

A DNS server translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing your device to connect to websites and online services. Using a public DNS server can improve the speed, security, and reliability of your internet connection.

What are some popular free and public DNS servers?

Some popular free and public DNS servers include:
Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4)
Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1)
OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220)
Quad9 (9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112)

How do I change my DNS server on my computer or router?

The process of changing your DNS server can vary depending on your operating system and router. On Windows, you can change your DNS server in the “Control Panel” under “Network and Sharing Center.”
On Mac, you can change your DNS server in the “System Preferences” under “Network.” To change your DNS server on your router, you’ll need to access the router’s web interface and look for the DNS settings.

Can using a public DNS server increase my internet speed?

Using a public DNS server can potentially improve your internet speed by resolving domain names faster and more efficiently than your ISP’s default DNS server. However, this may not always result in a noticeable improvement in speed.

Is using a public DNS server safe and secure?

Using a public DNS server can enhance the security of your internet connection by blocking malicious websites and providing added privacy protection. However, it’s important to choose a reputable and trustworthy provider, as using a vulnerable DNS server can expose you to security risks.

Wrap Up

In conclusion, choosing the best DNS server can greatly improve the performance and security of your online activities.

It is important to consider factors such as speed, security, privacy, and filtering when choosing a DNS server.

There are several popular public DNS servers to choose from, including Google Public DNS, OpenDNS, Cloudflare, and Quad9, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

Additionally, alternative DNS solutions like DNS-over-VPN and DNSCrypt, as well as secure protocols like DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT), offer additional benefits and may be appropriate for specific needs.

It is also important to follow best practices when using and configuring DNS servers, such as using multiple DNS servers for redundancy, securing your DNS queries, and keeping your DNS server software up to date.

The future of the DNS ecosystem looks promising with potential developments like IPv6 support and DNSSEC, and it will be interesting to see how these advancements shape the future of the internet.

Last updated on February 18th, 2023 at 01:51 am