The Best Free and Public DNS Servers of 2024: Speed Up and Secure Your Browsing

In the vast landscape of the internet, speed and security are paramount. One often overlooked aspect that can significantly impact both is the Domain Name System (DNS). The DNS acts as the internet’s phone book, translating user-friendly domain names like facebook.com into the numerical IP addresses that computers use to communicate. While your Internet Service Provider (ISP) automatically assigns you a DNS server, it may not always be the fastest or most secure option available. Fortunately, there are numerous free and public DNS servers that can enhance your online experience. In this article, we’ll explore the best options for 2024, helping you make an informed choice to speed up and secure your browsing.

Why Consider a Different DNS Server?

When you connect to the internet, your ISP assigns you a DNS server. However, if that server is slow or experiences downtime, your browsing speeds can suffer, and you may even encounter difficulties accessing websites. Switching to a quality public DNS server can lead to faster response times and additional security features, such as protection against phishing and malware.

Benefits of Using Public DNS Servers

1. Improved Speed: Many public DNS servers are optimized for speed, often outperforming ISP-provided options.
2. Enhanced Security: Public DNS services often include features that protect against malicious sites and phishing attempts.
3. Content Filtering: Some DNS servers offer filtering options to block inappropriate content, making them ideal for families.
4. Reliability: Established DNS providers typically boast high uptime rates, ensuring consistent access to the internet.

The Best Free and Public DNS Servers of 2024

1. Cloudflare DNS

• Primary/Secondary DNS: 1.1.1.1 / 1.0.0.1
• Best For: General use and speed

Cloudflare is renowned for its fast and reliable DNS service. Independent tests have shown it to be one of the fastest public DNS servers globally. Cloudflare places a strong emphasis on privacy, committing to never log your IP address and deleting any query logs within 24 hours. Their setup process is straightforward, with guides available for various operating systems and devices.

2. Google Public DNS

• Primary/Secondary DNS: 8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4
• Best For: Experienced users

Google’s DNS service is a robust alternative to ISP-provided options. While it offers reliable performance and a large database, privacy concerns exist as Google retains some logs for troubleshooting. The service is best suited for users comfortable with technical configurations, as its interface can be complex.

3. OpenDNS

• Primary/Secondary DNS: 208.67.222.222 / 208.67.220.220
• Best For: Ease of use and filtering

OpenDNS, owned by Cisco, provides a user-friendly experience with customizable filtering options. The free tier includes anti-phishing features and basic content filtering, while paid plans offer more advanced parental controls. OpenDNS is known for its reliability, claiming 100% uptime since 2006.

4. Quad9

• Primary/Secondary DNS: 9.9.9.9 / 149.112.112.112
• Best For: Security

Quad9 focuses on security by blocking access to malicious domains. It aggregates threat intelligence from various sources to enhance its filtering capabilities. While it may not be the fastest option, its commitment to security makes it a strong choice for users concerned about online threats.

5. Comodo Secure DNS

• Primary/Secondary DNS: 8.26.56.26 / 8.20.247.20
• Best For: Security and web filtering

Comodo is known for its security products, and its DNS service is no exception. It blocks phishing sites and warns users about potentially harmful domains. While the free version has some limitations, it still provides a solid layer of protection for users looking to enhance their online safety.

6. CleanBrowsing

• Primary/Secondary DNS: 185.228.168.9 / 185.228.169.9
• Best For: Family filtering

CleanBrowsing offers various filtering options, including security, adult content blocking, and family-friendly browsing. Its easy setup process and dedicated apps make it accessible for users who may not be tech-savvy. CleanBrowsing is an excellent choice for families looking to protect children from inappropriate content.

How to Choose the Right DNS Server

When selecting a DNS server, consider the following factors:

1. Speed: Use tools like DNSPerf or DNS Jumper to test the speed of different DNS servers from your location.
2. Security Features: Look for DNS services that offer protection against malware and phishing.
3. Ease of Use: Choose a provider with straightforward setup instructions and user-friendly interfaces.
4. Filtering Options: If you have children, consider DNS servers that provide content filtering to block inappropriate sites.

How to Change Your DNS Server

Switching to a new DNS server is relatively simple:

1. Find the DNS IP Addresses: Obtain the primary and secondary DNS IP addresses from your chosen provider.
2. Access Your Router Settings: Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually found at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
3. Update DNS Settings: Locate the DNS settings section and replace the existing addresses with your new DNS IPs.
4. Save Changes: Save your settings and restart your router for the changes to take effect.

Alternatively, you can change the DNS settings on individual devices, such as computers and smartphones, by accessing their network settings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right DNS server can significantly enhance your online experience by improving speed and security. With numerous free and public options available, you can easily find a service that meets your needs. Whether you prioritize speed, security, or content filtering, the DNS servers highlighted in this article are among the best for 2024. Take the time to explore these options and make the switch to enjoy a faster, safer browsing experience.