You must have heard the word “DNS” quite often. Many of us might know that this is a term related to internet space. While making it easy, you will automatically be assigned to a DNS server whenever you get connected to the internet connection. But that DNS is by default set by your Server, and the chances are that you may have to change it.
You can change the DNS values manually to have a better internet experience. There are also other factors why you want to change the DNS values. So here we are with some of the best DNS servers for you to test out the right way. Many of you also use these free DNS servers for gaming purposes and use preferred servers so you can play online games smoothly on your computer.
What is DNS Server & How Will Changing It Be Beneficial For You?
DNS stands for Domain Name Server, and its main function is linking an IP address with the domain name. For example, if you enter the address www.google.com into your browser, such as Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc., you will eventually arrive at Google. But that is only one side of the story.
Well, another side of the story contains work done on the backend. The IP address controls the network entities, and then DNS matches the name to the IP address. Now, when you go with the URL www.google.com, the DNS server will be executing all the magic. So, ultimately, the DNS server’s quality will decide the rate at which you visit Google and start browsing.
Also Read- How to Find Out What DNS Server You Are Using
Public DNS Servers
Here are the main highlights of the story: the public DNS. These servers do not belong to private internet service providers but to other companies like Google, OpenDNS, Watch, etc. You must know that we have talked about testing DNS server Services to find the best one. So, the DNS is tested based on three parameters.
- The location and speed of the Server and your current location
- How busy that DNS server in terms of handling and filtering traffic
- Is the domain cached or not?
List of Fastest Free and Public DNS Servers for 2024
Here is a list of all the free Public DNS services you can use. Google free DNS is free and reliable. However, if that doesn’t work for you, there are multiple free DNS services that you can try below.
DNS Provider Name | Primary DNS Server | Secondary DNS Server |
---|---|---|
8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | |
OpenDNS Home | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 |
Level3 | 209.244.0.3 | 209.244.0.4 |
Verisign | 64.6.64.6 | 64.6.65.6 |
DNS.WATCH | 84.200.69.80 | 84.200.70.40 |
Comodo Secure DNS | 8.26.56.26 | 8.20.247.20 |
Norton ConnectSafe | 199.85.126.10 | 199.85.127.10 |
GreenTeamDNS | 81.218.119.11 | 209.88.198.133 |
SafeDNS | 195.46.39.39 | 195.46.39.40 |
OpenNIC | 23.94.60.240 | 128.52.130.209 |
SmartViper | 208.76.50.50 | 208.76.51.51 |
Dyn | 216.146.35.35 | 216.146.36.36 |
FreeDNS | 37.235.1.174 | 37.235.1.177 |
Alternate DNS | 198.101.242.72 | 23.253.163.53 |
Yandex.DNS | 77.88.8.8 | 77.88.8.1 |
UncensoredDNS | 91.239.100.100 | 89.233.43.71 |
Hurricane Electric | 74.82.42.42 | |
puntCAT | 1 09.69.8.51 |
Fastest Free Public DNS Servers List of 2024
1. Google Public DNS – Fastest DNS Server
Undoubtedly, Google public DNS is among the best public DNS, and why not? It has been helping millions of internet users. If you too want to change your DNS to Google Public DNS, change your IP address to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.8.4.
Google Public DNS supports IPv6 connectivity, so if you meet the necessary requirements for setting up an IPv6 connection, you will have to alter your IP address accordingly. However, in my opinion, Google Public DNS will be perfect for you.
2. OpenDNS
Another popular public DNS is openDNS. It is widely used in many countries as the default DNS address. OpenDNS is for users who know what they are getting themselves into.
In other words, if you want a DNS with ample levels of controls in place of ordinary DNS, OpenDNS is the ideal choice. For the IP address, OpenDNS has 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220.
3. Norton ConnectSafe
Norton Connectsafe believes in providing sufficient security and is actually meant to be accessed when you want complete protection for your browsing experience. Currently, Norton Connetsafe offers you 3 measures of protection and they are
- Malware, phishing, and scam
- Security
- Pornography
4. DNS.WATCH
DNS. Watch is a third-party service that allows you to access the uncensored internet. Plus, the point is that it is quite fast, and you do not have to pay even a single buck for it.
This service provides neutrality and that’s why there is no reduction in internet performance at any cause—talking about the DNS.Watch IP addresses. They are 82.200.69.80 and 84.200.70.40.
5. Level3 DNS
Another DNS server that provides great performance is Level 3 DNS. It offers a network-based service that costs top-notch hardware to function optimally. The IP addresses with which you can change to Level3 DNS are;
- 209.244.0.3
- 209.244.0.4
- 4.2.2.1
- 4.2.2.2
- 4.2.2.3
- 4.2.2.4
6. Comodo Secure DNS
Comodo is the best Server known to date for gaming purposes. Comodo also runs antivirus, and it works best with this DNS involved. This is a secure DNS service that combines Speed, Reliability, and safety.
Basically, it is a robust network consisting of many servers. Furthermore, it offers optimization based on access to the internet. if you want to switch to this DNS server, you only have to change your IP address to 8.20.247.20 and 8.26.56.26
7. GreenTeamDNS
GreenTeamDNS focuses on security and can block many potentially dangerous websites, including malware, botnets, pornography, and others. Furthermore, you can even create premium accounts free of cost.
It is an all-in-one advanced-level DNS that works on the cloud. In addition, it comes with a new level of security when compared to other DNS. So if you take your privacy very seriously, you must give GreenTeamDNS a try.
8. FreeDNS
If you live in Austria by chance, you should be using FreeDNS as your permanent Server. They offer no log queries and even suggest that your search results and interests will be kept confidential. They believe in and offer privacy and security.
It is an excellent option if you’re looking for a free and safe internet connection. Since there are no logs, nobody will spy on your traffic for ads, money, or fraud.
9. Cloudflare
Cloudflare is very well-known for offering top-rated content and impressive service. However, the largest network has now extended its services by including new DNS services for the public.
Cloudflare has majorly focused on its privacy and fundamentals. Besides, performance has always been a key factor in the network. Surprisingly, it is considered the fastest-ever public DNS service after several tests. Moreover, you can find several tutorials and setup guidance for Windows, Linux, macOS, and routers.
10. Quad 9
Quad 9 is a newer option in this list. Introduced back in 2016, it served uniquely with a fast and free DNS service. In addition, the company claims to use 18+ threat intelligence to block all untrusted and malicious domains.
As per the DNSPerf tests, Quad 9 is rated seven out of ten. That means it’s not as fine as Cloudflare or OpenDNS, although performance-wise, it does a better job than most of the others. Additionally, it provides tutorials and setup guidance.
From Editor’s Desk
These are the best free DNS services that you can try. We recommend you try Google DNS or Open DNS as they are reliable, fast, and secure. However, if you want to try something new, then try other ones as well. A good DNS service will keep your internet experience safe and steady.