How to Change Default DNS Server from Router and Windows Computer

Last Updated : 04 Apr, 2025

If you’re looking to improve your internet speed, security, or reliability, changing your default DNS server can make a big difference. DNS (Domain Name System) is like the phonebook of the internet—it translates website names into IP addresses so your computer can load them. By switching to a faster or more secure DNS server, you can enjoy quicker browsing and added protection against online threats.

In this blog post, we’ll show you how to change the default DNS server on your router and Windows computer in simple steps. Whether you’re using Windows 10, managing a Wi-Fi connection, or tweaking your router settings, this guide has got you covered

How to Change the DNS Server on your Router

Not all routers allow changing the DNS server, but if yours does, note the current settings before switching so you can switch back if you need to. Otherwise, you can try changing your DNS to either 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google). Most routers support this feature, for example, a TP-Link router.

On TP-Link routers, click Network, WAN, select ‘Use these DNS servers, then enter the new DNS servers, such as those for Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). See the image below for more details.

You can also visit the official website of OpenDNS for a complete setup guide and more information. They provide detailed setup instructions for a wide of supported routers.

How to Change the DNS Server in Windows 10

If your router doesn’t let you make this change, you can change your computer’s DNS setting in Windows so that it bypasses the router’s configuration and uses Cloudflare or Google instead. To do so, follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open Network & Internet

Open Setting, click ‘Network & Internet’, then ‘Network and Sharing Center’.

Step 2: Select Connection Name

Select the name beside ‘Connection’ at the top of the panel that appears, followed by Properties. (See Image Below).

Step 3: Open WiFi Status Box

This opens the Wi-Fi Status box. Click on Properties and then on ‘Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)’.

Step 4: Choose Properties

In the next step click on Properties, and click the button beside ‘Use the following DNS server addresses’.

Step 5: Enter Value

Enter both numerical sequences for either Cloudflare or Google in the ‘Preferred DNS server’ and ‘Alternate DNS server boxes, then click OK.