Best Public DNS Servers (2026)
Switching to a better DNS server can make your internet faster and more secure. Here's a comparison of the best options.
Quick Recommendations
Fastest: Cloudflare — 1.1.1.1
Most Popular: Google — 8.8.8.8
Best Security: Quad9 — 9.9.9.9
Family Filter: OpenDNS — 208.67.222.123
DNS Servers Comparison
| Provider | Primary | Secondary | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 | Speed + Privacy |
| 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | Reliability | |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 | Security |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 | Customization |
| OpenDNS Family | 208.67.222.123 | 208.67.220.123 | Parental Controls |
Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1)
The fastest public DNS resolver. Cloudflare promises not to log your IP address and deletes all logs within 24 hours.
Family options: 1.1.1.2 (blocks malware) and 1.1.1.3 (blocks malware + adult content).
Google DNS (8.8.8.8)
The most widely used public DNS since 2009. Extremely reliable with a massive global infrastructure.
Note: Google does log some data temporarily for performance and security purposes.
Quad9 (9.9.9.9)
Security-focused DNS that automatically blocks known malicious domains. Run by a Swiss non-profit with strict privacy laws.
OpenDNS (208.67.222.222)
Best for families and businesses who want customizable content filtering. Create a free account to block specific categories.
How to Change DNS
Windows
Settings → Network → Change adapter options → Right-click → Properties → IPv4 → Use following DNS
Mac
System Preferences → Network → Advanced → DNS tab → Add servers
Router (Recommended)
Login to router admin → Find DNS settings → Enter primary and secondary DNS
Test Your DNS Configuration
After changing DNS, verify your domain resolves correctly from all global locations.
Check DNS Propagation