Public DNS Servers
Free resolvers you can use instead of your ISP's. Every address was checked to answer before it was listed. The last column is a live response time measured from our server.
| Provider | Primary | Secondary | Filtering | Encrypted DNS | Response |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Public DNS | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | None | Yes | – |
| Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 | None (1.1.1.2 blocks malware, 1.1.1.3 also blocks adult content) | Yes | – |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 | Blocks known malicious domains | Yes | – |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 | Phishing and malware (FamilyShield also blocks adult content) | Yes | – |
| AdGuard DNS | 94.140.14.14 | 94.140.15.15 | Blocks ads, trackers and malicious domains | Yes | – |
| CleanBrowsing | 185.228.168.9 | 185.228.169.9 | Security filter: blocks malware and phishing | Yes | – |
| CenturyLink DNS | 205.171.3.65 | 205.171.2.65 | None | Not documented | – |
Frequently asked questions
What is a public DNS server?
A DNS resolver that anyone can use, run by a company or non-profit instead of your internet provider. You enter its IP addresses in your device or router, and it answers the name lookups that turn domains into IP addresses.
Which public DNS server is the fastest?
It depends on where you are, because each provider has servers in different places. The response column shows speed from our server only. To compare from your own connection, try each provider on your device for a few days, or run a DNS benchmark tool.
How do I change my DNS server?
On Windows, open Settings, Network and internet, choose your connection, edit the DNS server assignment and enter the two addresses. On macOS, open System Settings, Network, your connection, Details, DNS. On iPhone, open Settings, Wi-Fi, the info button next to your network, Configure DNS, Manual. On Android, Private DNS or the Wi-Fi network's advanced settings. Setting it on your router changes it for every device at home.
Is it safe to switch from my ISP's DNS?
Yes, and it is easy to undo. The provider you pick will see the domains you look up, in place of your ISP, so read its privacy policy. Using DNS over HTTPS or TLS hides the lookups from the network in between.
What is the difference between primary and secondary DNS?
Both are equally valid addresses of the same service. Devices use the secondary if the primary does not answer. Always enter both.
Why does the list include some ISP resolvers?
The ones listed answer queries from outside their own network, which we verified. Most ISPs restrict their resolvers to their own customers, so those cannot be listed or tested here.
Do DNS changes affect my speed or privacy?
A faster resolver speeds up the first lookup of each domain, not downloads. For privacy, choose a provider whose logging policy you accept and use encrypted DNS where supported.