Changing DNS in Windows 11: What it is, what it's for, and how to do it step by step

Have you ever wondered how to improve the speed or security of your Internet connection in Windows 11? One of the most effective and easy ways is changing DNS servers that your computer uses. Although many users don't think about it, DNS plays a fundamental role every time we browse the Internet.

In this article we will explain What is a DNS server, why changing it can benefit you, and how to do it step by step in Windows 11. We'll also detail the different ways to do this, both from the system settings and from the control panel, or even at the router level. Everything is explained clearly and in detail so you can do it yourself without complications.

What is DNS and what is it for?

The DNS, or Domain Name System, is the technology that is responsible for translate web addresses (such as www.google.com) into real IP addresses that servers understand. It basically acts like the internet's phone book: when you type in a domain name, the DNS automatically converts it into an IP address so your computer can locate the correct website.

By default, Windows 11 usually uses the DNS servers provided by your Internet provider. However, these aren't always the fastest or most secure. That's why setting up an alternative DNS can offer Better performance, increased privacy, and unblocked access to certain sites.

Advantages of changing DNS in Windows 11

Choosing a different DNS server has multiple benefits, not just limited to improved browsing speeds. Here are the main ones:

• Higher speed: Some alternative DNS servers respond faster, resulting in faster page loading.
• Enhanced Privacy: By using third-party servers, you prevent your operator from storing or monitoring your browsing habits.
• Avoid blockages: With certain DNS servers, you can access websites that your provider has restricted or filtered by default.
• Extra features: Some DNS services allow you to add custom filters, parental controls, or blocking. malware and phishing websites.

Recommended DNS servers

There are numerous DNS options available, both free and paid. Below, we show you some of the most recommended for their speed, reliability and safety features:

• Google Public DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4. It offers speed and stability, although it logs IP addresses temporarily for technical reasons.
• opendns: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. Allows security filters and parental controls. Offers free and paid plans.
• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1. Their strengths are their speed and privacy, making them ideal for gaming or demanding connections.
• Quad9: 9.9.9.9. Highly security-focused, automatically blocks malicious sites.
• NordVPN DNS: 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100. Targeted at users who use this VPN, focused on privacy and threat blocking.

How to change DNS from Windows 11 settings

One of the easiest methods is to do it from the system settings. The steps are:

1. Go to the menu of Home and access Configuration or press Windows + I.
2. Click on Network and Internet.
3. Select your current connection (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and press Properties.
4. Look for the section DNS Server Assignment and click Edit.
5. Change the option from Automatic to Manual. active IPv4 (you can leave IPv6 disabled if you don't use it).
6. Enter the preferred DNS server and the alternative of your choice, for example:
   • Preferred: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternative: 8.8.4.4
7. Save the changes.

How to configure it from the Control Panel

Another alternative is to use the classic Control Panel, a preferred option for users coming from older versions of Windows. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Control panel.
2. Click on Network and Internet and then in Center network and sharing.
3. In the menu on the left, select Change adapter settings.
4. Right click on your active network (Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and access Properties.
5. Choose Internet Protocol version 4 (TCP / IPv4) and click on Properties.
6. Check the option Use the following DNS server addresses.
7. Enter the desired addresses and click on Accept and later Close.

How to change the DNS from the router

If you want to apply the settings to all devices connected to your network, the best option is to configure DNS on your router. Although the exact process depends on the model, the general steps are as follows:

1. Use your browser and enter the address of your gateway, usually 192.168.0.1 o 192.168.1.1In some specific cases like Lowi you can use www.wifilowi.es.
2. Log in with your credentials (usually found on a sticker on your router).
3. Look for a section called Advanced settings o DNS.
4. Enter your preferred DNS server and save the changes.

Nota: Some routers don't allow you to change the DNS if the provider has blocked it at the firmware level. In this case, you can only do so from each device individually.

Additional tips after changing the DNS

After changing the DNS, it is advisable flush the DNS cache from your system to prevent it from continuing to use old entries that can cause errors. Do this as follows:

1. Open the console (symbol of the system) as administrator.
2. Write the command: ipconfig / flushdns and hit Enter.

This will remove any old locally stored DNS entries so your system uses the new servers you just configured.

Additionally, if you notice any connection failure or speed decrease after the change, you can try other DNS or reselect the option. Obtain DNS automatically in the system settings.

As you can see, changing the DNS servers in Windows 11 is a simple but very useful process that can help you More control over your browsing, access to higher speeds and increased privacyPlus, it's completely reversible, so you can experiment with different options until you find the one that best suits your needs and usage habits.