A DNS server (also known as a nameserver) is special server software that uses a DNS database to answer queries about the Domain Name System. Since DNS servers are usually located on dedicated hosts, the computers that host the corresponding programs are also called DNS servers.
Thanks to DNS, internet users can enter a domain, i.e. a memorable name, in the browser’s address bar. Every domain on the internet has at least one IP address, which computers require to communicate on the network. A DNS server knows the combinations of domains and IP addresses or knows which other DNS server to forward the request to. So when a website is accessed, a request is first made to one or more DNS servers in order to finally be connected to the website. This makes DNS servers core elements of a functioning internet.
A distinction is made between authoritative and non-authoritative DNS servers when it comes to DNS operation.
Resolving a DNS request to the correct IP address is done step by step:
If a DNS server is not responding or fails altogether, the name resolution process cannot be completed properly. This leads to interruptions in operation. Since DNS server failure is always a possibility, it makes sense that your DNS infrastructure is as failsafe as possible.
To do this, you can run two nameservers for the same DNS zone. One of these servers is labeled as the primary server, and the other as the secondary server. Clients should have both servers set so that if a server fails, the other DNS server can take over.
There are many different public DNS servers that you can use for free. In some cases, a higher surfing speed can be achieved by switching to a high-performance DNS server. However, not every server solution is faster than your internet provider’s standardized DNS settings. It makes sense to compare the speeds before you make the switch.
Our table gives you an overview of the ten most popular public DNS servers:
DNS server | Primary address | Secondary address | Security | Features |
1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 | - Protection against DNS spoofing - Logs are deleted within 24 hours | - High speed - Over 200 server locations worldwide | |
10.101.0.243 | 38.132.106.139 | - No encrypted connection | - Access to internet content without country restrictions - High speed | |
8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | - Implements DNSSEC standard - IP address is deleted after 48 hours | - No request limits - No registration required | |
9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 | - Protection against malware, spyware and phishing - Doesn’t save identifying data | - Over 145 server locations - Extra focus on security | |
84.200.69.80 | 84.200.70.40 | - Personal data isn’t logged - No integrated malware protection | - High speed - Funded by donations - Uncensored access to the internet | |
208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 | - Collects and discloses non-identifying data | - Option to set individual filters - FamilyShield DNS server blocks all adult content | |
94.140.14.14 | 94.140.15.15 | - Blocks malware and advertising - Collects personal data for internal purposes | - Automatically blocks advertising - Option to block adult content | |
8.26.56.26 | 8.20.247.20 | - Spyware and malware are blocked automatically - Collects personal data | - High safety standards - High speed | |
91.239.100.100 | 89.233.43.71 | - No logging and saving of personal data | - High speed in Europe - Uncensored internet access | |
Depends on the desired filter | Depends on the desired filter | - No tracking or logging of data | - Choice between different modes - Enables blocking of adult content, among other things |
If you now want to change your DNS server, you should first work out whether you want the switch to apply to all devices in your network or only for individual computers. For the latter, you can simply set up a new DNS server in the Windows settings. If you want all devices to use a different DNS server, it makes sense to perform the change at the router. Whether it involves individual PCs or your entire network, it’s imperative that you choose a secure DNS server to ensure you are best protected against DNS attacks like DNS hijacking.
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