Are you looking for reliable, fast, and secure DNS servers? This guide covers the best free and public DNS servers for 2024, including their features, benefits, and how to use them. From Google’s popular 8.8.8.8 to advanced options like Quad9 and Control D, find the right DNS solution for your needs.
Top Free and Public DNS Servers
Here is a quick reference for the best free DNS servers. Detailed descriptions follow:
| Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS |
|---|---|---|
| 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | |
| Control D | 76.76.2.0 | 76.76.10.0 |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 |
| OpenDNS Home | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 |
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 |
| AdGuard DNS | 94.140.14.14 | 94.140.15.15 |
| CleanBrowsing | 185.228.168.9 | 185.228.169.9 |
| Alternate DNS | 76.76.19.19 | 76.223.122.150 |
Why Use Alternative DNS Servers?
Switching to a third-party DNS server can improve browsing speed, enhance privacy, and help bypass geo-restrictions. Many ISPs use default DNS servers that may be slower, less secure, or log your activity. Here are some key benefits:
- Faster Browsing: Many public DNS servers are optimized for speed.
- Improved Privacy: Avoid ISP logging and choose DNS providers with no-log policies.
- Content Filtering: Block ads, malware, or adult content.
- Geo-Unblocking: Access restricted websites in your country.
Detailed Overview of Top DNS Servers
1. Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 & 8.8.4.4)
- Benefits: Faster browsing, improved security, and accurate results.
- Supports: IPv4, IPv6, DNS over HTTPS (DoH), and DNS over TLS (DoT).
- IPv6 Addresses:
- Primary: 2001:4860:4860::8888
- Secondary: 2001:4860:4860::8844
Google’s global network ensures low latency by directing traffic to the nearest data center.
2. Control D (76.76.2.0 & 76.76.10.0)
- Unique Feature: Customizable DNS filtering for ads, malware, or adult content.
- Supports: IPv4, IPv6, DoH, and DoT.
- IPv6 Addresses:
- Primary: 2606:1a40::
- Secondary: 2606:1a40:1::
Control D’s “Unfiltered” option ensures privacy and security, while advanced filters are available with premium plans.
3. Quad9 (9.9.9.9 & 149.112.112.112)
- Focus: Cybersecurity with malware and phishing protection.
- Supports: IPv4, IPv6, and DoH.
- IPv6 Addresses:
- Primary: 2620:fe::fe
- Secondary: 2620:fe::9
Quad9 stands out with a no-log policy, ensuring user privacy while blocking harmful domains.
4. OpenDNS Home (208.67.222.222 & 208.67.220.220)
- Benefits: High reliability and optional parental controls.
- Supports: IPv4, IPv6, and DoH.
- IPv6 Addresses:
- Primary: 2620:119:35::35
- Secondary: 2620:119:53::53
OpenDNS FamilyShield blocks adult content automatically: 208.67.222.123 & 208.67.220.123.
5. Cloudflare (1.1.1.1 & 1.0.0.1)
- Claim to Fame: Fastest DNS directory with robust privacy.
- Supports: IPv4, IPv6, DoH, DoT, and DNS over QUIC.
- IPv6 Addresses:
- Primary: 2606:4700:4700::1111
- Secondary: 2606:4700:4700::1001
Cloudflare also offers family-friendly DNS: 1.1.1.2 (malware blocking) and 1.1.1.3 (malware and adult content blocking).
How to Change Your DNS Server
- Router Setup:
- Log in to your router (e.g., http://192.168.1.1).
- Navigate to DNS settings and replace the default addresses with your preferred ones.
- Device Setup:
- On Windows/Mac/Linux: Access network settings and update the DNS addresses.
- On Mobile: Update DNS in Wi-Fi settings or use dedicated apps like Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 app.
FAQs
Q: What is a DNS server? A DNS server translates domain names (like example.com) into IP addresses, enabling your device to connect to websites.
Q: Can I mix primary and secondary DNS from different providers? Yes, you can. However, ensure both are reliable to avoid connectivity issues.
Q: Do free DNS servers provide free internet access? No, DNS servers do not replace your ISP. They only improve domain name resolution.
Additional DNS Servers
| Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS |
| Comodo Secure DNS | 8.26.56.26 | 8.20.247.20 |
| CIRA Canadian Shield | 149.112.121.10 | 149.112.122.10 |
| OpenNIC | 138.197.140.189 | 168.235.111.72 |
| DNS for Family | 94.130.180.225 | 78.47.64.161 |
| Yandex DNS | 77.88.8.8 | 77.88.8.1 |
| Hurricane Electric | 74.82.42.42 | |
| Freenom World | 80.80.80.80 | 80.80.81.81 |
| Dyn | 216.146.35.35 | 216.146.36.36 |
| CenturyLink (Level3) | 205.171.3.65 | 205.171.2.65 |
Switching to the right DNS server can significantly improve your internet experience. Use this guide to find the best fit for your needs in 2025.
