Last Updated : 29 Jul, 2024
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Choosing the right DNS server can significantly improve your internet speed, security, and reliability. In 2024, several free and public DNS servers stand out for their performance and features. This guide will present the top 10 DNS servers you can use to enhance your browsing experience, ensuring you get the best possible service without any cost.
Table of Content
- What is a Domain Name Server?
- Best Free and Public DNS Servers:
- 1. Google Public DNS
- 2. Cloudflare
- 3. OpenDNS
- 4. Quad9
- 5. OpenNIC
- 6. CleanBrowsing
- 7. Alternate DNS
- 8. AdGuard DNS
- 9. Control D
- 10. Verisign
- Conclusion
What is a Domain Name Server?
Domain Name System (DNS) is a hostname forIP addresstranslation service. DNS is adistributed databaseimplemented in a hierarchy of name servers. It is an application layer protocol for message exchange between clients and servers. It is required for the functioning of theInternet. For instance, when the user types www.amazon.com in the URL it is mapped to an IP Address like 192.0.2.44.
The Domain Name Server is a server that maps the domain names to the Respective IP Address. It simplifies Web Browser using and allows us to access websites using names instead of remembering complex numerical addresses.
Best Free and Public DNS Servers:
To Access Different Public and Free DNS Server, the following section needs to be checked. Let us discuss some Free DNS Servers Available along with their features.
1. Google Public DNS
Google Public DNS is known for fast and secure internet browsing.Google Public DNS also supports DNS-over-TLS (DoT) and DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH), IPv6, and IPv4, reliable, private, and transparent. The Features of Google Public and Free DNS Server are the following.
- Security features: It supports DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC), which adds an extra layer of security. Further, it can integrate with Google’s Safe Browsing service, protecting against accessing known malicious websites.
- Query logging: Google Public DNS logs unidentifiable DNS queries to diagnose and troubleshoot later. They are logged in temporarily and not like any user.
- Ease of use: It is easy to configure your devices or networks from any DNS servers to Google Public DNS servers.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 8.8.8.8 | 2001:4860:4860::8888 |
Secondary DNS Server | 8.8.4.4 | 2001:4860:4860::8844 |
2. Cloudflare
Cloudflare DNS Servers are the most popular and effective. It is a public and freeDNS resolveroperated by Cloudflare that offers a fast and private way to browse the Internet. Unlike most DNS resolvers, it does not sell user data to advertisers. In addition, it has been measured to be the fastest DNS resolver available due to the presence of the following features. These DNS servers support both DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT), providing encrypted communication between your device and the DNS resolver.
- Performance: It is fast due to the presence of a global network of servers which helps to easily serve from the server that is geographically close to the user.
- Privacy and security: It does not store Personally Identifiable Information (PII) about DNS queries from the user and helps mitigate certain types of cyber threats and attacks at the DNS level.
- Fallback mechanisms: Though the primary servers fail, Cloudflare still operates through their secondary servers.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 1.1.1.1 | 2606:4700:4700::1111 |
Secondary DNS Server | 1.0.0.1 | 2606:4700:4700::1001 |
3. OpenDNS
OpenDNS offers various features focusing on security, reliability, and parental controls.Custom DNS protection plans, API Integration, reports, and analysis are other highlighting features available.
Some important features of OpenDNS are as follows.
- Fast and reliable: It resolves domain names to IP addresses provides access to websites quickly and reduces latency by serving from the nearest servers.
- Security features: OpenDNS blocks access to phishing websites and websites that are identified as hosting malware.
- Whitelisting/Blacklisting: The user can add specific domains to whitelists (allowed) or blacklists (blocked) to control access to particular websites and also implement filters and parent controls.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 208.67.222.222 | 2620:119:35::35 |
Secondary DNS Server | 208.67.220.220 | 2620:119:53::53 |
4. Quad9
Quad9 is a popular choice among individuals and organizations seeking to enhance their online security posture without compromising on internet performance. Quad9 is operated by a non-profit organization, the Global Cyber Alliance (GCA), which aims to improve cybersecurity and protect users.
Some of the Features of Quad9 are the following.
- Security: It is privacy-focused and blocks malicious websites.
- Encryption: Quad9 users encrypt their DNS queries and responses by supporting both DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT).
- Threat Intelligence Database: It has a threat intelligence database that is constantly updated with emerging threats and protects the users.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 9.9.9.9 | 2620:fe::fe |
Secondary DNS Server | 149.112.112.112 | 2620:fe::9 |
5. OpenNIC
OpenNIC’s primary goal is to provide access to an open and free DNS resolution network. They provide decentralized multiple DNS server addresses across various TLDs and locations. It offers a community-driven approach to DNS services by providing community involvement and a diverse range of opinions and decisions regarding network policies and features.
Let us check the Features of OpenNIC.
- Top-Level Domains (TLDs): OpenNIC provides access to several TLDs apart from .com, .org, etc.
- Privacy and Security: Similar to the others, OpenNIC does not log personally identifiable information and offers DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and DNS over TLS (DoT) support.
- Multiple Servers: OpenNIC has multiple DNS servers distributed globally to reduce redundancy and improve performance.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 216.87.84.211 | 216.87.84.211 |
Secondary DNS Server | 23.90.4.6 | 23.90.4.6 |
6. CleanBrowsing
CleanBrowsing is a family-friendly DNS service that focuses on content filtering to block adult content and enhance online safety for users of all ages. The service allows parents to create a safe browsing experience for their kids. Free filters block content for all apps and browsers. Parents can block or allow specific content. They can also control access times and monitor activity.
The following are some Features of CleanBrowsing DNS.
- Parental Control: This DNS service provide the parental control in which parents can Blocks adult content. Offers Security, Adult, and Family filtering options.
- Security Features: It supports DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) and DNS-over-TLS (DoT).
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 185.228.168.9 | 2a0d:2a00:1::1 |
Secondary DNS Server | 185.228.169.9 | 2a0d:2a00:2::2 |
7. Alternate DNS
Alternate DNS is a secure and Privacy-Focused free DNS Service that keeps your online experience private and secure. It blocks malware, phishing, and adult content, prioritizing your privacy for a safe internet journey.
Check out the following features.
- Private browsing: It will help you to hide your online presence and keep you safe from the malware, Phishing, and adult content.
- Security Features: It have advance security features to provides secure and private DNS service.
- Compatible with IPv6.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 76.76.19.19 | 2602:fcbc::ad |
Secondary DNS Server | 76.223.122.150 | 2602:fcbc:2::ad |
8. AdGuard DNS
AdGuard DNS is known for its ad-blocking capabilities, preventing unwanted ads, trackers, and phishing attempts, thereby enhancing user privacy and a cleaner browsing experience.
There are many other Features of AdGuard DNS.
- Block Unwanted content: It has the one of the best feature which automatically blocks ads, trackers, and phishing sites.
- Privacy Feature: AdGaurd provide you enhances privacy protection to keey your data safe while using internet.
- Security Features: It also supports DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) and DNS-over-TLS (DoT).
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 94.140.14.14 | 2a10:50c0::ad1:ff |
Secondary DNS Server | 94.140.15.15 | 2a10:50c0::ad2:ff |
9. Control D
Control D is your online privacy guard. It makes sure your internet experience is safe and secure. It prioritizes user privacy and offers advanced features for those seeking a secure online experience.
- Privacy Feature: Focuses on user privacy and control and Blocks malicious websites and phishing attempts.
- Security Features: Supports DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) and DNS-over-TLS (DoT) for encrypted connections.
- Advance control: Provides advanced customization options for users who want granular control over their DNS settings.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 76.76.2.0 | 2606:1a40:: |
Secondary DNS Server | 76.76.10.0 | 2606:1a40:1:: |
10. Verisign
Verisign operates a high-performance DNS service, focusing on stability and security. As a trusted domain registry company, Verisign’s DNS servers are known for their reliability.
- High-performance and reliable DNS service.
- Operated by a trusted domain registry company.
- Focuses on stability and security.
Categories | IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|---|
Primary DNS Server | 64.6.64.6 | N/A |
Secondary DNS Server | 64.6.65.6 | N/A |
Conclusion
Selecting the best DNS server for your needs can have a profound impact on your internet experience. The top 10 free and public DNS servers of 2024 listed in this guide offer excellent performance, security, and reliability. By switching to one of these DNS servers, you can enjoy faster browsing speeds and enhanced online security, all without spending a dime. Stay ahead of the curve and make the most of these top DNS options.
Also Read
- Change the Default DNS Server of Your Router and Windows
- How to Fix the “DNS Server Not Responding” Error?
- How to Maintain Your Privacy Online?
Best Free and Public DNS Servers of 2024 – FAQs
What are the Best DNS for 2024?
Below is the list of the Best DNS for 2024:
- Google Public DNS
- Cloudflare
- OpenDNS
What DNS server do?
DNS servers translate requests for names into IP addresses, controlling which server an end user will reach when they type a domain name into their web browser.
How to find your Current DNS server?
To find your Current DNS server follow these steps
- Open your Command Prompt from the Start menu.
- Type ipconfig/all into your command prompt and press Enter.
- Look for the field labeled “DNS Servers.”
- The first address is the primary DNS server, and the next address is the secondary DNS server.
What is the best DNS server for gaming?
Google Public DNS, Cloudflare DNS, OpenDNS, Quad9, etc are relatively faster than any other DNS servers and hence servers the best for gaming.
What is the fastest DNS service in 2024?
Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 & 1.0.0.1 is said to be the “internet’s fastest DNS directory”.
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