Public, free DNS servers let you connect securely, and they can also speed up your internet access.
DNS (Domain Name System) is a protocol that translates websites' IP addresses into domain names, which you type into your browser to access those sites.
Of course, your Internet service provider already assigns you DNS servers, but these are rarely the most performant and can cause other problems.
That's why switching to another DNS server can bring benefits, often yielding more responsive browsing combined with a 100% availability rate.
Some of these services can also block access to phishing or infected sites, and a few even offer adult-content filtering to protect your children from things the web shouldn't be showing them…
Of course, your ISP's "default" DNS servers aren't necessarily the worst, and not every provider will necessarily be better than the ones you're already using, but if you want to change, this article presents some of the best DNS servers.
The tools in this article were selected by our team and are not sponsored. Find out how to sponsor your tool.
Why change DNS servers?
We mentioned it briefly in the introduction, but there are multiple reasons why you might need to change your DNS server:
- Using a DNS server other than your ISP's can help you unblock content that is blocked in your country.
- Depending on the location of the DNS server you choose, you may get better connection performance.
- Using an alternative DNS server also helps ensure that your ISP cannot log your web browsing history, for example to show you ads or sell your data.
- Using certain DNS servers will also protect you from security attacks such as ransomware, phishing, malware, etc.
- Many internet users complain that the DNS provided by their internet service provider are slow and contribute to slower overall browsing.
- Using public DNS servers prevents your web activity from being logged, providing a more private browsing experience.
- It also allows blocking certain websites, for example as part of parental controls.
Warning: not all DNS servers offer the same services, so check the DNS provider's website to make sure it will (or won't) do what you're looking for.
Finally (although I hope that's obvious), while most DNS servers are free, they do not give you Internet access and you'll still need an Internet service provider to connect.
Remember that DNS servers only translate IP addresses into domain names so that we can access sites by typing a human-readable name, instead of an IP address made up of numbers that would be impossible for us to memorize.
1. Cloudflare DNS
Cloudflare is one of the largest companies in the world working in web performance and security.
Since 2018, the company has offered a DNS service, recognized as one of the best free DNS servers you can use today. This DNS server is indeed one of the fastest, and one of the most privacy-respecting available on the web.
Let's start with the fact that the company does not log never your IP address: yes, the one your internet provider uses to track your habits online. The company even hires a firm to audit its systems every year to ensure it keeps its privacy promises!
Next, Cloudflare claims a speed gain of more than 28% compared to other DNS providers.
Finally, Cloudflare is very easy to configure. It will only take you a few minutes to set up your DNS preferences.
Cloudflare DNS IP addresses: 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1
2. Google Public DNS
Launched in December 2009, the "Google Public DNS" service is probably one of the most well-known free public DNS servers in the world. As is often the case, Google tries to make the Internet more reliable and safer.
According to the Web giant, Google Public DNS protects users against various types of phishing attacks, especially if you use older hardware to access the internet.
One of the notable advantages you get by switching to Google Public DNS, therefore, is increased security but also optimized speed since Google uses Anycast routing to find the nearest server for data interaction, ensuring you receive information as quickly as possible.
Although this requires a bit more knowledge in configuration, Google Public DNS also supports IPv6 addresses. Overall, it's a very good option for anyone who wants to try a third-party DNS server.
Google DNS IP addresses: 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4
3. OpenDNS
Provided by Cisco, a giant in networking, OpenDNS is another free service that not only gives you a fast and secure way to access the Internet, but also helps prevent attacks from hacked or spoofed sites.
OpenDNS indeed blocks phishing sites as well as those reported as infected with malware. Like Google's, OpenDNS uses Anycast routing to direct your connection to the nearest servers in order to give you faster load times.
Its servers are distributed across three continents and OpenDNS is equipped with self-healing technologies, designed to prevent failure of almost every aspect of the system and to withstand potential disruptions to its infrastructure without causing problems for users.
If you want a reputable DNS service that will never let you down, choose OpenDNS.
IP addresses for OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220
4. AdGuard DNS
Popular and free, AdGuard DNS is a DNS server you can use on Windows, macOS, Android and iOS devices. With AdGuard DNS, you can block trackers and other analytics tools that are always trying to understand your web browsing habits at the system level.
And while it's best known for blocking ads, it offers more: it can also block adult content and malicious websites (which try to redirect you to other suspicious sites).
Thanks to Family Protection mode, you can enforce safe search across various web browsers. In fact, search engines will no longer return any sites containing adult content.
You don't need to install an app to get all of AdGuard's features since you can simply configure it manually. Like Cloudflare, AdGuard does not log DNS queries, user actions, or browsing history.
If privacy of your online activity is among your criteria, AdGuard DNS is one of the best free DNS servers you can choose.
IP addresses for AdGuard DNS: 176.103.130.130 (default), 176.103.130.132 (with 'Family Protection')
5. Yandex DNS
Yandex DNS is a very comprehensive DNS server, and if you're looking for an alternative DNS capable of delivering reliable performance in most areas without costing you an arm and a leg, it can meet your needs.
Besides being Russian, what probably sets this DNS server apart is that it offers a multitude of features: and with such a range comes the freedom to customize everything to your needs. In addition, it is also among the fastest servers, which may influence your choice.
Like AdGuard, Yandex DNS offers content filtering, allowing users to block offensive or adult content.
Yandex DNS also has robust protection features that block malware and bots.
To meet different needs, it is offered in three different versions: basic, secure, and family. While the basic mode provides a fast and reliable DNS, the secure mode offers protection against viruses and fraudsters. As for the family mode, it is designed to keep young audiences away from adult content.
IP addresses for Yandex DNS: 77.88.8.8, 77.88.8.1, 77.88.8.2
6. Quad9 DNS
Quad9 DNS is the last public DNS server presented in this article, but that does not mean it doesn't deserve your attention — far from it! Like the other DNS servers on this list, Quad9 routes your DNS queries through a secure network of servers around the world.
Once configured, the system protects you from many threats, thanks to the involvement of more than a dozen companies cybersecurity leading. It therefore provides real-time protection and prevents you from accessing dubious websites: whenever its DNS servers find an infected or cloned website, they block your connection so your device and data remain safe.
Quad9 DNS is very easy to set up and requires no software installation. If none of the other DNS servers meet your needs, you can turn to this one without hesitation.
IP addresses for Quad9 DNS: 9.9.9.9
7. Comodo Secure DNS 
Comodo Secure DNS is offered by Comodo, a company renowned in the field of cybersecurity. This DNS service is designed to offer a safe and fast browsing experience. Comodo uses advanced technologies to block malicious sites, spyware and phishing attacks before they reach your device.
Unlike the default DNS of many ISPs, Comodo Secure DNS also optimizes response time thanks to intelligent routing and servers strategically located around the world. Whether you're an individual user or a small business, this DNS ensures safer browsing.
IP addresses: 8.26.56.26 (primary), 8.20.247.20 (secondary)
8. CleanBrowsing DNS
CleanBrowsing is a company focused on family safety and education, offering DNS solutions tailored to parents, teachers and network administrators. This DNS server is perfect for creating a secure online environment, thanks to its powerful content filters.
In addition to blocking adult sites, CleanBrowsing also protects against malware and trackers. With configurations tailored to different types of users, it ensures clean, distraction-free browsing—ideal for families and schools.
It offers a free version and a paid version. The latter provides additional filters to block certain content, helping secure Internet access for families and children, for example.
IP addresses: 185.228.168.9 (primary), 185.228.169.9 (secondary)
9. DNS.Watch
DNS.Watch is an independent service, ideal for those seeking an uncensored online experience. Unlike many DNS providers that log user data, DNS.Watch pledges not to keep logs of your queries, ensuring a high level of privacy.
This DNS service is also appreciated for its speed and ease of use, requiring no registration. With servers located in Europe, it provides stable browsing without restrictions.
IP addresses: 84.200.69.80 (primary), 84.200.70.40 (secondary)
OpenNIC DNS
OpenNIC is a community organization dedicated to running an alternative, free, and uncensored DNS system. Besides providing fast Internet access, OpenNIC enables browsing of alternate domains that aren’t reachable via conventional DNS.
This initiative aims to preserve web neutrality and give users greater control. Thanks to its decentralized infrastructure, OpenNIC is an excellent option for people concerned about digital freedom.
IP addresses: 38.103.195.4, 138.197.140.189
UncensoredDNS
Hosted in Denmark by a non-profit organization, UncensoredDNS is a service designed to provide uncensored Internet browsing. This DNS is perfect for users who want to bypass restrictions imposed by ISPs or governments.
In addition to respecting users’ privacy, UncensoredDNS does not keep any logs of their activity. It is a simple and effective solution for those seeking free and anonymous browsing.
IP addresses: 91.239.100.100 (primary), 89.233.43.71 (secondary)
SafeDNS
SafeDNS, a company specializing in Internet filtering solutions, offers a robust DNS service to secure online browsing. This service is well suited to businesses, schools, and households thanks to its customizable filtering options.
SafeDNS blocks malicious sites, spyware, and inappropriate content. With a user-friendly interface and powerful tools, it helps users protect their networks effortlessly.
Safe DNS offers a free trial for its most advanced paid solutions.
IP addresses: 195.46.39.39 (primary), 195.46.39.40 (secondary)
Verisign Public DNS
Verisign, a well-known name in domain management and online security services, offers a public DNS service focused on stability and privacy. Unlike many other DNS services, Verisign does not sell your browsing data or redirect your requests.
This DNS service is ideal for those looking for a reliable and secure alternative, with fast response times and continuous availability.
IP addresses: 64.6.64.6 (primary), 64.6.65.6 (secondary)
Neustar UltraDNS Public
Neustar is a leading company in data management and cybersecurity. Its public DNS service UltraDNS is designed to provide fast and secure browsing. With advanced features such as content filtering and protection against cyber threats, this service is particularly well suited for homes and businesses.
Neustar also offers customizable options to meet various needs for parental controls or enterprise filtering.
IP addresses: 156.154.70.1 (primary), 156.154.71.1 (secondary)
Control D
Control D is a modern DNS solution that emphasizes customization. In addition to providing fast browsing, this service allows users to set specific rules to block ads, trackers, and other types of unwanted content.
Whether you are an individual or a business, Control D offers unmatched flexibility to control your online experience.
The free DNS meets most consumer needs, but there are also paid plans depending on specific requirements and target audiences (schools, businesses…).
IP addresses: 76.76.2.0 (primary), 76.76.10.0 (secondary)
NextDNS
NextDNS is an innovative DNS service that combines security, privacy, and advanced parental controls. This DNS automatically blocks online threats, trackers, and ads while protecting your privacy.
Compatible with a wide range of devices and systems, NextDNS provides optimized and secure browsing. Its features are particularly appreciated by users who want to protect their personal data.
NextDNS offers a limited free tier of 300,000 queries per month, a paid unlimited plan at €1.99 per month, and a business plan at €19.90 per month with dedicated support.
IP addresses: 45.90.28.13 (primary), 45.90.30.13 (secondary)
Our recommendation for choosing your DNS
Try several DNS servers to find the one that best fits your usage and talk with the community to understand the technical specifics of each.
If you don't have the time or skills to switch to another DNS server, consider asking a freelancer on Codeur.com for help !
