17+ BEST DNS Servers [Ranked]

The best free public DNS servers include the following:

• Google
• Quad9
• OpenDNS
• Cloudflare
• CleanBrowsing
• Alternate DNS, and
• AdGuard DNS

Below is a short reference table:

What are DNS Servers?

DNS servers are basically the phone book of the Internet.

They keep a log of all domain names and their associated IP addresses.

When you type in a URL into your browser, the DNS server looks up the IP address associated with that domain name and sends you to the correct website.

Why are there so many DNS servers?

There are many reasons why you might want to use a different DNS server than your ISP’s default.

Maybe you’re concerned about privacy or security, or maybe you just want a faster connection.

In any case, it’s good to have options!

What is the best DNS server?

The answer to this question depends on your needs. If you’re looking for speed, Google’s DNS server is a good choice.

If you’re worried about security, Quad9 is a great option.

And if you want to be able to block certain types of content, Alternate DNS or AdGuard DNS might be what you’re looking for.

No matter what your needs are, there’s a DNS server out there that’s right for you!

Best DNS Servers in December2024

Google: 8.8.8.8 & 8.8.4.4

Google Public DNS has 3 benefits:

• a faster browsing experience
• improved security, and
• accurate results without redirects

Primary and secondary Google DNS:

• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4

There are also IPv6 versions:

• Primary DNS: 2001:4860:4860::8888
• Secondary DNS: 2001:4860:4860::8844

Quad9: 9.9.9.9 & 149.112.112.112

Quad9 has free public DNS servers that protect your computer and other devices from threats to help safeguard your online data and security.

• Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
• Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112

There are also Quad 9 IPv6 DNS servers:

• Primary DNS: 2620:fe::fe
• Secondary DNS: 2620:fe::9

OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 & 208.67.220.220

OpenDNS provides two free DNS servers with filtering capabilities:

• Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
• Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220

You can also use OpenDNS’s IPv6 addresses:

• Primary DNS: 2620:119:35::35
• Secondary DNS: 2620:119:53::53

Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 & 1.0.0.1

Cloudflare provides a free and fast DNS server that can be used to improve your Internet experience by making your connection faster and more secure.

• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1

They also have IPv6 public DNS servers:

• Primary DNS: 2606:4700:4700::1111
• Secondary DNS: 2606:4700:4700::1001

AdGuard DNS: 94.140.14.14 & 94.140.15.15

AdGuard DNS is a free, recursive DNS service that filters out unwanted content and protects your privacy.

• Primary DNS: 94.140.14.14
• Secondary DNS: 94.140.15.15

IPv6 addresses for AdGuard DNS:

• Primary DNS: 2a00:5a60::ad1:0ff
• Secondary DNS: 2a00:5a60::ad2:0ff

Alternate DNS: 76.76.19.19 & 76.223.122.150

Alternate DNS is a public DNS service that offers improved speed and security.

• Primary DNS: 76.76.19.19
• Secondary DNS: 76.223.122.150

Alternate DNS has IPv6 DNS servers, too:

• Primary DNS: 2602:fcbc::ad
• Secondary DNS: 2602:fcbc:2::ad

CleanBrowsing: 185.228.168.9 & 185.228.169.9

CleanBrowsing is a free, secure, and fast DNS service that can be used to improve your Internet experience by making your connection faster and more secure.

• Primary DNS: 185.228.168.9
• Secondary DNS: 185.228.169.9

IPv6 is also supported:

• Primary DNS: 2a0d:2a00:1::2
• Secondary DNS: 2a0d:2a00:2::2

Why Use Different DNS Servers?

There are many reasons why you might want to use a different DNS server than your ISP’s default.

Maybe you just want a faster connection.

Additional DNS Servers

Here are some additional DNS servers from major providers:

Best DNS Servers – FAQs

What are the best DNS servers for PS4, Xbox, and other gaming consoles?

The best DNS servers for gaming are usually the ones that are the fastest.

Google’s DNS server is a good choice for speed, and AdGuard DNS is a good choice for security.

These should work well for PS4 and Xbox.

What are the best DNS servers for privacy?

If you’re concerned about privacy, Quad9 is a great option.

They don’t log your data or sell it to third parties.

What are the best DNS servers for security?

Quad9 is a great option for security, as they block known malicious websites.

Cloudflare is also a good choice, as their service encrypts your data.

I’m not sure which DNS server to use. What should I do?

If you’re not sure which DNS server to use, try a few different ones and see which one works best for you.

You can always change your DNS server later if you need to.

Whichever DNS server you choose, make sure it’s one that you trust.

Check reviews and make sure that the service is reputable before using it.

Also, be sure to read the terms of service so that you know what data is being collected and how it’s being used.

DNS Explained – Domain Name System | Cisco CCNA 200-301

Summary – Best DNS Servers

There are many different DNS servers available, and the best one for you will depend on your needs.

If you’re looking for speed, Google’s DNS server is a good choice.

If you’re concerned about privacy, Quad9 is a good option.

And if you want a secure connection, Cloudflare is a good choice.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which DNS server is best for your needs.

Just be sure to do your research before choosing one.