Network content is filtered for all applications by public domain name servers (DNS). The DNS programs can screen out inappropriate or harmful content. Employing such software aids in the establishment of a secure and trustworthy network setting for both commercial and domestic use. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best free public DNS servers, including the best servers for gaming.
DNS Servers
DNS servers convert human-readable domain names like “lifewire.com” into the machine-readable IP address required for a device to communicate with a website. Whenever your computer, tablet, or phone connects to the internet, your internet service provider (ISP) will choose a set of DNS servers for you to utilize. There are many reasons to look into alternatives (more on this below), but two major benefits are increased privacy and speed.
Best DNS Servers
We have included a list of the best eight public DNS servers that are both fast and secure to help you get the most out of your online experience. The query times and security options offered by the following DNS servers are the primary differentiating factors between them.
How quickly a website loads in your browser after you type in its URL is referred to as its “query time,” which is measured in milliseconds from the time your IP address sends a request to the server. A server with the lowest query time will give you the fastest browsing experience. Two excellent free DNS services for gaming are Cloudflare and Quad9.
#1. The Google Public DNS
Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8 | Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
The fastest and most reliable free DNS service is available worldwide. Safe and dependable internet connectivity via mobile, desktop, and IoT devices is available for free.
When it comes to domain name server (DNS) lookups, Google DNS is a top option. The internet connection is quick and stable. The DNS service has a variety of extras, like DNS over UDP and TLS encryption. The connection is secure since it uses DNS over HTTPS (DoH).
Features:
- Highly encrypted DNS lookups.
- Help with DNS over UDP.
- TCP and TLS (DoT) support
- The use of DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is supported.
Pros:
- The IPV6 setup allows for adaptability.
- Includes current protocols including UDP, DoT, and DoH, in addition to support for older DNS lookups.
- Problem-solving aids issue tracking.
- An in-depth guide is available on YouTube.
- Google DNS-related difficulties can be discussed in online forums.
Cons:
- Inadequate DNS resolution with heavy loads
- Access that can be programmed and controlled is not present.
- The verdict is in: Google’s DNS is the top choice for domain name server hosting. It delivers a strong bundle for connecting to the Internet. Everyone, from individuals to large corporations, can utilize the service at no cost.
#2. Quad9
For the most up-to-date IP address of this host, please use the following:
If you’re looking for a reliable DNS solution, go no further than Quad9. With 150 resolver clusters in 90 different countries, lightning-fast connections are feasible anywhere in the world.
The DNS app has over 20 intelligence suppliers and can average 100 million daily blocks, making it ideal for safe connections. It routinely refreshes its database of known threats to keep you safe from the most recent forms of spyware, malware, ransomware, and botnets.
Features:
- A recursive service for security.
- Safeguarding personal data in line with GDPR standards
- Removes access to harmful hosts.
- There are more than 20 sources of threat intelligence.
- Over 150 resolver farms cover 90+ countries.
Pros:
- It’s simple to set up.
- No formal agreement or signature is needed.
- Personal data is not collected.
- How to set up WiFi and a router
- Basic malware protection
Cons:
- Inadequate modern safeguards are in place.
- The online guide lacks depth.
- The verdict is in: Quad9 provides a competitively priced, highly secure internet service. However, the service’s primary target audience is located in Europe.
#3. OpenDNS Home
Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222; Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220
The DNS services provided by OpenDNS Home ensure a consistent and rapid connection to the web. There is no downtime with the free service. It also offers a web filtering solution that blocks hazardous websites.
The free DNS service includes email-based installation guidance for maximum portability. The commercial package has superior firewall and content filtering capabilities. Detailed guides for configuring DNS on Windows, Macs, routers, and other devices are available online.
Features:
- Mutually beneficial relationships between peers.
- Security against viruses and encrypted files
Pros:
- Safeguards against malware, ransomware, and phishing attempts
- When peers work together, productivity increases.
- Filtering and controls for younger users and children
- Protect all of your electronic gear.
- The Enterprise edition has better safety features.
Cons:
- The Enterprise edition is the only one that has security features.
- Subpar client service.
- Conclusion: OpenDNS Home requires little technical know-how to deploy. This free tool helps parents and their children have a positive and secure online experience. The Enterprise Edition is likewise cheap for most enterprises.
#4. Cloudflare DNS
1.1.1.1 as the primary DNS and 1.0.0.1 as the secondary DNS.
The Cloudflare DNS service is a joint effort between Cloudflare and APNIC. This service offers one of the quickest public DNS providers. According to DNSPerf, the service is faster than both Google Public DNS and VeriSign DNS.
Businesses and individuals can both utilize Cloudflare DNS. Since the company does not record users’ IP addresses, your privacy is fully protected. You can access these features from your mobile phone or computer.
Features:
- Domain Name System (DNS) over Secure HTTP (DoH)
- Warp allows for mobile app connectivity via IPv4 and IPv6 networks.
Pros:
- The optimal speed for a DNS server.
- The adaptability of IPV4 and IPV6 connections is emphasized.
- Offer complete privacy thanks to the no-log policy.
- DNS over HTTPS (DoH) support provides fundamental online security.
- There is iOS and Android mobile device support available.
Cons:
- Deletes ads but doesn’t block them.
- There is no malware protection.
- Conclusion: Cloudflare is among the quickest DNS providers. However, there is no safeguard against malicious software or phishing websites. There is also no option to disable advertisements.
#5. Comodo Secure DNS
8.26.56.26 (Primary DNS) 8.20.247.20 (Secondary DNS)
Best for safe internet for businesses and families with enhanced protection, visibility, and control on any device and from anywhere for free. Protect yourself and your family for free against dangerous and fraudulent websites with Comodo Secure DNS. Because of how quickly you can connect, it’s one of the greatest DNS servers for online play.
There is a robust first defense for the DNS service. It also provides content protection policy enforcement both online and offline. You can use the service for both personal and professional purposes.
Features:
- Security while connected and disconnected.
- First layer of protection.
- Assessing the danger.
- Use throughout an organization.
Pros:
- The first 300,000 DNS lookups each month are always free.
- The IP address, IP block, and subnet policy options are only available in the premium version.
- DNS traffic encryption for the pro version
- The Platinum plan includes IP-based visibility and monitoring.
- You may filter up to 80+ categories of content on the web.
Cons:
- The cost of the premium edition is noticeable.
- Absence of an ad-blocking option.
#6. CleanBrowsing
Ideal for maintaining a clutter-free and secure online environment, especially for families.
When it comes to free DNS providers, CleanBrowsing is among the finest. The service enables guardians to provide their children with a protected online environment. All browsers and apps can benefit from the free content filters. It’s up to the parents to decide what their children may and cannot access. Time limits and activity levels can be managed as well.
Features:
- For domain name fraud inquiries, return 0.
- A response of NXDOMAIN
- Secure the DNS resolution.
- The use of IPv4 and IPv6 protocols.
- Make it your own.
Conclusion: Comodo Secure DNS is a top-tier and lightning-fast DNS provider. It works on mobile devices, computers, and even the Internet of Things.
#7. Alternate DNS
Primary DNS: 76.76.19.19 | Secondary DNS: 76.223.122.150
Ideal for households seeking no-cost security from online threats like phishing and malware.
Alternative DNS’s main function is to provide a DNS lookup service. In addition to facilitating a quick and safe internet connection, it also blocks advertisements and safeguards against malware. Using the service, you can surf the web without having to deal with annoying pop-ups. The company keeps a database of all the phishing and scam websites that have been identified thus far.
Features:
- Ignore commercials.
- Helps block potentially harmful websites.
- The IPv6 link (2602:fcbc::ad and 2602:fcbc:2::ad)
Conclusion: Alternate DNS’s service is efficient and dependable. It is compatible with all types of browsers and devices.
Features to Look For in a Good DNS Server
- DNS servers are a bit of a black box, but there are a few things you should verify before signing up.
- When considering cost, always prioritize no-cost alternatives.
- Privacy: Does the DNS provider gather your data and your ISP address?
- Because of its importance, How-To Geek suggests that “you run a DNS benchmark to find what’s best for your connection.”
- Safety: If you have youngsters accessing your internet, check for adult content blocking.
- What other safeguards, such as virus blocking and web content screening, does the DNS service provide that you’re considering?
Best DNS Servers for Gaming
The user’s Internet service provider is typically the one who provides the domain name system (DNS) server. These DNS servers may be sluggish, may restrict access from some IP addresses, and may send your DNS queries (and hence your online activity) to your Internet service provider (ISP). Several DNS services offer speed, privacy, and internet security, so gamers need not worry. The following are the best DNS servers suitable for gaming:
#1. Cloudflare
Primary DNS (preferred DNS): 1.1.1.1
Secondary DNS (alternate DNS): 1.0.0.1
For frenetic gamers on a shoestring budget, Cloudflare is one of the best free public DNS servers for gaming. However, Cloudflare provides more than just fast DNS resolution; it also protects you from DNS spoofing, mitigates distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) assaults, and more.
#2. Google Public DNS
Primary DNS (preferred DNS): 8.8.8.8
Secondary DNS (alternate DNS): 8.8.4.4
Google is proud of its size and will not hesitate to point it out. You can freely select which DNS server to use, as Google provides the best free public DNS servers across most of the world. And just like Cloudflare, Google Public DNS game servers are quick, free to use and protect against DNS spoofing as well as DDoS attacks.
One potential drawback is that Google can utilize your DNS data according to its privacy policy, which may be offensive to those who value their privacy.
#3. Quad9
Backup Name Server: 208.67.220.220
When it comes to protecting your online privacy and games, Quad9 surpasses all expectations as one of the best DNS servers. Quad9’s DNS servers are protected from DNS spoofing and DDoS assaults, and the company also maintains a real-time blocklist of malicious websites to safeguard users from falling victim to a trap, such as a phishing email.
#4. NextDNS
Primary DNS (preferred DNS): 45.90.28.190
Secondary DNS (alternate DNS): 45.90.30.190
When it comes to DNS configuration, NextDNS is superior. While officially a paid DNS service, it offers a free version limited to 300,000 DNS queries a month. If you hit the limit, NextDNS will continue to process your DNS requests, but you will lose access to all of its extra features.
#5. NordVPN
Primary DNS (preferred DNS): 103.86.96.100
Secondary DNS (alternate DNS): 103.86.99.100
NordVPN has its own private DNS servers for further security. The primary and secondary servers listed above are NordVPN’s publicly accessible DNS servers. Only users with a valid NordVPN subscription are able to access the private DNS servers used by NordVPN apps.
Is 1.1.1.1 Still the Fastest DNS?
According to the third-party DNS performance monitor DNSPerf, the 1.1.1.1 service is the quickest available. Choosing the fastest DNS directory across all of your devices will speed up practically all of your Internet activity, as nearly all of it begins with a DNS request.
Which Is Better 1.1.1.1 or 8.8 8.8 for gaming?
The 8.8 servers are blazing fast and completely dependable for online gaming. Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 DNS server is faster than Google’s 8.8.8.8 DNS server, despite the fact that the former is the more widely used of the two.
Which Is the Fastest DNS Server?
Cloudflare DNS is the most secure and fastest DNS server for gaming. It’s ideal for competitive players on a budget. It provides more than simply fast DNS resolution; it also protects against denial-of-service, spoofing, and on-path attacks.
Is 8.8 8.8 the Best DNS Server?
The 8.8 servers are blazing fast and completely dependable for online gaming. Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 DNS server is faster than Google’s 8.8.8.8 DNS server, despite the fact that the former is the more widely used of the two.
Why 1.1.1.1 Is So Good?
Cloudflare’s public DNS resolver, 1.1.1.1, enables secure and rapid web navigation. Unlike the majority of DNS resolvers, 1.1.1.1 does not share user information with third parties. In addition, tests have shown that DNS resolver 1.1.1.1 is the quickest option.
What Is 8.8 8.8 DNS?
Google’s principal DNS server is 8.8.8.8. Google’s public DNS service, Google DNS, aims to improve the Internet and the DNS system so that they are more efficient, secure, and dependable for everyone who uses them.
- IS CLOUDFLARE DOWN: What Are the Current Status & Outages
- HOW TO DIAL AN EXTENSION ON IPHONE: Comprehensive Guide
- BACKUP SERVER: What Is It & Why Is It Important?
- WHAT IS PHARMING: Definition, Examples & Best Practices
Reference
