How to Change DNS Settings on a Windows PC

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Domain Name System (DNS) servers map domain names to Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. When used in conjunction with search domains, they allow you to go quickly to websites and servers you visit frequently without typing the complete address.

Your home router is likely set by default to use your ISP's DNS servers, which may or may not be very reliable. There are a number of third-party DNS servers available as well.

What you need before you start:

  • Your computer should be connected to the Internet. (wired or wireless)

2. Configure DNS

  1. Start by using your Windows 10 Search to bring up Control Panel.
Windows 10 search results with control panel highlighted.


  1. Click on Network and Sharing. Depending on your settings you may need to click on Network and Internet first.
Control panel with network and sharing center highlighted.


  1. On the left side, click Change Adapter Settings.
Network and sharing center window with change adapter settings highlighted.


  1. Right click your connection to the internet and select Properties.
Ethernet adapter context menu highlighting the properties option.


  1. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) from the list and click Properties.
Ethernet properties window highlighting internet protocol version 4 and the properties button beneath.


  1. Check Use the following DNS addresses button.
Internet protocol version 4 window highlighting the use the following DNS server addresses area.


  1. Type your preferred and alternate DNS service addresses in the spaces. Here are a handful of public address you can use.
  2. Google
    Primary8.8.8.8Secondary8.8.4.4
  3. Dyn
    Primary216.146.35.35Secondary216.146.36.36
  4. OpenDNS Home
    Primary208.67.222.222Secondary208.67.220.220
  5. Verisign
    Primary64.6.64.6Secondary64.6.65.6
  6. Level3
    Primary209.244.0.3Secondary209.244.0.4
  7. Click OK.