- Fast and reliable DNS reduces loading times on Android
- The best DNS also offer malware filtering and parental controls.
- There are free public DNS and private DNS with advanced features.
- Changing DNS on Android improves privacy without installing external apps
When we browse from our Android phone, we often assume that an internet connection is all we need for a smooth and secure experience. But the truth is, there's one key component that can make a big difference: DNS servers. Changing DNS can not only speed up our connection, but also improve privacy, block inappropriate content, and prevent you from ending up on malicious websites. All of this without needing to be a tech expert.
In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at what DNS servers are, what options exist, which ones are most recommended for Android users, and how to configure them step by step to get the most out of your phone. If you've ever wondered whether it's worth replacing your carrier's DNS with more secure or faster alternatives, here's the definitive guide with everything you need to know.
What is a DNS server and why is it so important?
A DNS (Domain Name System) server is responsible for translating the addresses we type into our browser, such as www.google.es , into an IP address that the device can understand. In other words, it acts as a kind of translator between us and the internet's routing system.
Without a DNS server, we would have to remember addresses like 142.250.184.174 instead of simply typing google.com . This system not only makes browsing easier, but it can also significantly impact the speed, security, and privacy of our connection, especially if we use our mobile phone as our primary internet access device.
Advantages of using a custom DNS on Android
The default DNS servers provided by our carrier meet the basic requirements, but they're generally neither the fastest nor the most secure. By switching to an alternative DNS server, we can benefit from the following benefits:
- Faster browsing: Some DNS servers have better infrastructure and respond faster to requests.
- Better privacy: Many alternative DNS servers do not log your searches or associate them with your IP address.
- Malware Protection: Some services automatically block dangerous, phishing, or malicious websites.
- Parental controls and content filtering: You can set restrictions to prevent minors from accessing unsuitable content.
Recommended Free DNS Servers for Android
There are currently several free DNS options you can use on your mobile device. Some stand out for their speed, others for their privacy, and others for offering additional features such as ad blocking or protection against malicious websites:
Google Public DNS
One of the best-known and most widely used. It offers good speed and stability. Its main advantage is that it's backed by Google, which guarantees constant maintenance. Its IPv4 addresses are:
- 8.8.8.8
- 8.8.4.4
Note: Google admits that it stores users' IP addresses for 48 hours for analytics purposes.
Cloudflare (1.1.1.1)
Cloudflare boasts the world's fastest DNS . Furthermore, it prioritizes privacy: it doesn't log your IP address or sell your data. It's especially recommended if you frequently play online or need a stable connection with minimal response times.
- 1.1.1.1
- 1.0.0.1
It also offers additional versions with filtering:
- 1.1.1.2 and 1.0.0.2: block malware
- 1.1.1.3 and 1.0.0.3: block malware and adult content
Quad9
This DNS is specifically focused on security. It protects against spyware, phishing, and malware, and doesn't store personal information like your IP address. Although it doesn't offer age filters, it's ideal for protecting your device from external threats.
- Primary: 9.9.9.9
- Secondary: 149.112.112.112
OpenDNS (Cisco)
OpenDNS offers several alternatives depending on the type of protection you need. It has a very useful version for families with pre-activated adult content filtering. It can also be configured with custom filters.
- 208.67.222.222
- 208.67.220.220
For parental control:
- 208.67.222.123
- 208.67.220.123
AdGuard DNS
AdGuard goes a step further by offering ad and tracker filtering, which improves both privacy and loading speed. Several settings are available:
- Predetermined: 94.140.14.14 / 94.140.15.15
- Family Protection: 94.140.14.15 / 94.140.15.16
- Unfiltered: 94.140.14.140 / 94.140.14.141
NextDNS
NextDNS stands out for its level of customization. You can create an account and configure specific filters, ad blocks, parental controls, and more. It even gives you a custom DNS address. The free account has a limit of 300.000 monthly queries (more than enough for most users).
General Management:
- IPv4: 45.90.28.0
How to change DNS on Android manually
Android allows you to change DNS settings at the Wi-Fi network level without needing external apps. If you're using Android 9 or later, you can also use the private DNS system for added privacy.
Option 1: Change DNS on a specific WiFi network
- Accede to Settings > Network and Internet > Wi-Fi
- Tap on the network you are connected to and touch the gear icon
- Choose Advanced > IP Type > Static
- Enter the DNS addresses you want to use (DNS 1 and DNS 2)
Option 2: Set up a private DNS (Android 9 and later)
- Go to Settings > Network and Internet
- Tap on Private DNS
- Select option Private DNS provider hostname
- Enter an address such as dns.adguard.com o dns.cloudflare.com
- Save the changes
This option encrypts DNS queries and further protects your privacy from third parties or your Internet service provider.
Can I use an app to change DNS on Android?
Of course, if you don't feel like manually adjusting settings, you can do so with an app. Some of the most recommended are:
- 1.1.1.1 from Cloudflare: automatically change DNS and activate a lightweight VPN to encrypt your DNS connections.
- DNSChanger: allows you to test and choose between multiple DNS without root.
- Blockade: Blocks ads and malware using custom DNS.
- Nebulo: Uses DNS-over-HTTPS and DNS-over-TLS for more secure connections.
What are the risks of using a DNS different from your operator's?
While changing your DNS is generally safe, there are some important details to keep in mind:
- The company that manages the DNS will see all your web requests.
- Some DNS may block legitimate websites by mistake. (if you use content filters or parental controls).
- If you configure DNS incorrectly, you may lose Internet access..
That's why it's essential to choose reliable servers like the ones we've mentioned, especially if you're going to deploy them at the system or router level.
What if I configure DNS on the router?
Changing the DNS directly from your router means that every device connected to your network (phone, tablet, TV, console, etc.) will use that DNS server. This is very useful if you have children and want to apply parental controls by default to all devices.
Each router model is different, but usually you just need to access the address 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 from a web browser while connected to the network. Once there, look for the Advanced Settings > DNS section or equivalent, and change the corresponding addresses.
How to find out which DNS is the fastest for you
While all of the DNS servers mentioned offer good performance, actual speeds will depend on your location and network. You can do the following to check which one is the fastest:
- Use apps like DNS Benchmark o GRC DNS Benchmark on your PC
- Try dnsperf.com for global statistical data
- Measure improvement with Speedtest before and after changing
With all this information, you can make the best decision to optimize your online experience on your Android phone. Changing your DNS servers offers numerous benefits with a quick and reversible setup. Whether it's for security, speed, or privacy, this action significantly improves your daily smartphone use, especially if you browse a lot or are concerned about protection against threats. And the best part: you can do it easily and completely free of charge. Share this information so more users can learn this trick.