Are you looking to improve your browsing speed and enhance your privacy while using Google Chrome? Changing the DNS (Domain Name System) settings in Google Chrome can help you achieve these goals. In this article, I will explain why you should change the DNS in Google Chrome, how to do it, and recommend some DNS servers you can use.
Why Change DNS in Google Chrome?
Changing the DNS in Google Chrome can bring several benefits:
Improve Browsing Speed:
By using a fast and reliable DNS server, you can experience faster website loading times. DNS servers translate website addresses into IP addresses, and a faster DNS server can significantly improve your browsing speed.
Enhance Privacy and Security:
Using certain DNS servers can help protect your privacy by blocking malware, phishing sites, and intrusive ads. Additionally, some DNS servers offer encrypted connections, ensuring that your web browsing activity remains private and secure.
How to Change DNS in Google Chrome
Follow these steps to change the DNS settings in Google Chrome:
Step 1: Open Google Chrome Settings
Click on the three dots at the top-right corner of the Chrome window and select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Go to Network Settings
In the Settings tab, scroll down and click on “Advanced” to expand the advanced settings. Then, click on “Privacy and security” in the left-hand sidebar and select “Security” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Modify DNS Settings
Under the “Security” section, click on “Use secure DNS” and select “Customize” to enter custom DNS server addresses. You can add primary and secondary DNS server addresses of your choice.
Step 4: Save Changes and Restart Chrome
Click on “Save” to apply the changes. Restart Google Chrome for the new DNS settings to take effect.
Recommended DNS Servers
Here are some recommended DNS servers you can use:
Google Public DNS:
Primary: 8.8.8.8
Secondary: 8.8.4.4
OpenDNS:
Primary: 208.67.222.222
Secondary: 208.67.220.220
Cloudflare DNS:
Primary: 1.1.1.1
Secondary: 1.0.0.1
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any issues after changing the DNS settings in Google Chrome, here are some common problems and their solutions:
DNS Server Not Responding:
If you see a “DNS server not responding” error, double-check that you have entered the correct DNS server addresses. You can also try using a different set of DNS server addresses.
Internet Connection Issues:
If you experience internet connection issues after changing the DNS settings, restart your router and modem. If the problem persists, revert back to your previous DNS settings.
Invalid DNS Configuration:
If you receive an “Invalid DNS configuration” error, ensure that you have entered the correct DNS server addresses. You can also try flushing the DNS cache on your computer.
Conclusion
Changing the DNS settings in Google Chrome can improve your browsing speed and enhance your privacy and security. By following the steps mentioned above, you can easily modify the DNS settings in Google Chrome and enjoy a better browsing experience. Take advantage of recommended DNS servers like Google Public DNS, OpenDNS, or Cloudflare DNS to further enhance your online experience.
FAQs
Q: Can I change the DNS settings only for Google Chrome?
Yes, you can change the DNS settings specifically for Google Chrome by modifying the DNS settings in the browser’s network settings. This will not affect the DNS settings for other browsers or applications on your device.Q: Will changing the DNS settings in Google Chrome affect my internet speed?
Changing the DNS settings in Google Chrome can potentially improve your internet speed by using faster DNS servers. However, the impact on speed may vary depending on your internet connection and the performance of the chosen DNS server.Q: Are there any risks involved in changing DNS settings?
There is minimal risk involved in changing DNS settings. However, improper configuration or using unreliable DNS servers may result in connectivity issues or potential privacy risks. It is recommended to use reputable DNS servers and double-check the entered DNS server addresses.Q: Can I revert back to the default DNS settings in Google Chrome?
Yes, you can revert back to the default DNS settings in Google Chrome by selecting the “Automatic (recommended)” option in the DNS settings or simply removing any custom DNS server addresses.Q: Can changing DNS settings circumvent internet censorship?
Changing DNS settings alone may not circumvent internet censorship in some cases. Internet censorship methods can be more advanced and may require additional techniques or tools to bypass restrictions.