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How to Add AdGuard DNS in Windows 11 for Better Privacy

By metsPosted on Posted in Sport Gear

How to Add AdGuard DNS in Windows 11 for Better Privacy

Using AdGuard DNS in Windows 11 can significantly enhance your online privacy and security by blocking ads, trackers, and malicious sites at the DNS level. This method helps prevent unwanted content from loading, speeds up browsing, and reduces the risk of certain cyber threats. Before starting, ensure you have an active internet connection and have administrative rights on your Windows 11 PC, as changing DNS settings requires admin privileges.

What You’ll Need

  • A Windows 11 PC with administrator access
  • Active internet connection
  • AdGuard DNS server addresses (recommended:
    • Primary: 94.140.14.14
    • Secondary: 94.140.15.15

    )

Step-by-Step

  1. Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Windows Settings, or press Win + I.
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet: In the Settings window, click on “Network & internet” from the sidebar.
  3. Access Advanced Network Settings: Scroll down and click on “Advanced network settings.”
  4. Change Adapter Options: Under “More settings,” click on “More network adapter options.” This opens the Network Connections window.
  5. Choose Your Network Adapter: Identify your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Right-click on it and select “Properties.”
  6. Modify Internet Protocol Settings: In the list, find and select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4),” then click the “Properties” button.
  7. Set Custom DNS Addresses: In the new window, select “Use the following DNS server addresses.” Enter the AdGuard DNS addresses:
    • Preferred DNS server: 94.140.14.14
    • Alternate DNS server: 94.140.15.15
  8. Save Settings: Click “OK” to close the IPv4 properties window, then again “OK” or “Close” on the network adapter properties window to apply changes.
  9. Flush DNS Cache (Optional): To ensure your system uses the new DNS settings immediately, open Command Prompt as administrator, type ipconfig /flushdns, and press Enter.
  10. Test Your DNS: Open a browser and visit a site like AdGuard’s DNS tester to confirm your DNS is correctly configured.

Common Mistakes

  • Not running as administrator: Changing network settings requires admin rights. Failing to do so will prevent the DNS change from applying.
  • Incorrect DNS addresses: Double-check the IPs entered; typos can cause DNS resolution failures.
  • Forgetting to save changes: Always click OK or Apply after editing DNS settings to ensure they are saved.
  • Using DHCP without setting DNS manually: If your network is set to automatically obtain DNS, manual entries may be ignored unless you disable automatic DNS assignment.

Tips

  • Backup current DNS settings: Before making changes, note your current DNS addresses in case you want to revert later.
  • Use a static IP configuration: For consistent DNS resolution, consider setting a static IP address along with DNS settings.
  • Test after changes: Use online tools to verify DNS is properly configured and working as intended.
  • Combine with VPN or other privacy tools: For enhanced privacy, consider using AdGuard DNS alongside VPN services.

Troubleshooting

If your internet connection stops working after changing DNS settings, or if AdGuard DNS does not seem to be working:

  • Revert to previous DNS: Go back to network adapter properties and select “Obtain DNS server address automatically” or re-enter your previous DNS addresses.
  • Clear DNS cache: Open Command Prompt as administrator, run ipconfig /flushdns, and restart your browser or network connection.
  • Check network adapter settings: Ensure you selected the correct network adapter and saved the changes.
  • Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple reboot is needed for settings to take effect.
  • Disable IPv6: If issues persist, try disabling IPv6 in the adapter properties, as some DNS services may have conflicts with IPv6.
  • Verify DNS server status: Ensure AdGuard DNS servers are operational by visiting their status pages or testing with other devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use AdGuard DNS on Wi-Fi and Ethernet simultaneously?

Yes, but you need to set DNS on each network adapter separately. Repeat the process for both Wi-Fi and Ethernet if you use both connections.

2. Is AdGuard DNS free?

Yes, AdGuard DNS is a free service offering privacy and ad-blocking features without additional cost.

3. Will changing DNS affect my internet speed?

It can either improve or slightly reduce speed depending on your location and the DNS server’s performance. Test different DNS servers to find the fastest option.

4. How do I revert to my original DNS settings?

Go back to the network adapter properties, select “Obtain DNS server address automatically,” or manually re-enter your previous DNS addresses if you saved them beforehand.

5. Is it safe to use third-party DNS services like AdGuard?

Yes, reputable DNS providers like AdGuard prioritize user privacy and security. Always choose well-known services to avoid potential risks.

6. Can I use other DNS services alongside AdGuard DNS?

It’s best to use one DNS server at a time for clarity and troubleshooting. However, some advanced users configure multiple DNS servers for redundancy using network settings or third-party tools.

Adding AdGuard DNS in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can greatly improve your browsing experience by blocking unwanted content and enhancing privacy. Follow these steps carefully, avoid common pitfalls, and enjoy safer, faster internet browsing.

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How to Add AdGuard DNS in Windows 11 for Better Privacy
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