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How to Change DNS to 1.1.1.1 on Windows 11 or 10

By metsPosted on Posted in Sport Gear

How to Change DNS to 1.1.1.1 on Windows 11 or 10

Changing your DNS settings to 1.1.1.1 on Windows 11 or 10 can improve your internet speed, enhance privacy, and increase security. Cloudflare’s DNS service at 1.1.1.1 is known for its fast response times and strong privacy policies. If you’re experiencing slow browsing, connectivity issues, or simply want to try a more private DNS, switching to 1.1.1.1 is a straightforward process. Before starting, ensure you have administrator privileges on your Windows computer, as changing network settings requires admin access. This guide will walk you through each step clearly so you can make the switch quickly and confidently.

What You’ll Need

  • A Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC with administrative access
  • Active internet connection
  • Knowledge of your current network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)

Step-by-Step

  1. Open Network Settings: Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings. Alternatively, press Windows key + I to open Settings directly. In the Settings window, click on Network & Internet.
  2. Access Network Adapter Options: Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings. Then, under the Related settings section, select More network adapter options. This opens the Network Connections window.
  3. Choose Your Network Connection: Identify your active network connection—either Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Right-click on it and select Properties.
  4. Open IPv4 Settings: In the connection properties window, scroll down to find Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). Select it, then click the Properties button.
  5. Change DNS Server Addresses: In the IPv4 properties window, select the option Use the following DNS server addresses. Enter 1.1.1.1 in the Preferred DNS server field. For the Alternate DNS server, you can enter 1.0.0.1 as a backup, or leave it blank if you prefer.
  6. Save and Close: Click OK to save your settings. Close all remaining windows by clicking Close or OK. Restart your browser or network connection to apply the new DNS settings.
  7. Verify the Change: To ensure the DNS change was successful, open Command Prompt (press Windows key + R, type cmd, and hit Enter). Type nslookup and press Enter. The first line should display 1.1.1.1 as the DNS server.

Common Mistakes

  • Entering incorrect DNS addresses—double-check that you entered 1.1.1.1 correctly without typos.
  • Changing DNS settings on the wrong network connection—ensure you’re modifying the active connection.
  • Not saving your settings—always click OK or Apply after making changes.
  • Forgetting to restart your browser or network adapter—some changes require a restart to take effect.
  • Confusing IPv4 and IPv6 settings—this guide covers IPv4; IPv6 settings are separate and should be adjusted only if needed.

Tips

  • Use the Network Reset feature if DNS changes don’t seem to work after a restart—this resets network settings to default.
  • Consider setting the DNS on your router for network-wide changes, especially if multiple devices will benefit.
  • Keep a record of your previous DNS settings in case you want to revert later.
  • Check your DNS change using online tools like DNS Checker to verify propagation globally.
  • Using a static DNS can help prevent your ISP from overriding DNS settings, ensuring consistent browsing experience.

Troubleshooting

If your internet stops working after changing DNS to 1.1.1.1, try the following steps:

  • Revert to Automatic DNS: Go back to your network connection properties and select Obtain DNS server address automatically. Save and restart your connection.
  • Flush DNS Cache: Open Command Prompt and run the command ipconfig /flushdns. This clears outdated DNS information.
  • Restart Network Adapter: Disable and re-enable your network connection from the Network Connections window.
  • Reboot Your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart resolves lingering issues.
  • Check Firewall Settings: Ensure your firewall or security software isn’t blocking DNS traffic.
  • Try a Different DNS: If 1.1.1.1 isn’t working, test alternative DNS servers like Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is changing DNS to 1.1.1.1 safe?

Yes, using Cloudflare’s DNS at 1.1.1.1 is safe. It enhances privacy and speeds up browsing. However, always ensure you’re entering the correct address.

2. Will changing DNS affect my internet connection?

In most cases, no. It can improve speed and privacy, but if misconfigured, it might cause connectivity issues. Follow instructions carefully.

3. Can I revert back to my original DNS settings later?

Yes, simply select Obtain DNS server address automatically in your network settings or re-enter your previous DNS addresses.

4. Does changing DNS to 1.1.1.1 improve security?

Using 1.1.1.1 can enhance privacy and reduce tracking, but it doesn’t replace antivirus or firewall protection. It’s part of a broader security approach.

5. Is this method the same on Windows 10 and Windows 11?

Yes, the steps are very similar on both Windows versions, with slight variations in menu navigation.

6. Can I set DNS for my entire network instead of individual devices?

Yes, by configuring your router to use 1.1.1.1 as its DNS server, all devices connected to your network will use it automatically.

This comprehensive guide ensures you can confidently change your DNS to 1.1.1.1 on Windows 11 or 10, optimizing your browsing experience and privacy with minimal hassle.

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How to Change DNS to 1.1.1.1 on Windows 11 or 10
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