Enhancing your internet speed can be a challenge, especially with an outdated connection that struggles to reach 60Mbps across your household. However, I recently discovered a simple tweak that significantly improved my browsing experience. This adjustment is not only easy to implement but also effective in boosting performance.
Understanding the Causes of Slow Internet Speed
When faced with sluggish internet, many individuals often blame poor Wi-Fi signals or their Internet Service Provider (ISP) for throttling. However, the reasons behind slow internet speed are more multifaceted and can include the following:
- ISP Speed vs. Actual Speed: The speed you subscribe to from your ISP may not match the actual speed, especially during peak usage times.
- Router Placement: Positioning your router in a corner or obstructed by furniture can lead to a weak Wi-Fi signal and reduced speed.
- Network Congestion: Multiple devices consuming bandwidth simultaneously, such as streaming or downloading, can slow down the entire network.
- Outdated Settings: Default configurations on your devices and router may not be suited for optimal performance.
Consider your internet connection as a highway. Even if you possess a high-speed vehicle (a robust ISP plan), traffic jams (inefficient settings) can drastically hinder your speed. This tweak will help target those hidden obstacles.
Optimize Your DNS Settings
The key adjustment involves replacing your ISP’s default DNS settings with those of a faster, more efficient alternative.
To clarify, the Domain Name System (DNS) functions like the internet’s phonebook. When you enter a website, your device queries a DNS server to find the corresponding IP address. Computers don’t use website names directly; instead, they rely on numeric addresses. A slow DNS server—often the case with many ISPs—can introduce delays in loading websites, impacting not just browsing but also gaming and streaming experiences. Ultimately, a quicker DNS can significantly enhance perceived internet speed.
While you won’t dramatically increase your bandwidth, you’ll likely notice a marked improvement in responsiveness and faster page-load times.
Recommended DNS Providers for Enhanced Speed
You may be questioning how to find the right DNS provider. Two primary approaches exist:
Consider using Google’s Namebench, a free and user-friendly tool that identifies the fastest DNS servers available for your machine. Although it requires some time to generate results, the detailed comparisons it provides ensure accuracy.
If you prefer simplicity, you can opt for well-known alternative DNS providers that often rank highly in performance without needing testing. These include:
|
Provider |
IPv4 DNS Addresses |
IPv6 DNS Addresses |
|---|---|---|
|
Google DNS |
|
|
|
Cloudflare |
|
|
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OpenDNS |
|
|
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Quad9 |
|
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You’ll need some of these addresses for changing your DNS settings in the next section.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing Your DNS Settings
Modifying your DNS settings across various devices is generally a simple task. Here’s how to make the changes:
Before making adjustments, take a screenshot of your current settings for reference or to revert back if necessary.
Changing DNS Settings on Windows 11
- Press Win + X to open the Power User Menu and choose Network Connections.
- Select Advanced network settings, then pick your active network adapter (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Click on Edit found alongside More adapter options.
- Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), click Properties, and select Use the following DNS server addresses. Enter your chosen DNS provider’s IP addresses and click OK to save.
- Back in the Properties menu, repeat the process for Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and save the settings.
Close the settings window and resume browsing.
Changing DNS Settings on macOS
- Open System Preferences.
- Go to Network and click on Advanced.
- Select the DNS tab.
- Add a DNS server by clicking the + icon and entering your desired IP address.
Once confirmed, your new settings will take effect immediately.
Changing DNS Settings on Linux
Changing DNS settings on Linux can vary significantly among distributions due to different user interfaces. While there are graphical options, advanced users can also modify settings through the command line. For detailed instructions for popular distributions like Ubuntu, consider consulting the official documentation of your specific Linux version.
Changing DNS Settings on iPhone
Adjusting DNS settings on an iPhone is straightforward as well.
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the ‘i‘ icon next to your connected network.
- Scroll to the DNS section and select Configure DNS. Switch from Automatic to Manual. A field for entering a DNS Server will appear.
- Input the IP address of your preferred DNS provider.
Finally, tap Save in the top right corner.
Changing DNS Settings on Android Devices
The method for changing DNS on Android varies by device model, but for most running stock Android 9.0 and above, the steps are consistent:
- Access Settings > Network and Internet.
- Expand the Advanced settings section. By default, the Private DNS option will be set to Automatic. Choose to modify it, leading to an input window.
- Select Private DNS provider hostname and enter the hostname of your chosen DNS server instead of the IP address as follows:
- Google DNS: dns.google.com
- Cloudflare: 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com
- OpenDNS: doh.opendns.com
- Quad9: dns.quad9.net
Complete the modifications and confirm to begin utilizing the new settings.
Changing DNS Settings on Chrome OS
For Chromebooks operating on Chrome OS, follow these steps:
- Navigate to Settings > Security and Privacy.
- Locate and toggle the Use Secure DNS setting to ‘on.’
- Select With and choose either Cloudflare or enter a custom DNS provider.
Your new DNS settings will function across all networks your Chromebook connects to.
As highlighted, modifying your DNS settings can be a smart method to optimize your internet performance. Expect enhanced browsing experiences without unrealistic bandwidth expectations.
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