A DNS, or Domain Name Server, is what helps translate human-friendly URLs into computer-friendly IP addresses. This is what enables your devices to connect to the internet and access the content you want to see.

When people change their DNS, it’s usually to enhance either performance, security or both.  And while there are many Paid options, we’re always fans of freebies. Below, we’ll take a look at what to consider when switching your DNS and the best free Dns Servers to do it with.

What to consider when switching your DNS

A few things to note before we dive in:

• Default DNS vs. third-party DNS – When you have internet service, your internet service provider (ISP) has a default DNS which your network uses to connect to the web. ISPs can collect data on customers and their internet activity. A third-party DNS can do the same, though it becomes more difficult to attribute the connection to specific individuals or households.
• Free DNS vs. paid DNS – Beyond the obvious financial difference between a free and paid DNS, free options typically have fewer features. A paid DNS will have more advanced security and performance functionality, as well as better customer support and more customization options. Generally speaking, a free DNS will work for most purposes.
• Public DNS vs. private DNS – A public DNS is available to the general population and it typically comes from your internet service provider or a dedicated DNS provider. A private DNS is typically used by companies to give employees easier access to internal-only websites/IP addresses. Typically, you’re on a public DNS at home and either a private or public one at work.

Best free DNS servers of 2021

Finding the best DNS server means you should first think about what you use your devices for. Someone wanting strict parental controls overall internet use might benefit from one server, while someone who’s interested in fast and efficient gaming might be best with another. 

Your location also matters. If you’re tech-savvy, this tool can help you compare the top DNS providers for your location. 

We gave a close look at 14 free DNS Servers, looked at the kinds of things that matter to various groups of users and came up with the options that we think are the best of the bunch. Here are the categories we looked at, along with the winner(s) in each:

Best overall free DNS: Cloudflare & Comodo

Cloudflare

Cloudflare’s entry into the DNS market includes unmetered mitigation of DDoS, Global CDN, a shared SSL certificate and unlimited bandwidth. It is fast and reliable, and an excellent choice for online businesses. In fact, Cloudflare is used as a reverse proxy by more than 10% of all websites, according to the company.

Comodo

Comodo offers a range of secure internet gateway packages, including options for enterprises and MSPs, but the free option, called the Gold Package, offers solid public DNS servers. You can make up to 300,000 monthly requests on the free, cloud-based option, which offers protection from advanced threats, phishing, malware and C&C callbacks. You’ll have real-time visibility for all connected devices and web access policy protection both on and off-network.

Fastest free DNS: Neustar UltraDNS

Neustar UltraDNS Public (formerly Verisign Public DNS) is one of the fastest DNS servers, Neustar resolves queries quickly with its global DNS infrastructure and is available on every continent except Antarctica. There are multiple blocking levels that allow you to customize your experience, and its filtering blocks malware, ransomware, spyware and phishing. There is also a protection feature for parents who want to keep their children away from questionable content.

Safest free DNS: Quad9

Quad9 offers one of the best free DNS servers of all our choices. The company blocks malicious domains, phishing, botnets and malware while maintaining your anonymity. Unlike many others, Quad9 is a nonprofit organization created to make the internet safer for everyone. Currently available in nearly 90 countries, it is constantly expanding into new areas.

Best DNS for Parental Controls: CleanBrowsing & Open DNS

CleanBrowsing

CleanBrowsing offers both free and paid versions, with a focus on privacy. It is often used by schools and in public spaces such as libraries and is a good choice for parents who want to create a safe browsing experience for their children. The free version comes with three free filters that can block most adult content.

Open DNS

Owned by Cisco, Open DNS has two options that are available free: Family Shield and Home. Home is the simpler option, which features customizable filtering and basic protection for users. Family Shield, on the other hand, is preconfigured to block adult content. Both options include free email support, easy to set up and run, especially with the company’s helpful guides.

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