How to Change DNS Settings on Your Router

by Tommy N. Updated Apr 24, 2026

Changing your router's DNS server can improve browsing speed, enhance security, and bypass ISP restrictions. Popular alternatives include Google DNS (8.8.8.8), Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222).

Figure 1 — How to Change DNS Settings on Your Router

Step-by-Step Guide

Login to your router — go to 192.168.1.1 or your router's gateway IP.
Find DNS settings — look under "Internet", "WAN", or "Network" settings.
Enter new DNS servers — replace the existing values with your preferred DNS. Primary: 8.8.8.8, Secondary: 8.8.4.4 (for Google DNS).
Save and reboot — click Apply and restart your router for changes to take effect.

Tips & Best Practices

Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4 — fast and reliable
Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 / 1.0.0.1 — privacy-focused, very fast
OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222 / 208.67.220.220 — includes content filtering options

Related Guides

Video Tutorial

For more information, see Microsoft Windows Support.

Pro Tip: The single most impactful WiFi improvement is router placement — center it in your home, elevated, away from walls and metal objects.

Key Takeaways

Always use WPA3 or WPA2-AES encryption — never WEP
Place your router centrally and elevated for best coverage
Use 5GHz for speed near the router, 2.4GHz for range
Change the default WiFi name to something unique and non-personal

Frequently Asked Questions

What DNS should I use?

Google DNS (8.8.8.8) and Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) are the most popular choices. Cloudflare is slightly faster; Google is more established.

Will changing DNS speed up my internet?

Changing DNS can speed up website loading times by resolving domain names faster, but it won't increase your actual download/upload speed.

Is it safe to change DNS on a router?

Yes. You can always revert to your ISP's DNS by removing the custom values or resetting your router.

About Tommy N.

Tommy is the founder of RouterHax and a network engineer with over ten years of experience in home and enterprise networking. He has configured and troubleshot networks ranging from simple home setups to multi-site enterprise deployments, with deep hands-on experience in router configuration, WiFi optimization, and network security. At RouterHax, he oversees editorial direction and covers home networking guides, mesh WiFi system reviews, and practical troubleshooting resources for everyday users.