These
days DNS servers are doing the same job as they were before but in a
digital world where the internet is connected with each other, they are
still working as a middleman that is in between domain names and IP
addresses while the internet is smoothly working.
Usually, Internet Service Providers provide DNS of their organization
to their customers. However, the DNS of these providers may not be
optimally efficient because of issues of speed, reliability, and
security of the internet.
However, rest assured that there are free and public DNS servers that
can offer you a faster and safer internet browsing experience. In this article, we will consider a few of the best free and public DNS servers by the year 2024.
Google Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4):
Google Public DNS is one of the most popular and still widely used DNS services. It provides fast and reliable DNS resolving and as well improved security. Google Public DNS supports both IPv4 and IPv6 connectivity, and its servers serve locally, with good performance.
Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1):
The cloudflare dns is recognized globally for its emphasis on privacy and security. It delivers query latency times that are blistering and has in-built security against online threats such as malware, phishing, and DNS spoofing. Where Cloudflare provides DNS service over HTTPS (DoH) and TLS (DoT), it is possible to encrypt the communication.
Open DNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220):
Though bought by CISCO, OpenDNS now offers a wide range of services tailored for different purposes: from personal to enterprise use. Its free DNS servers are fast and reliable but also have functionalities like content filtering and parental controls that further translate to safe internet use.
Quad9 (9.9.9.9):
Quad9 is a DNS service run by a nonprofit organization focused on ensuring the privacy and security of users. It utilizes the threat intelligence gathered by several cybersecurity firms to block the users from the malicious Web sites and keep users safe from the online threats. Quad9 DNS servers are available worldwide as they in addition to be used on both IPv4 and IPv6 connections.
Cloudflare for Families (1.1.1.2 and 1.0.0.2):
Cloudflare for Families is a separate version of CloudflareDNS designed to take into account the family-safe content filtering.
It has got the same performance and security benefits like Cloudflare
DNS but comes with some optional settings to prevent any inappropriate
or harmful site(s) access and therefore becomes a great choice for
families with children.
AdGuard DNS (94.140.14.14 and 94.140.15.15):
AdGuard DNS essentially blocks ads, trackers, and malware via the domain name system (DNS) level. AdGuard DNS uses filtering mechanism against inappropriate content and this makes it an excellent solution that can boost the internet navigability as well as security and privacy by preventing data mining.
In a nutshell, there is a big difference between browsing the internet and choosing the right DNS server on your search results, speed, reliability, and security components. Although the DNS servers provided by your ISP can well serve general use, you might consider searching other options, including Google Public DNS, Cloudflare DNS, Open DNS, Quad9, Cloudflare for Families and AdGuard DNS, in order to take advantage of better speed and security. The type of service you choose may depend on your need for speed, privacy, or content filtering. But there is always a free and public DNS server that suits your individual preference.