If you've ever wondered how to change DNS Windows 10/11 for faster internet or better privacy, you're in the right place. I know DNS settings might sound like tech jargon, but trust me, it's not as complicated as it seems. I'll guide you through each step using three different methods, Control Panel, Settings App, and Command Prompt, and show you how you can document these changes using WPS Office. Whether you're using Windows 10 or 11, the process is very similar, and this guide ensures you're covered either way.
How to Change DNS Windows 10/11 Using Control Panel
For those who are more comfortable with the traditional Windows interface, the Control Panel method is reliable and straightforward. It's also a practical solution if you're specifically looking up how to change DNS Windows 11. It gives you access to your network configuration settings in a clear, structured way.
Steps:
Step 1: First of all, go to the start menu on the bottom left of your screen and search "Control Panel" in the search bar and click on the app when it appears.
Step 2: Then navigate to “Network and Internet” once you're inside the Control Panel.
Step 3: Then look at the first option on your screen and click "Network and Sharing Center."
Step 4: Then on the left-hand sidebar, you'll see an option labeled "Change adapter settings." Click on it to view all your network connections.
Step 5: Identify the network you're currently connected to, right-click it, and choose "Properties."
Step 6: Once Wi-Fi properties appear, in the list that appears, find "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)," select it, and then click the "Properties" button below.
Step 7: Then, in the window that opens, choose "Use the following DNS server addresses."
Step 8: Enter preferred and alternate DNS addresses For example, Google DNS would be “8.8.8.8” and “8.8.4.4”. Cloudflare is “1.1.1.1” and “1.0.0.1”. Enter these values and click "OK." Confirm and close all open windows.
Changing your DNS through the Control Panel gives you stable control over your network settings. This method ensures your machine consistently uses your chosen DNS, helping with faster load times and better security. You can also use this method to turn off Copilot Windows 11 by disabling certain network-dependent features, giving you even more customized control over your system.
How to Change DNS Windows 10/11 Using Settings App
If you prefer the newer Windows interface, this method is more modern and user-friendly. It’s perfect for those using Windows 11, though it works just as well on Windows 10.
Steps:
Step 1: Open the Settings App by first clicking the Windows button on the bottom left of your screen and then clicking “Settings.”
Step 2: Then, In the Settings window, navigate to "Network & Internet" and click on it.
Step 3: Click on “Change adapter options” by scrolling down and finding "Advanced network settings" in Windows 11 or directly "Change adapter options" in Windows 10.
Step 4: Then Identify the network you're currently connected to, right-click it, and choose "Properties."
Step 5: Once Wi-Fi properties appear, in the list that appears, find "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)," select it, and then click the "Properties" button below.
Step 6: Then, in the window that opens, choose "Use the following DNS server addresses."
Step 7: Enter preferred and alternate DNS addresses For example, Google DNS would be “8.8.8.8” and “8.8.4.4”. Cloudflare is “1.1.1.1” and “1.0.0.1”. Enter these values and click "OK." Confirm and close all open windows.
The Settings app is more intuitive, making it easier for newer users to access essential functions. Changing DNS via this route also allows you to adjust Wi-Fi and Ethernet settings consistently.
How to Change DNS Windows 10/11 Using Command Prompt
This method is best suited for advanced users or anyone who prefers typing out commands instead of navigating menus. It’s quick and effective, especially if you’re managing multiple machines.
Steps:
Step 1: Start by clicking the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Then, type “Command Prompt” into the search bar. When it appears, select “Run as administrator” from the options on the right.
Step 2: Type the DNS command by Using the following syntax: “netsh interface ip set dns name="YOUR_NETWORK_NAME" static DNS_ADDRESS”. Press Enter to apply Once the command is executed, it immediately changes your DNS settings.
Replace YOUR_NETWORK_NAME with the name of your interface (e.g., "Wi-Fi") and DNS_ADDRESS with the actual DNS (e.g., 1.1.1.1).
Command Prompt is a powerful tool for those who know their way around it. You don’t have to click through multiple windows, and it's efficient for scripting or IT management tasks.
Organize and Manage DNS Settings Effectively with WPS Office
After you've figured out how to change DNS Windows 10/11, it's a smart idea to keep track of the changes you've made. Documentation becomes crucial, especially if you're managing multiple devices or planning to troubleshoot your network later. WPS Office provides an excellent platform for this purpose. You can use WPS Writer to log the DNS addresses you've configured, WPS spreadsheet to organize different network profiles or setup variations, and WPS PDF tools to save or share your configuration steps securely. With WPS Cloud, you’ll also have the flexibility to access your documentation from any device, anytime.
WPS Office: The Ideal Tool for Documentation
Use WPS Writer for Logs
You can document each DNS change with details like the date, time, and specific DNS addresses used.
Use WPS Spreadsheet for Network Tracking
You can also create an excel sheet to track configurations across multiple systems or users.
Convert to PDF and Share Easily
Convert your documents to PDF format using PDF to Word for sharing with team members or IT support.
Access from Anywhere with WPS Cloud
Save your files to WPS Cloud for easy access from any device, making network management seamless.
Always document your DNS settings. This habit is helpful not just for problem-solving, but also for learning and referencing later. I once switched to a custom DNS for better speed, but ran into issues with certain sites. Without notes on my original settings, troubleshooting took longer than it should have. Since then, I use WPS Office to log changes, Writer for details, Spreadsheets for comparisons, and WPS Cloud for easy access across devices.
FAQs
Q1: Why should I change my DNS settings in Windows?
Changing DNS can speed up browsing, enhance security, and provide more reliable access to websites.
Q2: What DNS servers should I use?
Popular choices include Google (8.8.8.8), Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222).
Q3: Can I change DNS settings on both Windows 10 and 11 the same way?
Yes, the steps are nearly identical, with slight variations in the interface.
Q4: What do I do if changing DNS doesn’t improve my internet speed?
Try another DNS provider or investigate other network issues like router performance or bandwidth throttling.
Summary
Learning how to change DNS Windows 10/11 is a small step with big rewards. You’ll often see improved internet speed, more stable connections, and enhanced privacy. Whether you're using the Control Panel, Settings App, or Command Prompt, each method has its benefits. And once you're done, documenting everything with WPS Office ensures you're always in control of your network setup. Stay proactive, stay secure, and keep your browsing smooth and efficient.
