In the world of online activities, speed is everything. Whether it’s browsing the internet, streaming your favorite shows, or playing online games, a slow connection can be a real buzzkill. While there are several factors that can affect your internet speed, one of the most crucial ones is your DNS server.
DNS (Domain Name System) servers act as the internet’s address book, translating domain names into IP addresses that computers can recognize. Choosing the right DNS server can have a significant impact on your internet speed, reliability, and security.
No more buffering now, as we will be exploring the 20 best DNS servers for gaming, browsing, and streaming, so you can optimize your internet speed and enjoy a seamless online experience.
1: Google Public DNS
IP Addresses: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
Speed: Fast and reliable
Google Public DNS is a reliable and fast DNS service that is a popular choice for users seeking a secure and efficient internet connection. With advanced security measures that protect against DNS Cache Poisoning and DoS attacks, users can trust in the security of their connection. Additionally, Google Public DNS supports IPV6 connectivity and enables access to restricted websites. Overall, it is an excellent option for users prioritizing speed, reliability, and security in their internet connection.
2: Cloudflare DNS
IP Addresses: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
Speed: Fast and reliable
Cloudflare is a popular reverse proxy service used by around 10% of websites for protection against attacks and to provide extra load-bearing capacity. Its DNS service offers fast lookup speeds averaging 11ms, built-in DNSSEC for protection against DNS spoofing, and an optional WARP app for added security.
Moreover, Cloudflare offers 24/7/365 support for any server issues or troubleshooting needs. These features make Cloudflare a top choice for online gaming, browsing, and streaming.
3: OpenDNS
IP Addresses: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220
Speed: Fast and reliable
OpenDNS is a highly efficient DNS server that provides an excellent alternative to the Google Public DNS server. It offers two versions of DNS addresses, one for home users and the other for enterprises, and comes equipped with advanced security measures like parental control, phishing protection, and malware protection.
With its impressive speed and ability to protect users’ privacy online, OpenDNS is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a fast, secure, and reliable DNS service.
4: DNS Advantage
IP Addresses: 156.154.70.1 and 156.154.71.1
Speed: Fast and reliable
DNS Advantage is a fast and reliable public DNS service that provides users with a seamless browsing experience. It is well known for its ability to optimize high-bandwidth websites like YouTube and Dailymotion, making it an excellent choice for streaming and gaming. With a global network of servers and advanced security technologies, DNS Advantage offers low latency, high-speed connectivity, and protection from cyber threats.
5: Level3 DNS
IP Addresses: 209.244.0.3 and 209.244.0.4
Speed: Fast and reliable
Level3 DNS is a reliable choice for those in need of a stable internet connection. If your current DNS server is causing connection issues, switching to Level3 DNS can help. Although it may not offer as many features as some competitors, it provides a positive user experience during browsing sessions and is particularly suitable for online gaming, streaming, and video conferencing.
6: Quad9
IP Addresses: 9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112
Speed: Fast and reliable
Quad9 is a secure and reliable DNS server that offers advanced security features, including an in-built filter and monitor that blocks all types of malware from entering your device. This is achieved by looking up malicious names from a centralized name and matching them against incoming packets.
With 150 DNS resolve clusters across 90 countries, Quad9 ensures reduced latency and maximum possible speed, making it an ideal choice for gamers, streamers, and general internet users.
7: Verisign DNS
IP Addresses: 64.6.64.6 and 64.6.65.6
Speed: Fast and reliable
It is considered the best DNS server for gaming due to its excellent connection stability and fast response times. With Verisign as your DNS provider, you can expect faster loading times, reduced latency, and improved overall performance when playing online games.
8: Comodo Secure DNS
IP Addresses: 8.26.56.26 and 8.20.247.20
Speed: Fast and reliable
Comodo, a well-known SSL brand, offers a secure DNS service called Comodo Secure DNS, which not only helps protect our computers from viruses and vulnerabilities but also secures our internet connection with advanced technology that selects the nearest DNS server for maximum performance.
This fast and secure DNS service improves browsing, gaming, and streaming experiences, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enhance their online security and performance.
9: DNS.Watch
IP Addresses: 84.200.69.80 and 84.200.70.40
Speed: Fast and reliable
DNS.Watch is a top-performing and privacy-focused DNS service that is fast, reliable, and compatible with various platforms. It offers uninterrupted browsing, helps unblock blocked services or websites, and is easy to set up.
Its lightning-fast internet connection properties make it one of the fastest DNS servers in the world, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize speed and security. With DNS.Watch, you can enjoy a seamless browsing experience on any device while ensuring your online privacy is protected.
10: CleanBrowsing
IP Addresses: 185.228.168.9 and 185.228.169.9
Speed: Fast and reliable
CleanBrowsing is a public DNS resolver with servers in the US and Europe. Its Security, Adult, and Family plan offer different filtering options based on user needs. One crucial aspect is that CleanBrowsing guarantees privacy and security by not storing or disclosing any user data. Overall, it is a top choice for anyone seeking a fast, reliable, and safe internet browsing experience.
11: Yandex.DNS
IP Addresses: 77.88.8.88 and 77.88.8.2
Speed: Fast and reliable
Yandex.DNS has become increasingly popular as a DNS service provider due to its unique offering of three distinct types of DNS addresses (Basic, Safe, and Family) and support for both IPV4 and IPV6 DNS addresses. As a result, users have the flexibility to select a plan that best matches their needs and the desired level of network security.
12: AdGuard DNS
IP Addresses: 94.140.14.14 and 94.140.15.15
Speed: Fast and reliable
AdGuard DNS is a fast and free public DNS service that provides thorough ad-blocking for apps, games, videos, and other media. It also offers parental control and tracking protection features to keep families safe from malicious online content. Overall, it is a great option for individuals seeking a secure, dependable, and cost-effective DNS server.
13: Norton ConnectSafe DNS
IP Addresses: 199.85.126.10 and 199.85.127.10
Speed: Fast and reliable
Norton’s reputation for device protection extends to its DNS service, Norton ConnectSafe. With three protection options, it offers varying features such as defense against phishing, spam, hacking attempts, and pornographic content. It is a versatile and secure DNS service suitable for those seeking reliable protection for their online activities.
14: Safe DNS
IP Addresses: 195.46.39.39 and 195.46.39.40
Speed: Fast and reliable
SafeDNS is a highly secure cloud-based DNS service that offers fast and stable internet connectivity for browsing, streaming, and online gaming. Its advanced filtering technology blocks access to malicious and harmful content, making it one of the safest DNS servers available.
Compatible with almost any version of Windows, including Windows 7, 8, and 10, as well as other platforms, SafeDNS is a reliable and easy-to-use DNS server that provides the ultimate online protection and performance for users.
15: SmartViper
IP Addresses: 208.76.50.50 and 208.76.51.51
Speed: Fast and reliable
For PS4 gamers who frequently play games online, SmartViper is an excellent DNS server to consider. It provides quick response times, advanced security capabilities, and can manage high volumes of traffic while maintaining optimal performance. Whether your gameplay is intense or you’re sharing the network with many other players, SmartViper ensures a smooth and uninterrupted experience.
16: Oracle Dyn
IP Addresses: 216.146.35.35 and 216.146.36.36
Speed: Fast and reliable
Dyn is a great third-party DNS server for online gaming, browsing, and streaming. Its impressive speed, security, and effectiveness ensure stable connections without compromising performance. Furthermore, it offers phishing attack protection, making it a reliable option even for those without active internet security.
17: Hurricane Electric DNS
IP Addresses: 74.82.42.42 and 2001:470:20::2
Speed: Fast and reliable
Hurricane Electric DNS offers both IPv4 and IPv6 DNS servers, with the IPv6 server (2001:470:20::2) being the recommended option due to its reliability and speed. However, if all other options fail, a single DNS server (74.82.42.42) is available as a last resort, though it is not the best choice as it can slow down the connection during high traffic or bandwidth usage times.
18: GreenTeamDNS
IP Addresses: 81.218.119.11 and 209.88.198.133
Speed: Fast and reliable
Even though GreenTeamDNS is not a well-known player in the DNS industry, it provides speedy and dependable DNS servers that cater to thousands of internet users. Its compatibility with various devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, PCs, Macs, and the DNS filter feature that allows users to filter out sensitive categories make it a great choice.
19: OpenNIC
IP Addresses: 96.90.175.167 and 193.183.98.154
Speed: Fast and reliable
OpenNIC DNS is a good option for those seeking free dynamic DNS servers. It is an alternative DNS provider that offers a widespread network infrastructure and enables the use of new TLDs, allowing users to browse the internet freely. Additionally, OpenNIC DNS supports DNSCrypt for added security, protecting against DNS hijacking and other cyber threats.
20: Alternate DNS
IP Addresses: 76.76.19.19 and 76.223.122.150
Speed: Fast and reliable
Alternate DNS is a top-performing DNS server that stands out from others on the market due to its incredible speed and advanced features. Notably, it has the fastest DNS servers available and a unique system that filters out unwanted ads, making it a great choice for users who dislike intrusive ads while browsing. In addition to its ad-blocking capabilities, Alternate DNS offers reduced latency for a seamless gaming experience, fast streaming speeds, and buffering prevention for smooth streaming.
Conclusion
Having a reliable and efficient DNS server is crucial for smooth and hassle-free internet usage, whether you’re gaming, browsing, or streaming. The comprehensive list of the 20 best DNS servers offers a diverse range of options, catering to different preferences and requirements. With features such as high-speed connections, enhanced security, and customizable settings, these DNS servers can significantly improve your online experience.
