Best Public DNS Servers in 2026: Compare Cloudflare, Google, Quad9 and More

 

Your DNS provider plays an important role in how your device connects to websites. While most internet users rely on the default DNS provided by their ISP, switching to a public DNS service can offer additional features such as encrypted DNS queries, malicious website protection, and ad filtering.

In this guide, let's explore six popular public DNS providers and their features.

What Is a Public DNS Server?

DNS stands for Domain Name System. It works like the internet's address book by translating website names, such as google.com, into IP addresses that computers and devices can understand.

A public DNS server is available for anyone to use instead of their internet service provider's default DNS.

6 Popular Public DNS Providers

1. Cloudflare DNS

Cloudflare is a popular choice for users looking for a fast and privacy-focused DNS service.

• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1
• IPv6 support: Yes
• Filtering: No filtering on the standard resolver

2. Google Public DNS

Google Public DNS is widely used and provides a reliable alternative to ISP DNS servers.

• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
• IPv6 support: Yes
• Filtering: No standard content filtering

3. Quad9 DNS

Quad9 focuses on security by blocking access to domains associated with known malicious activity.

• Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
• Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112
• Main feature: Malware and threat protection

4. AdGuard DNS

AdGuard DNS is useful for people who want to reduce advertisements and tracking through DNS-level filtering.

• Primary DNS: 94.140.14.14
• Secondary DNS: 94.140.15.15
• Main feature: Ad and tracker blocking

5. Control D DNS

Control D provides configurable DNS services with different filtering options.

• Primary DNS: 76.76.2.2
• Secondary DNS: 76.76.10.2
• Main feature: Content filtering and customization

6. CleanBrowsing DNS

CleanBrowsing offers DNS filtering options for households and families.

• Primary DNS: 185.228.168.168
• Secondary DNS: 185.228.169.168
• Main feature: Family and content filtering

Understanding Different DNS Security Protocols

You may come across these terms when comparing DNS providers:

• DNS over HTTPS (DoH): Encrypts DNS queries through HTTPS.
• DNS over TLS (DoT): Encrypts DNS traffic using TLS.
• DNSSEC: Helps verify the authenticity of DNS responses.
• DNSCrypt: Provides encryption and authentication for DNS communication.

These technologies have different purposes, and availability depends on the provider and configuration.

How to Choose the Right DNS?

There is no single best DNS provider for everyone.

• Speed and general browsing: Try Cloudflare or Google.
• Security against malicious domains: Consider Quad9.
• Ad and tracker filtering: Consider AdGuard DNS.
• Family-friendly filtering: Consider CleanBrowsing.
• Custom filtering options: Explore Control D.

Remember that actual performance can vary depending on your internet connection and geographical location.

How to Change Your DNS Settings

You can configure public DNS on supported devices, including:

1. Windows computers
2. Android smartphones
3. iPhones and iPads
4. Wi-Fi routers

You can usually find DNS settings under your device's network or internet configuration. The exact steps depend on the operating system and network setup.

Final Words

Public DNS services are useful alternatives to the default DNS servers provided by internet service providers. Whether you want better security, ad filtering, or encrypted DNS queries, there are several providers worth exploring.

Compare their features and choose the one that best matches your browsing requirements.

Which public DNS provider do you currently use? Share your experience in the comments!