FernTool

How to change DNS on your router

Changing DNS on the router covers every phone, TV and console at once, with no per-device setup. Pick a server first (comparison here):

Cloudflare
1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1 · IPv6 2606:4700:4700::1111
Google Public DNS
8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4 · IPv6 2001:4860:4860::8888
Quad9 (blocks known malware)
9.9.9.9, 149.112.112.112 · IPv6 2620:fe::fe

Steps (they vary by brand)

  1. Find your router’s address (guide), usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, and open it in a browser.
  2. Log in. The default password is often on the router’s sticker.
  3. Look for DNS in one of two places:
    • LAN / DHCP server settings: the DNS that the router gives your devices. This is the best place.
    • WAN / Internet settings: the DNS the router itself uses. Untick “Get DNS automatically from ISP” and enter your servers.
  4. Enter a primary and secondary server, then save or apply.
  5. Reconnect your devices (or restart them) so they pick up the new settings.

ISP-supplied routers

Some ISP routers hide or lock DNS settings. Your options: set DNS on each device instead (Windows, Mac), use your own router behind the ISP’s one, or use encrypted DNS in your browser (Chrome, Edge and Firefox have a “secure DNS” setting) or Android’s Private DNS (for example one.one.one.one or dns.google).

Check it worked

On a device, run nslookup example.com. The server shown is often the router itself (it forwards lookups). To confirm the upstream server, visit the provider’s test page (Cloudflare has 1.1.1.1/help). The FernTool DNS lookup shows what a public resolver returns for any domain.

Family filtering

Cloudflare 1.1.1.3 / 1.0.0.3 blocks malware and adult content. OpenDNS FamilyShield (208.67.222.123 / 208.67.220.123) does the same. Setting them on the router covers kids’ devices, but tech-savvy users can bypass DNS filtering with a VPN or encrypted DNS.

Frequently asked questions

Is it better to change DNS on the router or on each device?

The router is easier because it covers every device at once. Change it per device when the router is locked or you only want one device changed.

Will changing router DNS break anything?

Rarely. Some ISP-specific services, such as certain IPTV or zero-rated content, may rely on ISP DNS. If something stops working, switch back to automatic.

What DNS should I use for family filtering?

Cloudflare for Families (1.1.1.3 and 1.0.0.3) or OpenDNS FamilyShield (208.67.222.123 and 208.67.220.123).

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