How to Change Windows DNS Servers
Most computers and devices connect to a local network using DHCP and DNS servers that are automatically configured in Windows. DNS servers are sometimes the cause of certain types of internet problems, and changing them can help troubleshoot the problem. Below are the steps required to change the DNS servers that Windows uses. However, the procedure differs somewhat depending on the version of Windows.
How to Change DNS Servers With Command Prompt
The preferred DNS server in Windows can be changed through Command Prompt. Use this method if you’re comfortable entering commands on the command line.
DNS Server Settings Are Device-Specific
Setting up custom DNS servers for your computer only applies to that computer, not to the other devices on the network. For example, you can set up a Windows laptop with one set of DNS servers and use an entirely different set on a desktop, phone, or tablet. DNS settings apply to the closest device they’re configured on. For example, if you use one set of DNS servers on the router, your laptop and phone will use these DNS servers when they connect to Wi-Fi. However, if the router has its own set of servers and the laptop has its own separate set, the laptop will use a different DNS server than the phone and the other devices that use the router. The same is true if the phone uses a custom set. DNS settings only trickle down a network if each device is set up to use the router’s DNS settings and not their own. This means that if four devices are on a network, for example, all four could be using separate DNS servers.
