Top #3 Best Free and Public DNS Servers 2025

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Looking for the best free public DNS servers to boost speed and security? You’re in the right place.

Most people don’t realize that slow internet or blocked content often stems from inefficient DNS configurations. By switching to a public DNS server, you can enhance both speed and safety—especially when paired with a VPN like ExpressVPN, which we personally recommend for encrypting your traffic while using these DNS providers.

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#1. Google Public DNS

Why Choose It?
Google’s DNS servers are lightning-fast, globally distributed, and extremely secure. There are no usage limits, and Google doesn’t retain IP logs longer than 48 hours.

✅ Fast & stable
✅ DNSSEC support
✅ Easy to configure

Primary: 8.8.8.8
Secondary: 8.8.4.4

#2. Cloudflare Public DNS

Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 is known for privacy-first DNS resolution. It’s ideal for gamers and streamers looking to reduce latency and increase responsiveness.

✅ Deletes IP logs within 24 hours
✅ Built for speed and privacy
✅ Great for gaming and streaming

Primary: 1.1.1.1
Secondary: 1.0.0.1

#3. OpenDNS (by Cisco)

OpenDNS provides enhanced security features, including content filtering to block adult sites—perfect for family use.

✅ Parental controls
✅ Customizable filters
✅ Enterprise-grade reliability

Basic DNS:

• Primary: 208.67.222.222
• Secondary: 208.67.220.220

FamilyShield (preconfigured for adult content blocking):

• Primary: 208.67.222.123
• Secondary: 208.67.220.123

Changing DNS is easy and only takes a few minutes.

🖥️ For Windows:

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center
2. Click “Change adapter settings”
3. Right-click your active network > Properties
4. Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” > Properties
5. Click “Use the following DNS server addresses”
6. Enter your preferred DNS addresses
7. Save changes

🍎 For macOS:

1. Go to System Preferences > Network
2. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet > Advanced
3. Navigate to the DNS tab
4. Remove old entries, click “+” to add new ones
5. Add your chosen DNS IPs
6. Click OK to save

🐧 For Ubuntu/Linux:

1. Open Terminal
2. Type: sudo nano /etc/resolv.conf
3. Add:
4. nginx
   nameserver 8.8.8.8 nameserver 8.8.4.4
5. Save and exit

Public DNS servers can improve speed—but they’re still vulnerable to tracking and exploitation if you’re not encrypting your traffic.

Here’s why combining ExpressVPN with DNS servers is smart:

• 🔒 Encrypts all DNS requests
• 🚫 Prevents DNS leaks
• 🌍 Spoofs your location to access geo-restricted content
• 👻 Keeps your activity anonymous

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Whether you’re looking to speed up your internet, bypass censorship, or block harmful content, these public DNS servers are your best bet:

• Google DNS for balanced speed and privacy
• Cloudflare DNS for ultra-low latency and gaming
• OpenDNS for family-safe browsing with content filters

Just remember: DNS only translates website addresses—it doesn’t encrypt your traffic. For complete privacy, always use a VPN alongside your DNS settings.

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Dhruv Tiwari

I'm a technology cyber expert and VPN expert. I love to stay up-to-date on the latest tech trends and explore new ways to use technology to improve my life. I also enjoy writing about these topics.

Peace ✌️