What is My DNS

What Is My DNS Actually Doing?

A good question, with a fairly simple answer.

Domain Name Service (DNS) takes a name that you punch into your device and turns it into a series of numbers. These numbers are easier for a computer to work with and organize.

If you've ever heard of an IP address, that's exactly what DNS goes out to find. It takes a domain name like Wikipedia.org and turns that name into a series of numbers that computers, routers, and switches can work with, such as 91.198.174.192.

Without DNS, a computer has no idea where to send your Internet traffic unless you can specify the IP address of your destination. And who goes around memorizing those? It was more common in the early days of the Internet, but these days just about everyone uses domain names in web browsers, application settings, and the like. Except of course, when setting up the DNS server itself! Then you have to have the numbers handy or rely on the default DNS that your network provider gives you.

So if you get DNS errors, it's usually because your system either can't reach the specific DNS server set up on your Internet router or in your system, or you've lost Internet connection altogether.

What Is My DNS Server Currently Set To?

This is the second version of the question and an equally good one. If you want to check out your current DNS server, you'll need to know what kind of device you have (Windows, iOS, etc.).

In Windows 10: Open a command prompt by typing 'cmd' (without the quotes) in the Windows search bar and pressing Enter. Then at the command prompt type the following command:

ipconfig /all

Press Enter. This will give you all of your current networking information. Under 'DNS Servers', you'll see your current DNS server as an IPv4 (and IPv6 if it is enabled) address.

In macOS 10: Start by pressing cmd+space on your keyboard and typing 'terminal” (without the quotes), then press Enter. Then at the command prompt type the following command:

scutil --dns

Press Enter. This will give you your specific DNS information.

Where Did I Get My DNS Settings From?

Some people get their DNS from their ISP's router. To check out the settings that it's supposed to be feeding you, you'll have to follow the instructions that your ISP gave you to log into the router. Usually, it will involve hooking it up to your local network and typing an IP address into the web browser (like 192.168.1.1 - a common default address). Then log in with the credentials provided and follow the instructions.

Assuming it's working correctly, your device or computer should be set to dynamic DNS, meaning it will take whatever DNS setting the router throws at it.

It's possible your system or device has overridden your DNS settings, or you've hard-coded them. If that particular DNS server is down, you might want to change those settings. Here's how.

How To Change DNS Settings In Windows 10

Go to Start and open the Control Panel (the cog icon). Select Network, Internet, and Network and Sharing Center, then Change Adapter Settings. Double-click the connection you want to check (Ethernet or wireless).

If you don't know what version of IP you're using, try Internet Protocol version 4. Double-click it from the list. If you use IPv6 instead, double-click that.

At the bottom of the menu, there are two options:

Obtain DNS Server Address Automatically or Dynamic DNS using the router's settings.

Use the Following DNS Server Addresses using the primary and secondary servers that are listed.

This is where you can change things around, override the dynamic DNS with a manual entry, or try to use the router's default DNS server by swapping the setting back to automatic. When you're done, press OK, then OK again.

How To Change DNS Settings In MacOS 10

In macOS 10: In the Apple, menu go to System Preferences, Network. Unlock the security padlock in the lower left-hand corner. Enter your password if prompted.

Select the connection you're using (Wi-Fi or Built-In Ethernet), and then click Advanced. Click on the DNS tab to see the options and settings.

Selecting + will replace the listed addresses. Clicking - will remove them. Removing all addresses on the list will put the device in Dynamic mode, taking whatever DNS server the router suggests.

Or you can manually add known working DNS servers by clicking plus. Then click OK, and then Apply.

Final Notes

Now that you know the answer to the question “What is my DNS”, no matter which meaning you were going for, hopefully, you're empowered to make any changes that you see fit. Knowing how to change DNS settings is one of the basic skills that will help you to experience the Internet to the fullest extent. It can help enhance your Internet speed and your privacy.

For example - switching away from private DNS providers can help you to evade things like regional censorship issues, or limitations that have been put on your ISP. But it's just the first step of many. Installing privacy software can help enhance your browsing experience and protect your identity online.

It's not always easy to take these first steps towards understanding the inner workings of the Internet or networking in general. With that in mind, there are free courses that can introduce you to all sorts of computer and Internet-based subjects. One is even run by Harvard. Don't be afraid to dive in and learn more.