Greetings, fellow tech enthusiasts! Today, we are going to delve into the world of DNS servers and how to change them on Debian 11. DNS (Domain Name System) is a critical component of the internet that translates domain names into IP addresses. A DNS server facilitates this translation, ensuring that we can access websites with ease. That said, there may be times when you want to change your DNS server on Debian 11. Perhaps you are looking for faster browsing speeds or better security. Whatever your reasons, read on for a step-by-step guide on changing DNS servers on Debian 11.
Introduction
Debian 11 (codename Bullseye) is the latest stable release of the Debian operating system. Like its predecessor, Debian 10 (Buster), it comes with a default DNS resolver called systemd-resolved. While this resolver is quite handy, it may not always meet your needs. For instance, you may want to change your DNS server for faster browsing speeds or more privacy. In this guide, we will show you how to change your DNS server on Debian 11.
What is DNS?
The Domain Name System (DNS) is a hierarchical and decentralized naming system for computers, services, or other resources connected to the Internet or a private network.
Why Change DNS Server on Debian 11?
There are a few reasons why you may want to change your DNS server on Debian 11. One of the most common reasons is speed. By using a faster DNS server, you can experience faster browsing speeds. Another reason is security. Some DNS servers may not be as secure as others, so changing to a more secure DNS server can help protect your privacy online. Finally, you may want to change your DNS server to bypass geolocation restrictions and access content that is not available in your region.
Prerequisites
Before we proceed, there are a few things you need:
- A Debian 11 system with a user account with sudo privileges.
- A text editor such as nano or vim.
- Knowledge of your preferred DNS server’s IP address.
Step 1: Check Your Current DNS Server
Before you change your DNS server on Debian 11, it’s essential to know your current DNS server. To do this, open a terminal and run the following command:
Command |
Description |
|---|---|
systemd-resolve –status | grep Current |
Displays your current DNS server |
The output should look something like this:
Current DNS Server: 192.168.1.1
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred DNS Server
Now that you know your current DNS server, it’s time to choose your preferred DNS server. There are several options to choose from, including Google DNS (8.8.8.8), Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222).
Step 3: Edit the Systemd-resolved Configuration File
Once you have chosen your preferred DNS server, the next step is to edit the systemd-resolved configuration file. This file is located at /etc/systemd/resolved.conf. Use your preferred text editor to open the file:
Command |
Description |
|---|---|
sudo nano /etc/systemd/resolved.conf |
Opens the configuration file in nano |
Find the line that says “#DNS=”. Uncomment the line by removing the “#” and add your preferred DNS server’s IP address. For instance, if you want to use Google DNS, the line should look like this:
DNS=8.8.8.8
Step 4: Restart Systemd-resolved Service
After editing the configuration file, you need to restart the systemd-resolved service for the changes to take effect. To do this, run the following command:
Command |
Description |
|---|---|
sudo systemctl restart systemd-resolved |
Restarts the systemd-resolved service |
Step 5: Verify New DNS Server
Finally, verify that your preferred DNS server is now being used. To do this, run the same command you used in step 1:
Command |
Description |
|---|---|
systemd-resolve –status | grep Current |
Displays your current DNS server |
The output should show your new DNS server.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Changing DNS Server on Debian 11
Advantages
There are several advantages of changing your DNS server on Debian 11:
- Speed: By using a faster DNS server, you can experience faster browsing speeds.
- Security: Some DNS servers may not be as secure as others. Changing to a more secure DNS server can help protect your privacy online.
- Geolocation Bypass: Changing your DNS server can help you bypass geolocation restrictions and access content that is not available in your region.
- Content Filtering: Some DNS servers can help filter out unwanted content, such as ads and malware.
Disadvantages
Despite its benefits, changing your DNS server on Debian 11 also has a few disadvantages:
- Compatibility Issues: Some websites or applications may not work properly with certain DNS servers.
- Security Risks: Using an untrusted DNS server can expose you to security risks, such as DNS spoofing and phishing attacks.
- Technical Knowledge: Changing DNS servers requires some technical knowledge and may not be suitable for beginners.
FAQs
1. What is DNS?
The Domain Name System (DNS) is a hierarchical and decentralized naming system for computers, services, or other resources connected to the Internet or a private network.
2. Why Change DNS Server on Debian 11?
There are several reasons why you may want to change your DNS server on Debian 11, including speed, security, and geolocation bypass.
3. What are some popular DNS servers?
Some popular DNS servers include Google DNS (8.8.8.8), Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222).
4. How do I check my current DNS server on Debian 11?
To check your current DNS server on Debian 11, open a terminal and run the following command: systemd-resolve –status | grep Current
5. Can changing my DNS server on Debian 11 improve my browsing speed?
Yes, changing your DNS server on Debian 11 can improve your browsing speed if you switch to a faster DNS server.
6. Is changing my DNS server on Debian 11 safe?
Changing your DNS server on Debian 11 can be safe if you use a trusted DNS server. However, using an untrusted DNS server can expose you to security risks.
7. Do I need technical knowledge to change my DNS server on Debian 11?
Yes, changing DNS servers requires some technical knowledge, and it may not be suitable for beginners. However, following this guide should make it easier.
8. Can changing my DNS server on Debian 11 bypass geolocation restrictions?
Yes, changing your DNS server on Debian 11 can help you bypass geolocation restrictions and access content that is not available in your region.
9. How do I choose a DNS server for my Debian 11 system?
You can choose a DNS server based on its speed, security, and reliability. Popular DNS servers include Google DNS (8.8.8.8), Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1), and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222).
10. Can I use multiple DNS servers on Debian 11?
Yes, you can configure your system to use multiple DNS servers on Debian 11. However, this may affect your browsing speed and can cause compatibility issues with some websites and applications.
11. What is a DNS resolver?
A DNS resolver is a program that translates domain names into IP addresses.
12. Can I revert to the default DNS server on Debian 11 after changing it?
Yes, you can revert to the default DNS server on Debian 11 by editing the /etc/systemd/resolved.conf file and commenting out the DNS line.
13. Do I need to restart my system after changing my DNS server on Debian 11?
No, you only need to restart the systemd-resolved service for the changes to take effect. You can do this by running the following command: sudo systemctl restart systemd-resolved
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to change your DNS server on Debian 11. Remember to choose a trusted DNS server that meets your needs, whether it’s speed, security, or geolocation bypass. While changing your DNS server has its advantages, it also has its disadvantages, so be sure to weigh both before making a decision. If you encounter any issues, feel free to consult the Debian 11 documentation or seek help from the Debian community.
We hope that this guide has been helpful to you. If you have any feedback or suggestions, please let us know in the comments below.
Closing or Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Use of the information contained herein is at your sole risk. We make no warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information contained in this article. In no event shall we be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising out of or in connection with the use or inability to use this information.