Introduction
Welcome, readers! In the world of technology, we all know that the internet is the foundation of everything we do. It has become a critical aspect of our daily lives. However, there are times when we encounter various problems while using the internet, and one of them is a slow connection. One of the solutions to this problem is to change the DNS server for Ubuntu. In this article, we will provide you with an in-depth explanation of how to change the DNS server for Ubuntu. So, let’s dive in!
What is DNS?
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It is an essential component of the internet infrastructure that translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses that computers use to identify each other on the internet. In other words, DNS is responsible for converting the domain name that we type into the web browser into an IP address that the computer can understand.
What is a DNS server?
A DNS server is a computer server that contains a database of various domain names and their corresponding IP addresses. When you type a domain name into your web browser, the DNS server receives the request, searches its database for the corresponding IP address, and sends it back to your computer.
Why Change DNS Server on Ubuntu?
By default, Ubuntu uses the DNS server provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). However, sometimes the DNS server provided by your ISP may not be the best choice for you. You may want to switch to a different DNS server for faster browsing speeds, better security, or access to geo-restricted content.
How to Change DNS Server on Ubuntu?
Changing the DNS server on Ubuntu is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
Step # |
Instruction |
|---|---|
1 |
Click on the Network Manager icon in the top right corner of the screen. |
2 |
Select “Edit Connections” from the drop-down menu. |
3 |
Choose the network connection you want to modify and click on “Edit.” |
4 |
Switch to the “IPv4 Settings” tab. |
5 |
Change the “Method” dropdown from “Automatic (DHCP)” to “Automatic (DHCP) addresses only.” |
6 |
In the “DNS servers” field, enter the IP address of your preferred DNS server. |
7 |
Click “Save” and close the window. |
Advantages of Changing DNS Server on Ubuntu
1. Faster Browsing Speeds
Changing your DNS server can significantly improve your browsing speed. Sometimes, the DNS server provided by your ISP may be slow or overloaded, causing delays in website loading times. Switching to a faster DNS server can speed up your internet connection, making your browsing experience much smoother.
2. Improved Security
Using a reputable DNS server can help improve your online security. Some DNS servers have built-in security features that can protect you from phishing attacks, malware, and other online threats. By using a secure DNS server, you can reduce the risk of cyber threats affecting your online activities.
3. Access to Geo-Restricted Content
Some DNS servers can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in your region. For example, if you want to access Netflix U.S. from outside the United States, you can use a DNS server that has a U.S. IP address, thus tricking Netflix into thinking you are in the U.S.
Disadvantages of Changing DNS Server on Ubuntu
1. Slower Initial Connection Time
When you switch to a new DNS server, it may take some time for your computer to establish a connection. This is because it needs to communicate with the new server and update its DNS cache. During this time, you may experience slower initial connection times when accessing websites for the first time.
2. Less Reliable DNS Servers
Not all DNS servers are created equal. Some free DNS servers may be less reliable than others, leading to connection errors or slow browsing speeds. It is essential to choose a reputable DNS server that offers excellent uptime and reliability.
3. Privacy Concerns
Some DNS servers may collect and log your browsing data, leading to potential privacy concerns. If your DNS server is compromised or hacked, your sensitive information could be at risk. It is essential to choose a DNS server that has a strong privacy policy and does not log your activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best DNS server for Ubuntu?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as it depends on your location, internet speed, and personal preferences. Some of the popular DNS servers for Ubuntu include Google DNS, OpenDNS, and Cloudflare DNS.
2. Can I use multiple DNS servers in Ubuntu?
Yes, Ubuntu supports multiple DNS servers. You can add additional servers in the “DNS servers” field, separated by commas.
3. How do I know if my DNS server is working?
You can check if your DNS server is working correctly by running a DNS lookup test. You can use tools like the nslookup command or online websites like dnschecker.org to perform this test.
4. Can I revert back to my ISP’s DNS server?
Yes, you can revert back to your ISP’s DNS server by following the same steps mentioned earlier and selecting “Automatic (DHCP)” as the method instead of “Automatic (DHCP) addresses only.”
5. Do I need to restart my computer after changing the DNS server?
No, you do not need to restart your computer after changing the DNS server. The changes will take effect immediately.
6. Can I change the DNS server for a specific website?
No, you cannot change the DNS server for a specific website. It is a system-wide change that affects all websites you visit.
7. How often should I change my DNS server?
There is no set frequency for changing your DNS server. You can do it when you experience slow browsing speeds, suspect security issues, or want to access geo-restricted content.
8. What is the difference between IPv4 and IPv6 DNS?
IPv4 is the traditional IP addressing system that uses 32-bit numbers to represent IP addresses. IPv6, on the other hand, uses 128-bit numbers and is designed to address the growing number of devices connected to the internet. The process to change the DNS server for IPv6 is the same as IPv4.
9. Can I use a DNS server from a different country?
Yes, you can use a DNS server from a different country. However, it may affect your browsing speed and access to region-specific content.
10. Can changing the DNS server cause any problems?
Changing the DNS server should not cause any significant problems. However, if you enter an incorrect IP address, you may not be able to browse the internet. Ensure that you have entered the correct IP address and have a reliable DNS server.
11. Does changing the DNS server affect my internet speed?
Changing the DNS server can affect your internet speed positively, provided you choose a reliable and faster DNS server.
12. Is it safe to use a free DNS server?
While some free DNS servers are reliable and safe, others may be less secure and collect your browsing data. It is essential to do your research and choose a reputable DNS server that has a strong privacy policy.
13. How do I know which DNS server is fastest?
You can determine which DNS server is fastest by performing a DNS benchmark test using software like DNS Benchmark, Namebench, or GRC’s DNS Benchmark tool.
Conclusion
Changing the DNS server for Ubuntu can significantly improve your browsing experience by offering faster speeds, better security, and access to geo-restricted content. In this article, we have provided you with a step-by-step guide on how to change the DNS server for Ubuntu and highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. We hope that this article has been informative and helpful. Don’t hesitate to switch to a new DNS server if you encounter slow browsing speeds or want to improve your online security.
Closing or Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. The information provided may not be suitable for your specific needs, and we advise you to do your research before making any changes to your DNS server. We are not responsible for any losses or damages that may arise from following the instructions provided in this article.