How to Check Your DNS Settings on Any Device

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Your DNS settings control which server translates domain names into IP addresses. Knowing your current DNS server can help diagnose slow browsing, connection errors, and privacy concerns.

Check DNS Settings on Windows

Method 1 (Command Prompt):

  • Open Command Prompt
  • Type ipconfig /all and press Enter
  • Look for “DNS Servers” under your active network adapter

Method 2 (Settings): Settings → Network & Internet → your connection → Hardware properties → DNS server assignment

Check DNS Settings on Mac

  • System Settings → Network → click your connection → Details → DNS tab
  • Or in Terminal: scutil --dns | grep nameserver

Check DNS Settings on iPhone/iPad

Settings → Wi-Fi → tap the (i) next to your network → scroll to DNS section. If it shows “Automatic,” you’re using your router’s DNS.

Check DNS Settings on Android

Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → tap your network → pencil/edit icon → Advanced → IP settings → Static — DNS fields will be visible. Or: Settings → Network → Private DNS.

How to Tell What Your DNS Server Actually Is

Your device settings show what’s configured, but the actual DNS server used may differ (especially with DHCP). The most reliable way: run a DNS lookup test at tools.examineip.com/dns-checker/ and check which resolver responds.

Common DNS Servers and What They Mean

  • 8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4 — Google Public DNS
  • 1.1.1.1 / 1.0.0.1 — Cloudflare (privacy-focused)
  • 9.9.9.9 — Quad9 (security-focused, blocks malware domains)
  • Your router’s local IP (e.g., 192.168.1.1) — using your router, which forwards to your ISP’s DNS

Should You Change Your DNS?

Your ISP’s DNS is usually fine for basic browsing, but switching to Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google (8.8.8.8) typically gives you faster lookups, better uptime, and less logging of your queries. Cloudflare in particular has a strong privacy policy around DNS data.

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