How to Change DNS Server on Android

Changing the DNS server on your Android phone can speed up browsing, improve privacy, and help you get around content blocks. This guide shows you how to set a custom DNS for both Wi‑Fi and mobile data, using the built‑in settings or a private DNS option. You’ll need an Android device running Android 9 or newer for the Private DNS method, and access to the Wi‑Fi settings for the per‑network method.

What You’ll Need

• An Android phone or tablet
• The Wi‑Fi network password (if you’re changing DNS for a specific network)
• A DNS server address you want to use – common ones are Google (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4), Cloudflare (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1), or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220)

Step-by-Step

There are two main ways to change your DNS on Android: per Wi‑Fi network (uses the classic DNS settings) and Private DNS (applies to all networks, including mobile data). Pick the method that fits your needs.

Method 1: Change DNS for a Specific Wi‑Fi Network

1. Open Settings on your Android device.
2. Tap Network & internet (or Connections on some Samsung devices).
3. Tap Wi‑Fi.
4. Make sure you are connected to the network you want to modify. Then tap the network name or the gear icon next to it to open its details.
5. Look for IP settings (sometimes under a dropdown menu). Change it from DHCP to Static.
6. Scroll down to the DNS 1 and DNS 2 fields. Enter the primary and secondary DNS addresses you want to use (for example, 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4).
7. Tap Save or Apply. Your device will reconnect to the network using the new DNS.

Method 2: Use Private DNS (Android 9 and Later)

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Network & internet (or Connections).
3. Tap Private DNS (on some devices it’s under More connection settings).
4. Select Private DNS provider hostname.
5. Enter the hostname of the DNS service you want to use. For example:
   • Google: dns.google
   • Cloudflare: one.one.one.one
   • Quad9: dns.quad9.net
6. Tap Save.

Private DNS uses DNS over TLS (DoT) and applies to all networks – Wi‑Fi and mobile data. It’s the easiest way to set a system‑wide DNS without rooting your phone.

Common Mistakes

• Entering IP addresses in Private DNS: The Private DNS field expects a hostname like dns.google, not an IP address like 8.8.8.8. If you type an IP, it won’t work.
• Forgetting to switch from DHCP to Static: On the per‑network method, if you don’t change IP settings to Static, the DNS fields won’t appear.
• Only changing DNS 1: Always set both DNS 1 and DNS 2 to avoid having your device fall back to the default if the first server is unreachable.
• Using the wrong network: When you change DNS for a Wi‑Fi network, it only applies to that network. If you switch to another Wi‑Fi or mobile data, the DNS reverts to default.
• Typing the hostname incorrectly: A typo in the Private DNS hostname will prevent it from connecting. Double‑check the spelling.

Tips

• Use a reputable DNS provider that you trust. Many offer privacy policies and additional features like content filtering.
• If you’re using a VPN, note that the VPN may override your DNS settings. You may need to configure DNS within the VPN app instead.
• Test your new DNS by visiting a website that shows your DNS server, or use a DNS leak test site.
• Write down your original DNS settings before changing them, so you can revert if something goes wrong.
• For more advanced control, you can install a third‑party DNS changer app, but the built‑in methods are usually sufficient.

Troubleshooting

If you’ve changed your DNS and something isn’t working, try these steps:

• No internet after change: Double‑check the DNS addresses for typos. If you used the static method, make sure you didn’t accidentally change the IP address or gateway – those should stay the same as before.
• Private DNS not connecting: Ensure your Android version supports it (Android 9+). Try a different hostname, like one.one.one.one instead of dns.google.
• DNS works on Wi‑Fi but not mobile data: Remember that per‑network DNS only applies to that Wi‑Fi. For mobile data, use Private DNS.
• Websites still load slowly: Sometimes the new DNS is slower than your ISP’s. Try a different provider or revert to automatic.
• Can’t find the DNS settings: On some Android skins (like Samsung One UI), the path is Settings → Connections → Wi‑Fi → gear icon → IP settings. If you can’t find it, search for “DNS” in the Settings search bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does changing DNS on Android affect all apps?

Yes, the DNS change applies system‑wide. All apps that use the network will use the new DNS, unless an app has its own DNS settings (rare) or a VPN overrides it.

Will changing DNS improve my internet speed?

It can, if your ISP’s DNS is slow or unreliable. However, the impact is usually small. The main benefits are often better privacy and the ability to bypass certain blocks.

Is it safe to use public DNS servers like Google or Cloudflare?

Yes, they are widely used and generally safe. They do see your DNS queries, so check their privacy policies if you’re concerned. For maximum privacy, consider a DNS service that logs nothing.

Can I change DNS on Android without rooting?

Absolutely. The built‑in settings allow you to change DNS on Wi‑Fi networks and via Private DNS, no root required.

Why can’t I enter DNS settings for mobile data?

Android doesn’t expose DNS settings for mobile data directly. The Private DNS feature is the only built‑in way to set DNS for mobile data without root.

How do I revert to the default DNS?

For Wi‑Fi, go back to the network settings and change IP settings back to DHCP. For Private DNS, select “Off” or “Automatic”.

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