Top Free Tools to Change DNS on Your Computer and Speed Up Your Website
In today’s fast-paced digital world, a slow internet connection can feel like a personal affront. Whether you’re streaming your favorite show, working remotely, or browsing the web, every second counts. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your internet speed is by changing your DNS (Domain Name System) settings. Think of DNS as the internet’s phonebook—it translates human-friendly website names (like www.google.com) into the numeric IP addresses computers use to connect. By default, your internet service provider (ISP) assigns you a DNS server, but these aren’t always the fastest or most reliable options out there.
Switching to a faster DNS server can shave precious milliseconds off your website load times, improve your online security, and even unlock content blocked by your ISP. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to make this happen—there are plenty of free tools designed to simplify the process. In this article, I’ll walk you through the top free tools to change DNS on your computer and speed up your website, explaining how they work, why they matter, and how you can use them to optimize your browsing experience. Let’s dive in!
Why Changing Your DNS Matters for Speed and Performance
Before we get to the tools, let’s talk about why DNS is such a big deal. When you type a URL into your browser, your computer sends a request to a DNS server to fetch the corresponding IP address. If that server is slow, overloaded, or geographically far away, it drags down your browsing speed. A faster DNS server, on the other hand, resolves these requests more quickly, meaning websites load faster.
Beyond speed, alternative DNS servers can offer additional perks like enhanced security (blocking malicious sites), privacy (not logging your activity), and even parental controls. Popular public DNS providers like Google Public DNS, Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1, and OpenDNS often outperform ISP defaults in both speed and reliability. But manually changing DNS settings through your operating system can feel clunky—especially if you want to test multiple options or switch frequently. That’s where these free tools come in handy.
The Best Free Tools to Change DNS and Speed Up Your Website
Here’s a curated list of the top free tools that make switching DNS a breeze. I’ve tested these myself and dug into their features to ensure they’re user-friendly, effective, and—most importantly—free. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Linux, there’s something here for you.
1. DNS Jumper
Best For: Quick DNS switching and speed testing
Platform: Windows
Download: DNS Jumper Official Site
DNS Jumper is a lightweight, portable tool that’s perfect for anyone who wants to change their DNS settings without fuss. You don’t even need to install it—just download the zip file, extract it, and run it from anywhere (even a USB drive). What sets DNS Jumper apart is its built-in speed test feature, which benchmarks multiple DNS servers to find the fastest one for your specific location and connection.
How It Works
- Launch DNS Jumper and select your network adapter from the dropdown menu.
- Choose from a preloaded list of popular DNS servers (Google, Cloudflare, OpenDNS, etc.) or add your own custom entries.
- Click “Fastest DNS” to run a test—it pings each server and sorts them by response time.
- Hit “Apply DNS” to switch to the winner. Done!
Why I Love It
The speed test is a game-changer. Instead of guessing which DNS might be fastest, DNS Jumper does the heavy lifting for you. Plus, its “Turbo Resolve” feature applies the fastest DNS automatically on startup. If you’re a gamer or streamer looking for low latency, this tool is a must-try.
Bonus Tip
Run the test at different times of day to account for network congestion—DNS performance can vary!
2. Namebench
Best For: In-depth DNS benchmarking
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Download: Namebench on Google Code
Namebench, originally developed by Google, is an open-source gem that takes DNS optimization to the next level. Unlike DNS Jumper, it’s not just about switching—it’s about finding the absolute best DNS server for your unique setup by analyzing your browsing habits and regional performance.
How It Works
- Download and run Namebench (no installation required).
- Enter your current DNS server (or let it auto-detect).
- Choose a data source—your browser history for personalized results or a standardized list like Alexa’s top 2,000 websites.
- Hit “Start Benchmark” and wait a few minutes. It’ll test dozens of servers and spit out a detailed report in your browser.
Why I Love It
The report is nerd heaven—charts, response times, and a clear recommendation for primary, secondary, and tertiary DNS servers. It even checks for censorship or redirection issues. If you’re a data-driven person, Namebench feels like a custom-tailored solution.
Caveat
It hasn’t been updated since 2010, so it might miss newer DNS providers like Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1. Still, it’s reliable for testing the classics (Google, OpenDNS, etc.).
3. QuickSetDNS
Best For: Simplicity and portability
Platform: Windows
Download: NirSoft QuickSetDNS
From the folks at NirSoft, QuickSetDNS is a no-frills tool that gets the job done. It’s tiny (under 100 KB), portable, and ideal for users who just want to switch DNS without bells and whistles.
How It Works
- Run the executable—no installation needed.
- Select your network adapter from the list.
- Pick a DNS server from the short preloaded list (like Google Public DNS) or right-click to add your own.
- Click the green “Apply” button, and you’re set.
Why I Love It
It’s stupidly simple. If you’re not into speed tests or fancy interfaces, QuickSetDNS delivers a clean, fast way to swap DNS settings. It’s also great for techies who already know their preferred servers and just need a quick tool to apply them.
Pro Tip
Pair it with a benchmarking tool like Namebench to identify top servers, then use QuickSetDNS to apply them effortlessly.
4. Public DNS Server Tool
Best For: Batch DNS changes across multiple adapters
Platform: Windows
Download: Public DNS Server Tool on TrishTech
Public DNS Server Tool is another portable option that shines when you need to manage DNS settings across multiple network adapters—like if you’re juggling Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections.
How It Works
- Launch the tool and select your adapter (or check “Select All” for every adapter).
- Choose from a list of 23 preconfigured DNS servers (Google, Cloudflare, Level 3, etc.).
- Click “Change” to apply, or use the “Backup” option to save your current settings as a registry file.
Why I Love It
The ability to update all adapters at once is a time-saver, especially for power users or IT folks managing multiple devices. It’s not as flashy as DNS Jumper, but it’s rock-solid for basic switching.
Heads-Up
It hasn’t been updated since 2018, so some listed servers might be outdated. You can still add custom ones by editing the “servers.ini” file.
5. ChrisPC DNS Switch
Best For: Variety of DNS options
Platform: Windows
Download: ChrisPC DNS Switch
ChrisPC DNS Switch offers a robust free version packed with 35 preloaded DNS servers, categorized into groups like “Regular,” “Secure,” “Family Safe,” and “Anonymous.” It’s a great pick if you want options beyond just speed—like blocking adult content or staying under the radar.
How It Works
- Install the program (it’s not portable) and pick your network adapter.
- Browse the DNS list or add your own.
- Click “Change DNS” to apply your choice to one or all adapters.
Why I Love It
The variety is impressive—whether you’re after speed (Cloudflare), security (Quad9), or anonymity, it’s got you covered. The free version even includes a basic benchmarking tool, though it’s limited to anonymous servers.
Downside
Ads pop up occasionally, and some features (like full benchmarking) are locked behind the paid Pro version. Still, the free tier is plenty powerful.
6. GRC DNS Benchmark
Best For: Detailed DNS performance analysis
Platform: Windows (works on macOS/Linux via Wine)
Download: GRC DNS Benchmark
Developed by Gibson Research Corporation, GRC DNS Benchmark is a powerhouse for anyone obsessed with performance metrics. It tests up to 200 DNS servers at once, giving you a granular look at speed, reliability, and caching behavior.
How It Works
- Download and run the tool (no install needed).
- Go to the “Nameservers” tab and click “Run Benchmark.”
- Wait a few minutes for the initial test, then build a custom list (takes ~37 minutes) for hyper-accurate results tailored to your location.
Why I Love It
The depth of analysis is unmatched—think minimum response times, packet loss, and redirection quirks. It’s perfect for tech enthusiasts who want to geek out over their DNS setup.
Note
It’s Windows-only natively, and the custom list-building process is slow. Use it alongside a simpler tool like QuickSetDNS for applying changes.
7. Smart DNS Changer
Best For: Family-friendly filtering
Platform: Windows
Download: Smart DNS Changer
Smart DNS Changer combines DNS switching with a focus on safety, making it ideal for parents or anyone wanting to block shady sites. It’s not portable (requires installation), but it’s free and straightforward.
How It Works
- Install and open the app.
- Pick a DNS server from the list—options include malware-blocking and family-safe choices.
- Click “Apply DNS Settings” and restart your browser.
Why I Love It
It shows you what each DNS does (e.g., “Blocks Malware” or “Family Friendly”), so you’re not just picking blind. There’s also a speed comparison tool for testing two servers head-to-head.
Catch
The interface is a bit dated, but it’s functional and gets the job done.
8. DNSPerf (Web-Based)
Best For: No-download DNS testing
Platform: Any (web-based)
Access: DNSPerf
Not a downloadable tool, DNSPerf is a free online service that tests DNS performance from over 200 global locations. It’s perfect if you want a quick snapshot without installing anything.
How It Works
- Visit the DNSPerf site and run a test from your browser.
- Check real-time results for providers like Cloudflare, Google, and Quad9.
- Manually apply the fastest server via your OS settings or router.
Why I Love It
No software cluttering your system, and it keeps test results for 30 days. It’s a great starting point before using a desktop tool to apply changes.
Limitation
You’ll need to change DNS manually—pair it with QuickSetDNS or DNS Jumper for seamless switching.
How to Choose the Right Tool for You
With so many options, picking the best tool depends on your needs:
- Speed Freaks: Go for DNS Jumper or GRC DNS Benchmark to find and apply the fastest servers.
- Simplicity Seekers: QuickSetDNS or Public DNS Server Tool keep it basic and fast.
- Customization Lovers: Namebench or ChrisPC DNS Switch offer deep options and variety.
- Parents or Security Buffs: Smart DNS Changer or ChrisPC’s family-safe settings are your allies.
- No-Download Fans: DNSPerf is your quick-and-dirty solution.
Step-by-Step: Changing DNS with These Tools
Let’s take DNS Jumper as an example (since it’s a crowd favorite):
- Download: Grab it from Sordum.org.
- Extract: Unzip the file and double-click “DNSJumper.exe.”
- Select Adapter: Choose your active network from the dropdown.
- Test Speed: Click “Fastest DNS,” then “Start DNS Test.”
- Apply: Pick the top result and hit “Apply DNS.”
- Verify: Open a browser and enjoy faster load times!
Most tools follow a similar flow—select adapter, pick or test a server, apply. Check each tool’s site for specific guides if needed.
Bonus: Top Public DNS Servers to Try
Here are some popular DNS options to plug into these tools:
- Google Public DNS: 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4 (fast, reliable)
- Cloudflare 1.1.1.1: 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1 (speed + privacy)
- OpenDNS: 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220 (security + filtering)
- Quad9: 9.9.9.9, 149.112.112.112 (malware blocking)
FAQs About DNS and Website Speed
Does changing DNS really speed up my internet?
Not your raw bandwidth, but it can reduce the time it takes to resolve website addresses, making pages feel snappier. Think of it as optimizing the “lookup” phase.
Can I use these tools on a Mac?
Namebench works natively on macOS, and GRC DNS Benchmark runs via Wine. For others, you’ll need a Windows PC or a virtual machine.
Is it safe to change my DNS?
Yes, as long as you stick to reputable providers. Avoid sketchy servers that might log your data or redirect you to malicious sites.
Final Thoughts: Speed Up Your Web Experience Today
Changing your DNS is like giving your internet a tune-up—it’s quick, free, and can make a noticeable difference. Whether you’re chasing speed with DNS Jumper, diving into data with Namebench, or keeping it simple with QuickSetDNS, these tools empower you to take control of your browsing experience. Pair them with a top-tier public DNS like Cloudflare or Google, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t do this sooner.