A List of Free and Public DNS Servers for 2025

In the ever-evolving digital landscape of 2025, your internet experience hinges on more than just your ISP’s default settings. Domain Name System (DNS) servers—the unsung heroes translating website names into IP addresses—play a pivotal role in speed, security, and privacy. While Google’s Public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) is a household name, a wealth of free, public alternatives from other providers offers unique benefits, from ad-blocking to enhanced security. I’ve been updating this curated list of the best public DNS servers for years, and for 2025, my top picks remain Google, Control D, Quad9, OpenDNS, Cloudflare, AdGuard DNS, CleanBrowsing, and Alternate DNS. Whether you’re dodging sluggish connections, seeking privacy, or filtering content, these options have you covered.

This article starts with a quick-reference table for seasoned users, then dives deep into each provider’s offerings—why they stand out, their IP addresses (IPv4 and IPv6), and what makes them tick. Stick around for additional free DNS options, insights on why switching servers matters, and answers to common questions. Let’s get your internet running smoother, safer, and smarter.

The Top Free Public DNS Servers: Quick Reference

If you’re ready to plug and play, here’s a snapshot of the top free DNS servers for 2025. Detailed breakdowns follow below.

These are my go-to choices, but there’s more to explore later in the article, including additional servers and their unique perks.

The Top Free & Public DNS Servers: In-Depth Breakdown

Here’s where we peel back the layers on each provider. Whether you call them DNS server addresses, internet servers, or IP addresses, they’re all the same thing—your gateway to a better online experience. Below, I’ll detail what sets each apart, their IP addresses (IPv4 and IPv6), and why they might be your perfect match.

1. Google Public DNS: 8.8.8.8 & 8.8.4.4

• Website: Google Public DNS
• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2001:4860:4860::8888
  • Secondary: 2001:4860:4860::8844
• Why It Stands Out: Google promises speed, security, and accuracy—no redirects, just pure performance. I’ve relied on it for years across my devices, and its global data center network ensures you’re routed to the nearest server for lightning-fast lookups.
• Features: Supports DNS over HTTPS (DoH) and TLS (DoT) for encrypted queries, enhancing privacy.
• Best For: Users seeking a reliable, no-fuss DNS with top-tier speed.

Google’s edge lies in its infrastructure—servers worldwide mean low latency, making it a benchmark for performance. It’s my default choice for its consistency, though it doesn’t filter content or block ads.

2. Control D: 76.76.2.0 & 76.76.10.0

• Website: Control D
• Primary DNS: 76.76.2.0
• Secondary DNS: 76.76.10.0
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2606:1a40::
  • Secondary: 2606:1a40:1::
• Why It Stands Out: Control D’s versatility shines with themed DNS options—Uncensored (bypasses news site blocks), Malicious (blocks threats), Ads & Trackers, and more. I love its custom filter builder, letting me block trackers, phishing, and even social media on demand.
• Features: Free “Unfiltered” option for privacy and security, plus DoH and DoT support. Premium filters (e.g., crypto, VPNs) require a low-cost upgrade.
• Best For: Privacy enthusiasts and parents wanting tailored content blocking.

Control D’s DIY approach is a standout—I’ve crafted filters to suit my exact needs, though the free tier lacks premium support.

3. Quad9: 9.9.9.9 & 149.112.112.112

• Website: Quad9
• Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
• Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2620:fe::fe
  • Secondary: 2620:fe::9
• Why It Stands Out: Quad9 prioritizes security, auto-blocking phishing and malware domains without logging your IP address. Its privacy stance impressed me during my research—no personal data stored, period.
• Features: Offers an unsecured option (9.9.9.10, 2620:fe::10) and supports DoH for encrypted queries.
• Best For: Security-focused users who value privacy over content filtering.

Quad9’s malware protection is seamless, though it doesn’t filter ads or adult content—purely a safety net.

4. OpenDNS Home: 208.67.222.222 & 208.67.220.220

• Website: OpenDNS
• Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
• Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2620:119:35::35
  • Secondary: 2620:119:53::53
• Why It Stands Out: With millions of users since 2006, OpenDNS boasts 100% uptime and customizable filtering. I used it for years with a DDNS setup—its parental controls (FamilyShield: 208.67.222.123, 208.67.220.123) are unmatched.
• Features: Free account for custom blocking; FamilyShield filters adult content; supports DoH.
• Best For: Families and users wanting robust content control.

OpenDNS’s reliability and flexibility are top-notch—I’ve never seen downtime, and the filtering options are a lifesaver for parents.

5. Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 & 1.0.0.1

• Website: Cloudflare 1.1.1.1
• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2606:4700:4700::1111
  • Secondary: 2606:4700:4700::1001
• Why It Stands Out: Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 claims the “fastest DNS directory” title (often topping DNSPerf rankings) with a zero-logging privacy pledge. I appreciate its app for easy setup and optional VPN.
• Features: Malware-only (1.1.1.2) and family (1.1.1.3) filters; supports DoH and DoT.
• Best For: Speed demons and privacy advocates.

Cloudflare’s speed and privacy combo is hard to beat—I’ve seen noticeable browsing improvements, though filtering is basic compared to others.

6. AdGuard DNS: 94.140.14.14 & 94.140.15.15

• Website: AdGuard DNS
• Primary DNS: 94.140.14.14
• Secondary DNS: 94.140.15.15
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2a10:50c0::ad1:ff
  • Secondary: 2a10:50c0::ad2:ff
• Why It Stands Out: AdGuard’s free tier blocks ads across games, videos, and apps. I tested it for months—ads were slashed, though some slipped through.
• Features: “Family Protection” (94.140.14.15) adds adult content blocks; non-filtering option (94.140.14.140); supports DoH, DoT, QUIC, and DNSCrypt.
• Best For: Ad-haters and families on a budget.

AdGuard’s ad-blocking is solid, but free users face limits—no support and capped requests—pushing some to premium plans.

7. CleanBrowsing: 185.228.168.9 & 185.228.169.9

• Website: CleanBrowsing
• Primary DNS: 185.228.168.9
• Secondary DNS: 185.228.169.9
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2a0d:2a00:1::2
  • Secondary: 2a0d:2a00:2::2
• Why It Stands Out: CleanBrowsing offers three free tiers: Security (malware/phishing), Adult, and Family (adds VPN/proxy blocks). I like its hourly malware updates for real-time protection.
• Features: Adult (185.228.168.10) and Family (185.228.168.168) filters; supports DoH and DoT.
• Best For: Safety-first users and parents needing robust filtering.

CleanBrowsing’s free filters are powerful, though premium plans unlock deeper customization.

8. Alternate DNS: 76.76.19.19 & 76.223.122.150

• Website: Alternate DNS
• Primary DNS: 76.76.19.19
• Secondary DNS: 76.223.122.150
• IPv6:
  
  • Primary: 2602:fcbc::ad
  • Secondary: 2602:fcbc:2::ad
• Why It Stands Out: Alternate DNS blocks ads network-wide for free. I found it effective, though not flawless—some ads still sneak by.
• Features: Family Premium (paid) adds adult content blocking.
• Best For: Ad-blockers on a budget.

It’s a simple, free ad-blocker—great for basic needs, but lacks the bells of paid rivals.

Why Use Different DNS Servers?

Switching from your ISP’s default DNS servers can solve myriad issues and unlock benefits:

• Troubleshooting: If websites load via IP (e.g., 142.250.190.14 for google.com) but not by name, your ISP’s DNS is likely down—swap to a public option.
• Speed Boost: Sluggish ISP servers can drag your browsing; alternatives like Cloudflare or Google often double your speed (I’ve seen it firsthand).
• Privacy: Some ISPs log your DNS queries—Cloudflare and Quad9 don’t, offering a shield against tracking.
• Content Control: Block ads (AdGuard, Alternate), malware (Quad9, CleanBrowsing), or adult sites (OpenDNS FamilyShield) with specialized servers.
• Censorship Bypass: Control D’s Uncensored resolver sidesteps regional blocks on news sites.

Free DNS doesn’t mean free internet—you still need an ISP—but it can transform your connection. Stick with auto-assigned servers if your ISP’s DNS suits you, or mix primary and secondary servers from different providers for redundancy.

Additional Free DNS Servers

Beyond the top picks, here’s a bonus list of reliable free public DNS servers for 2025:

Check each provider’s site for nearby servers or extra features—proximity can boost performance.

What Is a DNS Server?

A DNS server translates human-friendly domain names (e.g., lifewire.com) into machine-readable IP addresses (e.g., 142.250.190.14), connecting your device to websites. Your ISP assigns DNS servers automatically, but you can override them with public options for speed, privacy, or filtering. Primary (preferred) and secondary (alternate) servers work together—mixing providers adds failover protection if one falters.

FAQ

How Do I Change My DNS Server?

Log into your router (often at http://192.168.1.1), find the DNS settings, and input your chosen addresses (e.g., 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1). Alternatively, set them on individual devices via network settings—check your device manual for specifics.

How Do I Fix a DNS Server That Isn’t Responding?

Test with a different public DNS (e.g., Google’s 8.8.8.8). If it persists, restart your modem/router, check ISP status, disable antivirus temporarily, or run your OS’s network troubleshooter.

Conclusion

For 2025, these free public DNS servers—Google, Control D, Quad9, OpenDNS, Cloudflare, AdGuard, CleanBrowsing, and Alternate DNS—offer a spectrum of benefits: speed, security, privacy, and content control. Whether you’re dodging slow ISP servers, shielding your data, or filtering the web, there’s a match here for you. I’ve tested them all—Google’s my daily driver for speed, but Control D’s customization and Quad9’s security are close contenders. Pick your pair, plug them in, and elevate your internet experience today. Need more options? The additional servers list has you covered. Happy browsing!