DNS Servers to Unblock Websites and Possibly Everything

Sometimes, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), governments, or organizations might block access to certain websites for a bunch of reasons – from location-based restrictions to legal issues. A handy trick that often gets overlooked is tweaking your Domain Name System (DNS) settings. This guide will show you how DNS can open up everything for you and guide you through unblocking DNS-blocked websites on various systems like Windows 10, Windows 11, and more.

Also see: Change DNS to Google or Cloudflare in Windows 11/10

What actually is DNS?

Let’s first quickly understand what DNS is, so that you know how the unblocking would work. Think of DNS as the internet’s phonebook. When you type a website’s address into your browser, DNS changes that easy-to-remember URL into an IP address, which your computer uses to reach the website’s server.

Sometimes, an ISP or government might block certain websites by messing with the DNS entries. This is like your computer not being able to find the “phone number” it needs to call. A workaround is to use a different “phonebook,” or technically, change your DNS server settings.

Related concern: Some Websites Not Loading in Windows 11 (Fix)

Unblocking websites through DNS

Private DNS servers can let you get around these blocks. They might have different or more up-to-date entries, helping you access websites blocked by your default DNS.

Let’s see how you can change your DNS settings on various platforms.

Changing DNS on Windows

Here’s how you can change your DNS settings on Windows 11 or Windows 10:

1. Hit the Start menu, then head over to Settings.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. On the left panel, pick Advanced network settings.
4. Click on More network adapter options.
5. Right-click on your connection and select Properties.
6. Look for Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and hit Properties.
7. Select the Use the following DNS server addresses option.
8. Now, enter the IP addresses of your new DNS servers.

Useful tip: How to Find the IP Address of a Website in Windows 11 or 10

Changing DNS on Chrome

Google Chrome doesn’t let you change DNS settings directly. But, you can use a Chrome extension like SwitchyOmega to tweak your Proxy and DNS settings. Once you’ve installed an extension, you can add your preferred Proxy or DNS server to its settings.

Changing DNS on Routers

Changing DNS settings on your router is a bit trickier, and steps can vary depending on your router model. But, here’s a basic guide:

1. Open your router’s configuration page by typing your router’s IP address into your browser. Common ones are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
2. After logging in, find the DNS settings, which could be under Internet settings, Basic settings, or something similar.
3. Switch the DNS servers to the ones you prefer.

Note: Changing the DNS settings on your router affects all devices connected to it. They’ll all use the new DNS servers.
Recommended resource: Understanding How a Website is Blocked in Windows 11

Best DNS servers for unblocking everything

While there are loads of DNS servers out there, some are ace at unblocking content. Here are a few private DNS servers known for their unblocking prowess:

1. Google DNS: This is a free, fast DNS service that’s good at unblocking. The DNS addresses are 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 for IPv4, and 2001:4860:4860::8888 and 2001:4860:4860::8844 for IPv6.
2. OpenDNS: Besides unblocking, this DNS service throws in extra features like phishing protection and content filtering. The DNS addresses are 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220.
3. Cloudflare DNS: It’s known for caring about your privacy and being speedy. The DNS addresses are 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 for IPv4, and 2606:4700:4700::1111 and 2606:4700:4700::1001 for IPv6.

Final notes

Using a DNS server to unblock websites is pretty effective. But it’s important to know that changing your DNS only switches the “phonebook” your device uses to find websites. This doesn’t hide you online or keep your activities safe. So, while your activities are still traceable, and your data could be snatched up, it’s still a good start.

Thinking about more security? You might want to check out Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). VPNs give you a privacy boost by encrypting your online traffic and hiding your IP address. While there are free VPNs, they often have limits and might not be the most reliable. Paid VPN services usually give you better performance and stronger security.

Also, think about who you’re trusting with your browsing data when you change your DNS. It’s crucial to pick a reputable DNS provider. Besides, while using different DNS servers is mostly okay, bypassing geo-restrictions is a bit of a grey area, and accessing certain types of blocked content could get you in trouble. Always play it safe and follow local laws and rules when using these tricks.