In online gaming, every millisecond matters. However, can your DNS (Domain Name System) server affect your gaming performance? In this guide, we’ll cover what DNS is, whether it actually matters for gaming, and how to determine the best free DNS server in 2025 for you. We’ll also teach you how to adjust your DNS settings to improve your gaming performance.
What is DNS?
DNS (Domain Name System) is the phonebook of the internet. It resolves user-friendly domain names (such as bestgamesite.com) to machine-readable IP addresses (such as 192.168.1.1).
Whenever you enter a website address in your browser, your device requests the DNS server and provides the corresponding IP address of the website on that server to your device for accessing the website.
Does DNS Affect Gaming?
DNS is very important for browsing the web, but it has minimal impact on gaming. Here’s why:
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Faster Load of Gaming-related Websites: A fast DNS server can reduce access time to gaming-related sites like patch notes and forums.
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Access Blocked Content: Some DNS servers can bypass geo-restrictions , allowing you to play games or mods unavailable in your region.
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No Effect In-Game: Once you are in a game, DNS has no effect on latency (ping) or gameplay, as games use their own servers and IP addresses.
What Actually Affects Gaming Performance?
If DNS doesn’t directly impact gaming, what does? Here are the key factors:
1. Internet Connection Stability
Online gaming relies on a stable connection. Frequent disconnections or lag can ruin your experience. Using a gaming VPN can help boost your connection and lower ping.
2. Distance to Game Servers
Latency (ping) depends on how far you are from the game server. The farther away, the higher the ping, leading to delays in gameplay.
3. Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet
Wi-Fi is convenient, but a wired Ethernet connection is more stable. If you play competitive games, always use an Ethernet cable to eliminate lag.
4. Network Congestion
Shared internet connections can slow down during peak hours. Avoid gaming when your network is congested.
The Best DNS Servers for Gaming in 2025
If you want to switch from your ISP’s default DNS, here are the best free DNS servers for gaming:
1. Cloudflare DNS
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Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
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Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1
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Why Choose It? Cloudflare is known for its speed and privacy. It’s free and protects against DNS spoofing and DDoS attacks.
2. Google Public DNS
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Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
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Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
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Why Choose It? Google’s DNS is reliable and widely available but tracks user queries, which may be a privacy concern.
3. Quad9 DNS
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Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
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Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112
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Why Choose It? Quad9 blocks malicious sites in real-time, offering enhanced security.
4. OpenDNS
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Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
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Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220
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Why Choose It? OpenDNS provides parental controls and security features.
5. NextDNS
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Primary DNS: 45.90.28.190
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Secondary DNS: 45.90.30.190
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Why Choose It? NextDNS supports ad-blocking and customizable filters.
6. Comodo Secure DNS
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Primary DNS: 8.26.56.26
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Secondary DNS: 8.20.247.20
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Why Choose It? Comodo Secure DNS offers protection against phishing sites and malware.
What is the Best DNS Server for Gaming?
The best DNS server depends on your needs:
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For Speed: Choose Cloudflare (1.1.1.1).
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For Security: Pick Quad9 (9.9.9.9) or Comodo Secure DNS (8.26.56.26).
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For More Control: Try NextDNS (45.90.28.190).
If you’re unsure, start with Cloudflare—it’s fast, free, and reliable.
How to Change Your DNS Settings
Changing your DNS settings is easy. Here’s how to do it on different devices:
💻On Windows:
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Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center .
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Click on your active network connection.
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Select Properties > Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) .
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Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter your preferred DNS.
📱On Android:
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Go to Settings > Network & Internet .
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Tap on your Wi-Fi network and select Advanced .
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Change the DNS settings to manual and enter your preferred DNS.
🎮On Gaming Consoles (PS5/Xbox):
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Navigate to Network Settings .
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Select Manual Setup for your internet connection.
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Enter the primary and secondary DNS addresses .
FAQs
1. Can changing DNS reduce ping in games?
No, changing your DNS will not directly lower your ping. Ping depends on your distance to the game server and your internet speed.
2. Is Cloudflare DNS good for gaming?
Yes, Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) is one of the fastest DNS servers and is great for gaming, offering speed and security.
3. Is Google DNS better than my ISP’s DNS?
Usually, yes. Google DNS (8.8.8.8) is faster and more reliable than most ISP-provided DNS servers.
4. Can I use a gaming VPN with a custom DNS?
Yes, a gaming VPN can work alongside a custom DNS to improve security and access geo-restricted games.
5. Does DNS affect download speeds?
DNS does not directly impact download speeds but can improve website resolution time, making downloads start faster.
Final Thoughts
Though DNS won’t immediately affect in-game performance, the best DNS server can enhance your overall online experience. Cloudflare, Google DNS, and Quad9 are excellent choices for speed, security, and reliability.
To take your gaming setup to the next level, consider using a gaming VPN to reduce ping, bypass geo-blocks, and secure your connection. By optimizing your DNS settings and following the tips above, you’ll enjoy a faster and more secure gaming experience in 2025. 🎮