When it comes to faster browsing and stronger privacy, or minimising latency, switching to a better DNS (Domain Name System) provider can make a noticeable difference. Whether you’re a gamer, a privacy advocate, or just looking for a more reliable internet experience, a good DNS can be a game-changer.
Here’s a rundown of the most popular DNS services in 2025, ordered by popularity and effectiveness, with IPs, features, and facts for each.
1. Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1)
Best for: Speed and privacy-first users
Primary IPs:
- Standard:
1.1.1.1and1.0.0.1 - With Malware Blocking:
1.1.1.2and1.0.0.2 - With Malware + Adult Content Blocking:
1.1.1.3and1.0.0.3
Key Features:
- No logging: Cloudflare promises not to track your activity.
- One of the fastest DNS resolvers globally (confirmed by DNSPerf).
- Built-in security with optional content filtering.
2. Google Public DNS
Best for: Stability and performance
Primary IPs:
- IPv4:
8.8.8.8and8.8.4.4 - IPv6:
2001:4860:4860::8888and2001:4860:4860::8844
Key Features:
- Huge global infrastructure ensures reliability.
- Logs some metadata (anonymized), so not the most privacy-focused.
- Excellent fallback DNS for general users.
3. OpenDNS (by Cisco)
Best for: Families, schools, and enterprise filtering
Primary IPs:
- Standard:
208.67.222.222and208.67.220.220 - FamilyShield (Pre-configured for adult content filtering):
208.67.222.123and208.67.220.123
Key Features:
- Customizable content filtering.
- Phishing and botnet protection.
- Requires account for full customization and analytics.
4. Quad9 DNS
Best for: Privacy and security
Primary IPs:
- Standard (with malware filtering):
9.9.9.9and149.112.112.112 - Unfiltered (no malware blocking):
9.9.9.10 - ECS-enabled (for CDN performance):
9.9.9.11
Key Features:
- Operated by a nonprofit.
- Focus on blocking malicious domains.
- No user-identifiable data stored.
5. Control D (Ctl-D)
Best for: Power users who want customizable DNS filtering
Primary IPs:
- Unfiltered:
76.76.2.0and76.76.10.0 - Malware Block:
76.76.2.1and76.76.10.1 - Malware + Ads Block:
76.76.2.2and76.76.10.2 - Family Filter:
76.76.2.3and76.76.10.3 - Social Media Block:
76.76.2.4and76.76.10.4 - (Many more custom configs available)
Key Features:
- Highly configurable filtering rules.
- Useful for schools, workplaces, and parents.
- Option to set up your own exit region (premium).
Summary Table
| Provider | Primary IPs | Filtering Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1 | Malware/Adult filters | Speed, Privacy |
| Google DNS | 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4 | None | General use |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220 | FamilyShield | Custom Filtering |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9, 149.112.112.112 | Malware filtering | Security |
| Control D | 76.76.2.0, 76.76.10.0 | Custom | Power Users |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right DNS depends on your needs. Want the fastest? Go for Cloudflare. Prefer advanced filtering? Try Control D or OpenDNS. Concerned about privacy and malware? Quad9 is your go-to.
Experiment and find what works best for your setup. The good news? Switching DNS is free, easy, and safe to test.
Let us know in the comments which DNS you’re using and why!
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