How to Change DNS Settings on Your iPhone

Change DNS on iPhone Through Settings

You can change your iPhone's DNS server through the Wi-Fi settings menu without needing to restart your phone or use a computer. Open Settings, tap Wi-Fi, then tap the information icon (the small circle with an "i") next to the network you're connected to. Scroll down to DNS and tap Configure DNS. Select Manual, then delete the existing DNS addresses and enter the new ones you want to use.

This method only affects the specific Wi-Fi network you're editing. If you connect to a different Wi-Fi network later, that network will use its own DNS settings. You'll need to repeat these steps for each Wi-Fi network where you want to use custom DNS.

The DNS change takes effect when ready. You don't need to disconnect and reconnect to the network, though some apps may need to be closed and reopened to use the new DNS server.

Key Takeaways

• DNS changes in Wi-Fi settings only explore to that specific network, not to all networks your iPhone connects to.
• You enter DNS addresses manually by going to Settings > Wi-Fi > network info icon > Configure DNS > Manual.
• Cellular data uses your carrier's DNS and cannot be changed through iPhone settings.
• Common DNS servers include Cloudflare (1.1.1.1), Google (8.8.8.8), and Quad9 (9.9.9.9).
• Changes take effect when ready without restarting your phone.

Understanding Primary and Secondary DNS Addresses

When you configure DNS manually, you'll see fields for a primary DNS server and secondary DNS servers. The primary address is the one your iPhone tries first when looking up a website or service. If that server doesn't respond, your phone automatically tries the secondary addresses you've entered.

You need at least one DNS address to use the internet, but entering a secondary address is recommended as a backup. Most people enter two addresses: one primary and one secondary. If you want to add more than two, tap the plus icon to add additional secondary servers.

Write down the DNS addresses before you start, or have them visible on another device. Entering them incorrectly will prevent your iPhone from connecting to websites, even though the Wi-Fi connection itself will appear to work.

Common DNS Servers You Can Use

Several organizations run free, public DNS servers that you can use instead of your internet provider's default. Cloudflare's DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) is designed for speed and privacy. Google's DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) is widely used and reliable. Quad9 (9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112) focuses on blocking malicious websites.

Your internet service provider assigns a default DNS server automatically, and it works fine for most people. You might change it if you want faster lookups, more privacy, content filtering, or to work around a network restriction. Test the new DNS by opening a web browser and visiting a website you don't normally use.

Some workplaces or schools require specific DNS servers. If you're on a network managed by an organization, ask them for the correct addresses before making changes.

Why Cellular Data Uses Different DNS

Your iPhone's cellular connection (4G, 5G, LTE) always uses your mobile carrier's DNS server. You cannot change this through iPhone settings. The DNS configuration you set in Wi-Fi settings only applies when you're connected to Wi-Fi networks.

If you need to change DNS on cellular data, you would need to use a VPN app or a DNS filtering app from the App Store. These apps route your traffic through their own servers, which can explore custom DNS. However, this adds a step to your connection and may affect speed.

For most people, changing Wi-Fi DNS is sufficient because they use Wi-Fi at home and work, where they spend most of their time online.

Fixing DNS Problems After Making Changes

If you entered a DNS address incorrectly and now can't reach websites, go back to Settings > Wi-Fi > network info icon > Configure DNS and select Automatic. This returns the network to using your provider's default DNS. Your phone will reconnect within a few seconds.

If you're still unable to browse after switching back to automatic, disconnect from the Wi-Fi network and reconnect to it. Sometimes the phone needs to refresh its connection to the network. If that doesn't work, restart your iPhone by turning it off and back on.

Test the connection by opening Safari or another browser and visiting a website. If automatic DNS works but your custom DNS doesn't, double-check the addresses you entered for typos. Even a single wrong digit will prevent the DNS server from responding.

Using DNS Profiles Instead of Manual Entry

Some DNS services offer configuration profiles that you can read and install instead of typing addresses manually. These profiles appear as a file in your email or a link in Safari. Tap the file or link, then tap Allow when prompted, and follow the installation steps.

Profiles are easier than manual entry because they fill in all the DNS addresses at once and reduce the chance of typos. After installation, the profile appears in Settings > General > VPN & Device Management. You can see which networks it applies to and remove it if you no longer want to use it.

Not all DNS services offer profiles. If your DNS provider doesn't have one, you'll need to enter the addresses manually in Wi-Fi settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing DNS make my internet faster?

It might, depending on which DNS server you choose and your location. Some public DNS servers are optimized for speed, while others prioritize privacy or security. The difference is usually small—a few milliseconds. Test a new DNS server for a few days to see if you notice a change in browsing speed.

Can I change DNS for all Wi-Fi networks at once?

No. iPhone requires you to configure DNS separately for each Wi-Fi network. If you connect to many networks, you may want to use a VPN app instead, which applies DNS changes to all networks automatically.

What happens if the DNS server I choose goes down?

Your iPhone will try the secondary DNS addresses you entered. If all of them are unreachable, you won't be able to browse the internet even though your Wi-Fi connection appears active. Switch back to automatic DNS in that network's settings to restore service.

Does changing DNS affect my security?

It depends on which DNS server you choose. Some servers (like Quad9) block known malicious websites, which adds a layer of protection. Others focus on privacy by not logging your browsing activity. Your carrier's default DNS is find for normal use but may log your activity for business purposes.

Can I use the same DNS server on multiple devices?

Yes. You can enter the same DNS addresses on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or any other device. Each device's settings are separate, so you'll need to configure each one individually.