Internet connection at this stage in the development of computer and network technologies is inextricably linked to the use of so-called DNS servers. As a rule, the necessary settings (DNS addresses, if it is about them) are provided by the provider. However, quite often, when using an active Internet connection with the installed options, serious problems can arise. And one of the options for correcting such situations is to change the preferred DNS server of the provider, and sometimes the alternative. What is it and why is it necessary, then we'll figure it out. Along the way, briefly dwell on the simplest methods for replacing the standard settings, which in most cases help to correct the errors and failures that arise.
What is the preferred and alternate DNS server?
And first, let's look at how these two types of servers differ. Based on the very definition of the preferred DNS server, it is easy to guess that the conversion of ordinary addresses that the user enters in the address bar of a web browser (even without taking into account the IP address of both his computer and the server with the requested page) into a digital machine that is understandable The code is produced with its help. In other words, this setting is the main one in the system, which takes precedence. The alternative server performs a kind of safety function, if through the main server the operation becomes impossible, or during the conversion process failures and errors occur.
How to find the preferred and alternative DNS server using the simplest methods?
How much it is necessary to have at hand the addresses of such servers, everyone decides for himself. In principle, even when concluding an agreement with the provider, it indicates the necessary settings that need to be specified in the properties of the default IP protocols. However, in case of problems from the side of the provider company or the loss of such data when reinstalling the operating system, the necessary options have to be set again. But how to do this if, for example, the address of the preferred Rostelecom DNS server or any other operator is not at hand? Of course, you can contact the support service, but it is much easier to use the means of the OS itself. Please note immediately that with a wireless connection, the receipt of all addresses (including DNS) can be set in automatic mode, and in case of problems through the standard settings of the TCP / IP protocols, it will be impossible to find out the necessary values. But here is the simplest solution, which is to use the command line tools. How to find out your preferred DNS server? Everything is simple!
To do this, type the nslookup command and press Enter. After that, the parameters you need are displayed in the console window. In the same way, you can simply use the ipconfig / all command to execute it , after which the address of your preferred DNS server can be found in the information that appears.
Note: please note that if automatic settings are set and dynamic IP addresses are used, the above actions may not give a result, and to determine the address, you will need to go to the information about the active connection in the status window.
Basic DNS Settings
Now let's look at the basic settings. You can access them through the properties item of the active connection after entering the abbreviation ncpa.cpl in the Run console. As is clear from the foregoing, there can be two options for installing DNS options: either automatic retrieval or a manual task.
If automatic provisioning by the provider is provided, and everything works, nothing needs to be changed. In case of problems, enter the necessary addresses yourself, save the changes and reboot the system.
Using alternate settings on the computer and router
In principle, with a wireless connection, you can change the basic settings of your preferred DNS server directly on the router (naturally, if it is absolutely necessary).
To do this, enter the router’s web interface through any browser, enter your login and password, and then set the corresponding addresses in the WAN section. After saving such settings, Windows, regardless of the values specified in the protocol properties, will use the specified addresses.
Note: in some cases, after installing new options, it may be necessary to reboot both the computer and the router.
If this methodology does not work either on a computer or on a router, set Google’s public DNS server combination as the preferred and alternative address. Usually this technique proves to be the most effective. You can also use other freely distributed addresses, for example, from Yandex.
What to do if the connection with standard parameters does not work?
Finally, briefly consider several possible problems with the appearance of errors and the simplest methods to correct the situation. Among the main solutions, the following can be highlighted:
- just reboot the system;
- check the status of the DNS client in the services section;
- temporarily disable the antivirus;
- check the connection in safe mode, and if necessary, change the antivirus software;
- flush the DNS cache;
- perform a complete reset of TCP / IP parameters;
- Use alternative DNS settings.
Brief conclusions
Here is a brief summary of everything regarding the basic settings and parameters of servers and DNS services. If we talk about the simplest methods for eliminating possible problems, based on practical considerations, it is best to clear the DNS cache and then register Google server addresses in the TCP / IP protocol parameters. At least, this can achieve a double result: and restore the connection, and increase the security level of your own Internet connection. It remains to be noted that public addresses can be used for all types of connections, and even in cases where all the settings set by the provider are fully automated. Manually setting DNS addresses can sometimes even become a priority.