DNS forms the backbone of modern internet communication, but does it really enhance your gaming experience? Can choosing the right DNS server help with reducing latency? What are the best DNS servers for gaming in 2025? Don’t worry—this guide will answer all these questions and more.
What is DNS?
The Domain Name System (DNS) serves as an essential translator for the internet. It turns user-friendly domain names like "example.com" into IP addresses computers can understand. Think of it as the internet’s phonebook, matching simple names to complex numbers so your device knows where to connect.
For example, when you type in "supergamersite.com," your device queries its assigned DNS server to find the corresponding IP address. Once the DNS server responds, the connection is established, and the website loads.
Does DNS Impact Gaming?
DNS does influence aspects of online activities, but for gaming, its effects are indirect.
Web Browsing: Switching to a faster DNS server can noticeably speed up website loading times, such as for gaming news or forums.
Content Access: Using a new DNS can bypass restrictions and unlock access to mods or game-related content blocked by your current provider.
However, DNS won’t improve in-game latency. Once your game app connects to its server, DNS plays no role in modifying latency or ping.
VPN for Enhanced Performance
While DNS can offer improvements for browsing and access to content, combining it with a VPN can further enhance your gaming experience. A VPN like Falcon VPN provides a secure, stable connection, reduces potential throttling by your ISP, and can help you access region-locked content.
Download Falcon VPN today to enjoy faster and more secure connections while gaming. Here's how to get started:
- Visit the Download Page: Go to the official Falcon VPN website.
- Choose Your Device: Select the appropriate version for your device (Windows, macOS, iOS , or Android ).
- Install the App: Download and install the VPN application on your device.
- Connect: Open Falcon VPN, select a server, and connect to enjoy a more optimized, secure gaming experience.
What Impacts Gaming Performance Directly?
While DNS doesn’t play a major role in gaming performance, several other factors do:
Internet Connection Stability: A reliable connection is key to avoiding interruptions like lag spikes or disconnections.
Server Proximity: The further your physical location is from the game server, the higher your ping will be due to the time data needs to travel.
Wi-Fi Strength: Weak signal strength increases latency. Gaming close to your Wi-Fi router—or better yet, using an Ethernet cable—can significantly improve performance.
Network Congestion: During peak hours, shared connections may experience slower speeds. Playing when internet traffic is low can improve bandwidth availability.
The Best DNS Servers for Gamers
Switching to a high-performing DNS server can improve your online experience in terms of speed, privacy, and reliability. Here are the top DNS providers in 2025:
1. Cloudflare
Primary DNS
: 1.1.1.1
Secondary DNS
: 1.0.0.1
Cloudflare’s DNS service is renowned for its speed and reliability, making it a favorite among gamers. It includes features to protect against DDoS attacks and DNS spoofing while safeguarding your browsing privacy. While it lacks extra protections like malware filtering, it’s an excellent upgrade from default ISP-assigned DNS servers.
2. Google Public DNS
Primary DNS
: 8.8.8.8
Secondary DNS
: 8.8.4.4
Google Public DNS has a vast server network worldwide, delivering excellent performance and consistent reliability. It’s also free to use and secured against DNS-specific threats like spoofing. However, Google’s data practices may be a concern for privacy-focused users.
3. Quad9
Primary DNS
: 9.9.9.9
Secondary DNS
: 149.112.112.112
Quad9 excels at security, offering a proactive blocklist that protects users from malicious websites. This means greater safety while gaming—but it might also block access to some content, such as unofficial mods or fan forums. It’s a slightly slower option compared to Cloudflare but offers unmatched security for a free service.
4. NextDNS
Primary DNS
: 45.90.28.190
Secondary DNS
: 45.90.30.190
NextDNS takes customization to another level, allowing users to filter content and block ads and trackers. Its free tier supports up to 300,000 queries per month, after which premium plans are required for additional features. Gaming families may appreciate its parental control options.
Which DNS Server Should You Choose?
Selecting the best DNS server depends on your specific needs:
- For Speed: Choose Cloudflare.
- For Security: Opt for Quad9.
- For Customization: Go with NextDNS.
- For Unblocking Content: NordVPN’s SmartPlay will serve you best.
If you’re unsure where to start, Cloudflare’s DNS servers (1.1.1.1) provide a balance of speed and simplicity, making them a solid choice for most gamers.
How to Change Your DNS?
Changing your DNS settings depends on the device or system you’re using:
Windows and macOS: Check the Network settings within your System Preferences or Control Panel.
Mobile Devices: Look under Wi-Fi settings on iOS or Android.
Gaming Consoles: Adjust DNS settings in the Network Configuration area of devices like PS5 or Xbox Series X.
Need step-by-step guidance? Check our DNS setup guides for platforms like Windows, Android, and gaming consoles.
Final Thoughts
While DNS can improve your overall browsing and content access experience, its impact on gaming is indirect. Your internet connection stability, server proximity, and network congestion are the main factors that determine in-game latency.
Switching to a high-quality DNS server, such as Cloudflare or Quad9, can still enhance your online activities in meaningful ways. Consider experimenting with the options above to find the best fit for your needs.
For even more secure gaming sessions, pair your chosen DNS with a reliable VPN to reduce risks and improve your browsing privacy. Explore VPNs like NordVPN for additional layers of security beyond what DNS can offer.
Albert Ivan, writer by day, popper by night, is the former senior editor at iTop VPN. He Joined Falcon VPN in 2022 and has since written extensively on the topic of tech, digital privacy & security and internet freedom.
