How to change DNS on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Changing the DNS settings on an iPhone can enhance browsing speed and security. This guide provides detailed steps for modifying DNS settings on various iOS versions, ensuring a smooth experience.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing DNS settings on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 10 or later.
  • •Access to the Wi-Fi network you wish to modify DNS settings for.
  • •Basic knowledge of navigating the iPhone settings menu.
  • •Backup important data in case of unexpected issues.

Method 1: Changing DNS for a Wi-Fi Network

This method is used to change DNS settings for a specific Wi-Fi network. It is useful when you want to improve browsing speed or access geo-restricted content.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone. Look for the gear icon on your home screen.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Wi-Fi'. You will see a list of available networks.
  • •Step 3: Find the Wi-Fi network you are connected to and tap the 'i' icon next to it.
  • •Step 4: Scroll down to 'Configure DNS'. Tap on it.
  • •Step 5: Change the setting from 'Automatic' to 'Manual'.
  • •Step 6: Tap 'Add Server' to enter the DNS server addresses you want to use. For example, you can enter '1.1.1.1' for Cloudflare or '8.8.8.8' for Google DNS.
  • •Step 7: After entering the DNS addresses, tap 'Save' in the top right corner.
  • •Step 8: To verify it worked, open Safari and visit a website to check if the connection is stable.
  • •Step 9: If it doesn't work, revisit the DNS settings and ensure the addresses are entered correctly.

For iOS 14 and later

iOS 14 introduced a more user-friendly interface for DNS settings.
  • •In Step 6, you can now easily remove any existing DNS servers by tapping the red minus icon next to them.

For iOS 13 and earlier

Older versions may have slightly different interfaces.
  • •In Step 6, you may need to tap 'Add Server' multiple times to add multiple DNS servers.

Method 2: Changing DNS for Cellular Data

This method is useful when you want to change DNS settings for mobile data usage.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Cellular'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and tap on 'Cellular Data Options'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Network Selection' and ensure 'Automatic' is turned off.
  • •Step 5: Go back to the main 'Settings' menu and tap on 'Wi-Fi'.
  • •Step 6: Follow the same steps as in Method 1 to change DNS settings for the Wi-Fi network you are connected to.
  • •Step 7: To verify, turn off Wi-Fi and use Safari to browse using cellular data.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues after changing your DNS settings, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Cannot connect to the network' - Solution: Double-check the DNS addresses for typos.
  • •Issue: Slow internet speeds after changing DNS - Fix: Try switching back to 'Automatic' DNS settings to see if performance improves.
  • •Problem: Unable to access specific websites - Workaround: Clear Safari's cache by going to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, consider these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: No specific shortcuts available for DNS settings on iPhone.
  • •Hidden feature: Use DNS over HTTPS (DoH) for enhanced security, if supported by your DNS provider.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using reliable DNS servers can significantly enhance your browsing experience.