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Windows 7: Windows DNS vs Router DNS Settings

30 Oct 2011   #1

Windows 7 Home Premium x64
Osceola, WI
 
 
Windows DNS vs Router DNS Settings

Hello all!

If I set the Windows DNS to a specific server, but the router is set to use the default IP DNS server, then two questions:

1) Does this pose a conflict that may slow down the connection?
2) Which DNS server is actually being used - the Windows setting? Or the Router setting?



TIA,
My System SpecsSystem Spec

30 Oct 2011   #2

Win7 H.Prem. 32bit+SP1
Scotland
 
 

Hi rap33042, the router settings are what is used. Run this to find best DNS server in your location. namebench - Download
My System SpecsSystem Spec
30 Oct 2011   #3

Windows 7 Home Premium x64
Osceola, WI
 
 

Roderunner:

Then I have a problem.
I'm either blind or stupid or both, but I cannot find how to change the DNS server in the router 'dashboard'.
I am using a CenturyTel-provided Westell router, model: A90-750022-07

I don't suppose you would know where I need to look in its convoluted menu (cough) system to make the necessary changes?

I would like the router to use my DNS server of choice- not the default.

TNX!

Note: I have used several DNS benchmark utilities and have determined the best server to use in my area.
I like Steve Gibson's DNSBenchmark utility, but there are others that are just as useful.
TNX for the suggestion.
My System SpecsSystem Spec
.


30 Oct 2011   #4

Win7 H.Prem. 32bit+SP1
Scotland
 
 

Can you access your router's set up page ?
My System SpecsSystem Spec
30 Oct 2011   #5

Windows 7 Home Premium x64
Osceola, WI
 
 

Yes- that's not a problem.
I just can't find the DNS server setting- frustrating as hell...

I've had many other routers and there was never an issue finding the DNS server setting.
This time, I can't find it...
My System SpecsSystem Spec
31 Oct 2011   #6

Win7 H.Prem. 32bit+SP1
Scotland
 
 

Have a look in 'Basic Settings' section.
My System SpecsSystem Spec
31 Oct 2011   #7

Windows 2000 5.0 Build 2195
 
 

Quote   Quote: Originally Posted by rap33042 View Post
1) Does this pose a conflict that may slow down the connection?
No.

Quote   Quote: Originally Posted by rap33042 View Post
2) Which DNS server is actually being used - the Windows setting? Or the Router setting?
In a sense, both. Windows will use your Windows Settings first and the router settings next if the DNS servers in Windows fail. Use "ipconfig /all" in the command prompt to verify this.
My System SpecsSystem Spec
31 Oct 2011   #8

Windows 7 Ultimate x64
United Kingdom
 
 

Hello,

Why do you want to change your DNS Servers? Are you having problems?

By default windows will look at its 'host' file to see if there is an entry for the site. If it cant find an entry then it will direct the request to your DNS Server (Router). From there if the router does not have it in its ARP Table it will forward onto the External DNS Server provided by your ISP.


Dave
My System SpecsSystem Spec
31 Oct 2011   #9

Windows 7 Home Premium x64
Osceola, WI
 
 

@Dave Atkin:
Even if I can't perceive an improvement, I like knowing that I have everything set to work at optimal performance. I'm a tweaker.
It just makes me happy :-)
My System SpecsSystem Spec
31 Oct 2011   #10

Windows 7 Home Premium x64
Osceola, WI
 
 

Thanks to everyone for their advice and help.

I found the setting on the router.
My System SpecsSystem Spec
Reply

 Windows DNS vs Router DNS Settings problems?



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