Solved Windows DNS vs Router DNS Settings

[rap33042]

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,

 

[Roderunner]

Hi rap33042, the router settings are what is used. Run this to find best DNS server in your location. namebench - Download

 

[rap33042]

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.

 

[Roderunner]

Can you access your router's set up page ?

 

[rap33042]

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...

 

[Roderunner]

Have a look in 'Basic Settings' section.

 

[arkhi]

1) Does this pose a conflict that may slow down the connection?

No.

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.

 

[Dave Atkin]

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

 

[rap33042]

@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

 

[rap33042]

Thanks to everyone for their advice and help.

I found the setting on the router.

 

[Phone Man]

I use openDNS and have it setup in my Router. My PC's are set to auto and uses the Router as the DNS service so all my PC's will use openDNS.

192.168.1.1 is my Router. If I want to change my DNS service all I have to do is update the Router.





Jim

 

[Dave Atkin]

Glad you got it sorted Richard (Y).

Dave

 

[Cindy1961]

Richard, I have one of those pesky Westell A90 70522 modem/routers and want to set it up with OpenDNS. Could you please share where/how you found the settings in order to change them? Thanks so much. I know this is a couple of years after your original post, so I hope you remember! Thank you!