Add OpenDNS to Your Router - Easy Setup Guide

OpenDNS: A Superior DNS Alternative

OpenDNS presents a compelling alternative to the DNS servers typically provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). At its core, the Domain Name System (DNS) functions by converting complex IP addresses into easily remembered domain names.

Benefits of Using OpenDNS

Switching to OpenDNS can significantly improve your browsing speed. Beyond this performance enhancement, the service offers a range of supplementary features, all available at no cost.

These features include robust protection against phishing attempts, the ability to block specific domains, filtering of adult content, and automatic typo correction. No software installation is required to benefit from these advantages.

Configuring OpenDNS on Your Home Network

For optimal network-wide protection, the most effective method of implementing OpenDNS is through your router's settings. Begin by accessing your router’s configuration interface via a web browser.

The standard address is often 192.168.1.1, though this may vary. You will need to enter the administrator username and password to proceed.

The process is generally consistent across different router models. For instance, using a Linksys WRT54GS, locate the section for static DNS settings within the basic setup configuration.

Input the following primary and secondary DNS server addresses: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220 respectively. Save the changes to activate OpenDNS on your network.

Personal Experience and Recommendation

I strongly suggest giving OpenDNS a try. Having utilized the service for over six months, its benefits have become readily apparent.

In fact, its effectiveness became particularly noticeable when OpenDNS proactively alerted me to a potentially harmful website after a simple typing error, demonstrating its proactive security features.