Setting up Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) on your router enhances internet speed, privacy, and security for all connected devices. Instead of configuring individual devices, you can change the DNS settings on your router to apply Cloudflare DNS across your entire network.
Why Use Cloudflare DNS on a Router?
✅ Faster Browsing – Cloudflare’s DNS servers are among the fastest. ✅ Better Privacy – Cloudflare does not track or log your browsing data. ✅ Increased Security – Helps protect against phishing and cyber threats. ✅ Network-Wide Benefits – Applies to all devices connected to your Wi-Fi.
Cloudflare DNS Addresses:
- IPv4:
- Preferred DNS:
1.1.1.1 - Alternate DNS:
1.0.0.1 - IPv6:
- Preferred DNS:
2606:4700:4700::1111 - Alternate DNS:
2606:4700:4700::1001
How to Set Up Cloudflare DNS on Your Router
Step 1: Access Your Router’s Admin Panel
- Connect to Your Router
- Ensure your device is connected to the router via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Open a Web Browser
- Enter your router’s IP address in the address bar (commonly
192.168.1.1or192.168.0.1). - Press Enter.
- Log In
- Use your router’s admin username and password (often found on a sticker on the router or in the manual). If you’ve never changed it, check the default login credentials.
Step 2: Navigate to DNS Settings
Each router has a different interface, but generally, DNS settings can be found in:
- WAN Settings
- Internet Settings
- Advanced Network Settings
- DHCP Server Settings
Look for fields labeled Primary DNS and Secondary DNS.
Step 3: Enter Cloudflare DNS Addresses
Replace your current DNS settings with Cloudflare’s:
- Primary DNS (DNS 1):
1.1.1.1 - Secondary DNS (DNS 2):
1.0.0.1
For IPv6 support:
- Primary DNS (IPv6):
2606:4700:4700::1111 - Secondary DNS (IPv6):
2606:4700:4700::1001
Step 4: Save and Reboot the Router
- Click Save or Apply Changes.
- Restart your router for the new settings to take effect.
How to Verify Cloudflare DNS is Working
After setting up Cloudflare DNS, you can verify it by:
- Using Cloudflare’s Test Page
- Open a web browser and visit https://1.1.1.1/help.
- If Cloudflare DNS is active, you will see "Connected to 1.1.1.1".
- Checking on Windows/macOS
- Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac).
- Run:
nslookup example.com - If the response includes
1.1.1.1, Cloudflare DNS is working.
Router-Specific Instructions
Different router brands may have slightly different settings:
- TP-Link: Go to Network > WAN > Advanced Settings > DNS.
- Netgear: Navigate to Internet Setup > Use These DNS Servers.
- Asus: Find LAN > DHCP Server > DNS Settings.
- D-Link: Go to Setup > Internet > DNS Settings.
If you need help, refer to your router’s manual or manufacturer’s support website.
Conclusion
By setting up Cloudflare DNS on your router, all devices in your network will benefit from faster browsing, improved privacy, and better security. If you experience any issues, try restarting your router or checking your network settings.
Let us know in the comments if you have any questions or need further assistance!